Today’s Notable Young Professional is certified lash technician Katy Ma, who co-owns Montreal’s Love Your Lashes and also provides certified courses for lash technicians across the city, spreading the eyelash extension trend to make it a key component of the on-the-go young professional beauty list.
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
My job in a nutshell is to allow my lovely clients to wake up pretty without makeup by providing them with the safest and highest quality eyelash extensions.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
The first time I did lashes on a model during my esthetics studies, I fell in love with the practice. I began doing more research about eyelash extensions and their safety; the final outcome was creating my business.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis?
A lot of our clients become our friends. It’s a place for everyone to wind down and relax or even take a nap while we work on them.
The most challenging part?
The most challenging part was setting up the business. The financial factor was an initial barrier but the business has been so well received that the initial struggle was completely worth it.
I have an absolutely wonderful and dedicated team working for us. We always try to create fun ideas to promote our art of work and change the way we do things to stay current and on trend at all times.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
The goal is to expand and open more storefronts. Also, we want to teach our methods across the city with the final goal being to teach across the country.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
To be financially stable while growing this business and continually expanding.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
A major milestone for me was when I was recognized by Health Canada as a lash technician instructor! I still recall that feeling and emotion today.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t give up! Believe in yourself and believe in the people who acknowledge your talent, especially your clients. They are the ones who will support you all the way and remain loyal.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
I adore small and authentic Cafes and luckily Montreal has a plethora of wonderful, intimate spots.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I have a 20-month-old child, so any time I can have with her beats everything else by a long shot.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Every city, every country, has its own unique style and beauty. I’ve been to Vietnam and travelled around the States and to Europe and they are each very special in their own way. However, I’ve never been to the South and that is definitely next on my travel bucket list!
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t doing what I am doing today, I have no idea what I would be doing, honestly. I am so passionate about my work that it’s impossible imagining doing anything else.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
We donated 10% of all proceeds of the month of November and December 2013 to the Sun Youth organization in Montreal. It’s an organization that provides diversified services to youth, seniors, low-income families and people who have special needs.
What to you is notable?
Waking up pretty without makeup.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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