Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenn Pope
Hi Jenn , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story really has been one of transformation. I was born in San Antonio, and moved to Norfolk, Virginia, at the age of eight. I was an “at risk” youth you could say. lol! I was wild. Or maybe I was just a teen rebelling.. either way, I spent no time or thought in what my future was going to look like. By 22, I was a single mother of two after experiencing the tragic loss of my children’s father. I seriously was broken. I was poor and had a very basic high school education. I lived in Section 8, couldn’t keep a job because I didn’t have transportation or dependable childcare – I was on foodstamps. I was just really feeling like “this must be rock bottom.” I needed the support of my family, and a fresh start, so I returned to San Antonio, where I focused on rebuilding my life. My Grandparents helped me get on my feet tremendously. My Grandmother watched my kids, and Grandpa would take me to apply for jobs, and take me to interviews. God rest his soul, my Grandpa really put me in a position to get a head start.
I had a lot of off jobs just to make some money. In the process of that, I met my husband. I found my first “real” job at a call center. He helped support me & take care of my kids – I finally started feeling like I was building a real life. We welcomed another son into our family in 2013. I was grateful for stability, because I hadn’t really had that, I knew I wanted more for myself and my future. I was working and being a mom, I discovered a passion for lash extensions. I started learning how to do eyelash extensions through YouTube tutorials, initially as a side hustle. I quickly realized that this could be more than just extra income—it could be a fulfilling career.
With that goal in mind, I took a leap of faith. While my youngest was still a baby, I went back to school to earn my esthetician license. I left the call center job that I started to dislike after being there for so many years, I fully embraced the beauty industry, and turned a small idea into a thriving profession. Before getting my license, I was doing lash extensions from my couch for like $25! Today, I am proud to have built a career that allows me to empower others while doing what I love. My story is proof that, no matter where you start, with perseverance and passion, you can create the life you envision.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all. When I started my business, I had no prior experience in entrepreneurship or business management. I didn’t grow up around business owners, so I had no blueprint to follow—I was navigating purely off a vision and a deep desire to create something of my own. I learned very fast that vision and skill isn’t enough to run a successful business.
The journey has been filled with trial and error. I’ve learned invaluable lessons, but I’ve also faced significant challenges, from managing employees to handling taxes and inventory—all the behind-the-scenes aspects that aren’t as glamorous but are crucial to running a successful business. These challenges were a wake-up call. I actually took a step back and truly assessed how I was operating.
Despite the setbacks, every obstacle became an opportunity for growth. I’ve gained firsthand knowledge, adapted to industry changes, and developed the resilience needed to keep pushing forward. The road hasn’t been easy, but it has shaped me into the businesswoman I am today, and I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Jenn Popes Lashes ?
My business, Jenn Popes Lashes, specializes in eyelash extensions and a variety of other lash services. We’ve been proudly serving our clients for over 6 years, and what truly sets us apart is our dedication to quality, customer service, and the strong relationships we’ve built with our clients.
Passion is at the heart of everything we do. We don’t just provide lash services—we create an experience that leaves our clients feeling confident and beautiful. Our commitment to excellence and personalized care has allowed us to establish a loyal client base that trusts us with their beauty needs.
I’m also fortunate to have an amazing team. My employee, Kiona, is a talented lash artist who shares the same passion for delivering top-tier services. We are currently accepting new clients at our Live Oak location off 1604, and we would love the opportunity to help you achieve your perfect lash look!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My greatest happiness comes from seeing my family thrive. My two adult children, Zavier and Jasmyne, are living amazing lives despite the challenges they faced growing up. I had them at a young age, and life wasn’t always easy, but through it all, they have prospered into incredible human beings. My youngest, now 11, is growing up in a happy, healthy, and fulfilling environment, and that brings me so much joy.
I’m also deeply grateful for my husband—we’re celebrating 13 years of marriage (we’ve been together for a total of 18 years though) and he has been an incredible partner in life. Through every challenge and every triumph, we’ve built a strong foundation together. I’m truly blessed to have a real soul mate in this life. From the start, he’s been the hand that’s helped me up.
I also have an amazing friend group! They’re the most supportive people I know. When we get together it’s always positive vibes, laughs, and love. I don’t know what I would do without them…having friends you consider family is the greatest feeling.
My happiness comes from knowing that my family is close to God. I was able to turn things around, not just for myself, but for them, giving them the love and opportunities they deserve. That, to me, is the greatest blessing of all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jennpopeslashes.com
- Instagram: jenn_popes_lashes_
- Facebook: Jenn Popes Lashes
