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Rising Stars: Meet Karina Moreno

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Moreno.

Hi Karina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started out in dentistry in 1997 while I was a senior in high school. What began as temp position filing charts during spring break turned into eventually being hired part-time answering phones after school. Dentistry quickly turned into a passion of mine and I then went to school to be a dental assistant. I loved working on patients, making them feel at ease in what many perceive as high anxiety setting. 23 years and many months later, came the pandemic. The shutdown came as an unexpected disaster that became an opportunity to stop and think about what I wanted out of my life and career. At 40 years old I felt very strongly that I needed to take action and change careers in order to live out my dream of being a business owner. I knew I still wanted to work on people and make them feel better about themselves but wanted to change the setting for doing that to where I could be my own boss. I decided that the field of esthetics was the answer. My drive was strong and I added all the advanced classes that were offered to my portfolio by adding extra weekends and evenings to my already loaded schedule. 9 months/750+ school hours later, I did it! I studied late into the night to pass both my practical and written state exams within 2 weeks of graduation and one month later I opened up my very own mini spa, Eye Candy Esthetics + Lash Lounge. My dream came true! There are days I sit in my studio and just smile as I look around in amazement that I made it happen. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the ability to be a business owner. My services include what I love doing the most, facials, waxing and eyelash extensions. My career is based on making people feel beautiful and I think that is pretty special!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Changing careers at 41 years old was a big challenge. I was able to knock down all the roadblocks thrown at me, pushed past all the fears and doubts and sacrificed a lot to make it happen. I moved out of my house, sold all of my material possessions and lived on a very fixed income in order to go to school full-time to become an esthetician. It has not been a smooth road but I am glad I did not give up even when there were days I felt defeated and tired. I knew my 12-year-old daughter was watching me and she was truly my driving force to finish what I started and fulfill my dream. I strongly believe that you are never too old to follow your passion!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My specialty is eyelash extensions. I quickly learned that the skills I used in my previous dental career helped with my hand-eye coordination. The tedious work and attention to fine detail I had as a dental assistant translated very well to my career in the esthetics field. Facials are another service that I quickly found I enjoyed providing. People always fall asleep while I am working on them and that just makes me feel great that they are able to take some time for themselves and relax in my spa. I am most proud of the fact that everyone leaves feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and more beautiful than they did when they walked in. I believe what sets me apart from others is that my clients know that I truly care about their experience while they are with me. It shows in the time I take to make sure they are comfortable and happy. The world can be hectic and if they can get away from that for even an hour to do something for themselves, then I am glad I can be a part of that.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I love listening to inspiring and motivating podcasts such as:

-Good Life Project
-When Women Win
-Earn Your Happy

I am all about women empowering other women and business leaders sharing what tactics they used to be successful.

Pricing:

  • $ 105 Classic Customized Facial
  • $140 Detox Facial
  • $140 Back Facial
  • $135 Hybrid Lash Extensions
  • $125 Class Lash Extensions

Contact Info:

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