Today we’d like to introduce you to Ophelia Brew
Hi Ophelia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I’ve always been drawn to beauty and all things girly. I used to play in my mom’s heels and makeup, constantly experimenting with new ways to express myself. My passion for beauty only deepened in high school, and I became fascinated with lash extensions. After begging my mom for weeks, she finally agreed to let me get them done.
I booked my very first lash appointment and chose a hybrid set because I wanted something soft and natural for my first try. But when I woke up from the lash bed, I had these huge mega volume lashes that I hadn’t asked for. I was too shy to speak up and tell the lash artist I didn’t like them. Instead, I posted a TikTok venting about how disappointed I was, and to my surprise, the video went viral, racking up millions of views.
That moment sparked something in me. Seeing the overwhelming response to my experience inspired me to take matters into my own hands and learn how to become a lash artist myself. I wanted to make sure no one else ever left an appointment feeling unheard or unhappy.
I dove into the art of lashing, learning how to create lash sets that perfectly complement different eye shapes, facial features, and personal styles. My goal has always been to give my clients exactly what they ask for—lashes that enhance their natural beauty and make them feel confident.
What started as a lash nightmare turned into the beginning of a beautiful journey. That experience pushed me to pick up the tweezers, master a new skill, and build a career out of my passion. And now, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting my lash business came with a lot of challenges, both expected and unexpected. One of the biggest struggles was balancing my business with being a full-time Howard University student and pursuing an internship. Managing my time was tough, especially when I was trying to deliver high-quality services while keeping up with my academics.
Another hurdle was navigating my living situation. I didn’t have the luxury of a dedicated workspace for my lash business, and my college dorm setup wasn’t ideal. There were times when I had to move my supplies back and forth or work around the schedules of others, which made it difficult to stay consistent and efficient.
On top of that, dealing with clients was a learning curve. From no-shows to people trying to negotiate prices, I had to develop a thick skin and learn how to enforce boundaries in a professional yet firm way.
Financially, the startup costs were another challenge. Lash supplies, marketing materials, and training courses all added up quickly, and it took time before I started seeing a return on my investment.
Despite these obstacles, I’ve grown so much through the journey. Each challenge has taught me something valuable—whether it’s time management, resilience, or how to stay adaptable in the face of adversity. Looking back, I’m grateful for the lessons because they’ve shaped me into the person and business owner I am today.
We’ve been impressed with LiaLashedYou ۵ , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Growing up in a lower-income neighborhood in the Bronx, as a first-generation Ghanaian-American, I faced unique challenges and opportunities. The resilience and determination embedded in my upbringing have greatly influenced my journey as a Lash Owner. Moving to Washington, D.C. for college, I brought with me the values of hard work, community support, and the drive to create something meaningful.
My lash business, Lia Lashed You, is more than just a beauty service; it is a reflection of my journey—one that celebrates growth, inclusivity, and personal empowerment. I specialize in high-quality, customizable lash extensions tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each client feels beautiful and confident. What sets me apart is my commitment to creating a welcoming space where clients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from underserved communities, feel seen and heard.
As a first-generation entrepreneur, I’ve worked hard to make Lia Lashed You a safe haven where clients can embrace their unique beauty, free from judgment. I am proud to offer a service that not only enhances physical appearance but also nurtures self-love and empowerment.
My sercices are designed to provide an affordable luxury experience, accessible to those who may not otherwise have the means for beauty treatments. I strive to empower women, especially those in lower-income neighborhoods, to feel valued and confident in their own skin. Lia Lashed You is more than just a brand; it is a community that uplifts and supports everyone in their personal and professional journeys.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Making the transition from a small, campus-based lash business in a dorm room to establishing my own studio was a significant risk, but one that ultimately felt necessary for growth. Starting Lia Lashed You in a shared, limited space within the dorm environment came with its challenges—limited privacy, inadequate storage, and restricted client flow. Yet, the experience allowed me to refine my craft and build a loyal client base.
However, as my business grew, so did the need for a space that matched my ambitions and could accommodate the level of service I wanted to provide. The risk of moving from a small, familiar environment to an independent studio felt daunting. I had to consider costs, location, and the impact on my ability to serve my clients effectively. Despite these uncertainties, I knew that staying in a restricted space would hinder the growth and professionalism I wanted for Lia Lashed You.
Making the leap to my own studio required trust in my ability to manage finances, attract new clients, and create an environment that felt both welcoming and professional. It was a calculated risk, but one I believed would lead to a more sustainable business model and better experiences for my clients. Moving into a studio allowed me to expand my services, offer more personalized experiences, and foster a sense of community among my clients.
Risk-taking, in this context, was essential to elevating my brand and solidifying my place in the lash industry. It required stepping beyond my comfort zone and trusting that the investment in a dedicated space would pay off through growth, both professionally and personally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lialashedyou.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/lialashedyou
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/opheliabrew
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YPcA3snsfNCzvfjw7
