LASHING IN A PANDEMIC
I hate to say it but—2020, right? It has been a wild year and I’m willing to bet we’ve all been affected and specifically when it comes to lashing. I’m aware that restrictions vary from state to state, but if you’re lucky enough to be lashing during this pandemic I have some newly learned tips for you!
1. Extra Time = Extra CleanIn addition to our regular cleaning and sanitizing protocols it’s important to be going above and beyond during this time to make our clients feel safe and eliminate the spread as much as we can. I have gone ahead and added an extra fifteen minutes to the end of each client in order to not only sanitize and prepare for the next client, but to also eliminate any client overlap. Eliminating client overlap keeps the numbers in my space at one time extra low.
2. Getting Used to the MaskWhen masks were first mandated in my area it was frustrating having another element on the client’s face (not to mention my face, too). Now that a few months have passed it feels comfortable but not without a few adjustments. First, if the client’s mask can be squeezed tightly over the nose, have them do that because it will ride up less on the face. Second, I ideally like to place my under eye tape over the client’s mask because it keeps their mask on properly and prevents breath from blowing upwards. Third, if the tape won’t stay stuck on top of the mask, place the eyepads and tape under the mask while still keeping the client’s mask on properly—this took me some getting used to doing comfortably!
3. Expect Changes & Be ForgivingYou can absolutely expect more changes in your schedule than normal. How forgiving you are is up to you, but remember that these are unprecedented times for everyone. Regarding schedule changes, my advice is to just be prepared for frequent rescheduling and postponing. I think going in with the mindset that clients may have to cancel last minute is helpful even just for our mental health as lash artists.
4. Budget Well & Inventory OftenGoing along with increased schedule changes, our income can be affected. Plan ahead. Are you losing income or are you experiencing a lull that will be followed by a boom? These are questions you need to be aware of. As far as inventory my advice would be to stay on top of it and order sooner than you normally would, that way you are not panicked when either inventory is hard to come by or shipping times are delayed.
5. Stay PositiveStay positive! Do what you need to do to find peace and comfort during these stressful days. Working has actually been a stress reliever this year for me because I feel grateful that I have the opportunity to lash. But that’s not to go without saying that it has been one of the most stressful challenges I’ve faced as a business owner. So, here’s your reminder to stay positive!
