Meet Ana Whitaker of Blink Me Pretty, who established the business in 2017 as a "DIY" beauty and crafting brand. In 2019, Ana decided to expand the brand by investing in handcrafted quality mink lashes. Excited with the results, she then invested more time in market research, sampling and industry training, which have now bought the very best quality product to each of her customers.
GP: How did you get started in your business?
BMP: I have always worked in the beauty industry in some form or fashion since the age of 13. I used to style hair, arch eyebrows and apply lashes for people as a way to make money on the side while in high school and college. I created the Blink Me Pretty brand as a response to needs I noticed within myself and my own community. I was diagnosed with Alopecia when I was about 19 years old, so I have always struggled to find creative solutions to ensure I was always “put together”. Fortunately, I never had issues with facial hair loss, but instead my lashes decided to turn gray during the pandemic while dealing with the removal of my fibroids. After having children and going through the ups and downs of Corporate America, I decided to take a chance on myself and revisit my entrepreneurial spirit through rebranding Blink Me Pretty to include mink eyelash strips.
GP: What is the why behind your brand?
BMP: The “why” behind my brand is deeply rooted in leaving a legacy for my daughter. I want her to see that she can do anything she sets her mind to and be proud of me! My thoughts and prayers are that she is confident and intentional with going after all her dreams. Lastly and very importantly, it makes me happy to see my customers smile from completing their look with a pair of Blink Me Pretty Luxury Mink Lashes.
GP: What's unique about your product/service?
BMP: Blink Me Pretty’s uniqueness centers around the quality of our products. We have worked hard at researching, testing and educating ourselves around current trends in the beauty industry. A lot of our customers look for a natural look with a little drama, ease of applying and a reasonable price. Also, our packaging is eye-catching and includes a lash brush, tweezer, and a mesh pouch to help our customers apply their eyelash strips in a blink. All lashes can be used up to 30 times with care.
GP: What "Not so pretty" obstacles have you faced while on your grind?
BMP: The “Not so pretty” obstacles I have faced are as follows: Postal service issues, feeling imperfect, overanalyzing, not always feeling supported and/or confident.
GP: What's a quote or mantra that keeps you going?
BMP: “Serenity NOW!” and “I will find a way or make one!”
GP: Is anything new or specific you'd like to promote? If so, could you provide details?
BMP: Yes. We have new lashes in stock! Please find them online at: www.blinkmepretty.com
Follow Blink Me Pretty on twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @blinkmepretty
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