Congratulations on completing your course and becoming a certified lash extension technician! As you embark on your journey as a lash artist, one of the most crucial steps is setting the right prices for your services. This guide will help you navigate through the factors to consider and strategies to implement to ensure your business thrives.

Evaluating Your Costs

1. Initial Investments: Consider the costs you’ve incurred so far, such as the lash extension course fees, and the time and energy you’ve invested in gaining your certification.
2. Daily Operating Costs: Factor in the daily expenses required to run your lash business, including materials and studio maintenance.
3. Value Offered: Reflect on the value you bring to your clients. You’re not just offering lash extensions but boosting their confidence and enhancing their beauty.

Pricing Strategy: What Customers Need to Know

While it’s essential to consider the above costs, remember that customers are primarily interested in the value they receive for their money. Avoid over-explaining your pricing to them; focus on highlighting the benefits and quality of your services instead.

Starting Out: Pricing While Practicing

As a new lash artist, setting the right price can be challenging. Here’s a step-by-step plan to help you get started:

1. First 4-5 Treatments: Offer for free to gain experience.
2. Next 5 Sets: Charge only for the cost of materials.
3. Next 5 Sets: Offer at 30-50% of the full price.
4. Full Pricing: Transition to charging the full price.

Competitive Research

Research your competitors thoroughly. Book appointments with them to understand their service quality, customer service, booking processes, and overall salon experience. Use this insight to refine your offerings and set competitive prices.

Finding Practice Models

Initially, you might practice on close friends or family members. However, to expand your practice, consider inviting people from social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to become models for a small fee that covers your material costs. This can lead to loyal, long-term clients.

Transitioning to Full Pricing

Once you’re confident in your skills, it’s time to set your full prices. Here’s how to approach it:

• Reflect Your Value: Charge rates that reflect the quality and steadiness of your work.
• Avoid Undervaluing: Setting prices too low can attract bargain hunters, leading to a tiring and less rewarding business experience.
• Assess Quality: If your work is still improving, start with lower rates until you’re ready to charge more.

Avoiding Overpricing

As a beginner, avoid setting your prices too high. Clients have high expectations with high prices, which can be challenging to meet if you’re still honing your skills. Apply at least 10-15 pairs of lashes before considering full rates.

Intermediate Phase: Creative Discount Tactics

If you’re in the intermediate phase, not quite ready for full pricing but beyond beginner rates, consider offering special discounts. For example, if the average market price is $135, you might offer a special rate of $65 for a limited time. This attracts clients without undermining your value.

Identifying Ideal Customers

Focus on attracting clients who:

• Love your work and are loyal.
• View eyelashes as a crucial part of their lifestyle.
• Prioritize quality over price.
• Are willing to travel to your new location if you move.
• Understand and support your price increases.

Raising Prices as an Established Lash Artist

Once your calendar is 60-80% booked, you can consider raising your rates.

Steps to Raise Prices:

1. Small Increases: Start with a $5 increase and update your website and provide clients with new price lists.
2. Avoid Bad Surprises: Inform your clients in advance to prevent any negative reactions.
3. Timing: Pre-holiday periods are ideal for price hikes as customers are more willing to spend.

High-End Market: If you’re already charging higher rates, losing a few price-sensitive clients is okay. You have room to attract new clients who value quality over cost.

Conclusion

Setting the right prices for your lash business involves evaluating your costs, understanding your value, and implementing a smart pricing strategy. By following these steps and continuously assessing your market and services, you’ll build a successful, profitable lash business that both you and your clients will love.

If you’re ready to take the first step as a lash technician and explore the world of beauty and lashes, submit a mini application here.