Eye lash extensions are having a moment—moreso now that events and parties are in full bloom once again.

Although you could say that in Sarasota, lashes' moment never ended. Since 2016, Eunice Chavez has been dedicated keeping local lashes in tip-top shape at Eye Candy Lash Extensions, her flagship location on Webber Street in Sarasota.

Now, just in time for season, she’s launched a second location on Swift Road to serve residents in that part of town who are in need of some camera-ready lash luster.  We caught up with Chavez to find out more about her inspiration, her new store and her best advice for fellow female founders. 

What inspired you to launch Eye Candy?

“My daily inspiration is my children. I want them to feel proud of me and the hard work I put into running my business.

"Second is the potential I saw in the beauty industry. My vision is to always have an amazing team of women working with me. The Eye Candy lash brand is like another child for me. I am extremely passionate about what we do."

What can clients expect during a lash session?

"Each service can run about an hour and up to two hours, at times. I want it to be a safe, affordable and relaxing self-care experience for guests. Maybe it even helps boost their confidence."

Tell us about eyelash extension options and other services you offer.

“We offer four types of lash extension sets, lash lifts, and brow shaping. The most subtle, natural, and ‘mascara’-type look is our classic set. We often apply these lashes for our first-time newbies. It is one single extension carefully placed on every natural lash. 

"Moving up would be our hybrid set—the best of both worlds, in my opinion. This set of extensions is a combination of single classic extensions mixed with what are called volume fans [several lash extensions joined together at the base. It gives a bit more fullness to your look.

"Our most popular set is our volume set. This is for our guests who love a very full and dramatic lash look. This set is fluffy and filled with fans across the lash line. 

"The mega lash set is the fullest and most filled set of lash extensions. It is not for the faint of heart—its drama times 100! All our lash extension sets and fills are done with hand-made fans. Many times, we see guests who already have pre-made or cluster extensions, which can be damaging to your natural lash. 

What is a lash lift?

"Lash lifts are for people who would like to have something more natural. It could be compared to perming your natural lash into a lifted and curled state. However, it's unlike the harsh formulas that were once used to perm hair on our heads. The treatment for lash lifts is gentler and safer.”

As a female entrepreneur, what lessons have you learned that you would pass on to other women?

“I could write an entire book on the wonderful yet sometimes very tough lessons I have learned along the way. If you are contemplating the idea of starting your own business, be educated and protect yourself and your assets. Invest in an attorney to review and write your contracts. And remain humble and kind."

Eye Candy Lash Extensions is located at 3650 Webber St., Unit E, and 5640 Swift Road, Unit A. For more information, click here.