Get to Know Mel!

In this month's lash artist spotlight; we feature Mel R.! Get to know Mel, her journey into lashing, her studio goals, and so much more in this article.

Read further to see how she became interested in illumino's patented process and Lynk-Gel Device. From her first set to her dream lash studio and clients. We cover it all in this in-depth spotlight.

Say Hello to Mel; illumino's Newest In-House Lash Artist!

Every lash artist has a story — a beginning, a defining moment, and the spark that keeps their artistry alive. Today, we’re taking you behind the scenes to get to know the heart, history, humor,andhonestybehind the lash work. From early challenges to dream clients and guilty pleasures, here’s an intimate look at her lash journey.

✨ The Early Challenges

When Mel first entered the world of lashing, her eagerness to speed through sets came with a learning curve.

“I was so eager to finish sets faster that I ended up with a lot of stickies. It took time (and practice!) to realize that speed comes naturally once your technique is clean and consistent.”

It’s a relatable reminder that mastery grows from patience, not pressure.

💜 What Fuels Her Passion

Every day behind the lash bed brings something new and that’s exactly what keeps Mel inspired.

“What keeps me passionate about lashing is the transformation — not just how my clients look, but how they feel. Seeing their confidence light up never gets old. I also love watching new artists discover Lynk-Gel and realize how much better lashing can be. The lash industry never stands still, and that constant evolution fuels my creativity.”

Working with illumino allows her to blend artistry with innovation — and elevate the experience for everyone.

🎨 The Creative Heart of a Lash Artist

“I’ve always been an artsy person, and lashing lets me express that creativity in endless ways. I love helping clients realize there’s a whole world of lash styles and options — there’s no one size fits all.” 

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One thing she wishes every beginner knew?

🌱 Advice for New Lash Artists

“My advice to new lash artists is this: never compare your art to another artist’s. Art is subjective, and so is lashing. There’s more than enough room in this industry for everyone to thrive.”

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Discovering Lynk-Gel: A Turning Point 

Her introduction to Lynk-Gel came from wanting the best for her clients — especially those with sensitivities.

“I had a client I absolutely adored who developed a reaction to traditional lash glue… Between being the inventors of LED lashes, their unmatched safety reports and success with sensitive clients, I knew I’d found the solution. What I didn’t expect was to completely fall in love with Lynk-Gel myself.”

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The moment everything clicked

🎓 First Impressions From Training

“The training truly connected all the dots for me… I left feeling confident with my new certification. Soo-Jin’s knowledge runs so deep, and she shares it throughout the entire class.”

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How Lynk-Gel Changed Her Business

“Since adding Lynk-Gel, I’m able to confidently charge more because my clients are seeing incredible retention results… It’s truly been a game changer for both my work and my personal retention.”

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  • Her illumino Must-Have

    “If I’ve learned anything from using the Lynk-Gel Method, it’s that every illumino product is intentionally designed to work together for the best results.”

  • The One Thing the World Should Know About Lynk-Gel

    “The device never gets in my way or messes me up — seriously so easy to use.”

  • Her Biggest “Aha” Moment

    “My biggest ‘aha’ moment came when I saw my own retention hit the 4-week mark… I ended up going 7 weeks before my lashes looked like they needed a fill.”

  • Ending the Day: Her Favorite Unwind Ritual

    “After a long lashing day, my favorite way to unwind is spending time with my family… or getting lost in those ridiculous, so-bad-they’re-good reality shows.”

  • How She Makes Clients Feel Safe & Seen

    “Transparency is my love language… They transform from clients into friends… sometimes straight-up family.”

  • What's Playing In Her Studio

    “If the music isn’t hitting, I’m listening to true crime podcasts… If you ever need recommendations, seriously, hit me up.”

How She Makes Clients Feel Safe & Seen

“Transparency is my love language… They transform from clients into friends… sometimes straight-up family.”

Dream Studio Goals

Imagine a spooky, colorful, glam lash sanctuary:

"I would take my Lash Church/Beauty Worship aesthetic to the extreme. My dream would be to find an old, slightly spooky church and turn it into the ultimate Beauty Worship Palace. Imagine colorful sunlight pouring through stained glass windows, casting rainbow shadows over my lash beds. Add in some tastefully eerie taxidermy, a few dramatic coffins, spooky décor everywhere, and little nods to the supernatural in every corner. It would be the kind of studio where clients walk in and immediately go, “Okay, this is an EXPERIENCE!” A lash sanctuary. A glittery spooky lash haven. A place where beauty meets the bizarre—my perfect little world."

Get Spooky and Book With Mel Today!
Say Hello to Mel; illumino's Newest In-House Lash Artist!
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