Melbourne based Ayla Akyol CEO of Lash Boss Melbourne reveals how she made the leap from architecture to launch her dream beauty business. By Anita Quade
Career change
Tell us how you made the leap from your job as an architect to becoming the Lash Boss Melbourne.
“I made the leap by looking into the work-life balance of the lash industry. I wanted to start a family and thought it would be a better fit for my lifestyle. With a degree in landscape architecture design and a background in influencer marketing, transitioning to the lash industry wasn’t something I initially envisioned. However, the flexibility and potential for growth in the lash business were too compelling to ignore.”
How difficult was it to make the leap and is there anything you wish you had known before launching?
“Enrolling in a lash course was straightforward, as most courses only take a few days. Starting a lash business is also relatively inexpensive. However, I wish I had known more about the demand and market potential earlier. Understanding the rapid growth and financial returns sooner would have allowed me to scale the business even faster.”
What was the benefit of you starting your business working from home?
“Operating from home made the process affordable and convenient. The setup costs were low, requiring just a bed, light and lash products. This setup was perfect, especially as a mum with young children. It allowed me to balance work and family life while building a business.”
The highs and lows
What was your toughest hurdle setting up your own business?
“One of the toughest hurdles was managing time effectively, especially after the birth of my son. Balancing the demands of a growing business with family responsibilities required careful planning and dedication.”
Greatest moment?
“One of my greatest moments was expanding Lash Boss Melbourne internationally to New Zealand, Canada, and the USA. Seeing the business grow from a small home salon to a million-dollar enterprise has been incredibly rewarding.”
What do you love most about being the founder of The Lash Boss Melbourne?
“I love the flexibility it offers, allowing me to spend time with my two boys while running a successful business. I love that I can curate my week to what suits me. I run my business, my business doesn’t run me. Additionally, the satisfaction of mentoring and supporting other women in their business journeys is immensely fulfilling.”
Expanding internationally
You started your business in Melbourne and now have expansion plans for New Zealand and globally – tell us about that.
“After establishing a strong presence in Melbourne, we saw the potential for growth and expanded to New Zealand, Canada, and the USA. The global demand for lash extensions and training is booming, and we aim to meet this demand by offering exceptional training programs and products internationally.”
The lash extension market is booming, valued at $1.36 billion in 2020 and expected to soar to $2.31 billion by 2028. Why do you think it’s such a strong, growing market?
“The lash extension market is thriving because it offers excellent financial returns and flexibility, especially for mums who want to balance work and family life or for those that want to make extra money outside their 9-5. Everyone desires beautiful lashes, which ensures a growing need for lash businesses. Additionally, the relatively low cost of lash products compared to the value of the services makes it a profitable industry.”
“I love that I can curate my week to what suits me. I run my business, my business doesn’t run me.”
Sourcing success
Where do you find your inspiration?
“I find inspiration from my family, especially my two boys. Additionally, seeing other women successfully start and grow their lash businesses motivates me to continue expanding and innovating in the industry.”
Is there anyone in the business you greatly admire?
“I greatly admire other women entrepreneurs who balance family life with running a thriving business. Their stories of perseverance and success inspire me to keep pushing forward. It’s not easy to run a business in general let alone also being a full-time mum. I have so much respect for women in business that are also full-time mums.”
What sets Lash Boss apart from other companies?
“Lash Boss Melbourne stands out due to our comprehensive training programs, unwavering support, and business mentorship. We offer nationally recognised certifications and provide ongoing support to our students long after they’ve completed our courses. Our commitment to quality and student success sets us apart.”
Where do you source your products?
“We source high-quality lash products and technician equipment from trusted suppliers to ensure the best results for our students and customers.”
Looking ahead
What plans do you have for 2024?
“In 2024, we plan to further expand our international presence, enhance our online training programs, and introduce new products to meet the evolving needs of the lash industry. Our goal is to continue supporting and empowering women globally to achieve financial independence through the lash business.”
This story originally appeared in the Winter 2024 print issue of Professional Beauty.
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