Meet Akyra Williams: Lash Artist & Future Esthetician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Akyra Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Akyra, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
If I had to choose the most important factor that has contributed to my success and the success of my brand, I would have to say it would be perseverance and resilience. Why? Resilience is my ability to bounce back and keep going, no matter what obstacles are thrown my way. If I wasn’t determined to persevere as a lash artist, my career would be nowhere. I didn’t get as good as I am by sitting around doing nothing. I constantly practiced on my mannequin and live models whenever I could. You have to want it bad enough! In my opinion, this is crucial to anyone’s success. Life is constantly going to throw you obstacles and it may not always be fair, but it is beautiful when you are able to learn from the obstacle that was thrown your way and not let it break you. It is never the circumstances that define you, but how to deal with it does define you! I’m not sure who said this, but I once read, “Don’t worry little fighter, things will get brighter”. This quote changed my life and is something that I have lived by every day since I was in the 8th grade. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started my career as a lash artist in January of 2019. I wanted an extra source of income to help me reach financial freedom, but it was deeper than just the money. I wanted to do something where I was helping others and was able to express myself freely. Being a lash artist has thankfully given me the opportunity to do both. So far, I am beyond proud of having the opportunity to work on Briana Shanee, CEO of Matte Brand. I have looked up to her for years for being black, beautiful, carefree, and confident! She was in Atlanta for Jayda Cheaves birthday party and need a lashes done for the event. This was such a special day for Ooh La Lash and I will always hold the moment near and dear to my heart. I feel like what sets me apart from others is the simple fact that I understand there is ALWAYS room for improvement. Never become content! I am constantly watching new techniques on Youtube or Instagram and then apply it to my work. Another thing that sets me apart from others is my ability to enhance other’s eyes, but still have their extensions look natural and beautiful! Every lash artist has their own unique style and that’s the beauty of the industry. In January, it’ll be my two year lash anniversary! It definitely hasn’t been easy to get to where I am today. I’ve invested not only a lot of my own money into different products, equipment, and marketing to get here, but I’ve also dedicated a lot of longggggggggg hours! You have to be willing to put your ALL into your business and if you’re not willing, you are in the wrong business! I want the world to know that they are about to see Ooh La Lash in a whole new way come 2021. I recently started school to become a licensed esthetician and will have new services coming within the new year. I am currently rebranding and getting a lot of great content together for my clients and I’m super excited. Stay tuned for Dolled Up Aesthetics!!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend comes to Atlanta, I am dragging her everywhere!!! We definitely would have to make a trip to the Sugar Factory. That’s one of my favorite restaurants because of it’s unique concept and restaurant ambiance. They have these big goblet drinks, and now that we’re both 21 we can get the drinks! Afterwards, I would take her to Opium or Eleven45 Lounge. The next day I would take her to Lenox because we both love to shop and it’s only right to go when visiting Atlanta. Also, I would make sure to take her to Jeju Sauna. That is one of my favorite places here! It’s a spa that is open 24/7, 365 days a year! It’s super relaxing and peaceful.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Goodness, where do I begin?! I definitely have to give my parents some recognition! If I didn’t have their help, I honestly do not know where I would be right now. My mom is a small business owner herself, so she is constantly giving me advice on how to improve my business. She gives me nonstop encouragement and does all of my graphic design work! She’s introduced me to different online groups of other small business owners and I am in heaven! Being able to connect with all of those individuals has really opened my eyes in the business world. My stepdad has also been such a great emotional support system for me. He always cheers me on when I tell him how another client has booked. He always tells someone about my business when he gets the opportunity! My parents go hard for me and I will forever be grateful for that kind of love and support.

Website: https://www.oohlalashatl.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oohlalashatl/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oohlalashatl/