We had the good fortune of connecting with Arlene Cisneros and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Arlene, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson my business has taught me is the power of perseverance and discipline. Even on days when I’ve felt exhausted or doubted myself, I’ve learned that there’s always a spark of determination within me that drives me to keep going. Discipline has shown me that success isn’t about fleeting motivation; it’s about showing up and putting in the work, even when it’s hard. Ultimately, you only go as far as you’re willing to push yourself, and that realization has been invaluable in shaping my journey.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Getting to where I am today business-wise has been far from easy. It’s taken years of hard work, significant financial investment, and unwavering determination. Even now, my business is still relatively new, and I’m constantly learning and evolving. While I’m not yet exactly where I want to be, I embrace the challenges that come with entrepreneurship, because they push me to grow. One of the things I value most is having a network of mentors who I can turn to for guidance when things get tough. Their support has been invaluable in helping me navigate the ups and downs of building a business.
I’m originally from Rome, GA – a small town in North Georgia – and from a young age, I knew I wanted more for myself and my future. I dreamed of the opportunities that could come with being in a bigger city, and I was determined to make that happen. During cosmetology school and in the early years of my career, I would drive 3 hours round trip every day from Rome to Alpharetta just to pursue my dreams. It wasn’t easy, but that drive and commitment are a big part of why I’m here today. Growing up in a small town taught me the importance of hard work, persistence, and always striving for better opportunities. Those values have shaped the way I run my business.
One of the things that sets my business apart: my focus on high-quality lash application, products and exceptional customer service. There’s a lash studio on every corner these days, so it’s not just about doing good work – it’s about building relationships and creating a space where clients feel truly cared for. I believe being respectful of clients’ time, consistently delivering quality work, and always staying on top of the latest trends in the industry are key to standing out. It’s not just about applying lashes – it’s about providing a full experience that makes people feel valued and confident when they walk out the door.
Of course, there have been challenges along the way – from financial hurdles to long hours and constant learning. But overcoming those obstacles has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of a solid support system. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success is not a straight line. There are a lot of peaks and valleys, but it’s about maintaining focus, continuing to improve, and staying true to the vision.
As I continue to grow my business, what excites me most is the potential for new opportunities and the ability to make a positive impact on others’ lives. I want the world to know that my brand is built on authenticity, hard work, and a deep passion for helping people feel their best. I’m excited for what’s next, and I’m grateful for every step of the journey that’s brought me here.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ll admit, I’m such a homebody and love spending time at home, so I don’t go out very much! If my best friend came to visit, we’d both be experiencing a lot of things for the first time together, which makes it even more exciting.
For a one-day itinerary, I’d start our morning with a visit to the Georgia Aquarium – it’s one of the largest aquariums in the world and offers such a fun, immersive experience. After that, we’d head over to the World of Coca-Cola museum to dive into the history of one of the world’s most iconic brands. Both of these places are pretty iconic and definitely worth seeing, especially for first-time visitors.
For lunch, I’d book us the afternoon tea experience at the St. Regis – because who doesn’t love a little luxury and indulgence? It’s the perfect way to slow down, relax, and enjoy some delicious treats. In the afternoon, we could either take a stroll through Phipps Plaza for some high-end shopping or head to Avalon for a more relaxed outdoor vibe. Avalon is great for browsing local shops, grabbing a coffee, and just soaking in the atmosphere. For dinner, I’d suggest Little Alley Steakhouse in Roswell or Crust Pizza, both are local favorites that serve up amazing food in a cozy, welcoming environment.
To end the day, we’d stop by Café Intermezzo for dessert and coffee. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a sweet treat and chat about our day. There’s always something comforting about a late-night dessert, especially when it’s at a place with such a great atmosphere.
There’s so much to explore around here – from luxury to laid-back vibes, scenic hikes to great food spots – I’d want to show my best friend everything I love about the area.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible people shape my journey and success. First, Franchesca O’Connell, owner of Cosa Salon who I had the privilege of assisting early in my career. I didn’t know anything about the salon world, and she showed me everything— She laid the foundation, teaching me discipline, professionalism, and the importance of client care.
Secondly, Trina, the owner of Maven Artistry, whose education has transformed my career. Her expertise in technique, styling, and proper lash application, combined with her motivational guidance on managing finances and valuing my services, has been invaluable.
Lastly, Casee, the owner of Lash Addict in Salt Lake City, Utah, who taught me the intricate art of Russian volume in a private class. Her patience and willingness to share her techniques helped me master this challenging skill and elevated my artistry. Each of these women has left an undeniable mark on my journey.
Website: https://arlisartistry.com
Instagram: @ArlisArtistry
Other: TikTok @ArlisArtistry