Meet Angela Holley | Esthetician & Lash Specialist

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

Hi Angela, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned as a lash tech and entrepreneur is that there’s no easy way out—success requires consistent, hard work and dedication.

When I first started my business, I thought leaving a 9-to-5 job would give me more freedom and an easier life. While I now have the flexibility to focus on what truly brings me joy, I’ve realized that running a business isn’t easier—it’s a completely different kind of hard work. In fact, I work harder now than I ever did in my previous job.

Entrepreneurship has taught me that nothing comes without effort. Every client I’ve gained, every technique I’ve mastered, and every milestone I’ve hit has come from hours of practice, planning, and perseverance. There are no shortcuts. Success isn’t just handed to you; it’s earned.

But the beauty of this hard work is that it’s fulfilling. Even on the tough days, I’m building something I’m passionate about. I’ve learned to embrace the grind because it aligns with my vision for my life. The biggest reward isn’t just financial—it’s the freedom to create a career that brings me joy and reflects my purpose.

This journey has reminded me that the challenges are part of the process, and every step forward is worth it when you’re working toward something you love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey started in 2019 when I decided to take a simple lash class—not because I had a grand vision for a lash business, but because I needed something to do. I had recently moved from Connecticut to Atlanta and didn’t know many people. I was looking for something to not only occupy my time but also generate extra income and give me a sense of purpose.

Atlanta, with its vibrant culture and endless opportunities, felt like the perfect place to start something new. It’s a melting pot of people, ideas, and activities, and I was determined to find my calling here. That’s when I stumbled into the world of lashes.

At first, it was just a hobby—a creative outlet to explore. But as I began to work with clients and see the joy my work brought to them, it became so much more. Lashes didn’t just give me financial stability; they gave me a way to connect with people, build relationships, and express my creativity.

I started out in my one-bedroom apartment, lashing right in the middle of my living room. At the time, I didn’t have the funds to rent a suite, so I had to make do with what made sense for me. It wasn’t ideal, and honestly, I was a little embarrassed. I’d see other people showcasing these luxury setups in their beautiful apartments, and mine didn’t look anything like that.

I was so worried about being judged that it almost discouraged me from pursuing lashes altogether. But I’m so glad I didn’t let that stop me. Starting small, even in a space I felt unsure about, taught me humility and resourcefulness. It reminded me that where you begin doesn’t define where you’ll end up.

That living room wasn’t just a makeshift workspace—it was the foundation for everything I’ve built today. It’s proof that you don’t need the perfect setup to start; you just need determination and the willingness to keep going, even when you feel out of place. Looking back, I’m proud of that phase because it showed me what I’m capable of when I commit to my goals.

At The Suite Lash Bar, the experience I provide truly sets me apart from other lash artists. Let’s be real..Atlanta is packed with lash techs. There are hundreds, if not thousands, in the city. But finding one who checks all of your boxes? That’s rare, and that’s exactly what I do for my clients.

When you book with me, it’s not just about getting a lash set, it’s about the experience. I prioritize professionalism, listening to what my clients need and want, and creating a space where they feel valued. Whether it’s their desired style, specific concerns, or just wanting a moment to relax, I ensure that every appointment is tailored to them.

And beyond professionalism, I make it fun. I understand that the hour or two I spend with my clients once or twice a month is precious. They’re choosing to spend their time and hard-earned money on my business, and I don’t take that lightly. I do everything I can to make that time worthwhile.

One of the biggest challenges I faced on my journey as a lash artist was staying focused. During the time I worked a 9-5 lashes were not my top priority—my job was what paid the bills, and lashes were something I pursued in my spare time. Balancing these responsibilities wasn’t easy, especially when my full-time job demanded so much of my energy and attention.

Then came the pandemic, which hit just as I had started building a solid clientele. Suddenly, I couldn’t work on lashes at all. This setback felt like I was losing all the progress I had worked so hard to achieve. It didn’t just affect my business—it also shook my mindset.

With lashes on hold, I began taking on other side hustles to fill the gap, but that only pulled me further away from what I truly wanted to do. My attention was split between my 9-5, these side projects, and my dream of growing a lash business. Lashes, which had once been a passion, started to feel more distant with every passing day. So I made the decision to cut all distractions out of my life and go hard in my business. It took time, but I eventually found my way back to focusing on lashes, and it’s been worth every struggle.

Now, as a licensed esthetician, I’m passionate about not only perfecting the art of lash extensions but also teaching others how to thrive in this industry. Looking back, what started as a way to pass the time turned into a fulfilling career that I’m proud of. This journey has shown me that sometimes, our passions find us when we least expect them.

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.
I love a good trip in Atlanta because there’s always so much to do. I’d start my days with brunch at either Ms. Icey’s Kitchen & Bar, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen or Atlanta Breakfast Club—have amazing menus. I’d definitely want to soak in some city views, preferably from a rooftop like Drawbar, Reverb by Hard Rock, or Rosé & Rye. There’s just something about seeing the Atlanta skyline that sets the tone. The beltline and ponce city market is where I’d spend most of my time. You can really do it all here. From nature walks to shots!

For relaxation, a trip to Woodhouse Spa is a must. All my friends work hard, so it’s the perfect spot for us to visit to unwind and feel pampered.

By evening, I’d head out to one of my favorite dinner spots like Pasha for Mediterranean vibes, Amore é Amore for Italian cuisine, Knife for an upscale steakhouse experience, or Southern Fire Kitchen for delicious Southern-inspired dishes.

Of course, no trip is complete without exploring Atlanta’s nightlife. I love hitting a lounge off Buford Highway, especially when there’s a good Afrobeat mix playing. Rocksteady is another go-to for its vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean-inspired energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my loyal clients who have been with me since day one. Funny enough, my first lash sets were far from perfect—disastrous, in my eyes. But to my clients, they loved them. That joy I saw in their faces, the way they felt more beautiful and confident, gave me the encouragement to continue on this journey.

Truthfully, I don’t know if I would be where I am today without their unwavering support. Over the years, they’ve stood by me through challenges—pandemics, moments of doubt, and the countless lessons I had to learn while navigating life and business as an entrepreneur.

They always say that lash techs and estheticians are like therapists to their clients, but what many don’t realize is that it works both ways. My clients have been there for me, listening when I needed someone to talk to, offering advice, or simply reminding me of my purpose when I felt like giving up. Their support has been a lifeline, and they’ve become more than just clients—they’ve become part of my story.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but their trust and loyalty have made every challenge worth it. I’m beyond grateful to be able to do what I love, and that’s because of them. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me to be part of your beauty journey—you’ve inspired me to keep growing and giving my best every day.

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