REVEALED: LLB-Lash Lady Belle has won the title of Best lash technician in Stanthorpe

Stanthorpe Border Post has crowned the best lash technician in Stanthorpe.

Belle has won the title of the best lash technician in Stanthorpe

From classic to mega volume, eyelash extensions are on trend and it takes a talented technician to dial up the drama when it comes to lashes.

Stanthorpe Border Post chatted with Belle from LLB-Lash Lady Belle about the people behind the business and what makes them the local favourite.

Q: How does it feel to be voted as the best lash technician in your area, and what are the secrets to being a great lash technician?

Belle: Humbled and grateful for my wonderful client's and the overwhelming community support from the best regional community in Australia-The Granite Belt is a special place.

Q: Walk us through what the process typically looks like from first meeting a client to the lashes being finished?

Belle: A good lash and brow technician assesses a client's overall style and maturity. Hair colour, eye colour/shape, face shape and skin type all affect the design and longevity, which is the 2nd most important part of our work. The first is eyelash health and hygiene.

Q: What lashes have you done that stick out as being particularly memorable or challenging?

Belle: A brow and full set combo for a client who had a recent and sudden diagnosis of a terminal illness. The few hours spent with her were full of laughter and gentle honesty. She renewed her wedding vows with her husband of 30 plus years with their family present. She wanted to feel beautiful...and she did.

Q: How has your work and the industry as a whole evolved over time, and what are the newest trends and innovations in the industry currently?

Belle: Products and techniques constantly evolve. Volume Lashes are by far the most popular style of extension. And shorter fuller lashes have been the dominant trend the last 12 months. I'm seeing a shift back to classic lashes too (one on one) and less gradient lashes. Certainly it's becoming standard to mix curls, something I have always done as this is what all natural lashbases do. Their are lashes for "The Gram" but then lashes for your life.

Q: What sets you apart from other lash technicians, and what are your secrets to great lashes?

Belle: The quality and variety of my stock. I chose at the beginning of my career to have many varieties of extensions so that I could design lashes for every individual client. Being able to be flexible has given my business an edge and my client's options.

Q: What are the ways that you ensure longevity in your clients' lashes and that they continue looking great?

Belle: The preparation process is everything. And that's part of good training. The adhesive needs to be freshly manufactured, stored well and discarded within a certain timeframe. The conditions in your room during application are extremely important also. Once a client leaves though, it really is about how they manage themselves. Makeup destroys the bond of extensions to Lashes, heat and humidity affect longevity. Hastily applied skin care can affect lashes too. Changes in skin care routine etc. I always say it's like getting a pet, you'll have adjustments and a learning curve, but then you'll be obsessed

Q: What would be your advice for someone looking to start out in the industry?

Belle: Find a mentor to do one on one training with at least once in your education and training journey. Which never stops!

We put a call-out for you to vote for your local favourites and it is due to your support that these skilled individuals and businesses are able to step into the limelight.

Keep following our Best Of campaign and supporting your local winners.