Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in the area?
I am originally from Middletown NJ and I have lived in the area for 15 years. My husband Charlie was raised in Basking Ridge – hence naming the studio “Charlie’s” Lashes.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have two children – Brynn 8 and Hadley 4.
Are you involved in a business venture or corporate world? Please Share!
I own Charlie’s Lashes located in the heart of Basking Ridge, NJ.
When did you decide you wanted to open your own Lash Studio?
Opening the studio fell into my lap. I was working on my own for a few years going into clients homes and I had my own little studio at my house. But as our family grew, we needed to move into a home that we could grow into. In 2015 I went out into the town of Basking Ridge in search of a room for rent to take my clients. Started my LLC and from there and the quality of my skills and reputation grew – It was the biggest compliment to have stylists looking to learn from and work beside me! So, after a few months in the little room I rented in BR, we upgraded to a bigger location! With the business growing and the industry of beauty on the rise I took the next step in 2020 and renovated a new location for Charlie’s Lashes at 52A S. Finley Ave, Basking Ridge!
Has beauty and permanent make up always been a part of your life?
The beauty industry has always been a part of my life. Growing up I would always go with my mom to the salon. It was always such an exciting environment, always leaving me yearning for more. That very salon employed me and taught me so many standards I value today while running my own studio. Like myself, the salon was family owned and truly cared about each and every one of their employees future careers. I attended Vocational school during HS and earned my Cosmetology license. After graduation, I went off to college to get my degree in Communication and Fine Arts.
What do you recommend for someone looking to get their first set of lashes?
I always tell everyone to come in for consultation first! Coming into the studio to meet our staff and find the stylist you best get along with is always my recommendation. Each stylist can customize your lash look based on the length of your natural lashes, shape of your eyes and design you are trying to achieve.
If you could give one tip to fellow Mom Entrepreneurs what would it be?
Don’t stop – there are so many challenges you will encounter, most of which, come on a daily basis. But it is most important to not let those stop you. Every time you encounter a challenge you must learn from the experience, become stronger, smarter, and you will be more respected. My studio is my 3 rd child – we take care of one another.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
One thing ppl would be surprised to know about me: I love to work out! I’m typically know as the party girl with a Yeti cocktail in hand – which I’m also really good at – but I love getting up early heading to the gym and getting a crazy hard workout in!
Ok 10 Fun LOCAL favorites – ready, go!
1 – Favorite thing to do with your kids? Go to Harry Dunham Park together.
2 – Favorite coffee spot? Priscilla Pantry
3 – Favorite lunch place? Blue Café
4 – Favorite farm to go fruit picking? Wightman’s Farm
5 – Favorite date night restaurant? Cryan’s in Annendale
6 – Favorite boutique? Olcott Square in Bernardsville
7 – Favorite spot to grab a drink? Washington House
8 – Who has the best bagels in town? Ridge Bagels (also great for lunch sandwiches)
9 – Best slice of pizza in town? Pizza Brother
10 – Favorite spot for ice cream? Polar Cub in Whitehouse
This interview was done in partnership with Charlie’s Lashes. Be sure to follow them on social media below:
