Welcome to Beauty Boss, a reoccurring series in which we spotlight the power players driving the beauty world forward. Consider this your chance to steal their get-ahead secrets, and grow from the real-life lessons they’ve learned on the job.

Lash extensions are having a moment, and so is celebrity lash expert Clementina Richardson. The Envious Lashes founder has taken the concept of extensions to a whole new level with her hard work and dedication to the craft, becoming the go-to lash babe for elite clients around the globe. Below, the beauty boss shares her incredible rise to success.

How did you fall into the beauty space?

I’ve always been obsessed with beauty growing up. When I moved to NY from a small, low-income town in the Bahamas I knew I wanted to become a cosmetologist. Unfortunately, I could not afford to attend cosmetology school so I decided to become a nail technician instead.

VIDEO: Watch an InStyle Editor Get Mermaid Lash Extensions

How did you come up with the concept for your company?

Being in the nail industry for 13 years I became accustomed to a high-end clientele and knew I had the skills and determination to offer my clients something more beyond nail services. Lash Extensions were just starting to gain popularity and the technique was very interesting to me. I knew that I was ready to transfer my skills over to that service, with the ultimate goal of providing superior artistry work in a luxurious setting.

How have you changed the landscape when it comes to lashes?

I changed the landscape by being able to truly enhance one’s eyes by using an assortment of lashes based on the curvature, width, length, and texture of the extensions. Each client’s set is customized and designed to enhance their overall appearance. Every client has their own unique set, it’s not one size fits all. Lash Extensions are an art and I take the time to carefully select the best mix for each of my clients.

I also saw a void in the market when it comes to lash enhancing products. We developed our own line of products to strengthen and care for both the natural lashes and lash extensions, with more exciting products coming down the pipeline in 2018. Our philosophy is to maintain the health of the natural lashes.

What’s the best compliment you ever and received?

The best was from a client who travels the world and has received extensions throughout her travels. She said my application was by far the fastest and best she has ever come across and continues to come to NYC to see me. People have also told me I’ve changed their life, which is the best compliment! I have a few clients who also come all the way from Dubai to see me for lash extensions.

What was your “aha moment” when you realized your company had really become a success?

I realized my company had become a success once I was able to leave the neighborhood my family and I had lived in for over 14 years. Family is everything to me, especially since we struggled with money growing up. I’m so fortunate and blessed to now be able to provide for my family in ways I could have never imaged.

What’s your beauty routine?

My favorite beauty routine would be using honey as a cleanser on my face daily. It firms and tightens the skin. I cleanse my face morning and night and apply Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Firm Cream. I’m also obsessed with fitness and try to avoid carbs as much as possible and work out 3-5 times a week. I can’t live without my Peloton bike and I weight lift as well.

What’s one mistake most women make when it comes to lashes that they could easily fix?

Women tend to request lash extensions that are too heavy for their natural lashes. Instead go for a lash that the natural lashes can support. Women also tend to look for bargain lash salons, it’s so important to do your research as your eyes are extremely fragile.

What’s next for your brand?

We are in our 10th year and are in the process of a huge double expansion, it’s such a pinch-me moment for Envious Lashes! We have a new NYC Flagship and a new Long Island location opening in early 2018 and are growing our staff of 10 to 40-50. We have also begun offering trainings at our NYC location and will be expanding our certification workshop nationwide. The ultimate goal is to have our salons nationwide.

Who is the best candidate for lashes?

Lash extensions are best for anyone looking to either thicken or lengthen their natural lashes. Your dream of rolling out of bed looking gorgeous without the hassle of applying makeup will be a reality and you can say bye-bye to your eyelash curlers and mascara for good!

What’s the hottest trend in lashes right now?

The hottest trend right now is by far our new colored mermaid lashes. Adding a pop of color to any set of extensions is a great way to embrace this season’s multi-colored eye look and enhance your natural eye color. In fact, these have become so popular that we plan to introduce seasonal colors.