Project Crystal 2.0 - Week 4

Transformation is a journey, not a destination. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been reflecting deeply on how my own path—marked by challenges, heartache, and resilience—has shaped the person I am today. As I embrace Crystal 2.0, I feel compelled to share my story in the hope that it will inspire others to find their own strength and purpose.

From Education to Beauty

My journey didn’t start in beauty. I earned a Master’s in Education and worked tirelessly in the public school system, dedicating 7 to 12 hours a day to my students. While it was a secure job with excellent benefits, it left me drained. Deep down, I knew this wasn’t a sustainable path, especially if I wanted to start a family.

Everything changed when I became pregnant with baby Rose. Baby Rose never made it to this earth—I suffered a miscarriage at 18 weeks. That loss turned my world upside down and forced me to reevaluate my life. I realized I couldn’t continue working in an environment where I was defined by an employee ID number and was ultimately replaceable.

That’s when lashes entered my life. I began learning and mastering the craft, pouring myself into it while on medical leave with my rainbow baby, Camila in 2017. After Camila’s birth, I took a short break, only to discover I was expecting again! With two babies under two, my hands were full, but lashes stayed in my heart.

 

Finding Strength in Change

In 2019, my husband, Carlos, made a career change that relocated our family to Washington State. Moving away from our family and friends left me feeling lost and isolated. Lashing re-entered my life, not just as a skill but as therapy. It gave me a way to connect with others during a difficult time. I didn’t lash for everyone—only for those who needed support, like my babysitter and house cleaner, in exchange for their help.

Then COVID hit in 2020, and the world changed. I realized I needed to do more to provide for my family. That’s when the idea for Butterfly Kiss was born. The pandemic created an opportunity to focus on product testing and development, as many factories were operating at slower speeds. Carlos handed me $5,000 with one challenge: Turn this into something.

I was determined to succeed. What started as a small dream grew into something far greater than I could have imagined. Today, Butterfly Kiss is more than just a brand—it’s a symbol of heartache, resilience, community, and independence.

 

A Journey of Transformation

This journey of transformation has been about so much more than business. It’s been about rediscovering myself, building a life I love, and honoring baby Rose, who I carry in my heart every day. Baby Rose would be so proud of her mama.

Sharing my story has reminded me of the power of vulnerability and connection. If this transformation has taught me anything, it’s that every step forward matters, no matter how small. Your story—no matter how painful or uncertain—can inspire someone else to keep going.

 

Share Your Story

If you have a story, I encourage you to share it. You never know who you might help or inspire along their journey. Our stories connect us and remind us that we are not alone in our struggles or triumphs.

As I embrace Crystal 2.0, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. Lashes didn’t just change my career—they transformed my life. Here’s to growth, resilience, and the courage to keep moving forward.