It was October of 2023, when I nervously stepped into a cozy lash studio in San Angelo for the first time.
You wouldn’t think it would be such a big deal – it’s just lashes, after all. But my wedding was a few months away, and I needed a trial run.
I settled into the small couch outside the artist’s workspace and braced for a long wait-time, as is the norm at many beauty salons. I took my phone out to mindlessly scroll in an effort to distract myself.
I had so many questions running through my mind: What if I hate them? What if I don’t know what kind to get? What if they’re painful? Are they going to be as pretty as they look in the pictures? Should I just leave now?
My racing thoughts were interrupted by the kindest voice – it was Gisela Renteria of Bat Lash. She warmly introduced herself and asked if I needed a minute to get ready or eat a snack before my appointment – a simple but thoughtful gesture that helped me relax some.
Once in the workspace, Gisela took her time putting all my worries at ease.
She showed me photos upon photos of beautiful lashes and explained all the different types. She worked closely with me to determine my best potential shape for lashes – since I have hooded eyes, I would need a particular kind of lash – all things I had no idea about before.
Before I knew it, my nervous system was calmed, and I was eager to get started. I left that appointment not only with gorgeous lashes, but also feeling grateful and empowered.
Since that first visit, Gisela has been my go-to lash gal. Every person I refer to Bat Lash returns singing her praises, not just for her skill, but for her sincere approach to providing services. I wanted to dig deeper into what makes her stand out in our community.
Gisela has been doing lashes since October of 2020. She offers lash extensions, colored lash extensions, lash lifts and tints, and she trains other beauty professionals. She is approaching her 5-year anniversary this fall. That’s a good amount of time to be dedicated to the craft!
Gisela says that what keeps her motivated to keep doing the work is not just the glowing reviews from satisfied clients – it’s any type of feedback.
“I feel like having the kind of integrity to get my clients’ honest feedback helps me push myself to be better and to take accountability and responsibility for my work. I always tell my clients that I take their feedback seriously, but I don’t take it personally.”
To Gisela, making new clients and first-timers feel comfortable starts with seeing each client as a sister and getting to know the human behind the appointment.
“I’m very comfortable around my sisters, and if I’m not confident in myself, my clients will feel that. I love to ask follow-up questions to really understand my client’s point of view, and I love to hear about why they are getting their lashes done – sometimes they feel incomplete without their lashes, they don’t want to mess with makeup every day, it makes them feel confident, they are doing an important presentation at work soon, or just showing up in the world. I try to know where they’re coming from.”
It’s clear that, to Gisela, representation matters.
“Whether it’s lashes, hair, makeup – however you present yourself to the world is huge… If I’m going to put on lash extensions for my clients, I want them to feel secure that they’re going to last and make them feel badass and amazing, even when they’re crying.” (I can attest: mine held strong through happy-tears at my wedding ceremony!)
The best beauty professionals take pride in empowering others and making them feel safe enough to say whatever is on their mind. According to Gisela, while beneficial, this can also pose a challenge. She said there have been times where she has had to learn how to navigate the tougher conversations that push client/service provider boundaries, particularly when clients bring up topics such as politics.
“I’m usually really good about moving the conversation to something else… but it’s something I want people to be aware of.”
According to Gisela, there are two things aspiring lash artists need to know:
- “Act like you’ve been lashing for five years. Channel your future master lash artist, and you’ll notice changes in your posture, your sets, and even your business overall.
- Remember that you don’t have to conform to what you were taught about lash extensions. You can do clients’ lashes as you see fit – there are no rules. You should push boundaries and question everything and never stop learning.”
Currently, Bat Lash is offering 70-percent off colorful lash flash sets for “the eccentric client who wants to stand out”. These flash sets are based on whatever is inspiring Gisela in the moment – right now, it’s anime and Manga.
Gisela also did a lash flash during Pride Month for popular Pride flags, and all of those proceeds were donated to Open Arms Advocacy Center, the local rape crisis and LGBT+ Center. She also currently offers gender-affirming specials and discounts for those who are in the process of transitioning.
Bat Lash is a gem in San Angelo’s beauty scene. If you’re interested in high-quality lashes and an empowering experience you won’t forget, follow @bat_lash on Instagram or Facebook and book through the link in her bio.
Bat Lash is located at DiverseCity Salon, 225 W Beauregard Ave.
