Daily Inspiration: Meet Josi Godwin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Josi Godwin.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up in Blue Springs, MO where I attended k-10th grade. I followed my mother out to Divide, CO where I finished school and met my husband. It was love at first sight, and after three years of dating, I married my high school sweetheart. I began my trade in Esthetics where I dove into my passion for the beauty industry. One week into school, I found out I was pregnant with our first child Ophelia. I graduated and got licensed but was unsatisfied being so far from family. After long thought and encouragement from friends and family that moving back to Kansas City would be the best option for our family, I made the move. With some hesitancy from my husband and an overall sadness to leave the mystical mountains of Colorado Springs, we did what was best. This move changed everything from our social status to mental health. Shortly after moving to Missouri, my husband found a promising job, and we were able to buy our first home at the age of 21. After getting settled, I knew the inevitable schooling for state licensure was on the agenda. I was so excited to start and get my hours to meet state regulations. The universe works in mysterious ways and after a week of school, I found out I was pregnant with my second daughter Cleopatra.

Again, I graduated and became Missouri licensed. I found my niche in the industry was eyelash extensions. I practiced on everyone I could and watched hours of online training. I had a natural talent and was amazed how fast I was mastering the art of lashing. Of course, I am learning something new every day within the field, but that’s the fun of my industry, it’s everchanging. I found that the extensive time lashing were extremely meditative and relaxing for me, especially pregnant. I used a workout ball to sit on for posture and comfort and my clients loved my courage to continue working and being a pregnant mom. My daughter Ophelia often made friends with my clients and enjoys watching “mommy work”. My eccentric personality and fun derived lifestyle is a huge factor in the clients I service. Through my husband’s career and my small business taking off, we were able to make a comfortable life that brings us unlimited happiness. We often travel, especially to Colorado to visit the land that brought us together and other states as often as we can. I enjoy photography as a hobby, and I love incorporating that into my work as well. I am extremely blessed with my family’s help, my friend’s support, and my client’s loyalty. Without them, behind me this life would seize to exist. I owe everything to my people.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I look back on my life, the road has been steady, with bumps and potholes along the way. The unpredictable road doesn’t keep me from moving forward. I think my life really began when I met my husband William, with him by my side anything is possible. I think our first real struggle in life was trying to figure out how to manage money in a very expensive city to live in. After careful consideration, we realized the cost of living was much better in Missouri. We went from renting a studio apartment to purchasing a four bedroom home with a mortgage less than our previous studio rent. It was a beautiful investment that changed our perspective forever.

Another struggle has been managing a small business along with being a homemaker. William and I manage our time very carefully. He watches the girls while I do my appointments before he heads to work. Of course, with limited time availability my clients have learned to be flexible, but I always do my best to accommodate.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in eyelash extensions. I found my niche during my time in esthetics school here in MO. I started getting my lashes done by an amazing lash artist Camilla and she was my true mentor through my process of learning the art. She was always there for questions and inspiration. I am different from other lash artists because of my authentic eccentric style. I do all kinds of lashes and colors, there’s no set I’m not willing to try! Due to my love for the art, I take my time and respect that all lashes are different and may take more time. I set my appointments far enough apart that I never leave any lash untouched. I take pride in the work I do so no one leaves me unhappy, only better than they came! I believe that the “eyes are the windows to the soul “so my work enhances the eyes in the most beautiful way. I think my most proud moment is when Camilla, my lash tech asked me to do hers. The lash queen herself asked me to service her, it was a real honor and I have continued to service her since. Something that makes my heart smile is doing bride’s lashes for their most special day that has to take the cake for confidence in my industry!

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I use Instagram to promote my work and photography. I love how Instagram is set up in a portfolio style so it’s easy to showcase my work to the public! I love watching reels of other lash artists slaying away, as well as YouTube for in-depth descriptions of new trends and styles. LivBay Lash, VAVALASH, LashBox LA are great resources for learning and supplies!

Pricing:

• Mega Volume Lashes: $125
• Volume Lashes: $100
• Hybrid Lashes: $75
• Classic Lashes: $60

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godwin_glow/

Image Credits
Josi Godwin – Myself TigerLillie Photography – Lydia Ellen