OUR STORY
Personal Stories
- BLANCO's Story -
Chieko’s Story
From Stay-at-home Mom to Entrepreneur
I started as a stay-at-home mom, but after separating from my husband, I found myself wondering what I could do in a foreign country with only a small savings and limited English skills. I began working in eyelash extensions, and through this profession, along with the support of those around me and my clients, I regained my sense of self. Today, I’ve been able to establish a brand and an academy. Through this journey, I realized that true freedom comes from independence, and that a job where you are thanked by others enriches your life. At the same time, understanding the challenges of this work has made me want to share with my students not only technical skills but also the importance of health and well-being through the BLANCO courses. Through our academy, I aim to help women create a new future for themselves.
Manami’s Story
From Nail Artist to Eyelash Extension Expert
When I moved to the UK, I felt that simply speaking English wasn’t enough, and I wanted something more. I turned to the beauty industry, an area I’d always been interested in. I started by obtaining a UK nail artist qualification and working for a company, but I struggled with the idea of sitting in front of clients and doing nails while conversing with them. One day, I happened to glance over and saw an eyelash extension technician working silently while the client peacefully rested. At that moment, I knew I wanted to do that too. I immediately spoke with my manager and asked them to let me take a UK qualification for eyelash extensions. I became immersed in the work I loved, and through the wonderful people I met, I went on to win competitions across Europe, become an instructor, and eventually own a salon, academy, and product line. Just as my life was transformed by eyelash extensions, I now aim to support others’ futures through our brand.