Small Business Spotlight: Abby West of The Lash Barn SATX

As we celebrate National Small Business Week, we’re shining the spotlight on Abby West, the owner of @thelashbarnsatx—a cozy, girly, and welcoming lash and brow boutique nestled in San Antonio, TX. Abby’s space, The Lash Barn, is more than just a beauty destination, it’s a reflection of her heart, hustle, and genuine connection to every client who walks through her doors.

"I think my business/brand is the perfect reflection of myself: girly, cozy, and welcoming!" Abby shared. "I love making my clients feel not only beautiful, but also heard, appreciated, and known."

Busy Days and Beautiful Results

Abby’s daily routine is packed, and she loves it that way. "Busy busy! Which is my favorite!" she said. "A typical day at the barn includes an hour of cleaning, setup, and planning before my first client, then I usually see 5–6 clients. I end the day with more cleaning, planning social media content, and sending aftercare texts, 'thinking about you' messages, and more!"

The Cost Behind the Scenes

While her clients see a thriving business, Abby reminds us that entrepreneurship comes with hidden costs. "I think a lot of clients forget how expensive it is to run a business! Yes, I may be bringing in a lot of money, but there are so many outgoing costs (rent, supplies, insurance, marketing) that factor into my pricing to make it profitable."

Creating the Princess Experience

What keeps clients coming back year after year? Abby’s attention to detail and heartfelt care. "I give my clients the ultimate princess treatment," she said. "Many of them (at least 60%) have been with me since I was a new lash artist over 5 years ago."

Her commitment shines in the little things:  "A comfortable and cozy space, remembering small details they mention to me, birthday gifts, drinks and snacks after appointments, and of course, amazing lash retention. My clients are my #1 priority. If I didn't have them, I wouldn't have a business!"

Learning from the Hard Stuff

Abby’s biggest lesson came from a decision that didn’t quite go as planned. "One of the hardest things I went through was hiring employees," she shared. "I thought it was what I was meant to do because everyone else in my position did it, but it was the biggest mistake I made for my business."

Still, the experience taught her exactly what she needed. "Now I know the employee route isn’t for me (at least not right now.) Since then, I’ve been busier than ever and have more appreciation for my space, even if it doesn’t include what I thought it needed to."

Staying Grounded in Gratitude

When motivation runs low, Abby looks back on her journey. "I remind myself why I started, by being grateful," she said. "I think back to me from 6–7 years ago and how proud she’d be that not only did we figure out what we wanted to do, but we have a thriving business, salon, and brand."

And when things get especially tough? "I think back to the sad girl working at the ER and remind myself that I’m doing this for her."

Why It Matters

For Abby, supporting small businesses is deeply personal. "Not only does it support local economies, it supports someone’s dream!"

If Her Business Had a Theme Song?

“Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac,” she said. "That was the song I used when I first posted that I was turning this barn into a lash + brow boutique."

Follow Abby’s journey at @thelashbarnsatx, and discover how she’s built a beauty business rooted in love, loyalty, and a little bit of Fleetwood Mac magic.