We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariah Celine and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariah, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I think society has trained us to give up easily so that we won’t succeed. Because what they don’t tell you is that is the key. When it comes to reaching your goals and doing things that will benefit you in the long run, the hardest but most rewarding thing to do is to keep going. I used to think it was so corny when people would tell me that but it’s so true, whatever you do, don’t give up! One of my favorite quotes is,”if you’re going through hell, keep going.”

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started my business BlinkMink Lash Co about two years ago, when I was still living with my parents. I worked a job that I did not like, and knew it was time for a change. I went to college for business, and even before that, I knew I wanted to start my own, but I didn’t know where to start. All I knew was my products would be beauty related. People would always ask where my lashes came from so I took a leap of faith, followed my intuition and started there. I was looking for vendors/researching strategies and everything I’d need to make it happen. I think that was the hardest part, getting started. I knew I could cut corners on the business side to make it easier, but I wanted to do everything to right way so I wouldn’t have to backtrack. I had a vision for my brand to be a real business, not just a side hustle. That’s why i say consistency and not giving up are key! Once I put in the work everything started to fall into place and now today I have four eyelash collections, two of which are available on the Walmart app, AND beauty accessories which I’m so excited about. My goal is to make BlinkMink a household beauty brand.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d definitely start by taking them to one of my favorite little mountain towns, Manitou springs, to soak up the hot springs at Sunwater Spa, walk the streets and see the local shops, and of course to eat and drink one of those huge margaritas at The Loop. I’d also like to explore Denver more so I’d probably take them to a museum or find some cool themed restaurants to try; I’m a huge foodie so so can see us spending the whole week eating and drinking. I’ve also never been snowboarding or skiing even as a native, so I’d have to add that to the list as well.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to Derricius Breon. I don’t even think he knows how much of an influence he’s had on my life. I joined a modeling organization in college at Alabama State University called ELITE. He and my other mentors in Elite taught me everything I know today about makeup, fashion, and how to carry myself in a way that set me up for success for the rest of my life. Not only was he the director of Elite, but he was successful in so many other endeavors such as being a creative director, coordinator, makeup artist, stylist, model, and so much more! He has inspired me so much and is proof that you can do anything you set your mind to. He was and still is the best mentor I could’ve asked God for; if it wasn’t for him, I’m not sure I’d be where I am today.

Website: www.BlinkMinkLashCo.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/_itsmceline?r=nametag

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariah.zarback

Other: https://instagram.com/officialblinkminklashco?r=nametag

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