Meet Dionne Blackledge

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dionne Blackledge. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dionne, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I am one of four children. My mom was a single mom. I saw her work very hard, sometimes two jobs, my whole life. She supported us in every way she could but being the soul breadwinner, she physically worked hard to provide our needs. Through it all I never saw her give up or get down. She persevered. Even though we were low middle class, she always made a way to make sure Christmas was done big! I’m quite confident I got my independence from her but it went hand in hand with resilience. I bounce back quickly from things and try not to let myself get too down. Although I manage clinical depression, among other things, I still try to focus on moving forward, getting better and staying healthy. I use my mom and God as my motivation.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

At PopLash Beauty Lounge, I specialize in enhancing natural beauty through precision lash and brow services—including lash extensions, lash lifts and tints, brow lamination and more. As a certified lash artist and owner, my passion lies in helping clients feel more confident, polished, and seen—whether it’s their first time in the chair or they’re a loyal regular.

What I find most exciting about what I do is how something as simple as a lifted lash or shaped brow can completely transform the way someone carries themselves. It’s not just beauty—it’s a boost in confidence, and that ripple effect is powerful. I also take pride in offering a calming space where people feel cared for, not rushed.

PopLash is more than a beauty lounge—it’s an experience rooted in trust, artistry, and connection. I love educating clients on proper aftercare, offering curated products like our lash serum and lash aftercare kits, and creating moments of genuine care that extend beyond the mirror.

What’s new?

We’re continuing to focus on intentional service and sustainability. I’ve streamlined offerings to focus on what clients love most, and I’m working on a few educational resources and possible training opportunities for aspiring lash artists.

Stay connected with us on Instagram [@poplashbeautylounge]—we love sharing tips, behind-the-scenes content, and celebrating our amazing clients.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities that had the biggest impact were resilience, relationship-building, and a commitment to learning.

1. Resilience:
There were moments I questioned everything—especially during slow seasons, staff changes, or unexpected setbacks. But resilience kept me grounded. I learned that challenges are part of the process, not signs to quit.
Advice: Expect the ups and downs. Don’t internalize every hard moment as failure. Instead, ask yourself, “What is this trying to teach me?”

2. Relationship-Building:
My business grew through word of mouth, loyalty, and community—not just marketing. Clients return when they feel seen and valued.
Advice: Focus on building genuine connections. Ask questions. Remember details. People don’t forget how you made them feel.

3. Commitment to Learning:
From lash techniques to business strategy, I’ve always stayed curious. Whether it was taking a course, analyzing my financials, or learning through trial and error—I stayed a student.
Advice: Don’t wait to feel “ready.” Learn as you go. Stay humble enough to improve and brave enough to try.

No matter where you are in your journey, trust that consistency, care, and a willingness to evolve will take you far.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my mother did for me was to send me to church. She didn’t always attend but she sent me to church. At a very young age, I had a hunger for God. This hunger grew to a point that I got saved at age 12 at a Christian overnight camp in Maryland. Having Faith as my foundation has carried me through personal trials and professional ones alike. I can’t say thank you enough to my mom for planting the seeds.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pop-lashes.com
• Instagram: @poplashbeautylounge
• Facebook: @poplashbeautylounge