Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa LaRue.
Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hi, I’m Melissa, and my journey into the beauty industry began in the most unexpected way—while working for an eye doctor fitting contact lenses. One day, a woman walked in wearing eyelash extensions, and something in me lit up. I was instantly curious, inspired, and ready to learn more.
That spark led me to enroll in night classes at Aveda in downtown Knoxville, where I trained, studied, and fell completely in love with the world of skincare and beauty. Fast-forward ten years, and that simple moment has transformed into something beyond what I ever imagined.
Today, I am the founder and owner of a thriving beauty studio where I lead an incredible team of ten professionals. Together, we offer a full menu of services — eyelash extensions, facials, waxing, massage, and nails — all under one roof.
But my passion didn’t stop at services. When one of my renters opened a skincare school right in the lower level of our building, I knew it was time to expand my purpose. I earned my Educator’s License, and now I’m honored to teach and mentor the next generation of estheticians.
Our school provides access to nine different skincare brands and brings together over 25 years of combined skincare experience and training. My mission is simple: to help others discover their passion, build their skills, and step confidently into the career of their dreams.
What started with a single pair of lash extensions has grown into a place where beauty professionals can learn, grow, and thrive — and I’m proud to lead a community built on opportunity, education, and excellence.
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?
A fast growing industry creates client loss and that has been the biggest challenge. Marketing before and after work and staying ahead with skin care gadgets or products has been the key to success for us!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
A major part of my success has come from staying ahead of industry trends, as well as lash training by artist as far as Estonia to Mexico!
We regularly attend national trade shows, where we study upcoming technology, evolving techniques, and the direction the industry is moving. This allows us to bring fresh education, cutting-edge knowledge, and new opportunities back to our clients, and future students.
What were you like growing up?
While I was young, my parents said I was always the teacher bossing everyone around! Ha ha ha not much has changed!
I have lived in BLOUNT County all my life and love the community we have!
Pricing:
- Classic lash $150 refills $75+
- Volume full set $225 refills $85+
- ZO skin care set $154 and many other brands
- Hydrafacial first time $149
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Larueco.com
- Instagram: Laruecolashskin
- Facebook: LaRue & Co
