Chelsea Chawsky has built a career out of showing up for people on their most important days and making sure they look exactly how they’ve always imagined. As the founder of Locks to Lashes, a mobile hair and makeup business specializing in bridal styling and commercial production, Chelsea brings a rare combination of technical skill, genuine warmth, and a seamless one-artist experience that takes the stress out of getting ready
What is your business called and what does it do?
Chelsea Dawn — Locks to Lashes is a mobile hair and makeup service specializing in bridal work as well as commercial photo and video shoots.
What made you want to do this work?
I’ve loved makeup and hairstyling since high school! Makeup was my first love, and it was my dream to work for MAC Cosmetics. I’m thankful I had the opportunity to do so, as it’s what launched me into freelancing and starting my own business.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Since I had completed my hairdressing training before working at MAC, I quickly noticed that there weren’t many artists offering both hair and makeup services. Clients were often hiring multiple people to create one look, and I saw an opportunity to provide a more seamless experience.
I started offering hair and makeup packages, and it quickly became a major part of my business. Being able to create and see a client’s entire look come together is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. For my clients, it also means having one person who understands their vision from start to finish, making the process simpler, more cohesive, and way less stressful.
Who is your clientele and demographics?
My clientele is incredibly diverse, which is one of the things I love most about this industry. I work with everyone from prom girls experiencing professional hair and makeup for the first time to women looking to refresh their beauty routines and learn new techniques that fit their lifestyle. Beauty isn’t limited to a specific age or demographic, and I believe everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. My goal is always to help my clients feel like the best version of themselves.
How does your business work?
My business generates revenue through a combination of bridal hair and makeup services, special event styling, destination weddings, makeup lessons, and commercial or editorial projects. Clients can book individual services or customized packages depending on their needs.
At the core, my business is about providing a personalized experience. Whether I’m working with a bride, a celebrity client, or someone looking to learn new makeup techniques, every service is tailored to help them look and feel their best. Over the years, word-of-mouth referrals, repeat clients, and social media have played a significant role in growing my business, allowing me to work with clients both locally and internationally.
Where in the city can we find you?
Hair and makeup services can be found all over the city — our work takes us wherever our clients need us!
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask when comparing services?
I believe one of the best questions a client can ask is: “How do you personalize your services to each client?”
Hair and makeup are not one-size-fits-all. Every client has different features, preferences, comfort levels, and goals. A great artist should be able to adapt their techniques to enhance the individual rather than simply recreate the same look on everyone.
When working with clients, I take the time to understand their vision, personal style, and the overall feel they want to achieve. Whether it’s a bride, a prom client, or someone attending a special event, my goal is always to create a look that feels authentic to them while ensuring it photographs beautifully and lasts throughout the day. Technical skill is important, but listening, communication, and understanding a client’s needs are what truly elevate the experience.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part of what I do is the variety of experiences it has brought into my life. I get to be part of some of the most special and intimate moments in people’s lives, and being trusted to help someone look and feel their best during those moments is incredibly rewarding — it’s a responsibility I never take for granted. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with celebrities, major brands, and high-profile events, which is still such a pinch-me moment! I love that no two days are ever the same.
The most challenging part is that many of the occasions I work on are once-in-a-lifetime moments for my clients. There is a great deal of trust placed in me, and with that comes pressure to ensure everything runs smoothly and that clients feel their absolute best. That said, I’ve met the most amazing people throughout my career. I’m a big believer that you attract your kind of people, and most of the time it just feels like a fun hangout.
What is your favourite joke about your profession?
People think I do hair and makeup for a living. In reality, I solve problems, manage timelines, calm nerves — and occasionally do hair and makeup!
Where can we follow you?
You can find me on Instagram and on my website.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
My go-to coffee shop, Café CoCo & Bean. If you’re looking for the cosiest, best coffee shop in the west, this is it!
