Oklahoma’s own Raylene Cravens was named 2019 Lash Artist of the Year at the 8th annual NovaLash LASHoff Gala.
Held at The Bell Tower in Houston, the awards celebrated the top four competition finalists along with brand ambassadors and professionals from around the world who have served the company for a decade or more. The event’s Quinceañera theme was a nod to the brand’s 15th anniversary.
Cravens’ winnings include $25,000 in cash and prizes, as well as travel and business-building opportunities.
“This is amazing and beyond describable,” said Cravens, who owns Lash by Lash in Nichols Hills, Oklahoma. “The past eight years with NovaLash have changed my life. I went from working in a small salon to owning my own luxury lash studio, and now am the Lash Artist of the Year and a brand ambassador. I know this is my calling—inspiring others as others have inspired me. It’s really a dream come true.”
The four finalists were selected after submitting a collection of videos and photographs showcasing their NovaLash technique, skill and talent. The other three finalists included:
- Fans’ Choice of the Year: Jessica Gadzalinski, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Classic Winner: Nikki Melillo, West Palm Beach, Florida
- Volume Winner: Marte Fjeldberg, Trondheim, Norway
All LASHoff finalists and category winners are named NovaLash brand ambassadors for 2019, and will make appearances on behalf of NovaLash throughout the year.
“As always, selecting a winner from among so many dazzling submissions by leading global lash stylists was extremely difficult for our judging panel,” said NovaLash CEO Sophy Merszei. “In the end, Raylene Cravens stood out, not only as a brilliant lash artist with impeccable skills and technique, but as someone who always goes above and beyond to help other lash artists. She has proven herself to be a true NovaLash supporter and we are delighted to have her representing our company this year.”
