Meet Crystal Cook

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

Hi Crystal, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have been in the beauty industry since 2005 and have always worked for myself part time. I decided in 2017 to finally make the leap and become 100% self employed. My main driving force behind this was the opportunity to increase my income, but I also wanted freedom to create my own schedule.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity for the “how” and “why” behind what I do. With a background in biology, I have a strong understanding of the science behind esthetics and lash artistry, from anatomy to the chemical processes involved. At the same time, coming from a family of artists has given me an eye for detail and customization, allowing me to create lash sets that are as unique as the individuals wearing them. Whether in lash artistry or my past work as a makeup artist, blending science and creativity has always set me apart.

In 2017, I took the leap into full-time self-employment, and it was the best professional decision I’ve ever made. Having the freedom to set my own schedule and grow my business on my terms was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but my hard work paid off, and my business thrived. In 2020, I moved to a smaller town and had to rebuild from the ground up—a more challenging process than I had expected. Then, in 2022, after the passing of my father, I returned to Conroe. Though there are moments when I wonder what might have happened had I never left, I know that growth isn’t always linear. The setbacks and restarts were part of my journey, and thanks to my incredible clients, I’ve rebuilt my business to where it was before.

I’ve learned that comparison is the thief of joy—especially in this industry. Everyone’s path is different, and the struggles and triumphs behind the scenes are rarely visible. That’s why I stay focused on my own craft, continuously refining my skills and deepening my knowledge. Professionalism, education, science, and artistry are at the heart of everything I do, and I pour my passion into every aspect of my work.

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.
We would start off doing breakfast at Black Walnut Cafe at the Conroe Airport or 105 Cafe. We could go to The Woodlands waterway and kayak or cruise around on the swan paddleboats followed by a trip on the trolley. Enjoy one of Conroe’s breweries: Southern Star or B-52. A late dinner at Republic Grille and maybe hit up one of the wineries in Montgomery or Plantersville on the weekend. If they have never been to the area, I’d have to show them a few of our attractions that we only have here like NASA, and Astros game, the Rodeo or Texas Renaissance Festival.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My biggest supporter has always been my mother who is my best friend. She has always encouraged me to go after my dreams even if they go against social norms.

Website: Crystal cook.glossgenius.com

Instagram: Crystalcookartistry

Facebook: Crystalcookartistry

Image Credits
Smitten Imagery