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

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The idea for my business really came from wanting to create something bigger than myself. I’ve always been passionate about beauty, but more importantly, about helping women feel confident and seen. When I realized how much a simple lash set could transform how someone feels about themselves, that’s when I knew I wanted to turn that passion into something lasting.
Starting BarbeeBlinks was about creating a safe, uplifting space where women could come, feel beautiful, and leave a little more empowered. I wanted to show that with hard work, consistency, and faith, you can build something from the ground up, even when the odds feel stacked against you. My goal has always been to inspire other young women, especially those from my community, to chase their dreams even when the odds may seem agaisnt you and to know that they can make it happen too if they truly believe in themselves.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work with BarbeeBlinks is more than just lashes; it’s an art form built around confidence, creativity, and empowerment. I’ve always had a creative eye, growing up I learned how to paint, crochet, play the violin and services others in a creative manner. I think what I enjoyed most about lashing is the artistry of the technique it takes to make a flawless set. Lashes became my favorite way to express the side of myself that really wasn’t showcased often. Every set is different and unique. I get to shape, design, and customize looks that bring out each client’s unique beauty. What sets me apart is the experience I create. I focus on creating lasting relationships with each client I get to work with, while also ensuring that I am creating soft, clean, and detailed sets that enhance natural beauty while making my clients feel confident and elevated.
Getting to where I am today definitely wasn’t easy. When I first started, I was just a 19 year old college kid with a vision, a lash tray, and a lot of faith and determination. There were times when I doubted myself, when business was slow, managing being a student and a full-time entrepreneur at the same time, or when I had to learn lessons the hard way, but every challenge taught me something valuable. I pushed through by staying consistent, trusting God’s timing, and reminding myself why I started.
One of my proudest moments is seeing how far my brand has come. From taking a few clients a month to building a loyal community of women in two major cities in Texas, who genuinely support me and my work. I’m excited about continuing to grow BarbeeBlinks into something bigger: not just a lash brand, but a movement that represents self-love, elevation, and entrepreneurship.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success doesn’t come overnight. It takes patience, discipline, and heart. I want the world to know that BarbeeBlinks was built from pure passion and purpose. It’s my way of turning creativity into confidence and showing other women that with faith and hard work, you can create the life you envision as well.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit, I’d definitely make sure they experienced the best of what the city has to offer. From the food to the vibes to relaxation, Houston truly has it all. I’m big on good energy and aesthetics, so we’d start the week off with brunch at places like The Breakfast Klub or Taste Bar + Kitchen, the food and atmosphere never miss! For dinner, I recently fell in love with Jordyn’s Soul Café’ amazing food, great music, and a great vibe.
We’d spend a day exploring The Galleria for some retail therapy, then head out for a fun night with good music and great company, preferably at my favorite spot, Kamp Houston, or Dome Night Club, they always know how to have a good time no matter what day it is.
And of course, the number one rule is: never leave Houston on a Sunday! We’d wrap up the trip with brunch, mimosas, and good vibes all around. Houston has such a unique mix of culture, style, and energy. No matter what you’re into, there’s always something fun to do and great people to meet. That’s what I adore most about this city the vibe is truly unmatched, and you’ll never get bored.

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?
BarbeeBlinks wouldn’t even exist if it weren’t for my family trusting in and believing in a vision with no clear outcome yet. From my parents to my sisters and cousins, whom I truly adore. I’m so thankful for each of them being willing to support me from the very beginning. They believed in me before the results showed, and that kind of love and faith means everything.
My family’s encouragement gave me the confidence to keep going when things felt uncertain. They reminded me that sometimes all you need is a little faith and consistency to turn an idea into something real. Every success I’ve had with BarbeeBlinks is a reflection of their support and belief in me.

Website: https://www.barbeeblinkss.com

Instagram: barbeeblinks

Facebook: Jessica Candler

Other: booking site – barbeeblinks.as.me

Image Credits
Kwpho_tography
Tdemphotos
Nyume’s Vault

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.