Beauty Boss: Kim McIver, CEO of Sugarlash PRO and Sugarlash Society
Kim McIver.
Our latest Beauty Boss is Kim McIver, CEO of Sugarlash PRO, a line of innovative lash extension products for lash professionals; and its sister brand Sugarlash Society, a direct-to-consumer lash and brow system that was designed for clients to use on their lashes after having services.
Sugarlash PRO goes beyond lashes and fosters an inclusive and diverse community of professionals by offering courses for all skill levels, a range of products for any lash service, and dedicated educators for ongoing support. They offer an extensive range of online certification courses that cater to all students so they can provide safe and high-quality lashing services for their clients.
We chatted with McIver who shared her favorite wellness tips, secrets for success, best advice, and much more.
When were Sugarlash PRO and Sugarlash Society founded and what do the names mean?
Sugarlash PRO was founded in 2013 to disrupt the beauty industry with innovative lash extension products. Sugarlash Society, our direct-to-consumer line born from Sugarlash PRO, launched in 2022. While the Sugarlash name didn't start with a deep meaning, its playful and memorable quality has proven beneficial for the brand's recognition.
Can you share more about your journey in the industry?
My career path has taken some unexpected turns, but a chance suggestion during my time in the restaurant industry led me to explore esthetics—a field I never imagined for myself. I was always a girly-girl type, so it made sense to pursue a career in esthetics. While initially drawn to the aesthetic aspect of providing a service that made my clients feel confident and beautiful, I quickly discovered my talents for building relationships and generating sales. Recognizing my potential for a broader impact, I proactively pursued education in operations and marketing, developing a well-rounded skill set.
I find immense satisfaction in helping clients feel confident and beautiful while also strategically growing a business. My passion for this industry is my driving force—it’s a feeling hard to put into words, but those in the industry understand. I approach every task with dedication and a results-focused mindset, committed to giving my all in everything I do. You either have it or you don’t. And I have it. I do everything 100% or not at all.
Sugarlash Society offers a comprehensive line of lash and brow care products for consumers to use after their lash services.
How long have you been with the company and what inspired you to join the team?
Initially, I joined as the Academy Director in 2018, which led to presidency in 2019. I stepped up to CEO after the founder exited in early 2023. My passion for the beauty industry and my love for an emerging niche of lash extensions drew me in. I recognized the immense potential for innovation within the beauty sector.
Tell us more about Sugarlash PRO and Sugarlash Society’s offerings. What sets them apart from other brands?
Sugarlash PRO offers a comprehensive suite of over 120 professional-grade lash extension products, from lashes and adhesives to precision tools and lash lift/brow lamination supplies.
“Skincare for your lashes” was our idea behind Sugarlash Society. Our direct-to-consumer line has seven amazing products perfect for your lashes—both natural lashes as well as lashes with extensions.
As pioneers in the online lash education space, we are proud to offer a robust online academy catalog featuring seven in-depth lash extension courses, certifications, and paired supply kits. Our commitment to high-quality products, visually stunning marketing, and unparalleled customer support position us as a luxury leader in the industry.
We will also certify students once the courses are completed. Renowned as the luxury line of lashes, we combine exquisite products with stunning imagery and relatable marketing campaigns, making us a one-stop shop for lash artists.
Sugarlash PRO offers an extensive range of online certification courses that cater to all students so they can provide safe and high-quality lashing services for their clients.
What are your responsibilities as CEO?
Above all else, I consider myself a hands-on leader, one who is ready to execute any task needed to achieve our goals as a collective. While this work ethic drives results, I recognize the need to balance involvement with strategic vision. My core principles are focused on getting the job done while supporting my team along the way. I drive product development, marketing, customer service and operations.
In a day and age where the digital world changes rapidly, I try to keep myself up to date on new and emerging technologies while also giving my team, who are always aware of the latest trends, the autonomy to help fuel our decisions as an e-commerce brand with a wide target demographic. Navigating a digital world that changes daily can be intimidating, and I’m proud to have the ability to adapt and know when and where I can count on my team to show up for the company,
Where are Sugarlash PRO’s products sold?
Sugarlash PRO is a professional brand sold by only us. We ship anywhere from 80 to 200 orders a day all over the world and supply over 120,000 lash artists with the highest-quality products on the market. With our products, lash artists can provide the best services to their clients, and in turn, their clients can show off their amazing lashes.
Sugarlash Society’s products include a Lash Silk, Lash Glaze, and Gentle Gel Cleanser.
Future plans for the brand?
We're committed to leading the sustainable beauty movement with an eco-friendly lash case launch this year. Additionally, Sugarlash Society is partnering with a renowned California-based company who specializes in Japanese lash serums to develop an all-natural, lash extension-safe lash growth serum, bringing innovation to the consumer market. That’s what Sugarlash PRO has always been based on: innovation. The future is exciting and I’m proud to be a leader in the movement towards an innovative and inclusive lash industry.
Who inspires you?
I'm greatly inspired by strong, trailblazing women like Jane Wurwand (founder of Dermalogica), Serena Williams, and Gloria Steinem. These women embody strength, business acumen, and unwavering advocacy for women's rights.
Secret to success?
Hard work, strategic thinking, and genuine kindness are essential. In a world of filters, I’m a true believer in being true to myself and uplifting my team when we have successes and supporting them through the challenges. I approach our Academy clients with the same genuineness and that’s been my “secret” to success so far.
Beauty secrets?
Three liters of water daily, healthy hair, and a great red lip! Never underestimate what water can do to improve your overall appearance and general health. By now, we all know we probably don’t drink enough water, so I’ve made conscious choices to ensure I drink my daily 3 liters. Healthy hair and a great red lip have always been my keys to confidence—it’s amazing what these two things can do for you when you’re walking into a boardroom!
In her role as CEO, McIver drives product development, marketing, customer service, and operations.
Wellness tips?
At the end of the day, do what makes you happy and you will be healthy. It’s all about everything in moderation and finding a balance between “I have to” and “I want to.” Once I stopped stressing about having too much of either, I found my physical and mental health flourished. I exercise because I want to, I eat healthy because I want to, but if I want to eat a pizza or a burger, I will. It’s moderation and breaking free of the guilt we can sometimes feel. Life is short, eat the cake.
Best advice?
Set clear boundaries and invest in both personal and professional development.
Favorite way to relax?
This took me a long time to figure out as a classic type A woman, but:
Travel. Seeing the world and truly immersing myself in different cultures helps me take a step back, feel inspired, and understand the world a little more thoroughly.
Cooking. I love it. I’m a bit of a home chef and that makes inspiring food that is healthy and tasty, but also makes my family smile.
Music and Reading. I can get lost in a great song or playlist or get lost in a captivating book.
For more information about Sugarlash PRO, visit their website. For more information about Sugarlash Society, visit their website. Follow both on Instagram: @sugarlashpro @sugarlash_society
[Images courtesy of Sugarlash PRO and Sugarlash Society]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk