Meet Ashley Risch of Ann Arbor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Risch.

Hi Ashley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I moved from my home state of Michigan to Southern California when I was just 20 years old, unsure of the everything. I could not have guessed at that point in my life that one day i’d be what I am today —a successful esthetician and business owner with flexibility to be there for all of my kid’s special moments. I don’t think I’d even heard of the word “esthetician” at that point. My journey started with makeup, and really, it all happened a bit by accident.

At first, makeup was just a hobby. I would experiment with eyeshadows and create different looks for myself. Friends started to notice my skills, especially with my eyeshadow, and would casually ask me to do their makeup for special occasions, like weddings and engagement photos. At first, it was just something I enjoyed doing for fun. But after getting asked enough, I started to think, “Why not turn this into something more?”

So, I enrolled in esthetician school back in Michigan. Honestly, the school didn’t teach me a lot of what I know today—it was more about getting the basic certifications, which is common with esthetic schools. The courses and you classes you take after esthetician school are what really helps to build your skill.

After finishing school, I started working at a spa in Ann Arbor and Saline. I was gaining experience, meeting new clients, and refining my skills. I was doing everything from facials to waxing, and even massage, but my specialty became brows. I found them to be such a fun challenge. I wasn’t a natural at it–I had to practice for a long time. I worked in Saline for the next 11 and a half years, building a loyal client base. My clients weren’t just clients—they became friends. Although I truly didn’t care what anyone looked like or the looks they were going for (I just wanted to give them what they wanted)- I loved making people feel good about themselves, and I began to realize that I was more than just a makeup artist or esthetician; I was someone who could really make a difference in how people felt, inside and out.

After over a decade of working for someone else, I felt like it was finally time to take the leap and start my own business. I wanted more control over my schedule, my space, and my clients. So, I opened A2 Brow Studio. I knew I had a niche in brows and lashes, and I wanted to create a place where clients could come for excellent services like lash lifts, facials, and waxing.

Three years later, I can honestly say that opening A2 Brow Studio was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Being my own boss has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I manage my own schedule, I make the decisions, and I get to build deep, personal relationships with my clients. The best part is that they’ve become more than clients—they’ve become friends. They make me laugh, and I love hearing about their lives.

Being an esthetician isn’t just about the beauty treatments—it’s about making connections, creating confidence, and feeling empowered. I am proud to be an inclusive space that welcomes all women.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not been super smooth. This type of career doesn’t offer. health insurance or PTO. When you take maternity leave, you need to save up for 6 weeks or more that you won’t be paid. There are definite downfalls to working in this industry. You can never depend on pay, because people cancel sometimes.
I also worked a salon and spas with difficult management and catty environments. It was hard to navigate sometimes.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an esthetician. I specialize in brow shaping, eye lash lifts, and facials. I’m most proud of being prompt and reliable for my clients.

I think my professionalism sets me apart. I believe in showing up on time, having a clean studio, and respecting my clients.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My husband has been really supportive of my career. He’s proud of me and what i’ve built.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ashleyrisch.glossgenius.com/
• Instagram: a2browstudio