Lake Forest / Lake Bluff Chamber: Tell us a little bit about The Lash Shrink, the services you offer, and what makes your business unique?
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Aruna Sundaram: The Lash Shrink is a boutique lash and brow studio serving the Lake Forest and Lake Bluff and surrounding communities. I specialize in lash extensions, lash lifts, brow laminations, threading, and brow staining, with a strong focus on customized results rather than trends. What makes my business unique is the level of intention behind every service. I’m a solo artist by design—I take my time, I consult thoroughly, and I tailor everything to the individual client. My studio is calm, private, and relationship-driven. Clients aren’t rushed in and out; they’re cared for
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LF/LB: What inspired you to pursue a career in the beauty industry?
AS: My path into the beauty industry wasn’t traditional. I come from a psychology background, and I was later diagnosed with ADHD, which helped me better understand how my mind works. What once felt like a challenge became an advantage—my ability to hyperfocus, notice details others might miss, and stay deeply present with people. Lash artistry became the perfect intersection of precision, discipline, and human connection—hence the name The Lash Shrink. I was drawn to the quiet impact of the work—helping someone feel confident without changing who they are. I’ve learned this work isn’t just about beauty; it’s about trust, and I take that responsibility seriously.
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LF/LB: What is your vision or hope for the future of your business?
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AS: My vision is to continue growing with intention, not scale for the sake of scaling. I want The Lash Shrink to remain known for consistency, integrity, and high standards. I believe strongly in a growth mindset, and with that comes supporting and encouraging new and upcoming lash artists to work for themselves, build confidence, and create their own niche in this industry. Long-term, my priority is always my clients’ lash health before profit, and customer service before anything else.
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LF/LB: How does The Lash Shrink give back to the community?
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AS: Community involvement is personal to me, and I approach it with a lot of humility. I’m raising my son here—he’s a junior at the local high school—so supporting fundraisers, and local initiatives feels natural and grounded. I believe in showing up to support women-led businesses, and collaborating with other local brands in meaningful ways. At the core of my work is creating a safe, respectful space for my clients. Sometimes giving back looks less like recognition and more like care, presence, and staying rooted in the community you serve.
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LF/LB: Is there anything else you would like to share about your business?
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AS: The Lash Shrink was built slowly and intentionally, and that approach reflects both my values and my journey. I’m an immigrant and the first business owner in my family, and choosing this path meant stepping outside of traditional expectations I grew up around. Building a business in a creative, service-driven industry wasn’t the conventional route, but it felt authentic to who I am. I don’t chase volume or shortcuts—I focus on craftsmanship, trust, and longevity. Being part of the Lake Forest and Lake Bluff Chamber has been especially meaningful, and I’m grateful to be building something rooted in this community while staying true to myself.