Member Spotlight: EYE DO STL
Meet EYE DO STL
We’re excited to introduce you to Kim Stahlheber, Owner of EYE DO STL, one of our talented St. Louis Hair + Makeup Artists and featured member of The Collective. We recently connected with her and have shared our conversation below.
Can you tell us about the service(s) you offer and how you got your start?
EYE DO STL provides onsite hair and makeup services. We cater to a bride who wants luxury services with experienced artists and our brides who are more budget conscious. Our services range from updos, down styles, airbrush and traditional makeup and everything in between. Our team leads have been industry leaders for 5+ years and have a true focus on our bride's overall goals and an elevated experience.
EYE DO STL was created in 2010 to cater to the growing event industry in Saint Louis and the surrounding metro area. We have serviced 1000+ brides over the past 13 years and we continue to elevate that level of service year after year.
What makes you + your business unique?
EYE DO STL caters to brides on both ends of the spectrum; whether you be more budget-conscious, or you’re looking to splurge on a luxury experience.
Can you share a bit about why you choose to do what you do?
When founding EYE DO STL, I truly felt I was filling a void in the industry. Being a salon owner as well, I was getting call, after call of brides wanting this service. That first year, we booked 20 events all happening within 3 months. The growth was insane and as the word spread, our calendars filled quickly. Bridal hair has always been my passion and if you know me, you probably know that I have been styling hair since I was about 5/6 years old. What I didn't know was how much I would fall in love with the Saint Louis wedding industry (and it's people)! My vendor friends, my artists, even my brides... I have been so blessed to have met you all.
How would your clients describe working with you?
Relaxed, easy to communicate with, professional and sincere.
Tell us about a big lesson that you've learned while in your industry.
I'm sure its an odd answer, but I would say the biggest lesson I've learned over the years has been the power of relationships. Every single day I am grateful for them. Healthy relationships with our team, our brides and our friend-ors have propelled me to where I am both professionally and personally.
We all have favorite wedding moments. Can you share with us some of your favorites?
1) A few years ago, I had the honor of styling a wig for a very special bridesmaid who was going through cancer treatments and dealing with hair loss as a side effect. The happiness I could bring her in not only helping her feel like herself again, but to witness the beauty radiantly shining in her smile... that was for sure #1.
2) "Happy cries' at a bridal trial; This happens regularly, but still gets me every single time.
3) Another favorite of mine is pampering the moms, because let's be real, we all know moms deserve it and when mom happy cries during her reveal, that's something BIG!
Photo by North Arrow Photography
Who was your most memorable wedding/couple and why?
I had a couple in 2022 that were just so genuinely in love. That day, I was hired to do touch ups and stay. What I witnessed, was pure; I cannot explain the energy that these two had, but it was out of this world. I sincerely hope that everyone experiences this kind of love at least once in their lifetime.
If you could give advice to your past self or someone starting new, what would you say?
Know that you have to start somewhere... So start now and 'perfect' it along the way.
What is something that you really excel at when it comes to your business? Can you share a tip?
I feel that I excel in elevating my customer experience and also in the systems that run my business. Everything can always be improved upon and in order to achieve growth, you have to build your systems in a way that will give you the time to do so.
What is an achievement you're most proud of?
Winning the 2019 vendors choice awards. To be nominated by my peers, and win on the very last year that the award show happened will forever hold a special space for me.
Any random, off the wall fun fact you care to share with us?
Fun fact: My husband and I were married in Hawaii and wouldn't have changed it for the world! BONUS fun fact: My husband, Drew, is my biggest supporter and has pushed me to dream bigger than I could have ever imagined.
We loved learning more about EYE DO STL and are thrilled to have Kim in The Collective. Be sure to give him a follow!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/eyedostl
Website: https://www.eyedostl.com/