So you want to look stunning for your next special event?
Look no further – eyelash extensions are the way to go!
Weddings, proms, graduations, galas, bridesmaid duties, and all the other special events in your life… are when eyelash extensions become your secret weapon for looking stunning. Here’s what current market data tells us:
- The lash extension market was worth $1.94 billion globally in 2024
- It is growing at a rate of 6.7% per year through 2032.
Notice a theme?
Special events are prime times for people to want to invest in making sure their lashes look amazing!
But wait, there’s more…
If you have a big event coming up, you don’t want to stress out about your mascara running all over your face, or your lashes looking flat in photos, or going to bed with them only to wake up with uneven lashes in the morning.
Eyelash extensions give you the peace of mind that all of that is off the table. You book the appointments, get your extensions, and can enjoy your event for weeks to come!
Inside this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why Special Occasions Call For Extensions
- Getting The Timing Right
- Choosing Your Perfect Lash Style
- Caring For Your Lashes During Events
- And much, much more!
Why Special Occasions Call For Extensions
When you have a big event coming up, the truth is you want to look your best from start to finish.
Mascara just doesn’t cut it for weddings, proms, galas, and the like. It smudges, it comes off, and it needs touch-ups all day. Strip lashes are worse – they require glue, and can fall off in your food.
Eyelash extensions are different. They’re designed to withstand tears, sweat, and long hours of celebrations.
Most people don’t know this, but extensions actually make getting ready easier. They photograph better, and they ensure you look like a beauty all day and night.
The global false eyelashes market made $330 million in sales in North America alone in 2024. This is because people are discovering that with quality Borboleta Pro professional lashes and application from an expert lash tech, they can have the beauty and confidence they want for the events that really matter to them.
When you’re marrying the love of your life, or celebrating with your classmates, or simply spending time with family for a big event like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, you want your lashes to look picture-perfect.
Extensions allow you to do exactly that.
Getting The Timing Right
Okay, this is important:
Do not get your first set of eyelash extensions the day before or day of a big event. You need time to test them out, and to ensure you love the look.
What we recommend is getting your first set done 2-3 weeks prior to your event. This gives you enough time to be sure the style is what you want, to test for sensitivity, and to make adjustments if needed.
Then schedule a fill appointment 2-3 days before your event. This will make sure your lashes are in prime condition, and ready to make a statement.
This way, you can:
- Test your sensitivity to the adhesive, if you have never had extensions before
- Adjust the style if needed
- Get used to wearing extensions in general, if it’s your first time
- Have the absolute freshest possible set for your special event
Oh and did we mention that after your event you will still have gorgeous lashes that look amazing for 4-6 weeks? Perfect for honeymoon or vacation time, so that you wake up gorgeous every morning, with absolutely no effort on your part.
Choosing Your Perfect Lash Style
Eyelash extensions come in many styles, and not all will be right for your special event.
You want to consider your eye shape, the type of event you’re attending, and your personal style when choosing a lash set.
For weddings, proms, graduations, and formal occasions, the most popular lash styles are natural to medium volume. They photograph well and look chic without being overdone. Hybrid sets are also great, as they use a mix of classic and volume techniques to add just the right amount of dimension and light-catching.
Consider the type of event as well.
For example, if you’re at a black tie gala or an evening wedding, you might want a more dramatic, full-volume set of lashes. These will make your eyes pop in the evening light and look incredible in photos.
For a daytime party, garden wedding, or brunch event, classic sets are the way to go. These will enhance your natural beauty without looking too heavy in natural light.
Length is also a consideration. For special occasions, we typically recommend a length between 9-13mm. This looks natural but also makes a statement, and is comfortable to wear all day and night.
What To Expect During Application
The appointment itself will take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on what style you choose.
Bring a book, a magazine, or headphones, because you’ll be reclined and with your eyes closed the whole time.
Application is very relaxing, and if anything, the time goes by too quickly. Your lash tech will cleanse your natural lashes, then carefully apply individual extensions using medical grade adhesive.
You should experience no pain or discomfort. In fact, many people fall asleep during their application appointment!
They will explain aftercare instructions to you, so listen closely. Doing the aftercare right is what will ensure your lashes last through your entire event!
You can’t get them wet for the first 24-48 hours. This gives the adhesive time to fully cure. After that, you can swim, shower, and go about life normally.
Caring For Your Lashes During Events
You will find that on the day of your event, you don’t really have to do much to care for your lashes.
Avoid oil-based makeup removers and cleansers on your eyes. Oil breaks down the lash adhesive, and will cause your extensions to fall out early. Stick to oil-free eye makeup removers and facial cleansers.
If you are wearing makeup for your event, keep it to a minimum. Extensions look so beautiful that you don’t need much to go with them. Light eyeliner is fine, but don’t use mascara on your extensions.
Pro tip:
Bring a clean spoolie brush with you to your event. It’s a simple tool to brush through your lashes if they get a bit tangled from dancing or wind. It will fluff them back up in seconds.
If you cry (happy tears count, by the way! ), gently pat your eyes dry, rather than rubbing them. The extensions can withstand tears or water, but rubbing your eyes can make the lashes twist or fall out.
Common Questions About Special Occasion Lashes
How much do eyelash extensions cost for special occasions?
Most people pay $100-250 for their first set, and $50-100 for a fill. It’s a small investment for how much confidence you’ll feel.
Can I wear eye makeup with my extensions?
Yes! Avoid only oil-based products. Otherwise, you can wear regular eye makeup like eyeshadow and eyeliner. In fact, you’ll probably find that you wear a lot less makeup overall when you have extensions.
Will eyelash extensions damage my natural lashes?
Not if they are applied correctly by a trained professional. When your extensions are eventually removed, your natural lashes will return to their pre-extension state.
How do I know if my lash tech is good?
Check to see if they are certified as a lash artist, and that they have portfolios of their work. Read online reviews, and ask your friends for recommendations.
Wrapping Up
If you’re looking for the best beauty investment for your special occasions, eyelash extensions are where it’s at. They save you time in getting ready, they photograph beautifully, and they give you that extra beauty boost of confidence you need to enjoy your events.
Planning ahead is the key. Book your first set 2-3 weeks out, do a fill right before, and follow aftercare instructions for flawless results from start to finish.
Don’t rush the process, and go with a quality lash tech that you trust. You and your special event deserve only the very best.
We hope you enjoyed this ultimate guide to eyelash extensions for special occasions. Book your appointments, and get ready to look absolutely stunning for all of life’s best moments.