Oklahoma native Raylene Cravens was named 2019 Lash Artist of the Year at NovaLash’s eighth annual LASHoff Gala. Attended by top industry professionals and media, the glamorous award ceremony at The Bell Tower in Houston, Texas feted the top four competition finalists, brand ambassadors and professionals from across the globe who have served the company for over 10 years, with a Quinceañera theme to celebrate the global eyelash extension brand’s 15th anniversary.
NovaLash Founder and CEO Sophy Merszei said, “As always, selecting a winner from among so many dazzling submissions by leading, global lash stylists was extremely difficult for our judging panel. In the end, Raylene Cravens stood out, not only as a brilliant lash artist with impeccable skills and technique, but as someone who always goes above and beyond to help other lash artists. She has proven herself to be a true NovaLash supporter and we are delighted to have her representing our company this year.” 
As Lash Artist of the Year, Cravens will receive over $25,000 in cash and prizes, along with travel and business-building opportunities. She will also be featured in a national trade magazine spread with a professional photo shoot. Like all the LASHoff finalists and category winners,
she has been named a NovaLash Brand Ambassador for 2019 and will make appearances on behalf of NovaLash throughout the year in locations like London and New York.
“This is amazing and beyond describable,” said Cravens, owner of Lash by Lash in Nichols Hills, Oklahoma. “The past eight years with NovaLash have changed my life. I went from working in a small salon to owning my own luxury lash studio and, now, am the Lash Artist of the Year and a brand ambassador. I know this is my calling – inspiring others as others have inspired me. It is really a dream come true.”

The four finalists were selected from many applicants after submitting a collection of videos and photographs that showcased their NovaLash technique, artistic skill, and fashion talent. Submissions were reviewed by a panel of judges, including, Sophy Merszei, NovaLash Vice President of Global Education Sophia Navarro, the 2018 brand ambassador team, and members of the beauty press.
In addition to the top honor taken home by Cravens, the other three finalists,
all named 2019 Lash Squad NovaLash brand ambassadors, received much-deserved recognition. The Fans’ Choice of the Year was Jessica Gadzalinski of Green Bay, Wisconsin, the Classic Winner was Nikki Melillo of West Palm Beach, Florida, and the Volume Winner was Marte Fjeldberg of Trondheim, Norway.
For the past 15 years, NovaLash has been dedicated to creating the safest techniques and highest quality products, for both professionals and clients. With detailed multi-leveled education for certified eyelash stylists and extensive testing of products for safety and use, NovaLash is the most awarded global eyelash extension brand. For more information, visit novalash.com.