Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley K. Smith.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ashley. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Since I was a little girl, I’ve had a passion for makeup and I did modeling and pageants that lead my further interest into the beauty industry. I found my niche in esthetics through doing makeup and growing as an artist. I learned that healthy skin is the ultimate key to a flawless makeup application. So I enrolled in Esthetic school and graduated in 2016.
After I got my license in the state of GA, I focused my practice on professional makeup artistry. I eventually just wanted to grow my clientele and focus on the skin aspect of esthetics. I began my esthetics career in 2019. It all came full circle for me when I was hired by Jewel Young the owner of Flesh Skin Studio. She offered me an amazing career opportunity and mentors me to become the best of the best in the city. I am blessed in that I always knew what I wanted to do. My mother is a Registered Nurse so I truly believe the career of helping people is in my genes and purpose. I love being an esthetician/server of the Lord. Here’s why:
• It’s a very emotionally rewarding profession. Making people look good also makes them feel good; which in turn, makes me feel good. It’s happiness for all!
• I’m never bored. Every client has different concerns with their skin, so it’s definitely not “same old, same old”. I love treating all aspects from acne to rosacea and hyperpigmentation to wrinkles. Everyone has different skin, and that makes it very exciting. I’ve always wondered how skincare companies can say their line is “suitable for all skin types” when all skins have different needs.
• With all of the advancements in skincare, there is much to be learned. I have an intense passion for learning. Between industry magazines, books, trade shows, webinars, blogs, classes and websites, the opportunities to learn are endless. I am truly a believer that in all professions, you must stay up to date with what’s going on in the industry to be at the top of your game. The skincare industry is fast-moving with advances, so continuing education is a must.
• Increased awareness of esthetics brings respect to this profession.
• Plus, the increasing demand for people wanting younger-looking skin has turned esthetics into a well-respected profession including a growing billion-dollar industry. Although this is a new twist in US history, in France it has been that way for many, many decades.
• I love what I do, and it shows. I am so lucky that I have found a career that I love so much. I really am doing my part to create positive change in the world—one face at a time.
I have truly enjoyed every minute of my career as an esthetician thus far, and I feel like I’m just getting warmed up.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road to get to where I am today. I have been through it all from being enrolled in esthetic school as a single mom dealing with many struggles. Trying to find job opportunities and nothing falling through just praying for a way to provide for my son and myself. I was a freelance makeup artist and just hustling to make my dreams come true. Those jobs I did for weddings and special events helped me barely get by. I just held on to my faith and weathered the storms. Things eventually brightened up for me through patience, sacrifice, and hard work. I ended up meeting a special guy named DJ, we started dating and got engaged, then I had another baby boy. So, now I’m no longer a single mother.
Engaged with two boys That are four years apart in age. Things definitely got a lot easier for me having more help. My fiancé and I really worked together and made a schedule that works for us both to still be able to work but also take care of the kids. I struggled a lot before as a single parent trying to not only get a job but also, having trustworthy care for my child when I’m not there. Things began to start looking up on my journey, and I say that’s nothing BUT GOD. Life is full of ups and downs you just have to keep the hope and faith alive. Never give up no matter how hard it can get, stay up and push through to see the better days ahead.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I work as an independent contractor for an all wholistic spa, FLESH SKIN STUDIO. I specialize in all non-invasive treatments; face and body. I’m known for helping to heal client’s skin through treatments as a skin therapist. Also, help change their lifestyle to a healthier one as well as build up their confidence. I am most proud of the service and teamwork we put in as a business to help others. Being an all-natural black-owned business sets us apart from others as we specialize in all ethnic skin types. My passion for esthetics makes me stand out individually as I always put my all into all I do.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, I feel like our city is a great place for businesses like Flesh Skin Studio. Atlanta is growing rapidly and they’re starting to call it the next Hollywood. The city is flourishing with beautiful opportunities! If someone was just starting out, I do recommend them starting in the city to overall help with the business growth and get their name out there.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1016 Howell Mill Rd NW Unit 1208 Atlanta, Georgia
- Website: Fleshskinstudio.com
- Instagram: @fleshskinstudio @Jewelskintherapist @Ashleykiaraxo
Image Credit:
@Keithsaundersphotos
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