Today we’d like to introduce you to Vania Johnson.
Hi Vania, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in the beauty industry out of a deep passion for skincare and wellness which I realized during the start of COVID on 2020. After completing my esthetics training and earning my Tennessee State Board license, I officially became a licensed esthetician in 2021 and opened Emerald Esthetics right after passing my practical exam. At first, I worked hands-on with clients, focusing on the main fundamentals of facials, waxing, and corrective skincare.
Over time, I saw that clients weren’t just coming for treatments, but for confidence, healing, and self-care. That inspired me to go more of a holistic route where I could offer a personalized experience to explore the root of various skin issues & disorders that would offer in both results and relaxation.
Today, I see my work as both service and education caring for clients in the treatment room while also new helping beauty professionals start & grow their businesses in the field. Nashville has been the perfect backdrop for my journey giving me a community that values both wellness, self care and innovation.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been smooth. In the beginning, I was stressed so financially investing in equipment, products, and rent while barely having clients. On top of that, Nashville specifically Downtown Nashville is full of talented estheticians, and in those early days, I often felt invisible. I would post, hand out cards, and still go weeks with only a handful of appointments, which was discouraging and made me question if I’d made the right choice of entrepreneurship.
Running a business also meant I wore every hat the service provider, the marketer, the bookkeeper, the receptionist and there were plenty of nights I came home drained crying my eyes out wondering if it was worth the stress. My personal life, time with my son & my family often had to take the backseat because all my energy was going into keeping the business afloat.
Those setbacks taught me resilience, patience, and persistence. Now, instead of being defined by the challenges, I can look back and see all of them as the reason I grew into the esthetician and business owner I am today.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Emerald Esthetics, my main focus goes beyond just skincare treatments on my table, it’s about creating a space where clients can relax, feel cared and loved for, and leave with results that make them feel more confident in their own skin. I specialize in holistic results-driven facials, corrective skincare, and texture-focused treatments.
What sets my business apart is the personalization I bring to every service. I don’t believe in standard cookie-cutter treatments because every client who walks through my door gets care tailored to their unique skin, lifestyle, and personal goals. Clients often say they come back not just for the results, but because they feel listened to and understood. Even if they booked a facial just to cry and release, I’m there to assist and that’s something I take pride in offering.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of building Emerald Esthetics from the ground up and staying true to my vision of blending self wellness with real results. My brand represents growth, renewal, and authenticity much like the name “Emerald,” which symbolizes healing and balance.
What I want readers to know is that Emerald Esthetics is more than a spa service — it’s a full experience. My goal is for every client to leave not only with glowing skin but with a renewed sense of confidence and self-care.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
The success of Emerald Esthetics has never been a solo journey because there are so many people deserve credit for where I am today. First and foremost, God! I know I got on his last nerves but he pushed me like never before and led me with his grace to such an accomplishment. My clients have been the heartbeat of my business. Their trust, loyalty, and all the referrals gave me the courage to keep going, even in moments when I questioned myself.
I am especially grateful to my teacher, Amy Keyser, the best instructor on the planet whose guidance and mentorship provided the foundation for my career. She not only taught me the technical skills of esthetics but also instilled discipline, professionalism, and a passion to “ Lace up those boots” for the craft that still guides me every day.
My parents have also been incredible pillars of support. They encouraged me to follow my passion, reminded me of my strength during the hardest times, and celebrated every milestone whether big or small. Filled in on those late nights when I had to drop my son off. Their belief in me gave me the courage to believe in myself. I’m forever grateful for them.
And most importantly, my son, Terriq, has been my greatest motivation. He inspires me daily to push through challenges and to build a business that reflects not only my passion but also the legacy I want to leave for him. He is my biggest cheerleader! He’s recruited so many clients just telling the world that his mommy does facials! Knowing that he is watching keeps me driven to grow, evolve, and never give up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emeraldesthetics.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: emerald__esthetics
