Small Business Spotlight: Exning Smith - A Calm Space Where Confidence, Care, and Self-Love Come First

Some people enter the beauty industry to master a skill.
Others enter it to care for people.

For Exning, the esthetician behind @exesthetics, self-care isn’t a trend - it’s a calling. Her work in lashes and skincare is rooted in compassion, healing, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel confident, cared for, and seen.

Her journey proves that beauty is just as much about how you feel as how you look.

A Business Built on Care and Purpose

Before becoming an esthetician, Exning worked as a DSP for individuals with mental disabilities - a role that shaped her deeply. Taking care of others wasn’t just her job; it became part of who she is.

“There is no better feeling than boosting confidence and giving someone a mirror to smile at their face,” she shared.

That heart for service carried naturally into esthetics. Today, her business reflects her belief that self-care is essential, not optional, and that confidence can be life-changing.

A Day in the Life of a Lash + Skincare Professional

No two days look exactly the same and that’s exactly how Exning likes it.

Her schedule is a blend of skincare services and lash appointments, keeping each day dynamic and creatively fulfilling. Switching between services keeps her engaged, inspired, and always learning.

That variety allows her to show up fully for every client, every appointment, and every moment.

The Reality of Running a Small Business

Behind every calm treatment room is a business owner who never stops learning.

One thing Exning wishes more people understood about small business ownership?
The constant education.

“You need to be continually educating yourself,” she said. “Learning new things keeps your passion alive and clients can feel that.”

Growth doesn’t stop once the doors open. Staying current, inspired, and skilled is part of the work — and it’s what keeps her services meaningful and trusted.

Creating a Calm, Restorative Client Experience

Exning’s studio is intentionally designed to feel peaceful the moment clients walk in.

“I take pride in my space being creative but calm,” she shared. “People know when they show up, they’re going to get a good nap.”

That sense of comfort isn’t accidental. It’s the result of intention, environment, and genuine care. Her clients don’t just receive services - they experience rest, relaxation, and a break from the outside world.

Building Confidence From the Inside Out

One of the biggest challenges Exning faced wasn’t technical - it was personal.

“Building confidence in myself,” she shared. “It was such a bizarre feeling realizing people trusted my advice before I even trusted myself.”

Over time, that trust from clients, from experience, from growth - helped her step fully into her role as an expert. Today, her confidence matches the trust her clients place in her.

How She Stays Grounded When Things Get Tough

When business or life feels overwhelming, Exning goes back to the basics.

“I take care of my body and mind. It puts me back into a place to better serve others.”

That grounding practice allows her to show up with clarity, intention, and care for herself and for her clients.

Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters

For Exning, supporting small businesses means keeping dreams alive locally and personally.

“Money into small businesses keeps things local,” she shared. “You help support a dream and allow little ol’ me to keep doing what I love.”

Every booking, every referral, every kind word helps independent business owners continue creating meaningful experiences for their communities.

If Her Business Had a Theme Song…

Her pick? “Lucky Girl” by Fazerdaze.

A reflection of gratitude, positivity, and the simple joy of doing what she loves - often playing first thing in the morning to set the tone for the day.

A Final Word

Exning’s story is a reminder that the most impactful businesses are built with heart.

She is more than an esthetician.
She is a caretaker.
A confidence-builder.
A creator of calm.

And through lashes, skincare, and compassion, she continues to create space for people to feel their best - inside and out.