Small Business Spotlight: Rachel Kistler - A Heart-Led Esthetician Building Beauty, Confidence, and Community

In the beauty industry, some professionals transform more than skin - they transform lives.
Rachel Kistler, the esthetician behind @radiancebyrachel, is one of them.

Her journey into esthetics is rooted in something deeper than technique. For Rachel, beauty is connection. It’s helping others feel confident, seen, and cared for. It’s creating a calming space where clients can breathe, relax, and become the best version of themselves.

And like many small business owners, her story is one of passion, resilience, and purpose.

A Business Built on Heart

Rachel describes esthetics as “both science and self-care,” and she’s endlessly fascinated by what the skin can tell us. But what fuels her most is the emotional connection - the transformations she gets to witness both physically and mentally.

Her work reflects who she is: nurturing, intentional, and deeply committed to her clients. Every service is delivered with care, attention to detail, and a desire to make someone feel their absolute best.

“I’ve always been someone who pays attention to detail, loves connection, and finds joy in creating calm, relaxing spaces for others,” she shared.
“That’s why I love esthetics - it allows me to blend creativity with purpose.”

What a Day in the Life Really Looks Like

Running a small business is often glamorized, but Rachel’s honesty reveals the truth: it’s passion mixed with grit.

On any given day, she’s:

• Answering DMs and client messages

• Managing bookings and cancellations

• Keeping up with inventory

• Cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining her studio

• Creating content and connecting with her online community

• Making sure every service is performed with intention

Some days start early and end late, but because she built her business from the ground up, even the hard days feel meaningful.

“The freedom, the connections, and the pride I feel in my work make every challenge worth it.”

The Hidden Side of Small Business Ownership

What many don’t realize is how much emotional and mental energy it takes to run a business alone. Behind the scenes, Rachel is making decisions, solving problems, and wearing every hat - often without a break.

It’s not just doing the work she loves. It’s also:

• Managing finances

• Planning for growth

• Staying compliant with state regulations

• Constantly learning new techniques

• Keeping up with industry changes

• Maintaining meaningful relationships with clients

This invisible workload is why supporting small businesses matters more than most people realize.

Crafting a Unique Client Experience

What sets Rachel apart is her genuine connection with her clients. She listens deeply, tailors every service, and creates a warm, welcoming experience that goes beyond beauty.

From using high-quality products and staying updated with the latest techniques to offering honest, personalized advice - she sets a standard that keeps clients loyal for years.

“I build strong relationships, offer honest guidance, and go the extra mile. That sets me apart in a competitive industry.”

Turning Challenges Into Strength

Like many service providers, the pandemic reshaped her business and her resilience.

With in-person services limited, she had to pivot quickly. Rachel embraced virtual consultations, strengthened her communication with clients, and found creative ways to stay connected with her community.

But instead of letting those challenges break her, they made her stronger.

“They taught me resilience, flexibility, and the importance of community. Overcoming them deepened my commitment to providing exceptional care.”

What Keeps Her Going When Things Get Hard

It’s not easy running a business alone, but Rachel stays motivated by remembering why she started: to help others feel beautiful, to create a sanctuary, and to build an authentic community.

When days get tough, she leans into celebrating small wins, connecting with clients, and sharing her passion online. Engagement and feedback remind her to keep going - to evolve, grow, and show up authentically.

Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters

Rachel believes supporting small businesses isn’t just shopping local, it’s investing in someone’s dream, passion, and purpose.

“Every purchase helps me continue doing what I love. It provides the freedom and connection that small businesses are built on.”

When clients choose an independent esthetician like Rachel, they’re supporting real artistry, real care, and a real person - not mass-produced experiences.

If Her Business Had a Theme Song…

She chose “Work B*tch” by Britney Spears - the perfect embodiment of hustle, focus, and determination.

Running a business is hard work, but she shows up every day with energy, heart, and dedication for her clients and for herself.

A Final Word From Rachel

Her journey is a brilliant example of what small business ownership truly looks like:
courage, resilience, passion, and purpose.

Rachel is more than an esthetician.
She’s a creator of calm.
A giver of confidence.
A community builder.
And a powerful example of what happens when passion meets perseverance.