Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dana Benson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Dana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?
One of the biggest ways I show appreciation to my clients is by making sure they feel truly seen, heard, and cared for. In a world that moves fast, many people don’t have a space where they can simply exhale and be themselves.
When a client comes to me, whether for a facial, lashes, or brows, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all experience. I customize each service to their needs, their goals, and even how they’re feeling that day. Sometimes they want to talk, share what’s on their heart, and feel heard. Other times they need quiet, soft music, warm towels, candles, and a chance to simply relax.
I’ve learned that people often remember how you made them feel more than the service itself. My goal is to create a safe space where clients leave not only looking better, but feeling better—more confident, more relaxed, and reminded that they matter. To me, that’s one of the greatest ways I can show appreciation for the trust they place in me.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My passion for wellness is what first led me into the beauty industry. Originally, I planned to pursue massage therapy, but once I discovered skincare, I fell in love with the ability to help people feel confident in their own skin. Much of my early career was spent working alongside Dermatologist and plastic surgeons in Kansas City and Atlanta, where I gained valuable experience and learned the importance of understanding both the science and art of aesthetics.
After moving to Birmingham, Alabama, I had the privilege of teaching at Aveda Institute Birmingham, where I discovered another passion—education. I opened The Esthetic Loft Skin & Lash Spa in 2014 and have continued my relationship with Neill and Aveda as an educator and Aveda Purefessional, opportunities for which I am incredibly grateful.
Today, I provide customized skincare treatments, lash services, brow artistry, and advanced esthetic education. What sets me apart is the combination of medical aesthetics experience, holistic wellness principles, and a strong commitment to education. I understand when a client may benefit from professional medical care and never hesitate to refer them when appropriate. At the same time, I focus on helping clients improve their skin through personalized treatments, home care, lifestyle guidance, and consistent education.
More than anything, I want people to feel seen, cared for, and empowered. Whether I’m working with a skincare client or mentoring a future esthetician, my goal is to help others gain confidence and knowledge that lasts long after they leave my treatment room.
What I’m most proud of is being able to share the experience and lessons I’ve gained throughout my career with the next generation of estheticians. Watching students grow into skilled professionals is just as rewarding as helping clients achieve their skincare goals.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that success has to look exactly the way I originally imagined it.
When I first entered this industry, I had a very specific vision for my career. Like many people, I thought there was one path to follow and one destination to reach. Over time, however, I learned that growth often takes you in unexpected directions. What began as a passion for wellness led me into skincare. Working in medical aesthetics opened doors to new experiences, and teaching introduced me to a purpose I never anticipated.
I used to think changing direction meant I was moving away from my goals. Now I see it differently. Sometimes your vision evolves because you’ve grown, learned, and discovered new passions along the way. The key is not giving up on your dreams but being open to where the journey leads you.
Looking back, some of the opportunities I’m most grateful for were never part of my original plan. I’ve learned that it’s okay to adjust your course while still moving forward. Sometimes the path changes, but the purpose remains the same.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
I started building my social media presence around 2014, when Instagram felt a lot more like a place to share your story than a place to chase an algorithm. I didn’t have a big strategy or marketing plan. I was simply excited about my business and shared what I was doing. I posted my work, documented my journey as a business owner, and gave people a behind-the-scenes look at what was happening in my treatment room.
What I discovered was that people weren’t just interested in the services—I think they were interested in the person behind the business. They wanted to see the wins, the growth, the daily moments, and the passion. Authenticity became the foundation of everything I shared.
As my business grew, I encouraged the estheticians who worked with me to post consistently because I realized that people connect with people. A simple story, a treatment photo, or a quick glimpse into your day can go a long way in building trust and relationships.
My advice for someone just starting is to stop worrying about being perfect and start documenting your journey. Show your work, share what you’re learning, and let people get to know you. Consistency matters, but authenticity matters even more.
I’ll also be honest—social media can be exhausting. It’s not as easy as it once was, and there are days when I’d love to hand it off to someone else. But I’ve found that the content that resonates most is still the content that feels genuine and personal. People can tell when it’s really you, and that’s something no algorithm can replace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Theestheticloft.com
- Instagram: @theestheticloft
- Facebook: The esthetic Loft
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-benson-l-e-0a775495
- Youtube: Theestheticloft
- Yelp: Theestheticloft