Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessica Hudgins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jessica, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
As a 35-year-old esthetician, divorced mom of two, and owner of Meraki Skin Studio in Marion, NC, my journey hasn’t been easy—but it’s been incredibly meaningful. I’ve been diagnosed with AuDHD and C-PTSD, and I’m also a survivor of a domestic violent marriage. On top of that, I’ve experienced postpartum depression. For a long time, I felt like my mind was constantly at war with my heart—I had dreams and passion, but I also carried so much anxiety, guilt, and self-doubt.
Running my business while managing my mental health has taught me more about strength and grace than anything else ever could. Some days, ADHD makes it hard to focus, and other days, trauma triggers try to steal my peace. But what I’ve learned is that healing doesn’t mean the hard days disappear—it means I’ve built tools and resilience to face them differently.
I’ve found peace and purpose in my work. Every facial, every client, every quiet moment in the studio reminds me that creating a safe, calming space for others is also part of my own healing. Meraki, which means “to do something with soul, creativity, or love,” truly reflects how I approach both my business and my personal growth.
Therapy, boundaries, and self-compassion have been huge parts of my journey. I remind myself daily that progress isn’t perfection—it’s simply choosing not to give up. I’ve learned to celebrate small wins, ask for help when I need it, and give myself grace through the process.
If there’s one message I’d share with anyone facing similar battles, it’s this: You are not broken because you struggle. You are proof that light can grow from even the hardest soil. Keep going—your story isn’t over yet, and there’s so much beauty still ahead.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m an esthetician, skincare specialist, and the proud owner of Meraki Skin Studio LLC in Marion, NC. Every day, I help people look and feel their best—inside and out. What makes my work so special is that it’s not just about skincare; it’s about creating a safe, calm space where people can relax, recharge, and reconnect with themselves.
At Meraki Skin Studio, we focus on customized, results-driven skincare that’s as nurturing as it is effective. I believe in a holistic approach—treating not just the skin’s surface but the person behind it. That philosophy inspired me to create Meraki Skincare, my professional skincare line designed to give clients access to high-quality, effective products they can trust at home.
What excites me most about what I do is how it connects people and builds community. I’ve been blessed with the best clients ever and over 70 five-star Google reviews, which is something I’m so proud of. Soon, Meraki Skin Studio will also be collaborating with other local small businesses to host pop-ups and community wellness events—something that brings even more local love to what we do.
Our Services Include:
Custom Facials – Each facial is tailored to your skin’s unique needs, whether it’s hydration, acne care, anti-aging, or relaxation.
Dermaplaning – A client favorite for achieving smoother, brighter skin by gently exfoliating and removing peach fuzz for an instant glow.
Chemical Peels & Enzyme Treatments – For deeper exfoliation, texture refinement, and long-term radiance.
Microneedling / Collagen Induction Therapy – Stimulates collagen to improve firmness, fine lines, and texture.
LED Light Therapy – Soothes inflammation, speeds healing, and enhances results from other treatments.
Microdermabrasion – A classic resurfacing treatment that buffs away dullness and promotes healthy renewal.
Lash Lifts & Tinting – Natural lash enhancements that lift, curl, and darken your lashes for a bright-eyed, low-maintenance look.
Brow Tinting & Shaping – To frame the face and complete your polished, effortless glow.
Skincare Consultations & Custom Regimens – Professional guidance and curated routines using our Meraki Skincare line.
Memberships & Treatment Packages – For clients who want consistent results and savings with regular visits.
At Meraki Skin Studio, everything we do is rooted in the meaning of “Meraki”—to do something with soul, creativity, and love. Whether it’s a luxury facial or a simple lash lift, every treatment is infused with care, intention, and heart.
We’re not just transforming skin—we’re nurturing confidence, healing, and connection, one appointment at a time
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back over my 8 years in business, the three things that have made the biggest impact on my journey are marketing, people skills, and the ability to pivot.
1. Marketing:
Learning how to market myself and my business was a game changer. In this industry, you can be the most talented esthetician in the world—but if people don’t know who you are or what you offer, it’s hard to grow. I’ve learned to show up authentically online, share my story, and connect with clients through social media, reviews, and community involvement. My advice to new estheticians is to start small but be consistent. Post your work, talk about your services, share your personality, and don’t be afraid to promote yourself—because confidence in your craft builds trust with others.
2. People Skills:
At the heart of this work is connection. Every client who walks through my door comes with their own story, insecurities, and hopes for how they want to feel when they leave. Building strong people skills—listening, empathy, and communication—has been just as important as learning skincare science. Clients remember how you made them feel more than anything else. I always tell new estheticians: focus on relationships, not just results. A genuine connection keeps clients coming back and turns them into your biggest supporters.
3. The Ability to Pivot:
The beauty industry is always changing—trends shift, product lines evolve, and life throws curveballs. Between my own personal challenges, being a mom, and running a business, I’ve had to learn how to pivot gracefully. Whether it’s adapting services, trying new marketing strategies, or adjusting my schedule to create balance, flexibility has kept me moving forward. My advice to new estheticians is to stay open-minded and resilient. Don’t panic when things change—pivot with purpose. Growth often happens in the moments when we’re willing to try something new.
At the end of the day, success in this industry isn’t just about perfect skin—it’s about heart, hard work, and the willingness to keep evolving.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I start to feel overwhelmed, I’ve learned to pause and give myself permission to slow down. As a business owner, mom of two, and someone who genuinely cares about my clients, it’s easy to slip into “go mode” all the time—but that’s when burnout can sneak in. Over the years, I’ve realized that stepping back isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.
For me, grounding in nature is one of the best ways to reset. Marion has a ton of amazing trails and places for me to recharge. I love hiking or just spending quiet time outdoors—it helps clear my mind, reconnects me to the present moment, and reminds me how small my stress really is in the big picture. I also make time to simply be with my kids. They’re growing so fast, and enjoying those little moments with them helps me refocus on what truly matters.
Sometimes, that means taking a real break from work, even if it’s just a day to recharge, practice self-care, and breathe. I’ve learned that I can’t pour from an empty cup—so giving myself space to rest actually helps me show up better for my clients, my business, and my family.
My advice to anyone who feels overwhelmed is simple: give yourself grace. You don’t have to be “on” all the time. Step outside, take a breath, and remind yourself that you’re human. Balance and peace aren’t found in perfection—they’re found in the pauses we allow ourselves to take.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://merakiskinstudiollc.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themerakiskinstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.hudgins.le
- Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@merakiskinstudio
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