For those looking to refresh their look post-quarantine, this anti-aging ambassador may be their first call

Those who know, know. Danielle Smith is the lady to have on speed-dial (or WhatsApp) if smooth, flawless skin is your personal holy grail. The sought-after Smith has every intention of making Miami’s residents feel beautiful and even more so after they can once again visit after months of being at home. At the Sunset Harbour location of her Smith & Co. offices, Smith uses her favorite Allergan products to execute her work, the proof of her commitment to perfection is reflective on the faces of those she transforms. “Sometimes going more natural, and other times more enhanced, depending on the needs of the client,” she says.

A plumper pout? A more defined jawline? Clients attest to finding that here on the reg. But for Smith, the important thing is that her loyal following never has regrets.

LIFE LESSONS FROM THE ICU

With dreams of becoming a doctor, Smith moved to South Florida in 2007 to attend the University of Miami. After working under the fast-paced stress of the ICU, she realized that the

doctor life for her was less M.D. and more N-O. Not for her.

“I decided to shift the trajectory of my career knowing that I wanted to help people,” she says. “When I was accused of being overly compassionate toward my ICU patients, my integrity came into play, and I knew it was my time to depart. Funnily enough, what was perceived as a weakness by my colleagues became the recipe to my success.”

She set her sights on the plastic surgery industry, where her natural empathy could be put to good use in helping patients with their confidence, which sometimes means enhancing the outside to feel happier on the inside.

“I cold-called a few doctors and was hired by Dr. Leonard Hochstein, where I merged my nursing and ICU expertise to prep all of his patients pre- and post-operation,” recalls Smith.

It was during her tenure with Dr. Hochstein that her skills were ultimately honed and with his blessing and guidance, Smith was set up on trainings. The rest is history. “I still reminisce sometimes about the first injection I ever did. It was on my father,” she laughs, “I knew I belonged.”

LOVE AT FIRST INJECTION

Soon after, Smith continued her education at George Washington University, locking in a master’s degree in nursing science. Still based in Miami but traveling to Washington, D.C., every month for classes, she found her next mentor in dermatology guru Dr. Mariano Busso, whom Smith interned for.

“He encouraged me to build my boutique practice and instilled the tools that led me to become the success that I am today.”

ON HER OWN

A few years back, Smith launched Smith & Co., a relaxing, boho-chic space with million-dollar Miami Beach views where patients can jam to a playlist that includes Fleetwood Mac.

Though her hands have worked on the faces of many of Miami’s elite, Smith acknowledges a calling to make all people look their best. “I’m conscious of budgets and offer extremely reasonable rates in the competitive market for my skill level.”

One piece of advice: call in for a consultation sooner rather than later. “I advise that you give yourself a few weeks beforehand to book, as my appointments are far and few,” she says. “After all, I am a one-woman show!”

Follow Danielle Smith on Instagram at @smithand_co.

This story was originally published April 28, 2020 at 4:49 PM.