We had the good fortune of connecting with Damelys and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Damelys, what do you want your legacy to be?
My journey with LuxTheSmile began with a passion for beauty and self-love, but it quickly grew into something much greater. I’m proud to have been one of the first in the Chicagoland area to open a cosmetic teeth whitening business. Now, my mission is to inspire a new era of confidence. I want to be remembered as the woman who made confidence shine, one smile at a time.

I don’t just want to offer beautiful results, I want to shift the trend and show the world what cosmetic teeth whitening can truly do. It’s more than just a service. It’s an experience, a boost of confidence, and sometimes even a new beginning for someone.

My dream is to become an educator and help others step into this industry with the same passion. I want to teach the magic behind this service and empower others to build a life and business they love, just like I did. That’s the legacy I want to leave behind, a brighter world, built through glowing smiles and inspired hearts.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m the proud owner of LuxTheSmile, a Latina-owned cosmetic teeth whitening studio based in Naperville, Illinois. My business is all about delivering a luxury experience that’s affordable, non-invasive, and custom to each client’s comfort. What sets us apart is our focus on results with minimal to no sensitivity, using plant-based products that are safe, effective. Every session is designed to be relaxing, cozy, and client-focused.

With 9 years of experience as a dental assistant, I used my background to create something I felt was missing a spa-like space where people could feel confident about their smile. Starting this business wasn’t easy. I left my full-time job to pursue this dream, and there were moments of fear, doubt, and financial stress. But I kept showing up, trusting God, and reminding myself that I was building something meaningful.

Now, I’m most proud of how far it’s come. I’ve been able to help so many clients feel amazing about their smile, and that feeling never gets old. My journey has taught me that success doesn’t come overnight, but with hard work, passion, and staying true to your values, it’s always possible.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that LUXTHESMILE was built with purpose and heart. I’m living proof that with consistency and faith, you can turn your passion into something powerful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit for a week, I’d make sure they had the best time exploring the city and a little taste of the suburbs too. First, we’d head to Downtown Chicago to take in all the views, starting with Navy Pier. We’d ride the Ferris wheel and take in how beautiful the skyline looks from up high. Then we’d stop by the Field Museum for a little history and some of those unforgettable dinosaur exhibits!

Later in the week, I’d switch things up and take them to Downtown Naperville. I like to keep it simple and fun, so we’d stop at one of my favorite spots, MOD Pizza. It’s always a vibe when you get to build your own pizza with all the toppings you love. After that, we’d grab some ice cream at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (seriously, it’s a must-try), and walk it off at the Naperville Riverwalk, it’s peaceful, pretty, and perfect for catching up.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey wouldn’t be what it is today without the love and support of a few incredible people. First, my family, thank them for always cheering me on and believing in me, even when my vision was just getting started. And to my partner, who has been by my side through every high and low he’s seen this business grow from an idea into something real, and his constant support has meant everything.

I also want to give a special shoutout to my mentor, Paty. When I was new to the beauty industry as a business owner, she poured into me with advice, tips, and encouragement that I still carry with me today. Her guidance helped shape the foundation of how I run my business and show up with purpose.

Every step I’ve taken has been made stronger because of the people who believed in me. This shoutout is for them, for being part of my story and helping me build the dream I’m living now.

Website: https://www.luxthesmile.com

Instagram: @luxthesmile

Image Credits
Damelys Hernandez

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