Meet Whitney Johnson | Award Winning Licensed Esthetician and Autism Advocate

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

Hi Whitney, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
The most difficult decision I had to make was to get my child diagnosed with Autism. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do because I had very little support.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a licensed esthetician specializing in helping overwhelmed autistic moms who struggle to find balance in their daily lives—especially when it comes to self-care. As a mother in the special needs community myself, I understand the challenges of constantly prioritizing others while feeling like there’s no time to pour back into yourself. That’s why I am creating a spa sanctuary that caters to both atypical individuals and their parents; a place where everyone can truly relax, feel seen, and experience healing.

Many spas only cater to adults, but Bella Lucy is about inclusivity. I am most proud that the special needs community will finally have a space where they are welcomed, valued, and able to unwind without judgment. It’s more than just skincare; it’s about restoring peace, confidence, and overall well-being for those who often put themselves last.

Getting to where I am today has been a journey filled with trials, highs and lows, and incredible adversity. It was not easy. I have faced moments of doubt, exhaustion, and challenges that could have made me quit—but through it all, I leaned on my faith. If it weren’t for God, I honestly don’t know where I would be. Prayer has been my anchor, and joining a faith-based community has kept me grounded, reminding me of my purpose even when things felt impossible.

Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way are:

-Stay true to your mission. It’s easy to get distracted, but your purpose will always guide you back to where you’re meant to be.
-Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. As caregivers, we can’t pour from an empty cup and the people around us won’t be happy if we’re not happy
-God’s timing is perfect. When one door close it’s often because something better is ahead. A no is not right now

At the heart of Bella Lucy, you deserve care, too. Moms, especially those raising atypical children, often feel forgotten in the self-care conversation. I want the world to know that we matter—our peace, our skin, our well-being. This isn’t just a spa; it’s a movement of healing, self-love, and faith.

If you’re an overwhelmed mom who feels like self-care is out of reach, know that Bella Lucy is a place created just for you!

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?
Day 1: Welcome

Brunch: Start at Breakfast at Barneys

Self-Care Spa Day: Visit The Bella Lucy Spa (of course!) for a luxurious facial and a moment of pure relaxation.

Evening Vibes: Dinner at Fin and feathers in edgewood, cut a rug and good food and drinks

Day 2: Nature & Wine Escape

Morning Walk: Head to Piedmont Park for a peaceful stroll and skyline views.

Winery Escape: Drive up to Château Élan Winery & Resort for a wine tasting and spa experience.

Relaxing Dinner: Have a slow, cozy dinner at South City Kitchen, known for its elevated Southern cuisine.

Day 3:

Shopping Spree: Hit Ponce City Market for boutique shopping, rooftop games, and skyline views.

Culture & History: Visit The National Center for Civil and Human Rights to take in powerful exhibits.

Sweet Treat: Stop at Slutty Vegan for the best plant-based burgers ever!

Evening Fun: Live music and craft cocktails , see what’s happening that night

Day 4: Road Trip to Savannah

Scenic Drive: Take a road trip to Savannah, GA for a change of scenery.

Lunch on the River: Eat and drink and enjoy the vibes

Late Dinner: Enjoy seafood at The Grey, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant in a former Greyhound bus station.

Day 5: Beach Day on Tybee Island

Beach Picnic: Relax on Tybee Island, Georgia’s charming coastal getaway.

Water Fun: Rent kayaks or paddleboards for an afternoon of fun.

Seafood Feast: Eat at The Crab Shack, famous for low-country boil and casual island vibes

.
Day 6: Back to Atlanta for Fun & Nightlife

Soul Food Brunch: Stop by Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an Atlanta institution for Southern comfort food.

Ferris Wheel Views: Ride the SkyView Atlanta for panoramic views of the city.

Luxury Dinner: Enjoy an upscale dinner at STK Atlanta, a chic steakhouse with a great vibe.

Nightlife: Dance the night away at Opium, one of Atlanta’s top lounges for R&B and hip-hop vibes.

Day 7: Relaxed Sunday & Farewell

Sunday Service: Visit Zion Church for an uplifting worship experience.

Brunch & Mimosas: Have brunch at Toast on Lenox—

Afternoon Wind Down: Take a walk through Atlanta Botanical Garden before heading to the airport.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to God first, My fiancé and family and my coach Candace for guiding and supporting me. i wouldn’t be where I’m at if it wasn’t for them! Also, my children are my life !

Instagram: The Bella Lucy Spa

Facebook: The Bella Lucy Spa

Youtube: The Bella Lucy Spa

Image Credits
Darrius Coleman