Mrs. Vondella Smith Richardson, affectionately known as “Mrs. V,” is a licensed cosmetologist with over 27 years of experience in the beauty industry. A native of Bamberg, South Carolina, she currently resides in Orangeburg County and is the proud owner of Exclusive Beauty Studio located in Orangeburg, SC.

Mrs. V has built a dynamic career as an award-winning stylist, traveling nationally and internationally to educate licensed professionals in advanced cosmetology techniques. Her passion for hair, beauty, and education led her to transition into teaching, where she now serves as the Cosmetology Instructor at Lake Marion Technology Center.

Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of beauty professionals, Mrs. V combines real-world industry expertise with compassionate teaching. Her classroom is more than a learning space, it’s a place of inspiration, creativity, and growth. Known for her high standards and nurturing spirit, she helps her students develop the technical skills, discipline, and confidence needed to thrive in the cosmetology field.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. V is a proud advocate for youth empowerment and community involvement. She loves working with children and is committed to giving back to the community that raised her. She is the founder of R.E.A.C.H. (Remember Every Accomplishment Creates Hope)Non-profit Organization. She believes in equipping people with the confidence to try new things. Whether mentoring young people through local initiatives or organizing free educational programs, her heart for service shines through in everything she does.

Mrs. V believes that with passion, practice, and purpose, every student has the potential to achieve greatness, not just in cosmetology, but in life. She lives by the motto: "Success is not solely about how much you earn but about how much you learn along the way!"