Irmo, SC, January 15, 2026
Vivid Aesthetics, LLC, formerly known as Affirmations Med Spa, has been awarded nearly $400,000 in a civil suit against Columbia Business Listings, LLC. This legal victory emphasizes the importance of transparency in business relationships as the spa faced reputational damage and financial setbacks due to unauthorized transactions and false claims made by the marketing firm. The judgment serves as a crucial reminder for small businesses about the significance of due diligence and accountability in contracts.
Irmo, SC Business Victory: Spa Awarded Nearly $400K After Marketing Deal Sours
An Irmo spa, formerly known as Affirmations Med Spa and now operating as Vivid Aesthetics, LLC, has been awarded a significant sum of nearly $400,000 in a civil suit, highlighting the critical importance of transparent business dealings and accountability in the marketplace. This outcome underscores the resilience of Irmo small business owners navigating complex challenges in today’s dynamic Richland County economy.
The recent legal victory for this local establishment serves as a potent reminder of both the risks and rewards inherent in entrepreneurial ventures. It also showcases the vital role of the legal system in protecting businesses when agreements go awry, fostering a more secure environment for South Carolina entrepreneurs.
South Carolina entrepreneurs, particularly those in the vibrant Irmo SC business community, often demonstrate remarkable determination in establishing and growing their ventures. This particular case illustrates the fortitude required when facing unforeseen obstacles, reinforcing the value of diligence in selecting business partners and the pursuit of justice when principles are violated. The ability of businesses to seek and receive fair redress is a cornerstone of a healthy economic climate, encouraging further investment and fostering Irmo economic growth.
The Genesis of a Dispute: Marketing Gone Wrong
The legal action stemmed from a business relationship between Affirmations Med Spa and Columbia Business Listings, LLC, a marketing service owned by Deedra M. Simmons. The Irmo spa initially engaged Columbia Business Listings in December 2022 for marketing services, a contract that continued until around August 2023. During this period, Affirmations Med Spa paid Simmons a total of $5,675 plus an additional $999 each month.
Allegations of Malpractice and Reputational Harm
Following the termination of their agreement in October 2023, the situation escalated. The spa alleged that Simmons reported Affirmations to a credit bureau based on what was described as a “fabricated debt.” This action reportedly caused Affirmations Med Spa to lose a pre-approved loan agreement with a bank, which would have provided savings of approximately $1,100 per month. Beyond financial repercussions, the lawsuit detailed that Simmons attempted over 30 unauthorized transactions using a credit card provided by Affirmations during their business relationship, occurring between October and December 2023.
Perhaps most damaging to the spa’s operations was the alleged campaign of online disparagement. Simmons, along with others she enlisted, reportedly began posting “phony negative reviews” about the spa. This necessitated Affirmations Med Spa contacting platforms like Google and Yelp to have the misleading reviews removed. The significant damage to its online reputation ultimately compelled the business to undergo a rebranding, changing its name to Vivid Aesthetics.
Legal Resolution and Financial Award
On January 7, 2026, Circuit Court Judge Jocelyn Newman ordered Columbia Business Listings, LLC and Deedra M. Simmons, to pay Vivid Aesthetics, LLC and Affirmations Med Spa, LLC a sum of $389,075. This judgment was rendered after Simmons failed to respond to the lawsuit filed by the spa. Records also indicate that Columbia Business Listings, the marketing company, was dissolved in June 2024.
Lessons for Irmo Entrepreneurs and the Broader Economy
This case offers crucial insights for the Irmo SC business community and beyond. It highlights the absolute necessity of rigorous due diligence when entering into contractual agreements, especially with service providers who can impact a business’s financial health and public image. Clear, detailed contracts and vigilant oversight of third-party actions are paramount for safeguarding entrepreneurial investments and ensuring business continuity. Such proactive measures can help prevent costly disputes and protect the integrity of Irmo small business ventures.
The outcome also underscores the importance of a robust legal framework that allows businesses to seek justice against unfair practices. The ability for businesses to rely on legal recourse when faced with deceitful actions reinforces trust within the commercial ecosystem, encouraging continued innovation and investment, which are vital components of Irmo economic growth and the overall Richland County economy.
Resilience and Adaptation in the Face of Adversity
The transition from Affirmations Med Spa to Vivid Aesthetics, LLC, exemplifies the innovative spirit and resilience characteristic of many South Carolina entrepreneurs. Despite facing significant reputational damage and financial setbacks, the spa adapted, rebranded, and continued its operations, a testament to the enduring entrepreneurial drive. This ability to navigate challenges and emerge stronger is a key factor in sustained economic development and job creation within the Irmo community.
This case serves as a powerful narrative for the local business community, emphasizing that vigilance, legal recourse, and adaptive strategies are essential tools for navigating the complexities of the modern marketplace. Supporting local businesses through transparent dealings and a commitment to fair competition ultimately strengthens the economic fabric of Irmo and enriches the entire region.
Conclusion: Bolstering Trust for Future Growth
The judgment in favor of Vivid Aesthetics, LLC, provides a clear message about accountability in business partnerships. For Irmo small business owners and aspiring South Carolina entrepreneurs, it reinforces the need for careful selection of collaborators and the courage to pursue justice when harmed. This commitment to fair practice and legal clarity ultimately strengthens the foundation for robust Irmo economic growth and a thriving Richland County economy.
Readers are encouraged to champion local businesses that uphold integrity and contribute positively to our community’s economic landscape. By supporting ethical enterprises, we collectively foster an environment where entrepreneurial innovation can flourish without undue hindrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the name of the Irmo spa involved in the legal dispute?
The Irmo spa initially operated as Affirmations Med Spa, and is now operating as Vivid Aesthetics, LLC.
How much was the Irmo spa awarded in the civil suit?
The Irmo spa, Vivid Aesthetics, LLC and Affirmations Med Spa, LLC, was awarded $389,075 following a civil suit.
Who was the marketing company involved in the sour business deal?
The marketing company involved was Columbia Business Listings, LLC, owned by Deedra M. Simmons.
What were the key allegations against the marketing company?
Key allegations included reporting a fabricated debt to a credit bureau, attempting unauthorized credit card transactions, and posting phony negative reviews online, which led to reputational damage and the spa changing its name.
When was the judgment issued in favor of the Irmo spa?
The judgment was issued on January 7, 2026, by Circuit Court Judge Jocelyn Newman.
Key Features of the Irmo Spa Legal Case
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spa Name (Former) | Affirmations Med Spa |
| Spa Name (Current) | Vivid Aesthetics, LLC |
| Spa Location | Irmo, SC (120 Hunter Village) |
| Awarded Amount | $389,075 |
| Marketing Company | Columbia Business Listings, LLC |
| Marketing Company Owner | Deedra M. Simmons |
| Date of Judgment | January 7, 2026 |
| Key Allegations | Fabricated debt reporting, unauthorized credit card transactions, phony negative online reviews |
| Impact on Spa | Loss of pre-approved loan, reputational damage, name change |
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Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
