About Us
We remain dedicated to the founding principles that guide our practice. With a commitment to achieving natural-looking outcomes, we adhere to the highest treatment standards within a safe and welcoming setting. Our ultimate aim is to empower you to both look and feel your best.
At Direct Aesthetics, we take pride in being more than just injection specialists – we are advisors and partners in your aesthetic journey.
By carefully listening to your concerns and aesthetic goals, we provide honest, straightforward advice, helping you understand the treatments that are most suitable for you. We never recommend treatments that we do not believe will provide optimal results for your individual situation.
Our extensive range of non-surgical treatments are tailored to address a variety of aesthetic concerns. Our team has the experience, skills, and passion to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
At Direct Aesthetics, your safety, satisfaction, and wellbeing are our top priorities. We strive to deliver an outstanding patient experience, from the moment you walk through our doors until long after your treatment is complete.
Trust in us to guide you through your aesthetic journey, offering expert advice and world-class care every step of the way.
Welcome to Direct Aesthetics, where beauty meets science, and your skin is our priority.
Meet Valeri Rusco, PA-C: Founder and Skin Health Advocate at Direct Aesthetics
I’m Valeri Rusco, the founder, and I’m excited to share our mission of enhancing your natural beauty.
At Direct Aesthetics, we believe true beauty starts with loving the skin you’re in. Our downtown Rockford office is more than a place for treatments; it’s a welcoming space where you can seek guidance and rediscover your radiant self.
We focus on the overall health of your skin, understanding it as a vital part of your well-being. I have a passion for exploring the science behind aging and explaining the changes that occur. Education is key to our practice, helping you understand why changes happen and how our treatments work.
I aim to educate our patients about why lines appear, why volume is lost, and why changes occur in certain areas. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and maintain long-term skin health.
Visit our comforting space, where expertise meets personalized care. We’re about more than aesthetics; we’re building a community that celebrates self-love and confidence. I look forward to meeting you, sharing stories, and working together for your skin health and beauty.
— Valeri Rusco, PA-C
Meet Tammy Kirby, DNP: Wellness Coach and Injection Specialist at Direct Aesthetics
Tammy Kirby is thrilled to have joined the team at Direct Aesthetics in the heart of downtown Rockford, bringing with her immense enthusiasm to assist patients in navigating the realms of skincare and aesthetics.
With a robust foundation developed over 18 years in the medical field, Tammy has held various roles, including positions as an ER RN, nurse practitioner in family practice, and in acute care settings. Taking a significant step in her career, she earned her Doctorate of Nursing in 2020, always striving to refine her skills in the service of her patients. Tammy’s journey in aesthetics began with certification in injecting neurotoxins and fillers in 2017.
Outside of her commitment to smoothing out wrinkles or addressing pesky dark spots, Tammy immerses herself in her passions, such as CrossFit, running, exploring new destinations, and embarking on hikes with her husband and their four-legged companions. An avid reader, she is perpetually on the lookout for great book recommendations. Tammy is eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to meet new individuals and assist them on their skincare journey.
— Tammy Kirby, DNP
Meet Angie Elkins, RN: Aesthetic Specialist at Direct Aesthetics
Angie Elkins brings her compassionate care and 13 years of pediatric nursing experience to Direct Aesthetics. A graduate of Grand Valley State University (BSN, 2010), Angie has earned certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and as a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), along with accolades like the 2013 Inpatient Nursing of the Year Award.
Angie is excited to offer services such as VI Peels, dermaplaning, B-12 injections and IV therapy, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every client. Known for her cheerful personality and her love of all animals (except spiders), Angie also enjoys life on a fruit farm with her husband and cherishes time with her mother.
We’re thrilled to have Angie on our team. Book a session with her today or check our social media for walk-in availability to experience her exceptional care firsthand!
— Angie Elkins, RN
Meet Emily Conley: From Educator to Practice and Social Media Manager at Direct Aesthetics
I’m Emily Conley, proudly serving as the manager and client coordinator for our practice. For seven years, I dedicated myself to the full-time role of a stay-at-home mom, caring for our four young children. Before embracing this chapter of motherhood, I shared my passion for education as a middle school and high school teacher, specializing in subjects such as Spanish and Biology. Additionally, I played a key role in managing my husband’s online vanilla bean and spice businesses.
My personal interests encompass a diverse range of activities, from reading to actively participating in my kids’ classrooms through volunteering. I enthusiastically support my daughters during their gymnastics meets and dance competitions, and I cheer on my boys at their swim events. Early morning workout classes are a consistent part of my daily routine.
Driven by an innate fascination with science, beauty, and the realm of anti-aging, this opportunity aligns seamlessly with my lifelong interests. At Direct Aesthetics, you’ll often find me at the front desk, ready to assist and ensure you have a wonderful experience.
— Emily Conley, Practice Manager & Client Coordinator
Meet Jenn Davis: A Dedicated Community Leader and Event Coordinator at Direct Aesthetics
Hi, I’m Jenn Davis, proud to call Rockford home with my husband, two amazing children – Cameron (18) and Payten (15) – and our beloved golden retriever.
After graduating from Hope College in 1996 with a degree in Special Education, I returned to Rockford to teach at Cannonsburg Elementary. Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in community programs like the Homebound Program and Kid’s Food Basket. In 2008, I made the heartfelt decision to resign from teaching to prioritize family time.
Since then, I’ve ventured into entrepreneurship, started a catering business, and remained dedicated to community service, especially within Rockford Public Schools. I’ve served on the Rockford Education Foundation board, volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, and provided support for adults with special needs.
Beyond my busy schedule, I enjoy spending time with family, exploring new destinations, attending concerts, and volunteering in the community to make a positive impact.
— Jenn Davis, Event & Client Coordinator
Meet Lindsey Grinwis: Nurturing Warm Welcomes as Receptionist at Direct Aesthetics
Hello, I’m Lindsey, and many of you know me as Emily’s sister here at Direct Aesthetics. By day, I step into the role of a middle school administrator at Northview Public Schools, and by night, I proudly embrace the joys and challenges of being a mom to two teenagers and a preteen. Fortunately, I find teenagers to be a constant source of amusement, my own included! I hold a special place in my heart for them, especially when they’re navigating the complexities of life’s tougher moments.
In my leisure time, you’ll often find me immersed in the pages of a good book, enjoying the great outdoors through camping, passionately cheering on my kids during their various sporting events, learning the art of golf, and savoring moments with my cherished group of girlfriends. If you don’t find my sister, Emily, at the front desk, chances are it’ll be me welcoming you with a smile.
— Lindsey Grinwis, Receptionist
