Is there a difference between sending (: than a regular 🙂 emoji?

Yes. Go read up on the definitions. You may be surprised there are actual feelings tied to them. It will also avoid you from sending the wrong emoji. Something nobody thinks they do, but everyone does it some times.
The second one is more of an awkward smile, I wouldn’t say that’s a regular smile emoji.
the first one is normal
Opinion
1Opinion
I don't think so.
Superb Opinion