b'PROFILESStretches Skills to Create Quinceaera EventStephanie SmithS tephanie Smith established L.S. Smith Photography in 2012 as a full-service boutique studio providing contemporary portraiture. Smith offers clients a unique and personal portrait experience in her downtown Quitman studio, including custom-designed photo sessions with hair, makeup, and wardrobe options.Stephanie Smith established L.S. Smith Photography in 2012 as a full-service boutique studio providing contemporary portraiture. Smith offers clients a unique L.S.SMITH PHOTOGRAPHYand personal portrait experience in her downtown Quitman studio, including custom-designed photo sessions with hair, makeup, and wardrobe options.Not afraid of a good challenge, Smith was intrigued when a local event planner presented the opportunity to add quinceaera portraits to her portfolio.She thought this was a natural overlap in our respective businesses, says Smith, who at the time was not familiar with the quinceaera tradition. I am nearly always up for something new and differentits part of being a custom portrait photographer, so I began to research.In many Latin American countries, a quinceaera traditionally marks a girls 15th birthday as a coming-of-age celebration that includes a religious ceremony and elaborate party with family and friends.Similar to a wedding expo or a bridal show, Smith says the more she learned, the more excited she became at the possibility of participating in a quinceaera event. Various vendors and businesses were selected to participate in the photo shoot, including a formal dress boutique, baker, florist, hairstylist, makeup artist, calligrapher, videographer, and cultural consultants.The styled photo shoot provided Smith and vendors an opportunity to co-market and to showcase their services and expertise. Each vendor contributed their time, talent, and products, at no cost, in exchange for the photos toFinal Touch: Destiny Alaniz receives makeup application from Eryn use for marketing their businesses. Alderman, with Beauty by Eryn A. 38 SG MAGAZINE| WINTER 2022 BUSINESS + CULTURE39'