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Rising Stars: Meet Christine Storey Smith of Spartanburg,SC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Storey Smith.

Hi Christine, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Story of Christine Storey Smith: From Small-Town Dreamer to Industry Powerhouse

Christine Storey Smith’s journey into the beauty industry began with a passion for transformation—of both hair and heart. Growing up in a small town, she found herself captivated by the power of beauty to inspire confidence and connection. What started as braiding friends’ hair in high school quickly evolved into a deep calling, one that led her to pursue professional training and immerse herself in the world of hair and makeup artistry.

Christine’s career took off behind the chair, where she cultivated a loyal clientele with her signature blend of warmth, artistry, and precision. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. Driven by an insatiable desire to grow, she sought out advanced education and opportunities beyond her salon walls. From backstage at New York Fashion Week to the sun-soaked runways of Miami Swim Week, she built a reputation as a high-fashion stylist with an editorial edge.

Christine’s work has graced the pages of Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Essence, and her ability to seamlessly blend runway technique with real-world elegance has made her a sought-after name in both the fashion and bridal industries. She is now the Lead Hairstylist for Greenville Fashion Week and a preferred bridal vendor with Beyond The Ponytail, roles that speak to her authority and artistry.

But Christine’s success isn’t just about personal accolades—it’s about legacy and leadership. As the owner of Canvas Boutique Salon, she’s created more than just a beauty destination; she’s built a haven for creativity, mentorship, and luxury service. Her boutique salon, voted Best Salon in Spartanburg, reflects her dedication to excellence and her vision for a space where clients and artists alike can thrive.
Her journey—rooted in grit, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her craft—is far from over. But if there’s one thing Christine Storey Smith has proven, it’s that when passion meets purpose, the possibilities are limitless.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every opportunity was earned—not handed. She had to build her reputation from the ground up while juggling long hours, self-doubt, and the pressure to “make it” in an oversaturated industry.
Working back-to-back weddings, early call times for fashion shows, and late nights building brands eventually took a toll. Christine has faced burnout more than once—moments when the dream felt too heavy. Learning how to slow down, delegate, and protect her peace became essential to sustaining her passion.
Creating a space where other artists could thrive meant making hard decisions—letting go of toxic energy, setting boundaries, and choosing alignment over attachment. She’s learned that protecting the culture of her salon and artist collective is essential for long-term success.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in luxury hair and makeup with a distinct emphasis on bridal, editorial, and high-fashion beauty. My work lives at the intersection of timeless elegance and modern artistry—from soft, romantic bridal styles to bold runway statements that push creative boundaries. Whether I’m styling a bride on the most important day of her life or leading a team backstage at Fashion Week, every detail is intentional. I believe in beauty with impact—and in the power of transformation done with heart.

What I’m most known for is my signature polish—not just in how the hair is finished, but how every experience is curated. Clients often say I bring a calming, confident energy that instantly makes them feel taken care of. I’m the artist people trust for once-in-a-lifetime moments—because they know I’ll show up prepared, present, and ready to deliver.

I’ve been honored to work backstage at New York Fashion Week, Miami Swim Week, and as Lead Hairstylist for Greenville Fashion Week, with features in Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Essence. I’m also a preferred bridal vendor with Beyond The Ponytail, and owner of Canvas Boutique Salon, voted Best Salon in Spartanburg.

What sets me apart is my ability to bridge the gap between high-fashion and highly personal. I bring editorial-level technique and vision to real-life moments—weddings, portraits, events—without losing the intimacy or soul of the experience. My approach is refined, but never rigid. Elevated, but always warm.
I’m deeply committed to mentorship and legacy. Beyond my work behind the chair and on set, I’ve created spaces where other artists can grow—not just in skill, but in confidence, professionalism, and purpose. My mission is to elevate the next generation of beauty professionals by showing what’s possible when creativity is matched with intention. I’m building something bigger than myself—something that leaves a lasting impact through artistry, empowerment, and excellence.

What I’m most proud of isn’t just the accolades or the high-profile moments—it’s the journey that got me here. I’ve built everything from the ground up, often with more grit than guidance, navigating burnout, setbacks, and self-doubt along the way. There were seasons I questioned if I could keep going, but I did—and with every challenge, I grew stronger, sharper, and more intentional.

I’m proud that I didn’t just chase success—I created a path that reflects who I truly am. I’ve stayed rooted in my craft, elevated my standards, and poured into others so they could rise too. From backstage chaos to quiet one-on-one moments with a bride, I’ve never lost sight of the why behind what I do.

What does success mean to you?
Success isn’t just about the spotlight or the finish line—it’s about the quiet moments when you choose to keep going.

It’s pushing through setbacks no one sees, showing up when you’re tired, and putting one foot in front of the other even when the path feels unclear. Success is built in the hard days—the ones that test your commitment, your resilience, and your belief in yourself.

It’s not perfection. It’s perseverance. It’s staying true to your vision, trusting your growth, and continuing to rise—gracefully, relentlessly, and with purpose.

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