We had the good fortune of connecting with Shelby Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shelby, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
The balance I had to find between modeling and time for my family was to make more time for them than for myself. I planned strategically around certain shoots to spend time with my family. If I didn’t take breaks from constantly doing photoshoots, I would experience burnout and lose inspiration. I never want to give up my dream so a balance had to be found in order keep myself sane.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I focus on western fashion because it is a portion of fashion where I feel most at home. I am different from other models because I stay true to my morals and let my passion for western fashion show through. I am most excited about meeting new people and creating new connections with different brands. It has not been an easy road because I have faced many rejections but after everytime I am rejected by someone or some brand, another one comes along and gives me q chance to prove my worth. I want the world to know that you should never give up on your dreams because someone else is doing better at it than you. It is their time first and yours is coming, just be patient and never give up on yourself or your goals.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I would definitely take them to the Fort Worth Stockyards. There is so much rustic vibes and history there it is a welcoming vibe. We would hit up the shops there and then find ourselves at Billy Bob’s for a good concert and a few cold ones. Fort Worth is definitely the scene for Country Western style.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shout out to Texiboots and Michelle Pitre. They are the ones who gave me my big break on stepping into the western fashion industry and without their support, I wouldn’t have the dedication to achieve my dreams. They are such an inspiration to girl bosses everywhere.

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Image Credits
Photographer credit The Texas Tumbleweed