Meet Kara Smith of Kara Collins Smith State Farm

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Smith.

Hi Kara, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised just north of Atlanta in Marietta. I’m the daughter of a State Farm agent, but I wanted to chart my own path—so I studied Journalism and Advertising at the University of Georgia. After college, I built a successful 20-year career in advertising sales and sales management for TV and radio, taking me through markets like Knoxville, Cincinnati, and eventually back to Atlanta.

Even with the success, I felt a pull toward work with more purpose—where I could serve people more directly, be more invested in my community, and build something of my own. When a State Farm recruiter reached out at just the right time, it felt like an opening door. I went through the licensing process, passed the required exams, completed a six-month internship, and—after my father retired—earned the chance to step into his agency as a second-generation agent.

On May 1, 2024, I opened my doors and TEAM KARA CARES was born. Our mission is simple: “Team Kara Cares”—we protect what matters most with care, responsibility, and real follow-through. I’m grateful to serve our customers through every season of life: new homes, new cars, growing families, moves to town, and also on their hardest of days—car accidents, storm damage, and loss.

We’re located in Alpharetta, GA, adjacent to the Milton & Roswell communities. I live just up the road in Canton, GA with my husband Chris, our two boys, Pearson and Maddox, and our cat and dog, Taffy & Dexter. Together with my incredible team, we show up locally—supporting schools, sports, and community events—because trust is built in the relationships you keep.

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?
This work comes with real responsibility. We’re there when people are dealing with accidents, storms, and sometimes catastrophic loss—and those calls are emotional. The standard is high, and I’ve had to stay steady and focused, because my job is to care for my customers and protect what matters most to them.

On top of that, insurance and financial services are complex. In the early years, I faced a steep learning curve—policies, processes, financial products, compliance, and the systems required to deliver an exceptional experience every day. Building the agency while staying true to my standards took time and effort, and it sometimes added pressure at home.

But I never doubted that I was where I belonged. My husband, Chris, worked alongside me every day in those first two years, helping me learn, refine, and grow the agency—something I truly couldn’t have done alone. And now, our team makes all the difference: several members bring 25+ years of experience from my father’s agency, and every team member serves with heart every day.

I’m grateful for this team and the strong foundation we’ve been able to build together.

We’ve been impressed with Kara Collins Smith State Farm, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Kara Collins Smith State Farm is a locally owned, second-generation agency built on one promise: personalized protection for real life. We serve customers throughout Georgia and Tennessee with auto, home, condo, and renters insurance, as well as life insurance, annuities, and financial and retirement planning options.

We also help businesses and families with liability protection, workers’ compensation, disability, and supplemental health coverage—and even pet insurance to protect the family’s beloved furry friends.

What sets us apart is how we serve. “Team Kara Cares” is our brand, and we live it every day. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions—we start by learning what matters most to each customer, then recommend coverage that fits their needs and budget. We’re known for strong value and competitive options, but we measure success by something bigger: having the right coverage when customers need it most.

We also believe education is an important part of customer care. Insurance can be complex, so we take the time to explain coverages clearly, simplify the language, and meet customers where they are—whether that’s by phone, email, or in-person.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice to anyone just starting out in insurance: make sure you genuinely care about people. This work is about protecting what matters most in someone’s life. The sale is only the beginning—the real success comes from service, empathy, and showing up for customers when they need you most. Without a servant’s spirit, it’s hard to build trust long-term.

Second, invest in your team. Support your employees, train them well, and make sure they feel appreciated and equipped to do their best work. When your team feels valued, it shows in every customer interaction. At Team Kara Cares, we care about our customers and our community—but we also care about each other, inside these walls. That mindset isn’t just a slogan; it’s how we operate every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.teamkaracares.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamkaracares?igsh=czFnOG03Z2MwYWQ3
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556380954641
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kara-collins-smith-state-farm-agent/

Image Credits
Studio Headshot: Katya Vilchyk; Other Community Photos: Chris Smith Photography