Life & Work with Briunna Smith of Atlanta

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

Hi Briunna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started UGC in 2024 after getting fired from my job. I was honestly at a really low point in my life and my self-esteem wasn’t the best. I kept thinking, “Okay… what next?” And that’s when I decided maybe this was finally my time to really go for something I had always wanted to do.

I’ve always dreamed of having a social media presence. Even before content creation, people were constantly asking me things like, “Your skin looks so good, what are you using?” or “Bri, can you do my makeup?” I never gatekept products because I genuinely love helping people find things that make them feel good about themselves.

I’m not licensed or anything, but I am a real person going through real-life problems just like everybody else. And honestly? Nobody wakes up with glass skin every morning. But we can work to achieve healthier skin and more confidence with the right products, consistency, and patience.

At first, UGC felt possible for me because follower count didn’t matter as much. Growing up, popularity was never really my thing, so knowing brands cared more about creativity and authenticity than being “internet famous” made me feel like maybe there was space for me here too.

And honestly, I already had a spending problem when it came to skincare and beauty products, so I thought… why not try this stuff and help somebody else save a dollar before wasting money on products that don’t work for them?

That’s what I love most about UGC. Anybody can do it. You don’t need millions of followers or celebrity status. Brands want real people, real opinions, and real stories — and I think that’s what makes this industry so special.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been a smooth road, but I can’t imagine anyone building something they’re passionate about would say it was. Anything worth having takes faith, dedication, and a whole lot of hard work.

One of my biggest struggles has been comparing myself to other creators on social media. I’ve compared everything! my appearance (being Plus- Sized), likes, comments, editing style, opportunities—you name it. It’s so easy to get caught up in the numbers and wonder if you’re doing enough.

Over time, though, I’ve learned that UGC is different from traditional influencing. Yes, numbers have their place, but they’re not the goal. At the end of the day, you’re creating content for a brand. The question isn’t, “How many likes did this get?” It’s, “Did I tell the brand’s story well? Did I create something that feels authentic and connects with their audience?”

That shift in perspective changed everything for me. Instead of trying to compete with other creators, I started focusing on becoming a better storyteller every time I picked up my camera. Ironically, that’s when I started enjoying the process again.

I still have moments where I compare myself—I’m human and I take breaks from social media. Now I remind myself that someone else’s success doesn’t take away from my own. There’s room for all of us, and the brands that are meant for me will find me because of what I uniquely bring to the table.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create beauty and skincare UGC to help people feel seen and understood. My content isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up as a real person, trying products, sharing honest experiences, and helping someone feel more confident in their own skin.

What I’m most proud of isn’t a campaign or a number—it’s that I took a chance on myself. I started creating during one of the hardest seasons of my life, and instead of letting fear stop me, I chose to show up anyway. Every video is a reminder that sometimes the biggest step is simply starting.

If I could be known for anything, I hope it’s being the girl who encouraged someone else to go for it. So many people hide their gifts out of fear. I want someone to see my journey and think, “If she can do it, maybe I can too.”

I believe God places dreams in our hearts for a reason. They require faith, patience, and consistency. It’s about being obedient to what I feel called to create and trusting that the right opportunities and people will come in His timing.

You don’t have to move the fastest or have the biggest following. You never know whose life you might impact just by having the courage to begin.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I am a proud Peach! I love that we are a melting pot of cultures. At the core ATL has its own style, rhythm and bounce that can’t be duplicated. Like every person ever that has stepped foot in this city the traffic is the WORST!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ugcbybrigorge
• Other: https://briunnasmith.my.canva.site/ugcbybrigorge