Today we’d like to introduce you to Alina Perry-Smith.
Hi Alina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My siblings and I are first-generation born in America. Before Fidel’s reign, my parents came in the 1950s to have a better life in America. My parents came from humble beginnings; they worked hard and created a wonderful life. My siblings and I are what are called in-school ESOL children. We started school knowing very little English, as Spanish was the language of choice at home. Why do I mention this? Because I was the first to graduate college in my family. I say that proudly, knowing that for many with immigrant parents, that is not always easy to achieve. I earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in the Science of Reading, and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership. Yes, my career was in education. In 2013, my life’s perspective changed for me. I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer. There were some medical complications along the way; It was tough on the kids and my family.
I looked at my hopes, dreams, and goals during that time. What haven’t I done that I wanted to accomplish but never found the time to do? I sat down and wrote a bucket list, not because I thought I was dying, but because I wanted to live and accomplish those dreams. One of them was to study photography and learn how to use the DSLR camera. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would become a professional photographer. I had a full-time job, and most days didn’t feel so wonderful. I thought about it and said, yes, why not after the photography instructor asked me if I would go pro. It gave me such joy to create lasting images for others. With my photography, I celebrate anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, graduations, births, etc. I get to be the person that provides others with the visual remembrance of a beautiful moment.Who wouldn’t want to do that, right?
In 2022, I made a move from South Florida to Palm Coast. My entrepreneur sister had started a small networking group in her home before the pandemic. I convinced her we needed to start another group, so in June 2022, we created Boss Ladies of Flagler County with 12 women in attendance at our first outdoor meeting. Today we are close to 1000 women. Who are we, and what do we believe? We are women entrepreneurs that empower women to succeed in business and support our community through charitable works and funds. For each monthly meeting, we choose a local charity. Women from our group bring baskets, and the funds from the raffles are given to that charity. We raise anywhere from $400-$1800 in one evening. There are no membership fees. The only request is that women connect with others on a deeper level. We now have women starting groups in other counties and states using the Boss Ladies philosophy. This year I was asked to help promote Advent Health’s Pink on Parade. I volunteered with pleasure. Boss Ladies of Flagler County had a table and handed out medals to survivors. This charity supports local women in providing diagnostic care regardless of the ability to pay. Let’s help others in need with time, love, and finances.
So how am I doing? In April 2023, I will be celebrating my 10th Cancer Free anniversary. I have booked a 2 week trip down the Pacific Highway- I get to check another item off my bucket list. My photography business is amazing, and I continue celebrating with others while providing the last memories of their special moments. Where are my kids? My son lives with me. He am attending Daytona State, majoring in Music Tech and Production, and creating his music. He will release an original song in 2023. My daughter lives in Atlanta; she graduated with a Criminology Degree. She works for a law firm and is studying for her paralegal certification.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Nothing worthy is ever easy. I went to college on Pell grants and loans with little support and resources. I started a photography business in Palm Coast during the Covid shutdowns and survived cancer treatments. I taught in low-income areas in Miami-Dade, helping immigrant and minority children gain an education. I always tell my students and my own personal children; if you don’t try or ask, the answer will always be no. So therefore, you set your goal and go for it; if you aren’t successful but you can say you put your heart and soul into it, then you are a winner for trying, and you can pick yourself up, learn from your mistakes, and reach a new goal.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a portrait photographer. Like most artists, you grow into your style. Will it be a constant? I can say that I learn something new every day and change and grow. I pride myself on making my sessions fun and enjoyable for all. I want it to be an experience that each person will remember fondly. The comment I get from my clients is, “It was fun; I didn’t want to do it, but I’m so glad I did”. That is what I want to hear. If you didn’t have fun, I didn’t do my job correctly. Then having those lasting memories of fun and laughter is so more special to the individual and family.
Alright, before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work, collaborate, or support you?
If you are a woman in the local area and have a business, join our group. We would love to meet and support you. The best way to support me is to refer me to others after you have utilized my portrait services. Review me on Google, build my SEO.
Contact Info:
- Website: imagesbyalina.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imagesbyalina/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imagesbyalina
Image Credits
Images by Alina
