Meet Loren Smith: Poet, Humanitarian, and Entrepreneur

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

Hi Loren, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
The word success is often misinterpreted. The world makes us believe that in order to be successful, you must obtain fortune and big houses with multiple cars. Success, to me, is not define by who you are but instead defined by the fulfillment you have in your soul. You have to find out what success means to YOU because it is different for everyone. Yes, money is great and I definitely wouldn’t turn down a million dollars if someone handed it to me. But, I wouldn’t say I was successful because I had it. My success is defined by me fulfilling the purpose I have here on earth. If I can make an impact then I have reached success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My brand started off with me being a poet. Poetry was my passion and the messages behind them was always raw and real. I came up with the name “SoReal” because I was never afraid to air out my dirty laundry. I knew my transparency would help others not feel alone. From there, I wrote and self published my book called, “Living Single”. I started noticing that each part of who I was branched into different things. I enjoy creating, so I have launched a T-shirt line called “she is merch”. I enjoy photography, web designing, and doing hand made notebooks and waist beads. My brand “She is…” was birthed with the hope to get women to bring out the best in them. I volunteered at juvenile detention centers and spoke with young girls to share my story and help inspire them. It allowed my pain to turn into a purpose. Whenever you are pushing to do great things, understand that trials will come. I am someone who was a magnet to trials, but I learned long ago that it’s because I am destined for greatness. I’ve dealt with molestation, rape, abuse, suicidal thoughts, depression, etc. Yet, all of that comes with wisdom and endurance to push through any challenges I face. Getting to where I am was not easy, even now with a new business called, “Wine by the Waves”, which is an upscale picnic on the beach that my fiancé and I have started, challenges continue to get thrown at me. I know I have been built up to handle all that is thrown at me and I encourage anyone reading this to not give up and ensure your challenges as well.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to have a good time and enjoy those around me. I recently moved to Long Beach, Ca and love all that there is to do here. Even in the pandemic, memories have been made. If my best friend were to come out here I would definitely have to do a day of relaxation and music on Mother’s Beach. It’s mainly purposed for mother’s and their kids because it does not have waves, but I love spending time there (shh don’t tell on me). I would head down to shoreline and take her on a boat ride to enjoy the beautiful ocean. If she liked fishing, I would take her to the pier for a couple of hours. For breakfast food, I would take her to Omelette Inn off Pine or The Breakfast Bar off Atlantic to grab some mimosas. If we were eating dinner, I would take her to Panamá Joes off of 2nd and order their Carne Asada bowl. Now, if she wanted to REALLY have a good time, the R bar or Sevillas where we could get our party on. Those are just SOME options to the endless fun you can have out here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family, fiancé, and friends have helped to push me to where I am today. Each person in some way has helped to push out what’s inside of me. I always undervalued myself and never thought I was good enough, but they always reminded me of the greatness inside of me.

Website: www.winebythewaves.com

Instagram: @sheislorensoreal