Meet Tavares Smith

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

Tavares, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Well, I initially had no idea or interest in living in Los Angeles. I was in the Army and ended up being stationed in Barstow CA, drove down to LA for a military detail and loved it. I never knew what I wanted to do in LA, but knew that I wanted to be there. I’m still trying to figure it all out as the scene changes out here and factors like social media have made a huge impact on the industry. Long story short when I moved to LA I took dance classes which didn’t work out for me so I picked up a camera and started shooting headshots for dancers and eventually did nightlife photography shooting events, red carpets, and clubs.

During that time I had gained relationships with people unknowingly building a network that people would want me to connect. I still don’t see those relationships as that, because these people such as Tristan Mack Wilds my little brother who is an actor and a dope singer, Meagan and Lamyia Good who are actors, Eric Bellinger who is a singer/songwriter, Amber Riley phenomenal actress and singer; have become family. I’m just blessed to have a great circle that has strong faith and constantly motivates me to do better. My goal is to bridge the gaps in the industry and help fill in those invisible holes that hinder us all from taking that leap of faith. I myself am still a working progress, doing whatever makes me feel happy and with purpose.

Has it been a smooth road?
Definitely has been a lot of obstacles. I was homeless at one point and Tristan opened his home to me until I got on my feet. I’ve dealt with a lot of misunderstandings and perceptions based on my walk. I walk with a sense of knowledge that tomorrow isn’t promised and try to live each day to the fullest. The heaviest struggle was the heartbreak I received when my friends Leah LaBelle and Rasual Butler died in a tragic car accident. That was a tough season for me and is something I still struggle with. There were some dark days for me that I dealt with alone because I always wanted to be a light for people and not burden them with darkness or stress. I’ve learned over time that heroes need saving too!

We’d love to hear more about your work.
Hmmmm well that’s a tough one lol. I can speak on the current venture I’m working on with my team Samuel, Ashley, and John. I loooooove music and to sing, karaoke has been a great outlet over the years. We created Monday Night Vibes, a night in Hollywood that welcomes everyone to just come let your hair down and have fun. We don’t hold a long line outside, no charging at the door, no vetting only the “cute” or “cool” people. I think everyone has there own “cool” which isn’t for another to understand but to just accept and enjoy. I think what sets me apart from others is my willingness to communicate with everyone no matter if you work at a retail store, bank, or a celebrity. We all were created from the same being and I really do believe that our energies are meant to connect in some shape or form.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Definitely! I think whatever your passion is to walk in it confidently. I recommend getting to know yourself before doing anything in this city. There are a lot of distractions and I’ve seen people lose their way trying to compare themselves or walk someone else’s walk. Our city can improve by just helping and building one another. Everyone has something that someone else needs.

Contact Info:

• Website: Tavaressmith.com
• Email: seventoofive@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/tavaressmith
• Twitter: Twitter.com/Tavares____

Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.