Courtney “O.C.” Smith is a passionate woman who enjoys helping people from all walks of life through various endeavors.
Growing up, Courtney was immersed in arts, culture, politics and introduced to entrepreneurship through her family. Courtney tried her hand at many career paths and majors in College before deciding that she had what it takes to do this on her own. Through her own research, Courtney then secured contracts with lobbying firms, real estate firms, and telecommunications companies. None of which truly allowed her the freedom she longed for. Organically, Courtney began to amass a network of friends who were artists, actors, and public figures.
Courtney has worked with and on projects with a host of mainstream brands and artists such as Future, Young Thug, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Taylor Gang, BET, Empire Distribution, Virgin Music, Universal Music Group, Love and Hip Hop, and Lifetime Television.
Though Courtney loves being involved with household names, she understood you cannot be legendary until you CREATE!!! Courtney relentlessly set out to break an Artist. Developing and breaking an Artist is not an easy feat. After a few attempts and learning the ropes, Courtney connected with “Yung Smilez.”
Then, at the time, Courtney was hired as a Public Relations Specialist for Yung Smilez. Eventually, Yung Smilez asked Courtney to come aboard as his Official Manager. Throughout the years, Courtney would hear about a young kid making waves based in Miami named Worldwide Wednesday. Worldwide Wednesday took a chance and sent Courtney a FULL Proposal about why she should work with him. Courtney immediately respected Worldwide Wednesday’s determination and creativity.
Though she was and still is new to Artist Management, Courtney decided to become Worldwide Wednesday’s Official Manager.
Courtney lovingly is known as “O.C.” by many in the Public Relations arena. Courtney never intended to stay in the Public Relations field (nor any particular field at all); she truly follows her heart and is known to wear her heart on her sleeve. However, after amassing thousands of contacts across industries, she decided to create a Public Relations Firm, “Bracey & Co.”
Bracey and Company currently has a staff of five professionals and growing. Through the firm, Courtney is able to service countless brands and artists.
Bracey & Co. is truly dedicated to empowering young talents and emerging brands through development and strategic vision.
All in All, Courtney started these endeavors to create financial and lifestyle freedom for herself. Courtney enjoys taking her social media followers along her journey through work-life balance. Outside of work, Courtney daily enjoys going on dates, spending time with her family, checking off her excursion bucket list, spending time waterside, collecting new and vintage designer accessories, cooking, meditating, home decor, self-care rituals, and laughing with her close circle of girlfriends.
As Courtney continues to explore her multitude of passions in life, she wants to spread joy, love, and generosity. Courtney “O.C.” Smith hopes to inspire many people to follow their dreams!
Tammy: What defines your swag as a woman in business?
Courtney: I don’t really think of myself as a “woman in business.” I truly pursue whatever I’m passionate about. However, when I think of “Swag,” I think of fashion. When it comes to fashion, I like to be feminine, sexy, creative, and unique.
Tammy: What are some of your best qualities that keep your brand relevant today?
Courtney: I keep my brand relevant by continual diversification. I push through and grow AT ALL costs.
Tammy: What obstacles have you overcome in your life that made you the woman you are today?
Courtney: I believe there’s no crying in baseball. I’ve literally had to make something out of nothing.
Tammy: Who are some women in your life you look up to and why?
Courtney: I look up to my friends. They’re all amazing triumphant women!
Nicole Tiovanni, Brittany Hooks, Amy Hanks, and Ashley Nuvvo Davis. All REALLY “badass” women.
Tammy: Please tell us about the services you provide as an entrepreneur?
Courtney: I really spend a lot of time and money on building my team. Bracey & Co. offers Artist Management, Artist Development, Brand Strategy, and Publicity Services. I myself prefer to manage the company.
Tammy: How do you see your brand in 5 years, and what steps are you currently taking to get there?
Courtney: That’s a great question. I definitely see myself pouring into the community, traveling the world with multiple homes while being a “lover girl.” I’ve already started.
Tammy: What’s next for Courtney?
Courtney: Stay tuned.
Keep up-to-date with Courtney by connecting on Instagram @ocleadinlady
Interview by: Tammy Reese|@tammyreesemedia
