BREANNA SMITH has always had a passion for fashion and helping others feel confident. In 2019, she turned that passion into a business, launching her first boutique, Proverbs Thirty-One Boutique, inspired by a favorite piece of Scripture. Smith built her brand around encouraging women to feel comfortable, beautiful, and confident in what they wear.
Smith’s interest in clothing began years earlier. In high school, she worked at a boutique and quickly discovered she enjoyed helping customers style outfits and find pieces that suited them. She was even voted “Best Dressed” by her classmates. What started as a love for clothes soon developed into a desire to serve women through fashion.
In the early stages, Smith operated mainly online and at local craft shows. She transported inventory in the back of her vehicle — and often in her mother’s or other family members’ cars — and worked with tents and clothing racks, gradually building her customer base. From the beginning, she prioritized offering a wide range of sizes so customers of all body types could feel included and confident.
In 2022, Smith stepped away from the business after her father was diagnosed with cancer and passed away shortly thereafter. During that season, she focused on family and considered whether she wanted to continue in retail. When she decided to return, she knew she wanted a fresh start and a name that honored her father.
She rebranded the boutique as Steel Magnolias, incorporating the first part of her maiden name. The magnolia flower represents nobility, perseverance, and purity — qualities that resonated with Smith personally and reflected the strength she experienced during such a difficult time.
Opening a storefront had long been one of her greatest goals. She credits much of its realization to her husband, Tyler Smith, whose constant encouragement and hands-on support have played a significant role in helping bring that vision to life.
For two to three years, Smith searched for the right location, hoping to secure a space on the square eventually. Several opportunities did not align with her business needs, either because of lease terms or location details. Eventually, she opened her first Steel Magnolias location, though it did not initially include the window frontage she had envisioned.
Six months later, an opportunity arose for a larger storefront on the square, with prominent windows and dedicated parking. Smith described the move as a significant blessing and believes the transition came at the right time for her business. The new location provides increased visibility and space for growth.
Steel Magnolias hosted a re-grand opening on Sunday, March 8, from 1–4 p.m. The community is invited to stop by, explore the new storefront, shop the latest arrivals, and join fellow local small business owners in celebrating this exciting new chapter.
The identity of Steel Magnolias is centered on Smith’s faith, hospitality, and quality service. Smith emphasizes that her faith in Jesus remains at the forefront of her business. She trains her staff to treat every customer with warmth and respect, ensuring that each person who enters feels welcomed.
Her goal is for customers to leave satisfied, whether they are purchasing clothing, accessories, or gifts. Smith aims to provide a convenient shopping experience so residents of Winchester and surrounding counties do not have to travel to larger cities for last-minute needs.
Supporting other small businesses is also a massive priority for Smith. Steel Magnolias carries locally owned, customized brands, including Sav Davis Hat Co., known for distinctive headwear, and Gerdie Mae’s, for custom embroidery. The boutique also features fragrances sourced from small business owners in Alabama. Smith believes that shopping small has a direct impact on families and communities while encouraging customers to consider the value of local purchases.
Looking ahead, Smith hopes Steel Magnolias will continue to grow while remaining rooted in its original mission — helping women feel confident and cared for. She wants the boutique to be a positive presence in Franklin County and a place where customers feel both welcomed and supported.
From its beginnings in tents and online sales to a storefront on the square, Steel Magnolias reflects Breanna Smith’s steady commitment to her faith, family, and community. What began as racks of clothing set up at craft shows has evolved into a permanent space where relationships are built daily. For Smith, the storefront represents not only business growth but also living evidence of perseverance, answered prayers, and the support of a community that has grown alongside her brand. GN
