The pandemic caused us all to flounder in many ways. We went from independent lives of work and school, to abruptly working and schooling at home. It was a lot to handle in a short period of time. Many had to pivot or even reinvent themselves completely. For one Roswell native, this became the perfect opportunity for her to dive into her passion. Catherine Smith decided to immerse herself in something that not only brought her purpose, but complete joy. By taking her princess business full-time, she was able to not only see success but absolutely flourish in something that was very near and dear to her heart, helping people and making them happy.
Was there an event that led you to the idea of becoming a real life princess for young and old to enjoy?
I always loved dressing up for my pre-K students as Anna!! It is when the movie first came out so of course they loved it because I looked just like her! But, then when the pandemic happened I had to go completely virtual! That is when I brought in my new characters like Elsa, Ariel, Rapunzel, Cinderella and Barbie! I honestly just love making people smile young to old! Getting to virtually call all 50 states and 45 different countries has been an amazing experience! I love being able to Facetime the kids who are suffering from cancer or other diseases, because I could no longer go into hospitals due to COVID. Just being able to put a smile on their face even if it’s just for ten minutes means the world to me, because it looks like they aren’t in pain. It brings so much joy to my heart to make them smile!
What cast of characters do you portray at your events? What is your most popular and what type of events do you provide for your clients?
I do Anna, Elsa, Ariel, Cinderella, Barbie, Cruella and my own creation Sparkelina! I schedule all types of events like readings at school, Disney and donut day at local breakfast restaurants, pancakes with a princess or even pizza with a princess. I love what I do!
You have recently published a book inspired by your experiences as a princess called Sparkelina. Can you tell us about this character and how it came to fruition?
My daughter was made fun of in first grade for wearing a sunflower headband and I told her, "do not let anyone dull your sparkle sweetie!" That is how my book happened! I wanted her to be true to herself and let her wear what she loved and not to care what others thought!
What other ideas or future plans do you have for Sparkelina and for your princess events business?
I am working on a sequel to the book currently and a completely different book too!! I stay pretty booked every weekend with events or birthday parties!
Are there plans for you to be featured at a book signing in the Roswell area? Where can fans come to see you?
I moved to Roswell when I was seven until I graduated Roswell High School, in 2008. I then went to the University of Georgia to study Special Education. I would love to come back to my hometown and do a book signing!! I am currently scheduled to do a live book signing at Gracious Plenty in the spring. Details should follow shortly.
I do Anna, Elsa, Ariel, Cinderella, Barbie, Cruella and my own creation Sparkelina! I do all types of events from readings at school, Disney and donut day at local breakfast restaurants, pancakes with a princess or pizza with a princess. I love what I do!