Top 50 Under 40 Amber Smith

This year OED is recognizing and celebrating Frederick County’s young professionals who are leaders in their industry, give back to the community and add significant value to their company and its culture. Join us as we get to know our Top 50 Under 40.


Amber Smith, 33
Owner & Publisher
Frederick Lifestyle Magazine
200 East Patrick Street, Frederick

Amber Smith is the Owner and Publisher of Frederick Lifestyle Magazine. She brings her passion, enthusiasm and love for Frederick County to this role and is committed to using this platform to shine a light on others, unite the community and move Frederick forward. Amber, a true “people-person”, greatly cares about the growth and wellbeing of those around her. 

Name one award you are most proud to have received.

I took ownership in January 2020 as a first time business owner at age 32. Covid hit and my goal went from “President’s Club Award Winner” to “keep the magazine afloat”. I ended up earning the award in 2020 making me 1 of the top 8 earners (out of 100) in Lifestyle Publications.

What has been your greatest professional accomplishment? 

While I am most proud of owning a growing business during the pandemic despite major obstacles, one of my greatest accomplishments was helping a physical therapy practice grow as their marketing director. When I started, there were 13 people on staff. When I left, there were 26.

What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement? What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement?

Women in Business Committee Co-Chair (Frederick Chamber), Leadership Frederick County 2021-2022 Cohort, guest speaker for local organizations, media ambassador for local nonprofits. Currently visiting all Rotary clubs before making a decision on where to land. 

MoCo volunteer for youth organizations, coaching, church ministries, local events/races, special olympics, etc. Now in Frederick, a SHE Week volunteer, Mission level Partner in Trust & Committee Co-Chair (Fred Chamber). Providing free editorial and ads for Frederick nonprofits.

What do you like to do for fun in Frederick County?

I love to explore new things in Frederick County since there is so much to do here! Right now, my husband and I are “traveling the world” by making a point to try different cuisines offered in Frederick every month. You can also catch me climbing at Tree Trekkers, throwing hatchets at Stumpy’s, making moves at Club Pilates or curled up on a Warehouse Cinemas recliner, just to name a few!

What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute to your success and why?

At the core, passion and commitment are the driving forces leading me to where I am today. Showing up with a positive attitude and staying true to my word has made all the difference. Leadership and sacrifice go hand and hand so the willingness to push through obstacles for the greater good has been a game changer in my journey.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I see myself more deeply rooted in Frederick County, continuing to grow as a meaningful resource for local businesses and the community alike. I see my business flourishing along with a greater understanding of the county, its needs and strategic ways I can help meet them. By then, I’d like to be serving on one or more boards, an active Rotary member and a true ambassador for local nonprofits. I’d also like to have found more creative ways to help women flourish in business.