01 | Meet Malwina — Photographer, Immigrant, and Studio & Events Space Owner

Nov 20

What happens when a systems-obsessed organizer and an immigrant brand photographer with a big-city eye sit down in a small South Dakota town, hit record, and decide to talk honestly about what it really takes to run a business here? That’s exactly what you’ll hear in this very first episode of Huron Spotlight: Local Stories and Business Growth – recorded right inside Spotlight Studio & Events in downtown Huron, SD.

In this intro conversation, Megan Smith (Stress Less Organizing) and Malwina Aviles (Spotlight Studio & Events) pull back the curtain on why they started the Huron Spotlight podcast, what makes Huron’s small business community so unique, and why they’re so passionate about shining a light on the people who are building this town’s future. If you’re a Huron, South Dakota small business owner, a local who wants to support hometown shops, or someone secretly dreaming about starting a business here, this episode is for you.

You’ll hear how the podcast idea literally hit Megan mid–stick-vacuuming in her kitchen, and how two very different brains – a Projector who sees systems and efficiencies everywhere, and a Manifesting Generator who is fueled by ideas and action – came together to create a show that blends real talk, practical tips, and hometown pride. This isn’t a polished “everything is perfect” business podcast. It’s honest, a little spicy, and deeply rooted in what it actually feels like to run a rural business in Huron, SD.

Malwina shares her story of moving from a large city in Poland to small-town South Dakota (yes, the journey does sound a little like a real-life “90 Day Fiancé” plot), what it was like navigating culture shock, and how she went from counselor to brand photographer to opening a modern event space in downtown Huron. She talks about learning to stop apologizing for taking up space, embracing confidence as a woman and immigrant business owner, and why it matters that we recognize just how many diverse entrepreneurs are quietly powering Huron’s economy.

You’ll also hear how resources like the South Dakota Small Business Development Center, a supportive landlord, and a local bank helped turn a dream into a fully booked studio and event venue – and why Malwina intentionally designed Spotlight Studio & Events to make life easier for moms, families, and other photographers. Think: a beautiful, done-for-you space where you don’t have to deep clean your house before a birthday party, and where local photographers can shoot year-round without worrying about the weather.

At its core, this first episode of Huron Spotlight: Local Stories and Business Growth is about more than one business story. It’s about visibility, diversity, and giving Huron’s small business owners – especially women and women of color – permission to be seen, heard, and fully celebrated. If you’ve ever felt like a “hidden gem” business, or like you’re figuring it all out as you go, this conversation will feel like a deep breath and a pep talk rolled into one.