About the Woman Behind Smarter Bridal!
Please introduce yourself
Hi, I’m Kristie - the visionary and owner of Smarter Bridal.
Tell us how you started Smarter Bridal (which was formerly mintBRIDAL.com)
I was searching for my dream wedding dress (way back in 2010), I quickly realized that the prices for designer gowns were more than I wanted to spend. At the time I was plus-size and felt bad about my body and frustrated that I would have to spend thousands of dollars on a dress I couldn't even fit into the sample dress to see if it would really look good on me. It was embarrassing when they informed me, I had to pay more because I was "plus-size".
I knew there had to be a better answer, so I started researching different ways to get your dream wedding dress without spending a fortune. Although I couldn't try the dress on before ordering, I knew it was well worth the risk to get the dress of my dreams within budget and quickly. The risk paid off and I got the wedding dress of my dreams- and felt like a true princess on my wedding day!
I knew I couldn't be the only bride in this situation and vowed to help other brides just like me. I quickly realized a whole number of different brides were looking for a similar option. I personally have worked with plus size brides, introverted brides, busy brides, tall brides, petite brides or brides who didn't have or want family to take dress shopping and SOOO MANY MORE!!
What do you love most about Smarter Bridal?
I really love getting to know each bride and working with them to make sure they get their dream wedding dress. There is so much joy and satisfaction from that.
What advice would you give brides looking to keep costs down?
My key advice is to spend money where it really matters for you and your fiancé. Avoid getting caught up with trends or traditions. Do what you and your partner feel will make your special day feel truly special to you. My husband and I wanted a small wedding and an awesome honeymoon. I still regret us not simply taking off to some dreamy sunny island and making the experience 100% about us.
What are you up to when you are not running Smarter Bridal?
Nothing beats spending time with my family which consists of Ryan, my husband since March 29, 2010, our Irish Twins that are 12 and 11 (with the fiery red hair to match) and our sweet dog Fancy. We all enjoy a family night with a movie and games. We also love to travel (cruising is a family favorite), checking out new places, trying new restaurants and different cuisines. We are always up for a fun adventure!
I am always up for a girls night with my besties...it's never a dull moment when I get my needed dose of mom friend time. Who doesn't love the chance to let your hair down and have some wine!
Hi, I’m Kristie - the visionary and owner of Smarter Bridal.
Tell us how you started Smarter Bridal (which was formerly mintBRIDAL.com)
I was searching for my dream wedding dress (way back in 2010), I quickly realized that the prices for designer gowns were more than I wanted to spend. At the time I was plus-size and felt bad about my body and frustrated that I would have to spend thousands of dollars on a dress I couldn't even fit into the sample dress to see if it would really look good on me. It was embarrassing when they informed me, I had to pay more because I was "plus-size".
I knew there had to be a better answer, so I started researching different ways to get your dream wedding dress without spending a fortune. Although I couldn't try the dress on before ordering, I knew it was well worth the risk to get the dress of my dreams within budget and quickly. The risk paid off and I got the wedding dress of my dreams- and felt like a true princess on my wedding day!
I knew I couldn't be the only bride in this situation and vowed to help other brides just like me. I quickly realized a whole number of different brides were looking for a similar option. I personally have worked with plus size brides, introverted brides, busy brides, tall brides, petite brides or brides who didn't have or want family to take dress shopping and SOOO MANY MORE!!
What do you love most about Smarter Bridal?
I really love getting to know each bride and working with them to make sure they get their dream wedding dress. There is so much joy and satisfaction from that.
What advice would you give brides looking to keep costs down?
My key advice is to spend money where it really matters for you and your fiancé. Avoid getting caught up with trends or traditions. Do what you and your partner feel will make your special day feel truly special to you. My husband and I wanted a small wedding and an awesome honeymoon. I still regret us not simply taking off to some dreamy sunny island and making the experience 100% about us.
What are you up to when you are not running Smarter Bridal?
Nothing beats spending time with my family which consists of Ryan, my husband since March 29, 2010, our Irish Twins that are 12 and 11 (with the fiery red hair to match) and our sweet dog Fancy. We all enjoy a family night with a movie and games. We also love to travel (cruising is a family favorite), checking out new places, trying new restaurants and different cuisines. We are always up for a fun adventure!
I am always up for a girls night with my besties...it's never a dull moment when I get my needed dose of mom friend time. Who doesn't love the chance to let your hair down and have some wine!
Our talented team of experts:
The dream started with Kristie but couldn't do it with out her amazing team. Each one of them has been a major aspect of the success of Smarter Bridal. Kristie has personally sought out the best in the industry to make her business dreams a reality in helping brides create stunning one of a kind wedding dresses!
"Smarter Bridal will not disappoint. The fit and price can’t be beat. The owners are very easy to work with. They are professional and they know what they are doing. Definitely recommend!!"
— Summer S.
"Kristie is the most beautifully creative woman I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She is a dream come true!! Highly recommend!"
— Susan P.
"You are in great hands with the ladies at Smarter Bridal. They are knowledgeable, dependable, and love helping brides find/create their perfect dress."
— Julienne M.
