Smart and Chic Bride News

Look Who Just Flew Into Minneapolis!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 04:03:00 +0000

The owner's of Bluebird Photobooth had a vision: to create a photo booth as a beautiful piece of furniture to look as though it was intentionally chosen or created for each event. In their vision the booth should compliment the well thought out details of the wedding decor.

Every detail of your wedding has been EXTREMELY well researched and planned... why shouldn't your photo booth be? Unless you are having a carnival themed party, the booth doesn't have to look like it is a carnival item in the corner next to the shabby chic table settings or the elegant victorian setting or the delicate Spanish flags!

Bluebird Photobooth is a photo booth company split between Central California & Minnesota. The owners are a husband and wife team who love photography and its ability to capture the real person in a real moment. The photo booth is a perfect way to break the barriers down and allow couples, friends and family members to have fun together and let the truth of themselves be recorded at the same time.

The smiles and expressions captured in a photo booth are truly one of a kind... and so is the Bluebird Photobooth!

****All Smart and Chic Brides receive 50% off (subject to availability).*****

www.bluebirdphotobooth.com

Smart & Chic Bride integrates with Spalon Montage!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 31 May 2011 19:36:00 +0000

With over 650 wedding day hair and makeup requests in just this year alone, Smart and Chic’s Founder, Julie Swenson recognized the need for more talented artists and resources to accommodate the demand and to uphold the high level of customer service that she has provided to brides over the past five years.

Swenson’s long time bridal coordinator, Anita Mack suggested that she approach the highly acclaimed Spalon Montage and within minutes of speaking to CEO, Mitchell Wherley and President, Teresa Jackson, Swenson knew it was the ideal salon group to take over her company. Swenson says,

“Spalon Montage and Smart and Chic share the same values in the quality of service and connection that we provide to our guests. Spalon has been taking care of brides for over twenty years in their salons. The only thing that has changed is that they will be joining us on site.”

On site hair and makeup for the bride and bridal party has been a growing trend over the past few years and no company has done it better than Smart and Chic.

From the flexibility and affordability of their service menu, to their highly skilled and licensed artists, to the makeup line they created exclusively for brides, to the many blogs and workshops they offer to prepare the bride for her day, Smart and Chic has truly created a beauty bridal empire.

The amount of brides that prefer on site companies to salons is growing because it eases the hassle of travel and extra coordination of the day. Bridal parties are able to drink mimosas and spend time with their friends and family in the comfort of their own space. The stress free atmosphere really sets the tone for the day.

With Spalon Montage’s superior customer service and extensive menu of skin, body, hair, and nails services, Swenson saw a great opportunity for her brides and bridal parties to receive pre-wedding day services done at Spalon’s four locations, Chanhassen, Woodbury, Edina and Brainerd. Swenson will continue to oversee the Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge, a location that has been popular for booking bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and bride get-togethers.

Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge

Spalon Montage will also be taking over the Southern California, Nashville, and New York markets, as well as expanding into Duluth, Brainerd Lakes, Rochester, Western Wisconsin, and Northern Iowa.

S&C Founder Julie Swenson at the S&C launch party
at Madden's Resort in Brainerd, MN

Book your events through smartandchicbeauty.com

*Photos courtesy of Spalon Montage.

S&C in Style Me Pretty

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Sun, 22 May 2011 17:32:00 +0000

If you are the type of woman who is a trend setter, who likes things done with a unique flair, then Style Me Pretty is the wedding site for you!

Style Me Pretty is an exclusive, "top notch" site who's vendors are hand-picked. This is a site where the creme de la creme are invited to show case their work - No invitation, no entrance! Smart & Chic Bride had the pleasure of joining SMP last season. We are in LOVE with their " Little Black Book Blog." It was a thrill to have a recent photo shoot picked to be an inspiration for the LBB Readers!

The inspiration for our shoot was evolved from the partnership of Smart & Chic Bride, Bethany Lorelle, and Jenny Bedard Photography. We wanted to highlight the whimsical romance and warmth of a late winter wedding in Minnesota. We set out to showcase the exquisite talents of our favorite Twin Cities wedding professionals.

Photography: Jenny Bedard Photography / Bridal Gown: Tara LaTour / Clutch: NELLE / Hair Piece & Accessories: Bethany Lorelle / Hair and Makeup: Kira for Smart & Chic Bride / Stationery & Table Decor: Tamara Anderson of Tam Dandy / Jewelry: Retrospect Designs / Flowers: Studio Emme / Cake: Buttercream / Cupcakes: Wuollet’s Bakery / Location: The Gale Mansion / Model: Stephanie Cousins

Minneapolis Bridesmaid Bar Crawl 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 16 May 2011 18:09:00 +0000

It's time to pull out those dresses you were told that " you could wear again " - Yet never did - It's the first annual Minneapolis Bridesmaid Bar Crawl! A portion of the proceeds go to: Operation Glass Slipper, which is a nonprofit, dedicated to providing free prom gowns and accessories to Twin Cities-area high school girls ( Who would otherwise be unable to attend prom due to cost )

7 Ultralounge

This fun event is on June 17th from 7pm - Midnight. The crawl is just $20 and includes a raffle ticket and wrist band to get you free cover and drink specials at Seven Ultralounge, Bar 508, Drink, The Local, The Imperial Room, Lyon’s Pub, and Bootleggers *The best specials are from 7-10* . You will also be pleased to know that you can start your night by receiving a free faux lash application with any service at our very own Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge ( BBC participants only)

S&C Beauty Lounge

This fun event features more than $2000 in prizes, including a Badgley Mischka Couture Nikki Gloss Clutch, and .5 carat diamond earrings!

Order your tickets in advance (strongly recommended), or pick up at Seven Ultralounge.

Learn more about this event at: http://www.bridesmaidbarcrawl.com/tickets

See you there!

Submit Your Photos for Style Me Pretty Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 10 May 2011 17:28:00 +0000

Style Me Pretty is a beautiful wedding site where Vendors are hand picked. - It's like having a personalized list of the creme de la creme without the expense of a Wedding Planner!

Smart & Chic Bride had the honor of being invited to join SMP last year. We would love our Brides and favorite Photographers to submit photos of work we've done with them for the SMP " Little Black Book Blog ". If picked, the Photographer will receive credit, and you can brag that your wedding was selected for this exclusive spot! Please submit at least 6 of your pictures to: smartandchicbride@gmail.com Tittle: Style Me Pretty Submission.

BYOM 101: Bring Your Own Makeup Class!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 02 May 2011 18:23:00 +0000

For everyone who has a makeup bag with products you bought , yet never use, this class is a dream come true! Hosted at the Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge in NE Minneapolis, the "BYOM" class is an educational adventure through your own makeup up bag, in the safety of a group! You will learn which products are "must -haves" and, how to use the ones you loved in the store, but haven't trusted yourself with at home - You may even throw some out - like the 10 year old turquoise eyeshadow that came in with a quad you thought you might use... "some day!"

The last group had an amazing aha moment: a great website: http://www.birchbox.com/ was introduced - This is a site for getting samples of high end products, as well as instruction on how to use them for just $10 a month!

The BYOM class is fun! It will teach you about skin care, makeup, and how to be good to yourself! The open forum allows participants to discuss challenges without feeling insecure. You may even walk away with a new friend! Watch for up coming classes on our facebook fan page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smart-and-Chic-Beauty-Lounge/157972860885751

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:25:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of spending Winter 2011 in St Augustine, Florida - Our nation's oldest city! This enchanting town was settled in the 1500s by the Spanish, and has an amazing historical society which has kept it pristine. Sitting on a lovely, dolphin filled bay, just inside the Atlantic, the town is a haven for the romantic - cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages, the Fountain of Youth park, and gorgeous beaches nearby, truly something for everyone!

One of the many attractions to the town is the Castillo De San Marco. A day doesn't go by where a Photographer can't be seen capturing the beauty of this 300+ year old Spanish Fort. I snapped this photo of a Bride & Groom setting up to have their wedding photos by the fort:

The nature of any small town is that word travels fast - The good fortune of this virtue is that I got the "low - down" on everything & everyone instantly! I was quickly introduced to a wonderful Photographer who not only has a great eye, but a great personality too! Rave reviews came from every one about this one, here's the scoop:

Taylor DeMaio, Photographer for Daisy Mai Photography in Jacksonville, Florida ( Within an hour - North - of St. Augustine ) is an Italian from Long Island. Taylor ( says with a smile ) " Socializing is not an issue I feel like I am building lots of great friendships through photography, especially with my brides!! "

Kira: What sets you apart?

Taylor: One thing that I would definitely say sets me apart, is I don't pose and instruct....I direct. I always want to make sure that I capture the interaction and love between each couple. I HATE posed pictures where you can just see the discomfort in the faces of the subjects, yuck! I try to get couples to laugh, it lightens the mood and brings out genuine smiles.

Shot on St Augustine's Vilano Beach

Taylor: I would have to say my favorite location to date was an alley in downtown Jacksonville Florida. I was doing an engagement session and at the very end we stumbled across this AWESOME spot, It was "picture perfect". I always like to look back at that session for inspiration!

Couples can often be nervous about being photographed. I asked Taylor what advice she'd give them:

Taylor: For their wedding day, Take a shot!....Heck take two shots and have a big glass of champagne! For pictures and poses, PRACTICE YOUR FACES AND EXPRESSION IN THE MIRROR! I often see pictures of myself and think "wow I pictured myself looking much prettier making that face". It is best to always know what the appropriate smile level is (no veins bulging) and how to look serious without looking angry. In fact, I should start bringing mirrors so my couples can actually see what they look like! :)

The next time you"re in NE Florida and need a Photographer for fashion, baby, wedding, etc, book Taylor DeMaio through Daisy Mai Photography

Written by Kira for Smart and Chic Bride.

S&C Bride Rocked MN Fashion Week, & Knottie Get Together

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 17:24:00 +0000

S&C Bride founder, Julie Swenson is one talented lady! You may know her for creating flawless faces for weddings, and photo shoots, but did you know that she also teaches makeup lessons, she hosts bridal/fashion parties at the Beauty Lounge, and co-produced ( With Famed Hair Stylist, Pearson Knight ) " La Vie En Plastique " - An amazng fashion show & short film screening - which kicked off MNFashion Week!

courtesy of Maren Delaney

Opening to RAVE reviews, "La Vie En Plastique ( Makeup lead by S&C Artist: Asia Shulz ) was just the beginning of S&C Bride's influence on MN Fashion! The whole week was filled with excitement - from makeup classes ( c/o Julie Swenson ) to feather hair extensions, to the " Lollycopter Loves EveryBODY " lingerie show ( Hair lead by S&C Artist: Nicolette Klenk )

courtesy of: Sarah Eizabeth mua

After all this excitement, Julie opened the NE Minneapolis " Smart & Chic Beauty Lounge " to the Knot chatboard-Brides ( "Knotties " ) The Sunday afternoon party let the Knotties tour the GORGEOUS space, and receive services like: complimentary faux lashes!

To keep up on the latest S&C Bride news, check out our website: www.Smartandchicbride.com

Tracey Joy Photography!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:21:00 +0000

So many Photographers, so little time! I have the pleasure of meeting and working with some of the best and most well known Photographers in the business. Every once in awhile, I'll meet someone "new" - Someone who has a fresh, natural feel to their work, someone who blends in so well with the Wedding Party that you don't notice their "paparazzi" at all!

I met " Tracey Dwight " of Tracey Joy Photography at a Smart & Chic Bride's wedding last season. Tracey was so sweet, and thoughtful about her place in the " chaos " of wedding day preparations, I didn't even realize she was there! This is a great skill, as she was able to document the private moments beautifully - Without disrupting the festivities! I caught up with Tracey and wanted to get the word out about this talented lady.

S&C Bride: What inspired you to start Photographing Weddings and how long have you been doing it?

Tracey: I have been photographing weddings for one year and I love it! I got married in 2009, and I think that gave me a new appreciation for all of the thought that goes into every detail of the wedding, and for the meaning in each of those special moments. I love working with couples and their families on such an important and beautiful day, and seeing the different traditions that each couple incorporates into the wedding.

S&C Bride: What is your specialty?

Tracey: I love the photojournalistic side of my job. I love capturing those moments - the laughs, the tears, and all of the raw emotion. Those are the images that will last a lifetime. Even when styles have changed, the smiles and the tears are timeless.

S&C Bride: Best part of your job?

Tracey: The couples that I meet along the way. I get this little glimpse into their lives - their families, their friendships, their traditions - and I get to capture it. How amazing is that?!

Tracey is definitely becoming a party favorite in the Twin Cities, her reviews are amazing! To book this talented Photographer, follow this link to her web page: http://www.traceyjoyphotography.com/

Tracey's advice for new couples: Pick your battles. Fight, but only when you truly believe in what you're fighting for. And at the end, laugh!

Gift Opening Idea: Caramel Rolls from Bars Bakery, St. Paul

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 05:48:00 +0000

Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com

I was in my old neighborhood, Cathedral Hill, St. Paul,
last week and stopped into Bars Bakery.

Who cares that it was only 10am, it's never too early for chocolate chip

shortbread or a brownie right?

The co-owner Kara helped me choose the Cabana Bar which

tasted like a seven layer bar, but much heartier (new breakfast of champions).

I told her that I was part of the wedding industry and she mentioned they cater several

rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and gift openings.

The Bakery has a delicious selection of

Bars, Scones, Rolls, Croissants, Tarts and Cookies.

http://www.barsbakery.com/

If not for your wedding, at least for breakfast!

Written by Julie Swenson

Founder

S & C

A Smart & Chic Bride Who Can Marry You Too!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 01:27:00 +0000

S&C Bride, " Tessa Wetjen" was a joy to work with. Her pleasant nature is infectious, and her calm, cool manner at her wedding was awesome. It came as no surprise when I found that she was something of a wedding pro - Tessa let me know that she had been officiating weddings since 2005! I had to get the word out about this lovely lady!

Tessa started officiating weddings after she finished a Master's of Divinity. Her brother asked if she would do his wedding, and one soon became many. Tessa says, " The best part is getting to know people at a really exciting time in their lives, and getting to help them, and their community honor the choice they are making."

Tessa: I love doing weddings in any setting. I'm really interested in getting to know people, and understanding the tone they are wanting for their wedding. I was trained as a Christian pastor, so I do like to incorporate faith into the ceremony.

My advice is to have really good conversations about what marriage means for you both, way before you get engaged. When planning a wedding, the more work early on, the less freaking out later. Be really reasonable about what matters to you and what doesn't, what's worth money and what isn't.

While doing hair and makeup at Tessa's wedding, I got to meet newer Twin Cities Photgrapher, "Tracey Dwight" (featured blog post coming soon) Tessa and Tracey were a great team - Tessa kept the vibe going while Tracey captured special moments without anyone realizing she was there!

If you would like more information on Tessa, or to have Tessa officiate your wedding, email her at: tessawetjen@gmail.com

To learn more about Photographer "Tracey Dwight" follow this link: http://www.traceyjoyphotography.com/

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 01:31:00 +0000

Twin Cities Makeup Artist, "Lianna Colestock" has mad skills! Her fans credit her for making their skin flawless, and their eyes gorgeous - It has been said that "no one can do what Lianna can for someone's eyes."

I recently had Smart and Chic Bride, "Colleen" send in some of her own wedding pics. Lianna was her personal Makeup Artist on the Big Day, - Which I might add was during the "Blizzard of 2010!"- Colleen had nothing but praise for Lianna, who enhanced her natural beauty with airbrushed foundation and professional products like Bobbi Brown and Chanel!

Lianna: Colleen was a GREAT bride. She is a new mom- I think her son was only a few months old on her wedding day- and she got married the day of the really big blizzard in December. I got to the St Paul Hotel, and there were literally 2 other brides crying in the stairwell and lobby about how the blizzard ruined their wedding. I got up to Colleen's room, and she was all calm and happy- not worried at all! She was great to work with- a classic beauty, fun and very UNbridezilla!

Lianna: I absolutely love weddings - I love to be a part of the excitement, and make a woman feel pampered and beautiful on the most important day of her life. Weddings are so much more fun for me than photo shoots, or runway because even though editorial is fun creatively- a wedding is a REAL day that the people involved will remember for the rest of their lives. It's fun to witness that, let alone be part of it!

The beautiful photos on this page are care of: Olive Juice Studios

*I want to note that Olive Juice Studios has an amazing website, and not only did they show up in a blizzard to document Colleen's wedding, they made the blizzard look like a desirable, snowy backdrop! What an amazing eye for detail!* http://olivejuicestudios.com/

Congratulations Colleen! Best wishes from all of us at Smart and Chic Bride!

Bon Appetite - Every night!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Have you ever watch a romantic movie where a couple was celebrating their love for each other while cooking together - He was cutting the veggies, she was pulling a roast out of the oven - Did you think "Ha! Only in the movies," and then ordered take-out Chinese? Thanks to a clever group of people, you and your Sweetheart can now act like you live in the movies! Introducing:Kitchen in the Market!

Located in the hip Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis, the space has something for everyone - It is an incredible kitchen space for Professional caterers, producers & manufacturers, mobile food trucks, and others who need licensed space to create their culinary delights. It is also a place to get cooking classes by professional Chefs!

The new "Cooking the Market" classes (www.bookwhen.com/kitm) * These are particularly fabulous for couples as a date night* They are also for showers/bachelorette parties(you can book a private class on a date of your choice for 12-20 people).

The Kitchen in the Market is having a fabulous Grand opening this Friday, February 25, 6-8 p.m. If you are interested in learning more about the space, signing up for some classes, or just need some bubbly, rsvp through their facebook page. To see the full event details, & rsvp, follow this link:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=181572578550959

I had the pleasure of interviewing Tracy Morgan of KITM:

Tracy: KITM's specialty is giving home cooks a peek into the world of professional chefs. Not only can you watch chefs at work, cook in our kitchen (during a hands-on class), but you can also take home chef-created and -inspired products: Nummy foods, kitchen goods and cookbooks. Personally, my specialty is entertaining - I love throwing a kick ass party where everyone has a great time, eats well and enjoys each others' company.

S&C: What brought you into the wedding/love/couples side of business and how long have you been doing it?

Tracy: Kitchen in the Market is a shared commercial kitchen space which allows caterers and other food businesses to share their "home kitchen" space. We get to count on many great caterers who do weddings and private events, and other food businesses that create wedding favors (Bistro Meringues, as an example) as our business partners. KITM has been a shared kitchen for almost 3 years, but we've just expanded this year into a brand new kitchen, adding room for retail and a cooking school. And P.S. We have some great cooking classes that can be customized as showers and bachelorette parties too!

S&C: What advice do you have for couples?

Tracy: By all means, cook together. To me, there's nothing sexier than a man who knows his way around a kitchen! Crack open a bottle of wine, put on some swanky music, and do the cooking together. If you don't feel confident in the kitchen, take a class and experiment. Try something new. Food can be such a great catalyst in a happy relationship.

- I couldn't have said it better myself, let's eat!

Grand opening:

Friday, February 25

6-8pm

KITM @ Midtown Global Market

920 East Lake Street

Minneapolis, Minnesota

cooking couple photo courtesy of: freshdelights.com

Minneapolis Based Smart & Chic Beauty Lounge!

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 03:19:00 +0000

It's finally here! The Smart & Chic Beauty Lounge is open for business, and is getting RAVE reviews! The Lounge is located in trendy North East Minneapolis, and has just about everything you could desire : Gorgeous makeup & skin care lines (check!) A pampering Salon with Extremely talented Hair & Makeup Artists (check!) Candles, perfumes, & bath luxuries (check!) You will also be thrilled to find custom and vintage hair adornments, jewelry, and purses!

The S&C Beauty Lounge is not your typical salon - The space is so beautiful and unique ( think Anthropologie meets Boutique in Paris ) It is the perfect place for a Bachelorette Party, a private boudoir photo shoot, a shower, or a wonderful place to find lovely gifts for someone special.

The Beauty Lounge carries many hard-to-find products including : Malin+Goetz, Yu-Be, & Tokyo Milk. It is also the premier stop for Dry Shampoos and Powder Volumizers - Two must haves for your hair!

The 1940's Themed Grand Opening is tomorrow night from 7pm - 11pm, stop by and meet the team!

* For directions & more, see our facebook invite: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=125948850808429 *

20 University Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55113

Follow this helpful link to book appointments online: http://www.genbook.com/bookings/slot/reservation/30094188

Interview with a Pro - Gary Freedline of Video Keepsakes

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:54:00 +0000

Smart & Chic artists and stylists had the chance to work with notable wedding videographer Gary Freedline and his team at Video Keepsakes of Los Angeles during their recent Rock the Dress photo shoot in Malibu. The video turned out beautifully, take a look!

We asked him a few questions about his company and the wedding video industry in L.A. and here's what we found out:

You mention that Asian weddings and Same Day Edits are your specialty. Why are you exceptional at these?
I think we stumbled into Asian weddings a few years ago by offering extremely stylish videos that was not mainstream in nature. Our popularity with the Asian culture grew from there mostly from word of mouth. My wife being Chinese helped, but my American style and producing films for MTV was the recipe for success.

Being in the wedding business for many years allowed us to film many different culture weddings. We had to adapt quickly and pioneer something we felt would match a particular cultural style and flair. Alley ways and train stations started replacing tree's and gardens as favorite engagement and portrait locations, stiff family photo sessions grew into trendy shooting with our couple and wedding party. Our shooting became less traditional and more artsy as we started revolutionizing the way a wedding video is supposed to look.

Same Day Edits became a household work at Video Keepsakes a few years ago. We realized that many guests, family and friends might never see the finished video. We knew we could introduce something fresh, something new, and something very exciting right there on the spot.

During the wedding, what could bring more emotion and impact then seeing the day flash again before your very eyes? The bride is not aware of what the groom is doing while she and her entourage is preparing, and the groom has no idea what is going on behind closed doors in the bridal suite. Our "he said, she said" interview section brings out the best in our couples and exposes things that even their parents and siblings might be unaware of which brings the families closer together.

The reason we are so successful with the Same Day Edit is our experience with weddings in general, our shooting and editing skills, and knowing what makes a good show. This is not something a good editor could tackle without much experience and we have become better and better at them ourselves the more we do.

How do you work with different couples’ personalities and styles when shooting?
Since our video are based around our brides and grooms individuality, we usually have a telephone consultation prior to booking and again after being booked. Some brides like to meet personally while others know our reputation and see our styles in the over 600 videos posted online and do not require in person meetings.

I think today's bride and groom differ from the brides and grooms from years ago. Most work or go to school, time is limited. Our consultations are informative and we listen for key factors that will set a particular couple apart. Two different weddings at the same venue will result in two completely different and unique films. Some like our MTV music video style with no talking or interviewing of the bride and groom, while others love to interact and tell us little things in their life that we can intertwine into the video story. Sometimes we discover things during the prep sessions, but the best videos are ones captured spontaneously, and not staged or planned to a "T".

What types of non-traditional wedding-related videos do you think are gaining in popularity and why?
Continue...

E-Sessions also known as engagement films are picking up in popularity. We usually shoot them on the same day their photographer is taking engagement shots. Our bride and groom usually have many wardrobe changes, many different locations, and like our stylized end result. We can add photos to the e-session, either from what the photographer is taking or growing up photos and turn it into a love story production using sound bites and visuals to complete the task.

We also offer stunning 3D photo montages, where we can actually make old photographs come to life. This rare and unique display of computer wizardry has gained us notoriety especially with our starlet clientele. Our digital artists come up with stunning ideas, lighting schemes and motion that sets our montages apart from anything else in the world.

With the advent of the new still photography cameras making an impact on wedding films, the new DSLR or Fusion shoot and edit, or same day edit, has become the new trend in highly stylized wedding films. While these cameras do not replace a HD Camcorder, ours shoot with 35mm optics and can achieve a similar look of the photos presented in a wedding album which is highly desirable. These cameras are best shot film style, bits and pieces, and are more apt to a shorter more energetic finished product. These cameras are not point and shoot, they take a highly skilled cinematographer to actually get shots that will work in the edit. In other words, "DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME!"

What has been your favorite wedding video that you’ve shot?
We have shot well over 5,000 wedding videos and each one has its own particular great moments. If I had to narrow it down to one or two, I would have to say the video we shot for Hasty & Jacques Torres (The Food Network chocolatier & Pastry chef's) wedding at the Bel Air Hotel in Beverly Hills. This wedding was a Persian/Italian mix and the custom chocolate cake must have weighted 200 lbs. Besides the great food, the couple and family were so fun to work with, and so romantic! Everything was perfect and they made us feel like part of the family.

Another great recent wedding was Nadia and Aaron at the Ebell in Los Angeles. We have such great sound bites and shots from a couple that really knew how to show their love for one another it made our work simple (or at least we made it look that way!) Watch the wedding video at the Video Keepsakes website.)

We also have a video we cannot display on our website of Hannah and Stephen shot at the Sunset Marquis in Los Angeles. Hannah is the President of Lyric Culture (Lyric Jeans) and they inquired about a short music video of their wedding. The lighting, scenery and relaxed atmosphere really made it a one of a kind video.

In the end there are so many weddings that I remember to be "the best" that it really boils down to the couple, not the venue or the lighting, it's when we see the couple enjoying themselves, we know it's going to be perfect!

What advice would you give to a couple trying to decide on what type of video is best for them?
Most couples are not sure what to expect, they have never bought a wedding video before, they are not actors nor film producers and have never done anything like this before. Most need to rely on what we do best, which is wedding videos and talk about options and what is possible and the difference between one camera and the need for more.

One thing the bride should be prepared to answer is "who is the video for" and what is she looking for. Is this a personal video just for the bride and groom or do they require a long format edit where all the events are captured in detail. The short format is anywhere from 3-5 minutes or 10-20 minutes in length. Long format is usually an hour and a half to two hours in length.
Look for a lot of samples on your videographer's site to know this is the style you like and your videographer is capable of repeating his or her work over and over. Make sure the sound is good and the picture is clear and the editing is good.
Don't go by splash words or lists of gear to try to impress you. If the work is good, you will see that in their samples. No gear can replace creativity and the gear will not work by itself nor promise a good production. Experience, Skill, Reliability, and Consistency is what you should be looking for and hopefully your videographer will be at a price point you can afford or willing to work with you and your budget.
Don’t think that more expensive is automatically better or that it guarantees the best work. Don't assume that more cameras are better, but talk about your wedding and let your videographer give suggestions as to what will work.

Creative videography does not start with a bunch of cameras, it starts with one great cinematographer and then adds to the equation.

Here are some examples of what can be done with the right cameraman/editor at the helm.

Same Day Edit: One cameraman, two cameras

Wedding Movie Trailer: One camera, one cameraman

Next Day Edit: One Camera, one cameraman

Fusion Edit: 8 camera ceremony, two camera party plus jib/crane.

To check out more video samples from Video Keepsakes or book them for your wedding, visit their website: www.vki-party.com
Stop by their blog too! www.videokeepsakesblog.com

S&C featured on the Plunge Project Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:08:00 +0000

We're excited to be featured on ultra hip wedding blog, the Plunge Project! Smart & Chic stylists listed their recommendations for a bride's Touch-up Kit - from hair products to dry skin fixers to cheek & lip color must-haves.

A few Smart & Chic brand cosmetics made the list too including Invisible Blotting Powder and Superwear Lip Creme.

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Sat, 18 Dec 2010 07:31:00 +0000

Next week's Holiday Shopping Hours and Sale:

Wednesday 11-8pm, Thursday 11-8pm.

20% off all items + complimentary gift

wrapping.

Purchase a $25 gift certificate and receive a Love + Toast Lip Balm

(a $10 value!, while supplies last).

Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

"Be the Change You Want to See"

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 18:22:00 +0000

S & C Founder Julie Swenson has a a lovely soul. When she suggested that the S&C Team "give back" this Holiday Season, everyone was on board. We all agreed that beauty starts from with in. To honor that belief, we are donating to a few charities that will make a difference in our great world.

S&C has been committed to enhancing the lives of people on a world wide level. Julie has been contributing to local and national charities through out 2010. Including a scholarship to help woman & girls go to, or complete Cosmetology School.

Cosmetology Educator at Century College and S&C Artist "Dawn Goebel" said, “We were thrilled when we found out that Smart & Chic had created a scholarship fund for Northeast Metro 916 students that are planning a career in Cosmetology. Having a local business support our students, regardless of where the student continues their education or pursues their career, shows how committed Smart & Chic is to producing the top talent and providing the best education in our industry.”

We are also contributing to heifer.org Heifer is an organization that helps people out of poverty and hunger. By donating, you give the gift of needed farm animals and/or training that will enrich lives and put nutritous food on the table. ( You can even pick the animal(s) you give! )

Along with many other acts of kindness, we are very proud of our donation to " Wish Upon a Wedding " This wonderful charity helps people who have terminal illnesses have the wedding they have longed for. By donating to this charity, you help families gain memories of their cherished ones, and best of all, you give love.

" Be the change you want to see"

To donate more:

Heifer.org

Wishuponawedding.org

top "santa" image courtesy of :utexas.edu

Interview with a Pro - Adam Haviland of Virtuoso Video

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:40:00 +0000

A large demand for videographers that can produce professional results for a reasonable price led Adam and Melissa Haviland to launch Virtuoso Video. In the past, wedding videography was only an option for larger budgets, but Adam strived to create a company that focused on working efficiently (keeping costs low) to allow videography for budgets of all sizes. Shooting every single wedding together, the dynamic couple’s excitement and passion for the profession continues to grow with each one.

Back in August, Smart & Chic had the chance to collaborate with Virtuoso Video on a Rock the Dress shoot (along with Graddy Photography). We were FLOORED with the final trailer that came from the shoot - take a look:

We asked Adam a few questions about his company and wedding videos in general, and here's what he said:

What kind of style do you go for when shooting Rock The Dress sessions?
Weddings are beautiful & elegant. During a wedding shoot, we use a style that compliments those themes - slow & steady camera movements. Rock the Dress shoots are the opposite - artistic & edgy. The more creative, the better. So, we adjust our style. Camera moves are quicker and less fluid – definitely not something you would see in a typical wedding video.

How would describe your style of shooting/what ‘styles’ can you do?
We shoot our weddings using a documentary style - complete, unobtrusive coverage of the day so that you can see the events as they actually occurred, not how we directed them. When it comes to RTD, it's all about contrast & drama. We're not cutting together a 20-minute highlight reel, we're creating a short, dynamic video that needs to hold the interest of your Facebook friends. In other words, it needs to pop.

What other trends do you see happening in the wedding videography industry?
More and more couples are blocking off dedicated time during the wedding day for the videographer. It's not much, usually a few minutes in each environment after the photographer has finished, but that's still a big win! Camera equipment is clunky and precise. Tripods, steadicams, etc all take time to calibrate for EVERY shot - a luxury that we typically don't have. Clients that understand this need ALWAYS end up with a stellar wedding video. They look out for us - ensuring that we get a little extra time to adjust our equipment, ultimately allowing us to capture the quality that we're capable of.

Two pieces of advice he offers -
1. Hire a wedding videographer! Even if it's not us, make sure that you get one. It's an added expense that you may not have budgeted for, but immediately after the wedding you'll wish that you had. There are so many special moments that would otherwise be lost forever - things that you likely won't even see.
2. Don't hire an amateur (or a relative)! Yes, they're cheap but they're also inexperienced. Videographers have ONE chance to capture each moment - amateurs tend to make costly mistakes. This is a precious event and you want to make sure it gets done right. Hire a professional.

For more info on the company or to book them for your event, visit www.virtuosovideo.com

Britney's Favorite Products

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 13:48:00 +0000

Smart & Chic Bride Nashville hair stylist, Britney, tells us her top 15 favorite products:

Hair products:

"Fun Times" Rock-a-holic hair spray by TIGI
Moroccan Oil hair treatment
"It's a 10" leave-in conditioner
Treat me Right hair mask by TIGI
Chi thermal treatment serum

Makeup:

MAC eyeshadows
Smashbox shadows
Clinique Almost Make-up foundation
Marabella lip gloss
MAC lip gloss

Beauty:

OPI nail polish
Juicy Couture perfume
MAC false lashes (love)
Kenra shine spray (smells so good and is a perfect finisher)
TIGI stick wax (for those stubborn fly-away hairs)

Interview With a Pro - Graddy Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 16:14:00 +0000

International award-winning photography studio, Graddy Photography, has covered over 200 weddings in Minnesota and is now expanding into destination weddings. Founded in 2006, they have the amazing ability to portray the emotions and events of a wedding day in an unscripted, unobtrusive manner.

The artistic effort that is put into capturing what makes each couple unique, without setting up too many posed/traditional shots, is what makes Graddy exceptional.

The company has been invited into several of the top wedding photojournalists associations in the world including the Wedding Photojournalist Association, the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers, and Best of Wedding Photography. In 2009, owner Justin Graddy was ranked 11th internationally amongst wedding photojournalists by the Artistic Guild of the Wedding Photojournalists Association.

Smart & Chic has had the pleasure of working with Graddy Photography on weddings and on photo shoots, and have always been floored by his work. Here is a mini interview we did with owner, Justin Graddy:

Where do you get ideas and inspiration for Rock The Dress shoots? How do you work with different brides’ ideas and styles for them?
Every so often, we go and scout out different locations in the area that we think would be a good setting for shoots. We try and plan the sessions around a theme, whether it be water, rural, urban etc. and work with each bride to see what she is most interested in. Many brides are ok with destroying their dress for the art of it, yet others still hope to preserve their dress so we listen to their ideas and go from there.

What has been your favorite Rock the Dress session you’ve done?
The first time we ever did one of these was our absolute favorite. We took one of our previous wedding couples to a nearby junk yard that had tons of old cars that had some really cool oxidized colors. It had recently rained so the entire place was very muddy which allowed the couple to get "down and dirty" for their session. What is really cool about that session is that one of the shots placed in an international competition and the cars are no longer there so it was a one-time thing. So glad we were able to do that!

What other trends do you see happening in the wedding/photography industry or in photography in general?
With the digital era of photography, many people try/think they are a pro photographer just because they have a nice camera and know how to do a few things in some computer programs. The real pros are always pushing the envelope with new ideas and techniques to set themselves apart.
Many wedding couples want high fashion wedding photography and fine art wedding photojournalism rather than classic posed photography which is something we have always done.

If you could go anywhere in the world to shoot a RtD, where would it be?
We have one coming up in Mexico this spring which we are excited about after shooting the couples destination wedding. It will be cool to use the ocean and different landscapes there.
Anywhere in the world... it would have to be a place with a lot of history so I would say Rome. I think there are some great opportunities for really unique shots with some of the architecture there.

Boudoir Marathon December 12

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 02:23:00 +0000

Still need a gift for your man this holiday? Smart and Chic is hosting a Boudoir Marathon Sunday December 12.

3 spots still available. Receive hair, makeup, airbrushing, lashes, and a 45-minute photo shoot for $200-

You'll receive your disc of images + photo just in time for Santa baby!

Email sacbeauty@gmail.com or call 612.871.4482 for more information.

Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge NE Minneapolis

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 21:57:00 +0000

Smart and Chic Beauty Lounge is now open! Located in "hip" North East Minneapolis, the Beauty Lounge will be your one stop shop for Bridal and beauty! Stop in and get your hair and makeup done, or pick up unique beauty products, candles, soaps, perfumes, and more! One of our exciting "claim to fame" is having a large selection of dry shampoos and powder volumizers - perfect for Winter!

Check back often to learn about our up coming "Grand opening!" - See you then!

www.smartandchicbeauty.com
20 University Ave NE
Minneapolis, MN 55113

Accessory Designer - K Squared Design

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:23:00 +0000

Meet Kathy Krysel, the woman behind K Squared Design, a new handbag and accessory company in the Twin Cities. She makes everything from custom bridal party clutches and hair pieces, to everyday jewelry, laptop bags, and handbags. Smart & Chic is excited to feature a variety of products by K Squared at our Beauty Lounge (opening this Friday)!

She began her design career in the 80’s as an interior designer and worked in the industry for 20 years. Because of economic strains, she looked for other ways to utilize her creative eye and her passion for fashion accessories.

Kathy always enjoyed creating custom handbags, clutches and totes for friends and colleagues, and she soon realized she could stop the search for the perfect design position. Her passion for design, texture, fabric, color and form used to make handbags and clutches was it. Kathy formed K Squared Design in fall 2009 and made her vision a reality.

For her daughter’s wedding, Kathy used her skills to create bridesmaids’ jewelry and a coordinating damask and silk clutch for her daughter. Smart & Chic Bride was hired to style the bridal party’s hair and makeup, and Julie of Smart & Chic noticed the bride’s custom-made clutch and inquired about where it was from. She was amazed to learn that Kathy had designed and made it, and so began the start of a professional relationship with Kathy and Smart & Chic Bride.

Stop by the Beauty Lounge at 20 University Ave NE this weekend to see her current collection, or visit her blog for more of her work: k-squared-design.blogspot.com

Pssst! There's a NEW Beauty Lounge about to open...

noreply@blogger.com (Smart & Chic Bride) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 22:08:00 +0000

S&C Twin Cities is about to open our new Beauty Lounge! The long awaited " one stop shop " will be a hit with Brides - not only will we carry hard to find beauty products, you can have your hair blown out, make up application & host a Bachelorette Party or Boudoir Shoot there too!

Soon to open at 20 University Ave NE Minneapolis (across the bridge from downtown Minneapolis), the Smart & Chic Beauty Lounge will have our award winning team on hand to give you beauty services and recommendations. We will carry amazing makeup lines, wedding accessories, and custom & vintage hair pieces, hair products and more!

S&C Founder Julie Swenson - "I'd get emails and phone calls from the mother of the bride and bridesmaids after the wedding asking what makeup items I used."
To meet the requests, we've added a new collection of makeup in addition to the bridal makeup line. The Smart and Chic's Authentic Collection contains foundations for all skin types and tones, bronzer, blush, eyeshadow quads, makeup primers.

Check back soon to find out the official opening date - We can't wait to see you there!