Please introduce yourself
Hi, I’m Kristie - the Visionary Head Honcho of Smarter Bridal.
Tell us how you started Smarter Bridal (which was formerly mintBRIDAL.com)
I was searching for my dream wedding dress, I quickly realized that the prices for designer gowns were out of my budget. I felt bad about my body and frustrated that I would have to spend thousands of dollars on a dress she couldn't even fit into the sample dress. 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 she started researching different ways to get your dream 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, brides who didn't have 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.
Why the gap between mintBRIDAL.com and Smarter Bridal?
Honestly I was overwhelmed with the success. Having two toddlers (they were 2 and 3 at the time) only added to the the amount of work and responsibility on my plate. There were other challenges such as hostility and intimidation from some of the competition that felt I was attracting business away from them despite me being purely focused on my own plans. So I chose to focus on family for a while.
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 of 12+ amazing years, our Irish Twins that are 10 and 9 (with the fiery red hair to match) and our sweet dog Twix. 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 bestie...it's never a dull moment when Talitha and I get the chance to let our hair down and have some wine!