Cake Pops :: Cake on a Stick!

Incase you haven't noticed, cake pops are all the rage in the wedding world right now. These super cute bite-size treats make the perfect favor to send home with your guests. They can even substitute for your entire wedding cake (as pictured above)! Lovebites, a Pittsburgh based bakery makes these delicious little sweet treats if you are interested in giving them a try. Check out their wedding section for details on cake flavors and various packages available. 

P.S. Rebekah, the owner/creator of Lovebites, has so graciously offered a discount to all SPW brides, so if you're interested, give me a buzz, and I will fill you in on all the details : )

Photo courtesy of Magic Your Way Weddings & Photography via Lovebites.

Black + Yellow Chalkboard Framed Signage

I stumbled upon these black + yellow 'Bride & Groom' chalkboard signs on Style Me Pretty this morning, and wanted to share with our Pittsburgh brides. These signs are super simple to make, and would be a great addition to a black + yellow color palette. 

Tip :: Get creative with your frames, and don't fret if you can't find a chalkboard small enough to frame...use chalkboard paint on virtually any surface (even glass!) for an instant chalkboard!

Photos courtesy of Annie McElwain Photography via Style Me Pretty.

Cookies, Cookies, & More Cookies!

We see a lot of cookie tables here in Pittsburgh, but this one in particular is just too cute not to share. This is the cookie table we set up for Brienne & Adam's wedding last October. Caryn Azure, the couple's fab wedding photographer, just sent these photos over to me so I could share with all of you. We love all of the charming details this cookie table had - the doilies, the polka dot 'take out' bags, ribbons on the cookie stands, window decor, the 'Love Is Sweet' banner...basically we just love all of it! It's pretty clear to see why their guests just couldn't get enough of this cookie table. Kudos to Brienne and her family for spending countless hours baking these yummy treats!

Photos courtesy of Caryn Azure Photography.

Black + Yellow Candy Bar Theme

This black + yellow candy bar is perfect for the bride looking to incorporate a bit of 'Pittsburgh Flair' in to her wedding! 

Photo courtesy of Swank Sweets. 

Let Them Eat Cake :: Saturday, April 24th

Hey everyone! Just wanted to spread the word about "Let Them Eat Cake!", a fundraising event taking place at the Children's Musuem this Saturday, April 24th. If you like cake (I mean who doesn't, right?!), then this is definitely an event you'll want to check out! The event features a cake decorating and tasting contest, an open wine/beer bar, entertainment, and a silent auction. 

For more details about the event, check out the "Let Them Eat Cake!" Facebook fan page! 

Simply Perfect Weddings Team :: Meet Danielle

Good morning everyone! A few weeks ago I introduced you to Meghan, one of the two newest additions to our team. Today, I wanted to introduce you to Danielle, the other new member of the Simply Perfect Weddings team. Both of these ladies are fabulous, and each bring a different element to the team. Watch out Pittsburgh, this summer the SPW team is coming to a wedding near you! ;)

Meet Danielle!

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Danielle, and I am from Mt. Lebanon, PA. I have one older sister who is living in Chicago, IL. Currently, I am working on my Commercial Interior Design bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. I love to go out to eat with friends and family. I am a born and raised Pittsburgh sports fan. Dancing has been a huge part of my life since I was three years old. I am very interested in creating atmospheres for people to have fun in!

2. If you had to describe yourself in three words, they would be…

Determined, Creative, Compassionate

3. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

Hot or Iced Tea

4. If you could visit any location in the world where would it be, and why?

Italy, to see the old architecture

5. If you could have an endless supply of any food, what would it be? 

Any type of seafood

6. Describe your perfect day off – no work, no school, and no “to-do’s”. 

I would hope it is sunny outside to sit by a pool reading a magazine, working on my tan

7. Top 5 songs currently on your iPod/iTunes playlist? 

1. Bell Bottom Blues – Eric Clapton

2. Need You Now – Lady Antebellum

3. Carry Out – Timbaland/Justin Timberlake

4. Far Behind –Candlebox

5. Best I Ever Had – Drake

8. You just found a $100 bill {you checked & no one claimed it}, what do you do with it?

Go out to dinner!

9. Finish the sentence. “Never have I ever….”

 

. . . been over seas

10. If you could attend any celebrity wedding {past, present, or future}, whose would it be? 

Gwen Stefani

Photographer Spotlight :: Pamela Marie Photography

Our last (but certainly not least!) photographer in our 'New Faces Photographer Spotlight' is Pamela Sodini, owner of Pamela Marie Photography. I've had the pleasure of working with Pamela on numerous weddings, and have even worked with her one-on-one when she shot my business head shots last spring. I can tell first hand how much Pamela truly loves what she does! Pamela's passion and unique artistic style is clearly evident in every single image that she takes! To learn more about Pamela, check out her Q + A session below: 

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

I like to think I'm fun and refreshing. I stay open-minded and have the highest respect for others who do as well! I'm the kind of person who buys her jeans at Marshalls but will spend a grand or two on a camera lens. I like lying diagonal on the bed once in a while, just because. I smile a lot, think a lot, and take a lot of pictures. I'm curious about the world. I laugh at myself- I laugh a lot period!

2. How did you get started in photography?

I have a tendency to plan out my life. While in college I tried really hard to pick the perfect career for myself… through lots of interviews and about a million career path questionnaires. All along roaming the streets with my SLR camera and spending all of my extra cash on countless rolls of film! But photography just didn’t seem like a viable career path at the time, a very clear plan, and so I ended up with a very practical business degree.

Wasn’t it John Lennon who said life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans? Living in New York City and later in Los Angeles, I kept up at my photography “on the side,” enrolling in college courses and shooting actor headshots and sports coverage. Business grew, mainly from word of mouth, and I moved on to family portraits and formal events. But it was the photojournalistic-style event coverage that grabbed me. In particular, weddings. How exciting!! From there, the decision for me to resign from the corporate world and devote my career entirely to photography was relatively easy for me.

So I guess my photography business evolved all on its own, rooted in a simple passion for the art. And I’m ever so grateful!!

3. Describe your wedding photography approach and style.

I approach photography the way I approach life- with my eyes and ears wide open. Every wedding is different and reflects each couple’s uniqueness, and so it’s incredibly important that I get to know the couple and how they work together. Our engagement session is a big part of that, getting prepared for the big day.

On the wedding day itself, my biggest goal is to keep it fun! I understand that people sometimes view photography as the least exciting part of the day, and I challenge myself to change that view. :) The actual events of the day I cover in an artistic photojournalistic style, making sure to capture all the details. Then when it comes to the photoshoots, I encourage setting aside time so that we can create beautiful fine art images! Ultimately it’s your day and your schedule, but I can make recommendations within that framework to maximize time for your photography investment.

4. What do you like best about your job?

I love the excitement, the emotion!! Being able to create memories for my couples is such an honor! And one I don’t take lightly. How lucky am I to share one of the most important days in my couples’ lives??

5. What keeps you motivated?

I don’t overcommit. Limiting my workload to one wedding per weekend is critical! It keeps me excited about each and every wedding I shoot. I also keep up on my personal photography work and stay in touch with other wedding professionals. Ultimately my brides inspire me each week, because they are each unique and bring their own personalities to their wedding days. How fun to discover how they do this firsthand!

6. If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I always thought I’d do well in a career that gave me a creative outlet, a certain amount of independence, and lots of helping people in tangible ways. So that said, if I were to have to give up my camera <*cringe!*>, then I think I’d enjoy counseling or perhaps being a nurse practitioner.

7. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

It’s too obvious to say my camera, right?? ;)

Okay well then I’d have to go with my GPS. Which is odd, because I really do have a good sense of direction. It’s just that I bought the darn thing as soon as I moved to Pittsburgh about 2 years ago, and I’ve gotten so used to just following the directions. Now it’s completely crippled me- I still haven’t learned my way around!!

8. If you could photograph a wedding for anyone, who would it be?

My absolute favorite brides are lots of fun, vibrant, and full of creativity. They’re a bit offbeat, and they really care about their wedding photography. That said, I think Ellen and Portia’s wedding would have been a blast to do, or Julia Roberts, or maybe Gwen Stefani's. Wish I could have shot my sister’s but as MOH that would have been difficult! :)

9. Please share a few of your favorite photos with us: 

For more information about Pamela's services, check out her website and blog.

All images courtesy of Pamela Marie Photography.

Simply Perfect Weddings Team :: Meet Meghan

If you haven't heard the news already, I am delighted to announce the newest members of the Simply Perfect Weddings team, Meghan and Danielle. Meghan and Danielle will be assisting me with weddings for our 2010 season, and I thought it would be fun to introduce them to our clients and readers with a Q + A session.

Today, meet Meghan!

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

I am originally from the Altoona/Johnstown area but I now reside in Pittsburgh, where I attend school. You will almost always catch me in a pair of heels because I am only five feet tall! I am obsessed with fashion, cupcakes, frozen yogurt, and the 1940s. Yoga and dance are my preferred choice of exercise. I love quotes.. they cover my work space for motivation. Also, music is a huge part of my life. I have had the delight to play the role of wedding singer at numerous weddings over the years. Now I am tickled to be diving into my passion for wedding planning by joining Sumer and the SPW team! : )

2. If you had to describe yourself in three words, they would be…

Genuine. Sophisticated. Caring. 

3. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

My newest little compact piece of technology: The Kindle. It holds 1,500 books.. perfect for my reading fix. It is great for vacation and long trips instead of carrying around a load of books! 

4. If you could visit any location in the world where would it be, and why?

Greece is very high on my list of must see places. The landscapes and history are unbelievable. And the locals’ zesty hospitality for visitors is a definite plus!

5. If you could have an endless supply of any food, what would it be? 

I am a huge fan of pasta—Fra Diavlo and Gnocci especially-- from a little restaurant in my hometown. But my real addiction might be the fresh bread before the entrée!

6. Describe your perfect day off – no work, no school, and no “to-do’s”. 

I would have to start off spending some quality time by the pool. Laying out and swimming is a must for a relaxing day! Then I would have a lovely appointment to have my nails done and maybe even a massage! Meet my girlfriends for lunch, followed by some shopping at Urban Outfitters and Ann Taylor Loft.

7. Top 5 songs currently on your iPod/iTunes playlist? 

Anything by Ingrid Michaelson...her cover of Can’t Help Falling in Love with You is by far my favorite.
Already Gone – Kelly Clarkson
Waking Up in Vegas – Katy Perry
It Feels Like Home – Chantel Kreviazuk
Break Even – The Script

8. You just found a $100 bill {you checked & no one claimed it}, what do you do with it?

Take my family out for a night..dinner and a movie!

9. Finish the sentence. “Never have I ever….” 

Traveled out of the country..but this summer that will change when I venture to Austria!

10. If you could attend any celebrity wedding {past, present, or future}, whose would it be? 

Hands down Giuliana and Bill Rancic (E! Network, The Apprentice). They had a gorgeous September wedding in Capri, Italy. (Such a romantic setting!) It was a small, elegant wedding with around 170 guests. The ceremony itself was held at Santa Sophia Church, built 500 hundred years ago. The architecture is absolutely breath taking. The elaborate reception had a 16 piece orchestra. Not to mention some of the celebrities on the guest list would have kept me highly entertained, especially my favorite comedian, Chelsea Handler.

Photographer Spotlight :: Christina Montemurro Photography

Our next photographer in our 'New Faces Photographer Spotlight' is Christina Montemurro, owner of Christina Montemurro Photography. Christina is an extremely talented photographer with a keen eye for details! Last year I had the opportunity to work with Christina on several weddings, and was blown away by her creativity. Her ability to see things in an unique way, combined with her laid back style, make her an ideal choice for the couple looking for a "no fuss" photographer. Interested in hearing more about Christina? Check out her Q + A session below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

I’m not a Pittsburgh native, but I couldn’t be happier to live here now. I’m awed every time I drive out of the Fort Pitt tunnel and see Pittsburgh’s stunning skyline.

I love movies, especially action movies with good plot and character. I’ve always loved to read, but have trouble finding the time. But I’ve found my iPod a good substitute, listening to podcasts like NPR’s This American Life, Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me, and a number of photography-related podcasts.

Two of my favorite subjects to photograph are my adorable boys, Leo and Jonas, who are 5 and 2. While being a mom has plenty of challenging moments, the difficulties are far outnumbered by the laughs and hugs and hours spent playing at parks and playgrounds. There’s nothing to make me smile like the sound of the two of them laughing, or hearing Leo say, “Mommy, Jonas is so adorable I can’t even stand it any more!”

2. How did you get started in photography?

Very gradually. I started getting books out of the library and reading my camera manual. I tried so hard for so long to create beautiful images with a point and shoot camera. Eventually I gave up and upgraded to a SLR camera. While it’s certainly true that it’s the photographer and not the camera that’s most important in creating great photos, having a good camera makes a huge difference. So once I finally had the right tools, I spent more and more time practicing and learning. And bit by bit I realized that the way I saw the world had transformed. I am always watching light, looking for unique angles, and finding striking patterns and textures. Even if I don’t have a camera with me (very rarely!), I find my eyes drawn to the beauty I see all around me.

3. Describe your wedding photography approach and style. 

Wedding days are not like any ordinary day. I believe that brides and grooms deserve extra special treatment and care, and do everything I can to be sure that the happy couple feels comfortable and relaxed, and see that they have time to spend the day the way that they want to. I like to be unobtrusive and just offer some general posing guidance to be sure that photos look relaxed and natural, and not just your basic “smile for the camera” pose. 

4. What do you like best about your job?

I’ll mention my two favorites. 1) Getting to meet so many fabulous people and hear their stories. 2) Having such a wide variety of work. You get to switch gears constantly from understanding the technical details of your camera to thinking about artistic compositions to accounting to marketing to communication. I love being able to cover so much ground. 

5. What keeps you motivated? 

I love learning. I know there is always more to learn, and love finding new sources of inspiration, whether it’s the way I saw light falling in a movie, something I read in a book, or something a friend told me that moved me. 

6. If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I’d love to do scores and soundtracks for movies. I’ve played the piano all my life, and would love to be able to combine my love of music and film. 

7. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

I suppose “my camera” or “my car” would be a bit too obvious, and since it says “thing” I won’t pick my husband or my kids. So, my Netflix account. We don’t have cable TV, but we keep up with our favorite shows and movies through Netflix. 

8. If you could photograph a wedding for anyone, who would it be?

I don’t know about current unmarried folk, so my picks don’t reflect people I think may be planning a wedding any time soon! Kate Winslet has such classic beauty and great curves and seems like someone who makes up her own rules. But I’d also like to pick someone who would be likely to do something really unusual. Tim Burton’s movies have such a distinct and different look to them, so perhaps he and Helena Bonham Carter.

9. Please share a few of your favorite photos with us: 

Check out Christina's website/blog to view more of her work, as well as information about her services. 

All images courtesy of Christina Montemurro Photography. 

Recent News!

Good morning! Hope everyone is enjoying the arrival of spring here in the 'burg...I know, I am! I just wanted to make a few announcements this morning since we've been a little MIA on the blog as of lately...not to worry though, regular blog postings will be back this week. 

First up...I'm very pleased to announce that the Simply Perfect Weddings team for the 2010 wedding season is finally complete! Please give a warm WELCOME to Meghan and Danielle! I hope to introduce them to you all very soon.

Next, check out some of our recent press:

Last week I was thrilled to receive an email from Patty Bell, owner of On Location Makeup here in Pittsburgh saying that she wanted to interview little ole' me! Patty is highly respected in the wedding industry, and I was honored that she asked me for an interview. You can check out the interview here! 

Last week I was also excited to hear that I had been selected to be featured on "Be a Planner", a blog and wedding planning certification course in FL run by Melissa Margarita-DiStefano. Check out the "Be a Planner" feature here.

Lastly, don't forget to book your one-on-one consulting session by the end of March to receive the introductory rate of $150! More info about the consulting sessions can be found here.

Photographer Spotlight :: Leeann Marie Photography

Last spring I started a 'Photographer Spotlight' series that featured several of my favorite Pittsburgh-based wedding photographers, and since this is a new year, I wanted to bring this feature back to showcase several new faces to the Pittsburgh wedding photography scene. The first photographer I wanted to showcase is Leeann Golish, owner of Leeann Marie Photography. Leeann is an incredible photographer with an amazing amount of passion for what she does! I am fortunate enough to call Leeann a friend, as well as a colleague in the wedding industry. Leeann was kind enough to take a few minutes out of her busy schedule this Friday afternoon to share some information about herself, and her business. Check out her Q + A feature below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Leeann Marie and I am a Pittsburgh-based wedding photographer. Too formal? Ok. I’m Leeann. I’m married to a wonderful, goofy, and perfect-for-me man. I’ve lived in Pittsburgh my entire life and love it here. I’m a big Pittsburgh Penguins fan, but I’m also super girly. I love shopping, singing, hot yoga, champagne, sushi, Lady Gaga, and (of course) photography and my business.

2. How did you get started in photography?

I’ve been taking pictures of all of my fun adventures my entire life, but when I got engaged I started digging more into wedding photography. After my wedding, my interest grew and I knew that photography was something I wanted to learn more about. I’m pretty fearless, so at a friend’s wedding I just randomly asked the photographer “What camera are you using? What lens is that? How do I learn this?” Granted, when she answered my questions I had no idea what she was talking about, but she was also kind enough to point me to a local photographer’s conference. I attended, bought gear, and the rest is history! Lesson: It never hurts to ask!

3. Describe your wedding photography approach and style.

My photography is for the classy, chic, and modern bride. I love girls with style and fresh ideas!

My first goal when shooting is to help the women I work with feel beautiful. I believe that’s a right that us women have, and are often denied due to social norms. I bring this to every shoot and aim to provide both comfort and fun for my brides. I’m also pretty easy to get along with, so I get the guys to cooperate and have a good time too!

My approach during a wedding is casual and fun, yet totally organized and professional. I love color and light, and always work to bring out an emotional reaction from my work.

4. What do you like best about your job?

There are so many parts of my job that I love! I love the connections I have made – my wonderful couples (more like friends), wedding vendors, photographers nationwide, mothers, sisters, families… it’s amazing.

I also am a trained engineer, so being a wedding photographer allows me to be super creative but also totally nerdy. I’m really into technology, programming, and efficient methods, so both sides of my brain are pretty satisfied.

5. What keeps you motivated?

I’m by no means a procrastinator, and I’m 110% self-motivated. I want to learn, grow, and get better all the time. I want to offer the best I can, and simply knowing that keeps me motivated to do something productive every single day. My husband sometimes wonders why I “can’t just relax”, but running my own business is a dream and I want it to be the best it can be!

6. If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I’m an outgoing person, so working with people suits me well. I’d love to teach – speaking and sharing with others is something that fuels me. I try to constantly give back to the photography community, which is why you see me posting helpful photographer information on my site. The ability to share the information I have gathered is really an honor.

7. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

Gum. Anyone that’s known me since 8th grade can tell you that one!

8. If you could photograph a wedding for anyone, who would it be?

I think Nicole Richie’s wedding will be pretty cool, so I’d love to photograph hers. Anne Hathaway has a classic beauty that I’m sure she’d bring to her wedding. Lady Gaga’s would just be ridiculous – I’d love to see it! I bet you Taylor Swift’s wedding will be one big dreamland. I’d love that too! (Too many options!)

9. Please share a few of your favorite photos with us: 

Head on over to Leeann's website/blog to check out more of her amazing work! 

All images courtesy of Leeann Marie Photography.

Things to Do in Pittsburgh

Need some fun activities for your out-of-town wedding guests?! Here is our list of the top 15 things to do while in Pittsburgh:

Andy Warhol Museum
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
Carnegie Science Center
Ducky Tour
Duquesne Incline
Gateway Clipper
Heinz History Center & Sports Museum
Mount Washington
Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
The Rivers Casino
Shadyside
Southside
Station Square
Strip District

In addition to these tourist attractions, your guests will definitely want to stop in and have lunch at Primanti Brothers, or perhaps take in a football, hockey, or baseball game.

What do you think of our list? Did we miss anything?! We want to hear from you with your suggestions!

Press :: Pittsburgh Weddings Magazine

I was thrilled to find out several months ago that one of our August 2009 weddings (Christina & Richard) would be featured in the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of Pittsburgh Weddings Magazine! This past week the magazine hit newsstands! Christina & Richard incorporated some truly fabulous details into their wedding design, so it's no surprise that their wedding was chosen to be featured.

If you have a copy of the magazine, then flip to pages 36-37 to check out Christina & Richard's wedding feature! In addition to Christina & Richard's wedding, there are 10 other 'Real Pittsburgh Wedding' features to check out - all of which, are equally fabulous!

To see more photos from their wedding day, check out photo album entitled 'Christina & Richard 8.8.09' on our Facebook fan page.

{Click photos to enlarge}

Alternative to the Traditional Pittsburgh Cookie Table

If you're like most Pittsburgh brides, you'll probably be incorporating the traditional cookie table into your reception. While I am a fan of this tradition (I mean, who doesn't love cookies?!), what about putting a spin on this tradition instead?! Instead of displaying cookies on platters across a banquet table at your reception, package cookies inside of a bakery box enclosed with keepsake recipe cards. Include 2-3 types of your favorite cookies inside each box with their associated recipes. Each couple {or family} gets their own bakery box to take home at the end of the evening. For an added touch, order bakery boxes in your wedding colors or include your monogram on the outside of the box.

Photo courtesy of Style Me Pretty.

Makeup Artist Spotlight :: MelissaRoshan

Our next makeup artist in our spotlight series is MelissaRoshan, the owner and creative force behind Makeup By MelissaRoshan. MelissaRoshan is based out of Columbus, Ohio, but also travels to Pittsburgh for on-location makeup clients. Not only is she an amazingly talented makeup artist, she is also one of the nicest and most genuine people I have come across! We hope you enjoy her Q + A session with us below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

Greetings, my name is MelissaRoshan, and I would like to think I’m about as unique as my name (my first name is actually MelissaRoshan). I am originally from Seattle, Washington.. Fate brought my family to the East Coast seven years ago. I have been a professional model, and make-up artist for a decade now, and I feel so very blessed!

2. How did you get started in makeup artistry?

I started out managing a cosmetics counter in Seattle, Washington. I always had a love for make-up artistry, and decided quickly once I graduated from school, that it was something I wanted to pursue. After growing tired of the demands of retails sales, and realizing there was a certain level of service I wanted to give to my clients, I knew I wanted to freelance on my own.

3. What is your #1 piece of makeup advice for brides on their wedding day?

Less is definitely more. Caking foundation, mascara, and lipliner on, can look un-natural, and ultimately unflattering. The look should be a soft, enhanced version of yourself. I also recommend wearing a perfume you have never worn before. That way, everytime you wear it after your wedding date, you will always be reminded of your special day!

4. What do you like best about your job?

I love the connection I make with the bride, and her bridal party. I am often told that I am more like a girlfriend, rather than a wedding vendor. This is such a honor to hear! I try to combine professionalism, with a down to earth approach for each client.

5. If you weren't a makeup artist, what would you be?

I would definitely say an astronomer. The Universe is unbelievably beautiful, and amazing. To be able to study it’s wonders, would be amazing! I do have to say however, if I were aboard any type of space craft, I would require/demand make-up!!!!

6. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

I cannot live without my Blackberry, especially during wedding season!

7. If you could work with anyone, who would it be?

Sumer Schmitt from Simply Perfect Weddings! {Aww, thanks dear! I promise I did not pay her to say that!}

Please share a few of your favorite photos from your portfolio of work:



For more information about MelissaRoshan and her makeup services, check out her website and blog.

Thanks so much for chatting with us this week! I hope to have the opportunity to work with you again very soon!

Makeup Artist Spotlight :: Julie Marckisotto

Several weeks ago we started a 'Vendor Spotlight' blog series that featured some very talented photographers here in the Pittsburgh area. This week we're continuing with that series and are featuring some of our favorite makeup artists here in Pittsburgh. We are going to focus on 'destination' vendors who will travel to your hotel, home, or any location where you and your bridal party plan to get ready the morning of your wedding day.

Our first makeup artist in our spotlight series is Julie Marckisotto, the talented makeup artist behind Pittsburgh Makeup. Check out her Q + A session with us below:

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself:

I have been married for 13 years and have two great boys, Brent and Lukas…ages 12 and 5. I have worked at countless makeup counters/salons and decided last year to start my own business and opened a Makeup/Facial studio near Murrysville. I mostly travel on the weekends doing makeup for weddings and during the week I do practice sessions, makeup lessons and facials at my studio. I love the freedom that I have now with my schedule, especially because I am also a busy mom! My favorite activities are working out, reading, cooking/baking, tennis, traveling and spending time with my family.

2. How did you get started in makeup artistry?

I have always wanted to be a Makeup Artist! I went to Pgh. Beauty Academy straight out of high school and from there I have always been in this industry in some shape or form. Even when I worked at business-type jobs I always did freelance makeup for weddings on the weekends. As a kid I really enjoyed art and drawing, so I think that I like makeup so much because it truly is an ART that allows me to be creative!

3. What is your #1 piece of makeup advice for brides on their wedding day?

Hire a professional! It sounds like a shameless plug, but we do know the right touches to make the makeup pop and look flawless in pictures. After all, you will be looking at the pictures forever, so it’s worth the little investment.

4. What do you like best about your job?

That I don’t view it as a job…I’ve always heard – “when you do something that you love you won’t work a day in your life” – that is how I feel! It makes me feel humbled that someone wants me to take part in the most important day of their life!

5. If you weren't a makeup artist, what would you be?

Probably something in the field of forensics. I am a crime show junkie, and would love to work on cold case files now that we have all of the technology that we do. That whole process fascinates me.

6. What is one thing you absolutely cannot live without?

Without a doubt…COFFEE!

7. If you could work with anyone, who would it be?

Probably the Makeup Artist from TLC’s What Not To Wear, Carmindy! I think we share a lot of the same philosophies when it comes to makeup - she concentrates on making the woman look beautiful by working with what she already has…not covering it up or trying to change it.

Please share a few of your favorite photos from your portfolio of work:



For more information about Julie and her makeup services, check out her website and blog.

Thank you Julie for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with us!

Venue Spotlight :: Soldiers & Sailors Museum

We are quite lucky here in Pittsburgh to have some amazing wedding venues to choose from. One venue that I have yet to work at, but recently had the opportunity to visit, is the Soldiers & Sailors Museum located in the heart of Oakland. Many of the museums here in Pittsburgh have rental spaces for events; however, this museum space may be one of my favorites. Soldiers & Sailors has several event rental spaces to choose from, so whether you are having a large lavish affair with 300 guests, or are opting for something a little more intimate, Soldiers & Sailors can accommodate your needs. You even have the option to hold your ceremony on the patio of the museum {as seen pictured above}. If you're looking for a venue with rich architecture and character, then this is one venue you will definitely want to check out!

For event rental information and pricing, visit the Soldiers & Sailors event rental section of their website, here.