Vendors Unveiled: Heartbeat Dance Band

A few years ago, we had the immense pleasure of meeting Barbara LaValle of Heartbeat Dance Band. We were instantly impressed by this band's spirit, energy and talent. You can tell that the band is having fun... and that translates to the wedding guests!

Name: Heartbeat Dance Band

Website: http://www.heartbeatdanceband.com/

Where are you located, and what geographical area(s) do you service?

NY Metro Area

How long have you been in business?

20 years

What drew you to providing event music as a profession?

I’ve been involved in music all my life...it is my passion. What do you feel sets you apart as an event band? We have 6 great singers in our band; all very different enabling us to cover all styles of music authentically.

What do you love most about your job?

Working with my brides & grooms to make their day a dream come true!

If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Integrity

Vendors Unveiled: Jennie Fresa Beauty Library

Nothing is better than feeling completely beautiful and it is never more important to have that wonderful feeling than on your wedding day. I truly believe that the sign of an excellent makeup artist is one who will enhance the natural and internal beauty of the bride. And this week's Vendor Unveiled has an immense talent to succeed in making each bride look like the best version of herself.Name: Jennie Fresa

Website: http://www.jenniefresa.com/

Blog: http://jenniefresa.blogspot.com/

Where are you located and what geographical areas do you service?

The Beauty Library, where I meet brides for consultations and trials, is located in Clinton CT but I travel on-location for weddings world wide.

How long have you been in business?

I have been doing makeup for over 10 years but I started my own business 3 years ago!

What drew you to makeup artistry as a profession?

I absolutely LOVE helping women feel good about their appearances. Makeup is an art but it's also about a feeling. We should all embrace our unique qualities and know how to enhance our best features. "Teaching" women makeup is my favorite!

What do you feel sets you apart as a makeup artist?

I believe that the "beauty experience" should be just as memorable as choosing the right gown for your wedding. We create an experience that you won't forget! The Beauty Library is a charming, cozy place where brides can feel comfortable and special! We don't transform women for their wedding day. We create a custom look that suits the style of their venue and their personality. It's all about being the best version of yourself.

What do you love most about your job!

I love hearing about ALL of the wedding details! I was recently married myself, so I am relating to brides on a whole new level now! My brides are my friends. Often, our relationship goes well past the wedding day!

If you had to describe yourself in one word what would it be?
Spirited

[image credit: Leslie Dumke Studio]

Vendors Unveiled: Mike Connolly

This week would like to introduce you to one of Connecticut's premier disc jockeys. Even Jessica used Mike Connolly's company for her own wedding in 2005. I was a guest at that party... and I can tell you that they do an incredible job!

Name: Mike Connolly

Website: www.mikeconnolly.com

Blog: http://mikeconnolly.wordpress.com/

Where are you located, and what geographical area(s) do you service?
We are in Southington and service all of Connecticut, Central Mass. and RI.

How long have you been in business?
Next year will be my 20th year in business.

What drew you to DJing as a profession?
The love of music and the inability to play it myself. When I first saw how much music can influence the mood of a wedding, I was hooked.

What do you feel sets you apart as a DJ?
I’ve been known for my non-cheesey yet very personal approach to weddings. While there is a market for the interactive style, Most brides appreciate a great, well organized party without all the cheese.

What do you love most about your job?
I get to see the best of people on one of their most important days. If you think about it, My job is party!

If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?
Loyal

Vendors Unveiled: Dirt

I know that it has been awhile since we posted an edition of Vendors Unveiled, but ... we're back! And we would love to use this time to introduce you to Ann of Dirt. We have had the pleasure of working with Ann in the past and are truly mesmerized by her stunning floral creations. Enjoy getting to know this incredibly talented woman!

Name: Ann Robertson of Dirt

Website: http://www.dirtfloral.com/

Where are you located, and what geographical area(s) do you service?
We have a studio in Greenwich, CT but have done events up and down the East Coast from North Carolina to Cape Cod, so far. . .

How long have you been in business?
My love of flowers started when everyone's did, handing dandelion bouquets to my Mom. Only she must've appreciated them more than most, because I wanted to keep doing that everyday. After studying floral design at Parsons School of Design in NYC, I opened a creative floral studio called Dirt in October of 2003. Now we make bouquets with just about anything except dandelions.

What drew you to floral design as a profession?
Color, texture and the ability to work everyday with such a beautiful part of this earth.

What do you feel sets you apart as a floral designer?
Creativity. It comes from not being lazy and falling back on tired old rules of floral design. From thinking differently about each event and how to make it special.

What do you love most about your job?
Hearing the Ooohs and Aaahs as guests enter a room you've designed.

If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?
Free-thinking