Grace Smith opened the doors to her adorable Bella Bridesmaid Baton Rouge boutique in September of 2007. In search of a career change after working in real estate, Grace seized the opportunity to own her own storefront with Bella. Bella Bridesmaid allowed Grace to follow her passion for weddings, planning and getting to work with excited brides on a daily basis! Grace kindly shed some insight and history into her life as a Bella owner… BB: What was your career before becoming a Bella Bridesmaid owner, and what attracted you to the franchise? G: I worked for a real estate title company. When I heard about the opportunity with Bella Bridesmaid I decided that this was something I wanted to pursue. I so enjoyed planning my wedding and had always wanted to own my own business. Being a very people oriented person, I felt that the bridesmaid boutique was a perfect fit.

Grace with her husband in NYC 2011

BB: What is the most memorable moment so far in owning your boutique? G: I love working with each and every bride and helping her put together her dream vision for her bridesmaids. I have even been lucky enough to help several of my close friends find their dresses! It has been so wonderful seeing the finished product at the weddings and in pictures.

LulaKate Gina

BB: What is your idea of a perfect night out on the town? Which one of our dresses would you wear, and how would you style it? G: My perfect night on the town is a nice dinner with my husband at our favorite restaurant. I would wear the LulaKate Gina with a straight skirt in black faille with a blazer and a fabulous necklace. BB: What is your fave celebrity wedding dress? G: I would have to say Ivanka Trump’s wedding gown designed by Vera Wang. The use of lace gives it such a timeless and romantic style.

Ivanka Trump by Getty Images via Celebrity Bride Guide

BB: How would you describe your own personal style? G: My style is classic, feminine, and tailored. My current obsession is finding the perfect nude pump and wedge to wear for the summer. BB: Favorite guilty pleasure? G: I love to enjoy a nice glass of champagne after a busy Saturday at the store. Now... For This & That! Real Housewives of OC or Beverly Hills? I’m not a fan of either! Facebook or Twitter? Facebook Green tea or skinny latte? Mmm, Skinny Latte Brangelina or Justifer? Justifer Lady Gaga or Adele? Adele Thank you Grace!