Long before a couple says their vows, long before the bride says yes to the dress, and long before the guests make a toast, the behind the scenes magic has to happen.  For local business owner MariElena Oliverio, that magic comes naturally.  One might say that she had years of preparation and on-the-job training for her new venture, Gypsy Atelier, which she opened in August of 2017.

 

With years of experience in the travel industry, Oliverio mastered the art of multitasking, coordinating transportation, lodging, 

entertainment, and events for business groups and individuals.  When her mother, Sue Baldini, and a friend opened a catering company, Oliverio honed her skills in catering, presentation, etiquette and hospitality.  Through her volunteer work and her own creativity, she also added floral designing to her skill set, making her the ideal go-to person for all things bridal or special occasion.

The name Gypsy is a nod to her paternal grandmother, Flo (Nanny) Baldini, who often referred to those who wander or travel as gypsies.  Because Oliverio has always had a passion for traveling and event planning, she wanted to include that image in her business name; hence the tagline on her business card, "All Things Wanderful."  The term Atelier means workshop, which defines her ever-evolving list of services and products she proudly displays at the Hometown Marketplace, at East Pointe.

 

Being detail-oriented and resourceful, as well as well-versed in creating memorable special events for clients, launching this eclectic business was a natural fit for Oliverio.  She recently participated in her first bridal show as a wedding planner/floral designer/caterer and used the opportunity to create a tangible experience for the brides-to-be. 

 

“Brides could use all their senses in my booth to envision the perfect wedding day,” said Oliverio. “They could see the flower arrangements, taste the food, hold the bouquets, touch the table settings, and know that I was there to listen and help create their dream experience.”

 

Using many vintage pieces integrated with unique touches sets Gypsy Atelier apart from some of the other wedding businesses in the area.  As a wedding designer and stylist, she offers shabby-chic and bohemian options, trendy or traditional options as well as personalized designs that are significant to the clients.  She also integrated paper flowers and handmade details in her backdrops and displayed a  live flower crown at the bridal show, which was a hit, as well.  Keeping up on the current wedding trends, Oliverio also added vintage china and furniture to her vignette at the show and features current color and style trends.

 

Not just for weddings, Gypsy Atelier’s services include decorating homes or business for special occasions, holidays, or parties and Oliverio works with a team of carpenters to offer what she believes are one-of-a-kind options for the clients.  She has a unique ability to envision the finished product and work closely with clients to ensure the end resultt is perfect.  She also works with her cousin, Jacquie Schirippa, as an assistant in her interior design company, giving Oliverio the opportunity to work closely with trending decor, colors and fabrics and  to explore a variety of styles.

 

Her family has been fortunate to taste her culinary creations for years. Her sister, Lydia Baldini, serves as her chef consultant and her team of assistants create appetizers, baked goods and full meals for any occasion. She continually experiments with new menu options and baked goods or cookie/goodiie trays can be ordered ahead of time for those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, graduations or any other memorable occasion.

 

Recently, attendees at the inaugural Bridgeport Community Open Mic Night had the opportunity to see Oliverio’s handiwork up close.  She created a backdrop for the occasion and will modify it monthly to reflect a new theme.  She is also designing the centerpieces to be used for the annual Burns Dinner for the Scottish Heritage Society this month, using heather and thistle to reflect the Scottish theme.  Additionally, she volunteers with the Cultural Foundation of Harrison County and sets up the green room for scheduled entertainers. 

 

“Creating beautiful living arrangements and inspired vignettes with flowers and natural additions is something I truly love,” said Oliverio, who also features wreaths, swags and wall décor, as well as repurposed furniture, in the shop. She also accepts custom orders.

 

To find out more about Gypsy Atelier’s selection of goods and services, visit GypsyAtelier Facebook page, Instagram (gypsy_atelier) or check out some pictures on gypsyatelier.net.