Marie Bertholet Smith

Director, MLB Designs

Marie B. Smith is known for her use of color,  her quality work and attention to detail, and her ability to provide designs that fit her clients' lifestyles. Her knowledge of antiques and her experience as a gallerist have enabled her to find many interesting items and art pieces from all parts of the world for both design and retail clients. Her talent for space-planning, her knowledge of the construction process and her original furniture designs, set Marie apart from other designers. Marie brings a unique eye, vibrant energy and years of experience to every design project. 

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Marie began her design career while still in high school and in a few years became the youngest ever Senior Designer at Hallmark Cards. Her work with Hallmark included brochures, Hallmark Hall of Fame posters, scarf designs, product designs and four cookbooks, including a Muppets Picnic Cookbook. She worked on Hallmark television commercials in New York and Los Angeles and was interviewed for a PBS broadcast about her design for Expressions Magazine. Marie has won numerous local design awards for art direction, interior design, and nationally, a Silver Art Direction Award for the design of a Gloria Vanderbilt catalog.

 

While working for Hallmark, Marie opened an antique shop called The Smith Company. The store became a well-known source for gifts and bridal registry, as well as interior design. In 1992 Marie continued her legacy of unique shops and design with MLB Designs in the Crestwood Shops. She later formed MLB Designs and Boutique in the Crossroads Arts District in 2011. In the Crossroads location, Marie incorporates a gallery which regularly features regional and international art and exhibitions. She loves the close relationships she has formed with members of the Kansas City Arts community and frequently incorporates original art in her Interior Designs.