The Veronicas
Veronica & Veronica: It Takes Two
January 23, 2019
Veronica Miele Beard, left, and Veronica Swanson Beard
People always ask us, "What are the Veronicas like?" We can tell you that while they share a name—and a vision for the brand—they have two very different personalities. Veronica Swanson Beard's style veers cool, classic and chic while Veronica Miele Beard is more eclectic and edgy, with a touch of rock 'n' roll. The former loves interiors; the latter, travel. But don't just take our word for it—hear it from the sisters-in-law themselves. We sat down with the two and grilled them on everything from family and their NYC loves to career advice and what it's like to work together.
You’ve been designing Veronica Beard together for almost a decade—what has it been like?
VSB: “We would not be where we are today if there weren’t two of us. Our two perspectives are what make this brand so unique and genuine. While we don’t always agree on every minute decision or design detail, we are always aligned on the big picture and having each other makes our successes that much more rewarding.”
VMB: “I don’t have any sisters, so Veronica is my only sister. With two of us, we can divide and conquer, which is a lifesaver when balancing our own kids and family lives.”
What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned along the way?
VSB: “Your biggest failures can become your greatest successes. You can’t let a setback stop you because there’s so much to learn from each roadblock. You need to be patient with yourself and recognize setbacks as part of the growth process and not as failures.”
VMB: “We’ve learned how to manage time better. We’re juggling so many things, so we’ve got to keep it moving and think of the big picture. You can’t get caught up in the weeds on something that doesn’t impact the greater good of the business.”
Veronica Swanson Beard enjoying a summer scoop with her children
At work, are there ever moments when you two disagree? How does that usually play out?
VSB: “We meet in the middle on most pieces and most collections. We generally have similar tastes, which makes it easy.”
VMB: “Exactly! Veronica might wear something one way and I might wear it another. I like a sexier silhouette that accentuates the waist and she might be thinking about girls who want a shorter dress that shows off their legs.”
If you weren't running Veronica Beard, what would you be doing?
VSB: "Flipping real estate and decorating houses."
VMB: "I'm an entrepreneur. I'd probably be making a market in something. Or I'd be traveling off the grid to some amazing place!"
What are your go-to spots in the city for eating, shopping or hanging out?
VSB: “One of my favorite things to do when I have time is walk up Madison Avenue, grab a coffee at Sant Ambroeus and go to Central Park. If I’m downtown, I’ll stop by Spunto on Carmine Street for their Greek pizza.”
VMB: “Kappo Masa. Words can’t describe how good this clubby Upper East Side sushi restaurant is. The Peking duck tacos are my favorite. If I’m in the mood to shop, I’ll stop by Intermix.”
Veronica Miele Beard and her children channeling their inner New York Knicks
Between the two of you, you have eight children. How do you find balance in the day?
VSB: “I have three children and VMB has five. They keep us balanced and help us keep our priorities in line. I also make it a priority to spend time with my family in the morning or evening. It’s important for us to be together whenever possible in the day.”
VMB: “I thrive in chaos, but in order to survive, you've got to cut corners. I balance home and work life by making my children and husband a priority before and after work.”
Best thing about being a mom?
VSB: “Being there for the little moments, like hockey games.”
VMB: “It’s the hardest but most rewarding thing to see them grow into teenagers. It happens so fast!”
What are mornings like in your house?
VSB: “It’s always hectic trying to get three boys up and out of the house, but I try to spend as much time with them as possible before I leave for work.”
VMB: “Chaotic! It’s always a scramble getting five children out of bed and ready for school.”
What’s the best way to get an extra 30 minutes out of each day?
VSB: “Wake up earlier!”
VMB: “Go to sleep later!”
Veronica Swanson Beard, left, and Veronica Miele Beard at work in the studio
$(‘div.post-labels’).html($(‘div.post-labels’).html().trim().slice(0, -1));var social = new Social();