Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Resseguie.
Danielle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved fashion. I think it started with playing dress-up, Barbie dolls, and those “Fashion Plates” of the 80s! I remember my grandma sewing up things I’d designed for my dolls then embellishing them with puff paints and bedazzling with gems. My daughter now plays with several of the items that have survived! I, unfortunately, was not a stylish, confident kid growing up but oh, how I longed to be, and I did find that confidence as I grew into myself during college and as an adult.
Like many women do, I found myself a bit “lost” in motherhood during the busy, baby and toddler years. Wearing whatever cheap t-shirt I could grab because it was just going to be spit up on anyway. As my children got a bit older and started attending school more full-time, I found that I wanted, maybe even needed, something more but really had no idea what that would mean for me. I went to school to become the teacher I’d grown up wanting to be but quickly realized that the traditional classroom wasn’t a good fit, nor would it allow the flexibility I wanted to be able to be with my kids, so going back into that profession wasn’t in the cards.
In 2015, somewhat spontaneously, I threw myself into running a clothing boutique out of my house. It quickly grew into online and live sales and plenty of schlepping bags full of clothes to my friends’ homes for shopping parties. I found that it gave these ladies a good excuse to unwind a little, a chance to invite and their friends and family to gather for a girls’ night in. I got to bring the fun and eat the snacks and drink the wine and meet new people. Win, win!
Amid crazy schedules for four kids’ school and sports’ events, over the years, the boutique life worked for us! It allowed me to support my family from the comfort of my home, and plan around our calendar.
I truly found a passion for helping others find clothes that make them feel like the best version of themselves. Helping people find confidence in their skin so they can go out into the world with a smile. In 2020, we expanded to offering jewelry, gifts, and accessories. Little somethings to bring some happiness to your days in some small way, because Marie Kondo, I am not. Small, pretty things bring me joy, alright?
In 2021 we rebranded, relaunched our business, and made plans to open our first brick & mortar boutique in the Pickerington Village! We cannot wait to be a bigger part of our growing, historic downtown community as we continue to see our events and businesses flourish.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh gosh, no. I did not go to school for any of this! I struggle with anxiety and ADHD, and there have been many challenging periods of learning and growth while I figure out how to navigate being a good wife and mother as well as a successful small business owner.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Ruby Joy Boutique?
I am a proudly size-inclusive boutique, which I’ve learned is quite rare in the boutique world! I only carry clothing I can offer in sizes S-3X at minimum. I never want a woman to feel like there’s nothing for her in my shop. Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves when they get dressed in the morning. Watching women come out of the dressing room in something they’ve found, with the confident smile that shows you they love the way they feel is why I open my doors every day.
I taught myself to sew many years ago so I have the experience and background knowledge about fabric and garment construction and am happy to help with basic alterations for my customers. I hope to be able to use those skills to someday design and manufacture some of my own designs for the shop, as well.
I truly want people to love what they purchase from my store and offer a generous return policy. I want to earn your trust, to tell your friends, and come back for more!
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The fashion industry is always changing, of course, and while I aim to stay relevant and on top of what’s new, I also want to be sure to offer clothes people will actually wear, not just the next trendy item that lasts 1-2 seasons. There is absolutely a place for fun, special occasion pieces, but we need everyday clothing, too.
Contact Info:
- Email: danielle@rubyjoyboutique.com
- Website: www.rubyjoyboutique.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shoprubyjoy
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/shoprubyjoy
Image Credits
Danielle Resseguie
