Meet Danielle Ristau | SBSN

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle Ristau and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
After becoming engaged in 2015 I had a feeling that venting to my friends, complaining to my family, being confused on what even goes into planning would be a better fitted discussion with those going through the same thing. In comes Facebook. The SBSN (Something Borrowed Something New) community itself, is about being there for each other during one of the most happiest times of your life. We connect brides with others past and present, women owned business creatives offer their suggestions and even book work within the group. I felt that there was a connection to the community that could be expanded upon. Initially events were being planned, but like many of our members, Covid-19 put a halt to all things in regards to the wedding industry and weddings in general. So with everything at a stand still and brides in the community hearts breaking over postponements and cancellations, vendors losing business and clients I thought there had to be a way to turn around 2020. Here comes SBSN. Bride boxes were introduced to our members on a one time or subscription basis. The intention behind the boxes were to uplift and bring fun back into planning. Every two months brides to be receive 4-6 items (sometimes I over do and add more lol) all a surprise, as well as information from some of our vendors and their services. From there we’ve only grown. I have the bride boxes, online store, host giveaways with vendors in the community, do styled shoots that bring brides together with each other to meet potential vendors for their day, online events to connect the community, and looking forward to our in person events starting April 25. One of my favorite additions (having found vendors in my own group and not being satisfied with them) our SBSN Preferred Vendors, a list of vendors within the community that have shown exceptional services and participation within the community. SBSN has grown into a business organically, because in the end it’s about making sure those planning get the best of the best day ever. We’re here for those planning and women in the industry to help grow, from ‘Yes’ all the way to ‘I do.’

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I never saw myself within the wedding industry. From being a bride to be planning, it’s always just been about connecting, helping, and maintaining a community. I even say today, what really sets me apart from other platforms is that I’m looking at this all through a brides eyes, my eyes. How can I make planning a wedding the most memorable positive experience and connect with the best of the best for your day. I want to change the game of wedding planning. And while there have been lows like with any business start up, for the most part pushing through to make sure others are able to enjoy planning and connect is what it’s about. Whenever a bump in the road hits, be it underestimating shipping cost for the boxes, or negative interactions with vendors, we’ve been able to overcome and create something better out of the lessons learned. The most difficult part has been balancing my personal life. I have two amazing kids, an almost 3 year old and 15 month old. Being there for them always comes first. I’m grateful to have the support of my spouse and family to help push SBSN into what I want it to be for those planning and in the industry. The goal of SBSN is to be the place you go to for all your wedding planning needs and support. We’re a community first. I value the input from the members and it makes me so happy to see their days come to life using SBSN as a resource.We want to be there for you when you say yes, for when your future mother in law decides to wear white to your wedding and for when you say I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, pre mom life we’d probably drive up the coast and grab a bottle of wine and ocean views at Moonshadows, and grab a bite to eat at Malibu Farm to watch the sunset. Head back to the old stomping grounds and end the night at Bar Lubitsch or Snakepit Alehouse. Who am I kidding, mom life I’d still do that with my friends visiting the area. For a more toned down turn up, we’d go to Griffith Park and check out the Observatory, the views of the city on a clear day are unreal there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband first and foremost. If he didn’t get down on one knee on a tiny boat during that gloomy day in the middle of Central Park, I wouldn’t be where I am today.  Of course my parents and friends for their support. As well as SBSN. The community, the brides, the mod team, everyone who has used the group as a resource. Seeing the connections made really propelled me into advancing options for brides and vendors.

Website: www.sbsnbride.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sbsnbride/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbsnbride

Other: Mighty Network @ SBSN

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Lauren Michelle Photography (bright photos) Jess Robinson (ring finger shirt photo) Aros Photography (bride and bridesmaids walking photo)