Let’s face it. Being a woman is a tough job. From balancing work, finances, families and fashion, it’s hard to keep everything in check. But sometimes a little support and help can go a long way. Ruby Ribbon offers a variety of wire-free products that showcase style, elegance and comfort. RewardExpert spoke with CEO Anna Zornosa about what makes her company special and why more and more women are turning to Ruby Ribbon not just for the comfort of the products, but the comfort of having a side business to help manage their finances.
Finding the Perfect Fit
Ruby Ribbon sells its apparel products directly to consumers using a nationwide network of technology-empowered independent stylists. “Virtually all of Ruby Ribbon’s business is conducted through independent stylists who work their business part-time or full-time, and always flexibly as they juggle competing priorities,” stated Zornosa.
The company has more than 2,600 stylists who sell nationally that invest $250 in exchange for product samples and the ability to be paid commission on sales (and can purchase additional samples using a stylist discount). “They sell Ruby Ribbon garments through at-home parties, where women can try on apparel in a comfortable and social setting,” explained Zornosa. She noted the importance of the at-home parties, where customers can speak freely about their bodies and the product fit.
“Ruby Ribbon offers bras, camisoles, shapers and more that are made by women and for women,” Zornosa continued. “Our innovative products reflect the company’s response to the changing needs of American women, addressing both the need for real support while providing comfort and style.”
Great for Your Finances and Your Body
Zornosa explained that stylist sales commissions range from 20% to 40%, with the average event having sales at around $850. She said that the extra income is great for women who need to balance life’s priorities. “Some women make over six figures, and it is their full-time job. Other women sell Ruby Ribbon to supplement part-time jobs, or in addition to their roles as stay-at-home moms.”
The company also offers web-based training programs, known as Ruby Ribbon Academy, and technology tools, including their own personalized e-commerce sites, templates for CRM-marketing, and training, to conduct sales in-person and via online events.
Ruby Ribbon’s wire-free products not only offer support and style, but variable compression, which is slimming and smoothing. Zornosa said, “Not only is variable compression more flattering, it is also much more comfortable – uniform compression, which most competitive products feature, is too constricting and just doesn’t work with a woman’s curves.”
The company’s flagship product is its shaping camisole, which reduces a woman’s waist size by an inch and doesn’t use under wires for support. Zornosa noted that they’ve sold more than 500,000 camisoles.
A Successful Business With Humble Beginnings
A business that began in 2012 in Zornosa’s living room in Burlingame, California, has become an extremely profitable company. In 2014, Ruby Ribbon began its national expansion.
“This was at the start of the gig economy boom, and we capitalized on the desire of women to find a side hustle,” said Zornosa.
She notes that the company success resulted from the outpouring of women’s education and mentorship. While she is passionate about supporting women entrepreneurs, she is extremely proud of how the company has blossomed. “Ruby Ribbon empowers women to build their own thriving businesses – often while juggling family commitments – thereby giving them control of their futures.”
The Next Step
Ruby Ribbon is committed to its stylists, and Zornosa said that she has an ambitious goal. “We’d like to be the biggest direct retail company in the apparel space ever. I can’t think of another company that offers women such unique products in such a beautiful way filled with friendship and personal service.”
For more information on how to become a Ruby Ribbon stylist, or for more information on their variety of stylish products, visit rubyribbon.com.