A Bittersweet Change

Hello, Friends!  

Ope - and just like that, as you’ve all may have seen, the time has come for me to share some bittersweet news. After years of running hello ruby, my fashion truck and online shop, I’ve decided to close this chapter of my life and move forward with a new adventure. This decision wasn’t easy—it’s one filled with nostalgia, excitement, and gratitude. hello ruby has been a huge part of my life, a space where I connected with so many amazing customers and small business owners, and truly fell in love with building a business.  

The Journey of hello ruby

I started hello ruby as a way to share my love of buying (legit, anywhere anyhow I am shopping) and connect with people in a unique way. From pop-ups to navigating the thrill of running a mobile shop, every moment taught me something about resilience, creativity, and community.  I remember the first time I called somewhere to see if I could bring my fashion truck - what I heard on the other line was, “You want to bring your truck and sell clothes in front of our business? - No thanks, but good luck!”

But let me tell you—there’s nothing like the community in Omaha who show up! Along with that, Market in Las Vegas, marks the best part of being a boutique owner and I will forever cherish the rush of exploring new trends, meeting designers, and sourcing pieces that made customers’ eyes light up. Those weekends, though? They were some of the best and most challenging.  

One of the most special parts of hello ruby was building it—literally—from nothing. My husband, Austin, and I poured our hearts into transforming an ordinary uniform rental truck into the unique and stylish mobile boutique that you all came to know. It was a labor of love, just like the name behind the business: Ruby, our adorable mini labradoodle.  I’m so happy that her name will continue to live on through the truck’s next chapter.  

Meet the New Owner: Kasey  

While it’s the end of an era for me, it’s just the beginning for hello ruby’s next chapter! I’m thrilled to introduce Kasey, the new owner of the fashion truck and brand. Kasey has such an amazing vision for hello ruby, and I couldn’t be happier knowing it’s in such good hands.

Kasey is taking the truck to its new home in Vermillion, South Dakota, where she’ll continue spreading the hello ruby magic to a whole new community. But don’t worry—Kasey plans to bring the truck back for some major events in Omaha, so you’ll still see the brand at some of your favorite local markets!  

It already feels like such a perfect fit—Kasey has a dog named Ru, which feels like a little wink to Ruby’s legacy. Plus, as a successful business owner with her own salon, Kasey knows what it takes to run a business with care and creativity. I can’t wait to see how she grows hello ruby and puts her own spin on the biz. Be sure to follow along with her journey and show her the same love and support you gave me over the years!  

Why I’m Excited About What’s Next  

The exciting part is that my journey with small business isn’t ending—in fact, it’s evolving into something even more meaningful. Through hello ruby, I developed a passion for networking and collaborating with other small shops and business owners. That’s where my next venture comes in!  

I’ll be focusing on growing A Local Collective— dedicated to supporting small, local businesses through vendor markets, education, collaboration and meet-ups. I’ll also still be curating vendors for Midtown Crossing’s markets and continue the podcast by sharing inspiring stories through my newly rebranded podcast, Behind the Business, which is relaunching in 2025.  I’m also excited to offer a few consulting services to help other entrepreneurs navigate their paths.

Reflecting on What I’ll Miss  

While I’m so excited about what’s ahead, there are things I’ll miss about hello ruby. I’ll miss the joy of the squeals I hear when someone find the perfect item for their closet, the buzz of pop-up events, and the thrill of Las Vegas Market (seriously, nothing compares!). Most of all, I’ll miss the unique way hello ruby connected me to you, my wonderful community.  

Moving Forward Together  

As I step into this new chapter, my heart is full of gratitude. hello ruby was so much more than a business—it was a dream that allowed me to grow, learn, and build connections that will last a lifetime. It allowed me time to grow my young family, and I will always be grateful for that. Now, I’m eager to channel everything I’ve learned into supporting other small businesses and building platforms where creativity and entrepreneurship can shine.  

To everyone who shopped, supported, and followed along with hello ruby: Thank you. You made this experience unforgettable. While the truck may be parked (or traveling to new towns!), the connections and memories live on.  My Instagram handle will change, but my account will still be similar; my journey through small business life with a family, and fun things going on locally.

Here’s to new adventures, big dreams, and all the amazing things to come. And remember like my mom used to say, “You only have one life, go out and play!”

XO,
Jill