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

Hi Blanca, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I have always had a passion for interior design, organization and helping others achieve the same goals. I knew this was the direction I wanted to go. Once I retired from the Marine Corps we made our last move to Twentynine Palms, Ca. Soon after I was in search of a storefront to turn my dream into a reality. In 2018, HABITAT was officially open to the public. We introduced a small home decor boutique to the community and it was welcomed and loved by all.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I own a home decor boutique, with about 7 different vendors and local makers. It creates a space that is fun and eclectic. In my world there’s no rule in creating your own special HABITAT. You buy the things that make you smile and I hope we can provide that for each of our customers. 

As the owner of the shop I believe it’s my duty to serve others and make you feel welcomed. As far as what sets our business apart from the rest, I would say it’s our opposite approach to the “norm” HABITAT is funky and unique and It’s ever changing and always evolving. 

What I am most proud of is setting my mind on a goal and going after it. Not having a business degree or retail experience wasn’t going to detour me.

I would definitely give credit to the Marine Corps. I have learned so much at such a young age, leadership, dependability taking initiative and so much more. This mentality gave a me a bullet proof mindset to my endless possibilities. Nothing comes easy it takes work and lots of it. You just have to decide what is worth all the time and effort and this was it for me. My family got me through the beginning challenges with logistics and renovations of the shop.
The lessons I’ve learned is that you need a good support system. I have a hard time asking for help as It comes with struggles and dead ends. Although, I was determined I knew I had to let go in some areas and allow others to assist in order to grown in this business.
What I want to world to know is that we are the only ones that limit ourselves. The possibilities and opportunities are out there and you don’t need a storefront to be successful. You can start from your home. We all have talents and passions and social media has made it easy for us to get started, we just need to be brave enough to take the first step. HABITAT was just a dream, sketched on a pad of paper and has now evolved into an ever growing staple of this desert town. I am proud of what we have accomplished and the connections we have established and it’s only the beginning!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friends were in town I would take them to the local spots around me. I would start by heading to the Cactus Trails Cafe for breakfast and walk to shops of Smitty’s thrift shop, Hi-desert Daydream, White Vinyl, Donahlue Clothing and Corner 62 shops. Then grab a delicious burger at Grnd sql and finish the night at the Kitchen in the Desert for live music and drinks. The following morning I would head straight to Joshua Tree National Park for my favorite hike, Ryan’s mountain. Then drive over to Key’s view to overlook the panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. It’s a sight that shouldn’t be missed. As we head back into the town of Twentynine Palms, I would take a tour of the art murals that are displayed on the side of many businesses. There’s so much history in the art and creatives of this town. It’s what make Twentynine so unique and special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

Shoutout to my husband Paul and my kids. especially my Dad & Brother. My sisters have always been my cheerleaders and that is everything I can ask for. The biggest shoutout is to my Mom who is no longer with us. I opened this shop on her birthday and now I get to celebrate her every year on this special day, February 2nd.

Instagram: @shophabitat29

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