Inspiring Conversations with Tara and Rhiannon of Dreams and Themes Sleepovers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Rybicki and Rhiannon Barr. 

Hi Tara and Rhiannon, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Tara Rybicki: After working eight years in my position as a dietitian at the hospital, I was told the position was eliminated. After the initial shock of this I ultimately decided to look at it as an opportunity to do something that was fun!

Rhiannon Barr: For the past seven years, my daily focus was caring for my father. In 2021 my father passed away. I needed a healthy outlet, so I wasn’t ruminating on this horrible loss. Starting this business provided a way to channel my energy into something positive and help fill the emptiness. 

We both experienced a loss on different levels. We leaned on each other and tapped into each of our strengths to develop Dreams and Themes Sleepovers which is a themed sleepover party business co-owned by us, Tara Rybicki and Rhiannon Barr. We both have children that are at the sleepover age. They are our inspiration, and we often bounce ideas off them. Also, this type of business is not available in our area, so we hope to add a fun activity to our community. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been a bit tricky funding the startup. We have been seeking out grants to apply for to help with this. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Dreams and Themes Sleepovers is a themed sleepover party business. We bring the equipment, assemble it, and set up your sleepover party. Supplies include teepees, air mattresses, sheets, cozy blankets, decorative pillows, trays, lanterns, lights, and bunting with the option to add on fun items like a selfie station, bubblegum machine, and candy cart. This creates a magical experience without all of the stress. We arrive prior to your party to set up in your home and when the party is over, we come gather everything… leaving behind only amazing memories. We currently serve the Traverse City Michigan area. 

We really love the opportunity to bring joy to young children. Also, we both recall fond memories about sleepovers from our own childhood. These are positive memories that last forever. 

Alright, so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Residents of Traverse City Michigan can book their sleepover party at https://www.dreamsandthemessleepovers.com/bookaparty 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dreamsandthemessleepovers.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamsandthemessleepovers/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dreamsandthemessleepovers