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

Hi Melissa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have been in the insurance industry for almost 20 years now, and I have always enjoyed helping others protect their assets. As a retired claims adjuster and now an insurance agency owner, I have been on both sides of the claim and find that my experience helps to provide valuable knowledge to our clients.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Rippy Agency does things differently – we always have and we always will. My insurance experience of nearly 20 years has provided me with a breadth of knowledge and the ability to be a resource for our clients when discussing the many ways to protect their assets and what matters most. We are a hands on agency when it comes to claims, and assist with details like scheduling windshield repairs and replacements as well as the entire process of any home or auto claim.

When the Rippy Agency opened back in 2013, we had zero clients. Zero. Since then, we have grown to more than a 3 Million Dollar book of business from scratch. We are grateful for the trust of our community and clients who have helped us establish a mainstay in our community.

The process of owning a business is never easy, and my story is no exception. I have liquidated assets and even sold my home back in 2017 to reinvest in my business. I had a choice between staying a homeowner and a small business owner, and made a huge decision to sell my home that was difficult but has paid off in the long run. My family and I just bought a new home in 2020 and we’re grateful to still be in our Brighton community.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My family and I love Big Choice Brewery and Pizzeria, Sunrise Sushi, Pinocchio’s, South Philly Cheesteaks and Copper Rail Bar and Grill. We also love to attend events at Barr Lake State Park and to take our kayaks and paddle boards out to play. We also love to catch concerts and other performances at The Armory in Brighton.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The Rippy Agency wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of my amazing team, Andrea and Susy, our clients and the awesome community of Brighton. The Greater Brighton Chamber of Commerce and many local non-profits have allowed our agency many opportunities to get involved and give back to our community over the years.

Website: www.allstate.com/melissarippy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissarippy/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rippyinsuranceinc

Other: Our agency owns and operates Elsie the Little Free Mobile Library. She is a 1966 Vintage Canned Ham trailer that has been converted to a little free library. This is another way in which we can serve the community and provide books and adventures. www.facebook.com/elsiethelittlefreemobilelibrary

Image Credits
Headshot by Misha Photography

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