I am a 41 year old working mom. My life consists of work + friends + family, especially my two little girls, + real estate + my community. I run a busy life, but wouldn’t change anything. Even the hard days are pretty great days.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’m married to Russ Riberto- 12 years, we have two girls Cate & Molly
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I’ve been in real estate since I graduated from college over 20 years. I love that real estate is a business about people and relationships. But it also ever-changing – and to be timeless in real estate you have to stay relevant with data, trends, marketing and technology. The second you master something, it changes. We are always learning and growing.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
The Elm in La Grange is my favorite! Vistro in Hinsdale is wonderful too.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Since 2011
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Ryan Williamson. He is a financial advisor in the Western Suburbs. But he is so much more! He uses his position in the local community for good. He is head of the Legacy Guild Charity, a board member at the Brookfield Zoo, and an avid contributor to local charity. He also has a beautiful family and is in a local rock band – Evil Burrito. When you meet Ryan he is kind, warm, and builds relationships. He has positioned my husband and I financially in a way I didn’t think was possible. He’s a 5 star human being + so is his wife Jami!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Italy – I love the food, culture, history and beaches.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Rocky is my favorite movie. Always has been. Love a good underdog story!
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be kind. It solves a lot of problems.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I would really like to see Aerosmith with great seats before he’s not around.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
U2 or Pearl Jam
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Kirschbaum’s in Western Springs. It’s an iconic local bakery with the same vibe from my childhood with the best sweet treats at reasonable prices.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
David Hall. He was a wonderful real estate mentor and friend that passed suddenly. I would take him to Page’s in Hinsdale. We used to meet for a great breakfast and he would listen and share his wisdom.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the local parades, they are nostalgic and magical. The Hinsdale 4th of July Parade + The La Grange Pet Parade.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Right where I am. Living in Western Suburbs working in Real Estate with @properties with my beautiful family of 4.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
My husband and I have matching tattoos. I’m not sure if it’s interesting but it is a little embarrassing. We were young and in love – no regrets!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
The Amalfi Coast
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I love October. Fall weather, our anniversary, my Mom & My Daughter’s birthdays!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My parents. They are selfless, hardworking, humble people – that are family and faith always. I am the luckiest person to have them and don’t take one day for granted.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Thad Wong. My boss and the co-founder of @properties. That pushes everyone and everything forward. Real Estate, Tech, Family, Humanity, Love. Every time I am with him, leave and want to be better and do more.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Evergreen, the smell of Christmas, and Bacon
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safety. Comfort. Family.
