Hidden Gems: Meet Aurelien Bouche-Pillon of Aull-Dry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aurelien Bouche-Pillon

Aurelien, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in France, and at 26, I took a leap across the Atlantic with only two surfboards and a dream. Those surfboards were stolen not long after I arrived, but the dream was unshakable. I didn’t speak a word of English, and at first, I had to walk an hour through the snow just to get to work. But I’ve learned so much and met incredible people along the way, and I feel immensely blessed and grateful for each step of the journey.

My vision was always to build an outdoor-focused company, and I began that adventure in Upstate New York. My passion for surfing eventually led me to Northern Michigan, where I found two great loves: the beauty of Lake Michigan and my wonderful fiancée, Abagail. Now, we live near the water with our four amazing kids, sharing a life built on adventure and connection with nature and I have been blessed to have surfed all 5 Great Lakes from every side since coming to America!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a very challenging road with plenty of waves! The biggest struggle was to adapt to a new culture and to learn the language — especially in business. Starting from nothing is a blessing and a curse – a gift because we have nothing to lose, a curse because we have nothing to start with.

We’ve been impressed with Aull-Dry, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
About Aull-Dry

I started Aull-Dry in 2021 after a frigid winter surfing session in upstate New York left me wishing for a jacket that could keep me truly warm and dry, no matter how wild the weather. As a first-generation immigrant from France, I came to America with just $1 in my pocket, a backpack, and a big dream, despite not knowing any English at the time. That experience instilled in me the resilience to pursue my vision and create a product that embodies the spirit of adventure and hard work.

What We Do

At Aull-Dry, we specialize in versatile, all-weather jackets designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and protected in any condition. Whether you’re tailgating, watching football games, cheering on your kids at their sports events, or exploring the great outdoors, our jackets are made for those who embrace the elements head-on.

What Sets Us Apart

What makes Aull-Dry unique is our unwavering commitment to sustainability. All of our jackets are crafted from recycled plastic bottles to help reduce waste. As someone passionate about preserving the environment, I believe in offering products that withstand the test of time. We’re dedicated to combating fast fashion by creating gear that’s durable, functional, and built to last—so you can keep adventuring with a clear conscience.

Our Mission and Pride

I’m incredibly proud of what Aull-Dry represents. Not only do our jackets enable people to enjoy outdoor adventures regardless of the weather, but they’re also a small part of a much bigger mission: to make quality, environmentally friendly products accessible to people who share our values. Every time I hear from customers who love the versatility and durability of their Aull-Dry jackets, it’s a reminder of why I embarked on this journey.

What I’d Love You to Know

Aull-Dry isn’t just an apparel brand; it’s a community of people who believe in adventure, sustainability, and the American dream. Our jackets are made for those who want to explore, cheer, and connect with nature responsibly.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The COVID-19 crisis taught me some unexpected but valuable lessons. With so much time spent indoors, I found myself craving the outdoors more than ever, and I began surfing more frequently. Those hours out on the waves helped me realize that true freedom lies in nature. We aren’t designed to live behind screens, disconnected from the natural world around us.

During this time, we captured that spirit in a film called Distance. It’s a visual journey reflecting on the power of nature to restore and inspire us, especially in challenging times. The film is a reminder of the incredible freedom waiting outside, and the importance of embracing it whenever we can.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aull-dry.com
• Instagram: Aulldry
• Facebook: Aull-Dry