Raeshawn Bumphers shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Raeshawn, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of the resilience I’ve built within myself. It’s not something you can put on display, but it’s what allows me to keep going, to get back up when things don’t go as planned, and to stay grounded in who I am. That quiet strength has carried me through challenges and made everything I’ve built on the outside possible.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Shawn, the owner and bridal consultant behind Pink Poodle Bridal in Detroit. For the past eight years, I’ve created a luxury bridal boutique that’s all about private, personalized experiences.
Every bride works directly with me, so she feels supported, celebrated, and stress-free throughout the journey. We also offer in-house alterations and recently added tuxedo rentals, making Pink Poodle Bridal a one-stop shop for couples. More than just a boutique, it’s a place where memories are made and brides feel truly seen.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
I’d say it was a combination of my high school teachers, who saw my potential and encouraged my drive for success, and my experience in the auto industry. The auto industry instilled in me the importance of integrity and building relationships that are mutually beneficial. It really taught me the foundation of everything I use today to successfully run my business.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, plenty of times. When you pour so much into the business and into brides, it can be discouraging when a few don’t appreciate the extra effort. But then five more come along full of gratitude, and that’s what keeps me going. This journey has been a roller coaster—from starting out in a tough location, moving less than a year later, and then facing COVID just three months after that. I pushed through the pandemic, then inflation, elections, and now tariffs. Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many times I almost gave up—but I never did.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is very much the real me, but it’s not the whole me. What people see, my warmth, my passion for brides, my professionalism is genuine. But like anyone, I also have a private side where I process the ups and downs, recharge, and keep parts of myself just for me. I think both sides are important: the public me allows people to connect with my brand, and the private me keeps me grounded and resilient.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel at peace every day because I choose to treat people with kindness and respect—the way we all deserve to be treated. No matter what I’m going through, I’m still me, and I don’t let tough times change that. Interestingly, I find the most peace when I feel someone has wronged me. My greatest strength is being able to stay kind and grounded in those moments, because not everyone can extend grace when they’re hurting or feeling envious.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pinkpoodledresslounge.com
- Instagram: Pinkpoodlebridal
- Linkedin: Raeshawn Bumphers
- Facebook: Pinkpoodledresslounge
