Lukisha Williams stood in front of her newly opened storefront on Joy Road, not just as a business owner but as a symbol of what determination and community support can achieve. Her boutique, BFame, isn’t just another store in the Aviation Sub neighborhood on Detroit’s westside; it’s a manifestation of her dream and a beacon of possibility for her neighbors. What started as a simple love for shopping has now blossomed into a brick-and-mortar reality, fueled by her passion to bring affordable, stylish fashion to the community she’s called home for years.
“I never thought about going into a storefront; I always thought that was farfetched, actually. I didn’t know there were resources out there that could help you along the way,” Williams said. “I built my own website, got on Shopify and did research and learned along the way. The more time I put into it, the more I learned, and it has been a blessing. I decided I was going to pour into myself and get this thing going, then I discovered Motor City Match.”
Williams, a mother of three, didn’t start her journey in retail. With a background in manufacturing and healthcare, the leap into entrepreneurship might have seemed far-fetched to some, but not to Williams. In 2018, she began drop shipping, learning the ropes of business ownership through trial, error, and relentless research. It wasn’t until she discovered Motor City Match, however, that the dream of a physical store began to take shape. With the program’s support, including a $45,000 grant, Williams was able to open BFame Boutique, becoming the 172nd recipient of Motor City Match’s funding and the latest in a growing list of businesses revitalizing Detroit’s neighborhoods.
The boutique, located near Williams’ west side home, offers a diverse range of trendy fashion options for both men and women. It’s more than just a place to shop; it’s a space where the community can access quality attire without breaking the bank. From jumpsuits and denim for women to graphic tees and outerwear for men, BFame caters to the diverse tastes of Detroit’s residents. But beyond the clothes, Williams has made sure her boutique is accessible, offering Afterpay services to ensure that everyone in the community can afford to shop there.
“What Lukisha has created with BFame Boutique is exactly what we envisioned for Motor City Match,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “She’s not just opening a store – she’s investing in her own neighborhood, bringing affordable fashion and new jobs to her community.”
Family is the heart of Williams’ drive. Encouraged by her late mother to pursue a physical location, she now hopes her journey will inspire her three daughters. “I make sure everything I do is positive,” Williams said, emphasizing her role as a model for her children and the broader community. “They’re going to be women someday. Being able to share this with them and show them they can do whatever they want means everything.”
“BFame Boutique is an example of what can be accomplished when someone is determined to establish a legacy for not only their family but their community, too,” said Sean Gray, vice president of Small Business Services at the DEGC, which manages the Motor City Match program. “Lukisha is not only a role model for her daughters, but all Detroiters who are pursuing entrepreneurship.”
Mayor Duggan and City Councilmember Fred Durhal both recognized the significance of BFame’s opening, not just as a business venture but as a critical step in the ongoing revitalization of Detroit’s neighborhoods. Williams isn’t just opening a store; she’s investing in her community, creating jobs, and laying the groundwork for future growth. As Duggan put it, “This is how we’re rebuilding Detroit, one entrepreneur at a time.”
“The opening of BFame Boutique is a testament to how programs like Motor City Match empower entrepreneurs by providing the crucial funding needed to turn their dreams into reality. I’m excited to see new businesses like BFame Boutique bringing fresh energy to District 7 and strengthening our commercial corridors, paving the way for even more growth and opportunity,” said D7 City Councilmember Fred Durhal.
BFame Boutique isn’t just a win for Williams; it’s a win for the entire Aviation Sub neighborhood. With plans to open more locations across the city, Williams’ journey is far from over. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, community support, and a little help from programs like Motor City Match, dreams that once seemed out of reach can become a reality.
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