Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Puckett.
Hi Michelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely. My story is really a journey of faith, resilience, and a desire to turn hardships into something beautiful that could help others.
Years ago, my son Charles survived a life-threatening accident that forever changed our lives. Walking with him through that experience, and watching him fight his way back, showed me how important it is to create opportunities for people who are often overlooked. That became a big part of my mission — to build spaces where individuals, especially those with autism and special needs, could thrive and find their purpose.
Out of that vision came Designer Diva Resale, which started as a simple resale concept but quickly grew into the largest resale store in Texas. What makes us unique is that it’s more than just a store — it’s a nonprofit hub. Through the store, we support battered women, children, autistic young adults, and environmental causes like monarch butterfly and honeybee conservation. Every sale fuels a mission bigger than fashion.
It hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced setbacks, personal losses, and financial struggles. But I’ve learned that each challenge builds the strength to keep moving forward. And today, I’m so grateful to say we’re not just selling clothes — we’re creating hope, building programs, and changing lives.
So, my “how I got here” story is simply this: take every hardship, every blessing, and every bit of sparkle life gives you, and use it to build something that helps others shine. That’s how I started, and it’s what keeps me going every single day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced many struggles along the way — both personally and professionally.
When I first began, I put everything I had into the business, only to have my first store almost shutdown shut due to several landlord frauds. That experience almost forced me into bankruptcy and I lost my personal savings and retirement. It was devastating, but I refused to let that be the end of the story.
On a personal level, raising my son Charles after his life-threatening accident was another mountain to climb. His recovery journey was long and hard, and it took every ounce of strength and faith I had. But that challenge also shaped my mission — to build programs and businesses that create opportunities for those who are often overlooked.
Even today, running a nonprofit resale store the size of Designer Diva comes with constant obstacles — from financial strains, staffing, and marketing challenges to simply keeping the lights on. But every time it feels too heavy, I’m reminded of the lives we touch — battered women, autistic young adults, families in need. That keeps me moving forward.
So no, it hasn’t been smooth — but it’s been worth every struggle, because the hardships have become the foundation for everything we’re building today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Designer Diva Resale, Inc No profit?
Designer Diva Resale is so much more than just a resale store — it’s a mission in motion. We’re proud to be the largest resale store in Texas, with over 10,000 square feet of clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, books, and home décor. But what really sets us apart is that every single purchase supports something bigger than fashion.
Through our nonprofit initiatives — BetterFly4Life and the Autism Business Hub — we provide job training, mentorship, and opportunities for autistic and special needs young adults. We also support battered women and children, and even extend our mission into environmental stewardship through monarch butterfly and honeybee conservation. Our store is a hub where shopping turns into giving, and style turns into support.
What we’re most known for is the way we combine a luxury shopping experience with purpose. Customers come in for high-quality, unique, and affordable fashion finds — from designer gowns and vintage furs to everyday treasures — and leave knowing their purchases are making a direct impact in someone’s life.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is that Designer Diva Resale is not just a store, it’s a movement. We’ve created a place where fashion meets compassion, where community comes together, and where lives are truly changed.
If there’s one thing I’d love readers to know, it’s this: when you shop with us, you’re not just finding something beautiful for yourself — you’re helping us build hope, opportunities, and a brighter future for others.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Yes — my advice for finding a mentor or building a network is to lead with authenticity and heart. Don’t chase connections just for the sake of networking; instead, focus on building real relationships with people who share your values and vision.
For me, the best “networking” has come from being open, honest, and vulnerable about my journey — the wins, but also the struggles. When you share your story, you attract the right people who want to support you, guide you, or walk alongside you.
I also believe in giving as much as you hope to receive. Some of my strongest mentors became that way because I first supported their mission or business. Networking is really about mutual encouragement, not transactions.
What’s worked best for me is surrounding myself with people who not only believe in my dreams but also challenge me to grow. Mentors and networks don’t always show up in formal ways — sometimes it’s a fellow business owner, a volunteer, or even a customer who ends up giving you wisdom that shapes your path.
So my advice is this: be genuine, be generous, and be brave enough to put yourself out there. The right mentors and connections will find you when you’re living your mission out loud.
Pricing:
- 90% OFF Warehouse tickets under $198
- 75% OFF Warehouse tickets over $199
- Only $4 for tickets with a Pink Dot or a Diva Dot
- $1 and up Steals & Deals Corner
- $1 & $3 ReBook Boutique
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Designerdivaresales.org
- Instagram: @designerdivaresale_ofc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designerdivallc/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/designer-diva-resale
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/DivaResale
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@designerdivaresale3257
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/fTVZmiQ5Kd
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/designerdivallc
Image Credits
The Japanese Ensemble COSMOS
Designer Diva Resale Team
