Meet Brandon Salazar | Business Owner | Pilot | MRI Tech

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brandon Salazar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandon, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
The ultimate goal is to build something that outlives us—both in business and in impact. I grew up poor, and I know firsthand what it feels like to struggle. I never want to go back to that, and I never want my family to experience it. For me, it’s about creating generational wealth—building a foundation strong enough to give our children and future generations opportunities we never had.

Professionally, we want BigPupPetFashion to become a recognized, respected brand in the pet industry—known not just for our products, but for the mission and values we stand behind. We want to scale our operations, expand our reach globally, and create a sustainable model that continues to provide meaning.

By the end of our careers, our hope is to look back and see that we built more than a business—we built a legacy. Something that provided security for our family, made a positive difference in people’s lives, and showed that with hard work, integrity, and vision, it’s possible to turn a dream into something that changes lives.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
BigPupPetFashion is a handcrafted pet accessory brand specializing in customizable collars, leashes, and accessories that blend style, quality, and personalization. Our products are for pet owners who want something unique—something that reflects both their pet’s personality and their own. From engraved buckles to bold fabrics, rhinestones to pearl accents, every piece is made with care and attention to detail.

What truly sets us apart is our mission. Our brand was built not only to provide high-quality, stylish pet products, but also to create job opportunities for refugees who are rebuilding their lives in the United States—just like my wife, Sehrish, once did. For us, this is more than a business; it’s a way to make an impact while doing something we love.

Getting here wasn’t easy. We had no background in e-commerce or manufacturing when we started. We learned everything from scratch—sourcing materials, mastering production techniques, handling marketing, and providing exceptional customer service. There were supplier delays, long nights, and moments of doubt, but we kept pushing forward because we believed in our vision. Balancing our full-time jobs in healthcare while running the business required discipline, sacrifice, and a lot of late hours, but every challenge made us stronger.

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that success is built on consistency. You can’t just show up when you feel like it—you have to be present every single day, even when it’s hard. We’ve also learned that your mission matters. Customers connect with authenticity and purpose, and when you build a brand around your values, it resonates far deeper than just the product itself.

What we want the world to know is that BigPupPetFashion is where style meets purpose. Every purchase is more than just a collar or leash—it’s a piece of a bigger story. It’s a way for us to give back, create opportunities, and prove that small businesses can create real, lasting change. We’re proud of what we’ve built, but even more excited for what’s ahead.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want them to experience the perfect mix of Dallas–Fort Worth’s culture, food, and fun.

Day 1 – Welcome to Texas
We’d kick things off with a true Texas welcome: barbecue at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum. Afterward, we’d walk around the neighborhood to check out the street art and grab dessert at Emporium Pies.

Day 2 – Classic Dallas
We’d start with breakfast at Bread Winners Café, then head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for a relaxing morning surrounded by incredible blooms. In the evening, we’d dress up for dinner at Nick & Sam’s and then enjoy rooftop drinks at HG Sply Co.

Day 3 – History & Culture
A trip to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must for history buffs. Afterward, we’d explore the Bishop Arts District, browsing unique shops and grabbing lunch at Paradiso. That night, we might catch a Mavericks game or a concert at the American Airlines Center.

Day 4 – Fort Worth Adventure
We’d spend the day in Fort Worth, starting with breakfast at Press Café, then head to the Stockyards to see the longhorn cattle drive and explore the Western shops. Dinner would be at Joe T. Garcia’s for legendary Tex-Mex, followed by live music at Billy Bob’s Texas.

Day 5 – Outdoors & Relaxation
White Rock Lake would be our morning stop for a scenic walk or bike ride. Lunch would be at Truck Yard for a laid-back vibe with food trucks and games. The afternoon could be spent at the Dallas Museum of Art before enjoying dinner at Uchi for world-class sushi.

Day 6 – Shopping & Entertainment
We’d dedicate a day to shopping at NorthPark Center and Highland Park Village. Dinner would be at Javier’s Gourmet Mexicano, followed by a fun night of karaoke or dancing in Uptown.

Day 7 – Final Farewell
We’d close out the trip with brunch at The Henry, a walk through Klyde Warren Park, and maybe one last Texas-sized steak at Bob’s Steak & Chop House before heading to the airport.

The Dallas–Fort Worth area has something for everyone—great food, vibrant culture, rich history, and unforgettable entertainment. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find plenty here to make memories that last a lifetime.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, all credit goes to God. He has always been there for me through every challenge and every victory. I could not have gotten to where I am without His guidance and grace.

I also want to give a huge shoutout to my brother Ricky. He has always pushed me to think bigger, telling me it’s not just about having a job—it’s about planning for your future and creating long-term security. He was the one who recommended one of the most impactful books I’ve ever read, I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi. That book completely shifted the way I think about money, opportunity, and life, and I’m grateful he put it in my hands.

I’m also deeply thankful for my parents and siblings. They’ve always supported me in everything I’ve done, no matter how big or small my ideas were. Their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge the nonprofit organization led by Rebecca Tanner that helped my wife, Sehrish, when she first arrived in the U.S. They taught her English, how to drive, and how to navigate life here. Their kindness not only changed her life—it became part of the inspiration for the mission behind our business.

Our success is not ours alone—it’s the product of faith, family, guidance, and the people who believed in us before we even believed in ourselves.

Website: https://bigpuppetfashion.etsy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigpupfashion?igsh=Mzd1ZzM1ajJnMngy&utm_source=qr