Meet Ruby Bui | Founder of You’re Cute Photo Booths & Philanthropists

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

Hi Ruby, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
This is a powerful question because knowing when to keep going or when to let go doesn’t just apply to our professional lives, it’s deeply rooted in our personal experiences as well. Throughout our journeys, we face constant barriers and challenges, and often our personal and professional lives affect one another. That’s why it’s so important to stay grounded in a strong support system and remain connected to your purpose and ultimate goal.

When deciding whether to keep going, I believe it comes down to reflecting on why you started and whether the challenge in front of you is temporary or misaligned with your values. It can be easy to give up and move on, but growth often lives just beyond discomfort. When I feel unsure, I reflect on past moments, whether in business, relationships, or life, when the challenge felt overwhelming. Those moments I chose not to give up became some of the most defining and rewarding experiences, teaching me resilience and helping me grow, even if only by one percent.

At the same time, knowing yourself is key. If you’re still learning, growing, and aligned with your purpose, that’s often a sign to keep going. Progress doesn’t always look big, but even small steps forward matter.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey was not easy and that is the most important part of my story. The biggest takeaway I want the world to know about me is resilience. No matter how hard things felt, I refused to let my circumstances define who I would become.

I grew up as a first-generation student in a low-income community. My parents worked long hours with limited English just to keep our household afloat, all while holding onto one dream – getting my older sister and me to college. My sister’s choices became both heartbreaking and formative for me. I saw my parents’ hard-earned money disappear, watched her move in and out of the system from a young age, witnessed children she left behind that I felt responsible to protect, and carried the guilt and shame that weighed heavily on my family. I witnessed things I never want future generations to experience: domestic violence, instability, and the emotional toll it took on my parents. I had a thousand reasons to give up and yet, I chose to take the opposite route of my sister.

From a young age, I was naturally curious, social, and drawn to leadership, even without much guidance. When I walked into high school, I knew I wanted to be class president. I didn’t know how it would happen, but I knew what I wanted. In 2014, I became class president, graduated in 2015, and attended Sam Houston State University. There, I joined a sorority, represented my chapter in the SHSU pageant, became Homecoming Queen in 2016, and graduated early in 2018 with a degree in Criminal Justice. On the outside, everything looked picture-perfect.

Behind the scenes, life hit hard. After graduating, I discovered that my sister used my identity had been used fraudulently, leaving felonies on my background that prevented me from entering the Criminal Justice field I worked so hard for. Shortly after, COVID further halted my plans. That moment was devastating, years of effort felt erased. Add in multiple failed relationships and unanswered “why me?” questions, and there were times when it felt unbearable. I truly questioned when the madness could stop.

But in the middle of all of it, one thing never changed, I found purpose and light, and I never allowed hardship to change my core. Even in the darkest seasons, I held onto who I was and what I stood for.

Today, I wouldn’t change a single part of my journey. I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. I own a photo booth business, You’re Cute Event Rentals, that allows me to celebrate others and help people feel confident and seen. I serve on the boards of the Irving Family Advocacy Center and the Irving School Foundation, creating impact in the same community that shaped me. I am the Marketing & Events Coordinator for the Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Director of IHCC Young Professionals, where I’ve built a powerful community of entrepreneurs who believe in sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and growing together.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s okay to fail, to start over, and to take a path you never expected. When things feel unbearable or resentment creeps in, you have to reconnect with your “why.” I wouldn’t have the life, opportunities, or support system I have today if I hadn’t endured what once felt impossible.

What I want the world to know about me and my story, is that resilience, purpose, and community can transform even the hardest beginnings into something meaningful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh boy! DFW is packed with incredible spots, and my friends and I love a good itinerary. If my best friend were visiting for a week, my goal would be to show them not just the highlights, but what DFW truly means to me: the local businesses, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant energy that helped shape who I am today.

Day 1: Irving Adventure (My Home Base)

We’d kick things off in Irving, where it all starts for me. A must-stop is Lucas Tacos in the heart of the city, non-negotiable. From there, we’d grab coffee or matcha at Hudson Ground Coffee, explore Toyota Music Factory, and take a relaxing walk around the Lake Carolyn Canal. For some self-care, we’d stop by Ciel Nail Lounge for a mani-pedi before wrapping up the day with dinner at Di Rosani.

Day 2: Fort Worth & Texas Icons

Next, we’d head to the Fort Worth Stockyards to soak in the true Western vibes of DFW. I’d also have to show them Texas staples like H-E-B and Buc-ee’s (because it’s a cultural experience). We’d catch a game or hang out at Texas Live, grab comfort food at Black Bear Diner, and if season allows, make a stop at the State Fair. A bonus stop would be Dave & Buster’s in Euless (specifically this one), which always delivers amazing hospitality and fun energy.

Days 3–7: All Things Dallas & Beyond

The rest of the week would be all about exploring Dallas and surrounding areas. Delucca Gaucho Pizza is a must. We’d spend time in Carrollton’s Koreatown for incredible food and culture, head to Legacy Hall in Plano for shopping and diverse eats, and stop by The Brow Bar Co. for a little maintenance glow-up. For nightlife, SILO Event Venue for house music is a favorite.

We’d also make time for Southlake for shopping and dining brunch at Postino is a must. For girls’ night, Leela’s Wine Bar is adorable and perfect. Add in a walk along the Katy Trail, rooftop views at Waterproof at The Statler, and late-night vibes at Te Deseo, and the week is complete.

I love a good aesthetic, great energy, and hosting unforgettable experiences and DFW offers all of that and more. This itinerary barely scratches the surface, but it captures the variety, culture, and lifestyle that make this area so special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people I’m grateful for, but first and foremost, my shoutout goes to my best friends, the women I have the privilege of calling my sisters. We’ve been friends since grade school, and their unwavering love, encouragement, and belief in me have been foundational to who I am today. They have supported me through every season of life, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am without them.

Of course, my family also deserves immense recognition for their constant support and grounding presence. I’m also deeply thankful for the opportunity to serve on the boards of the Irving Family Advocacy Center and the Irving School Foundation, both of which have given me a platform to create meaningful impact within my community.

Lastly, a huge shoutout to the IHCC Young Professionals. Building and growing such a powerful group of entrepreneurs who genuinely want to share knowledge, uplift one another, and create opportunities together has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing that community thrive is one of my proudest accomplishments and a true reflection of collective success.

Website: https://yourecuteeventrentals.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubykbui/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruby-bui-b19193208/

Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rubykbui

Image Credits
Kevin Garcia
Luis Yanez
ISP Studio