Creating Space for Dreams: CEDF Helped Creative Venue & Rentals Thrive

by Laura Krueger

When Shauna-Marie Lopes set out to launch Creative Venue & Rentals, LLC in Bridgeport, she wasn’t just opening an event space—she was fulfilling a long-standing dream. A dream sparked by her own wedding in 2006, when she struggled to find a venue that would allow her to celebrate on her own terms, bringing in her own food and personal touches. What began as a simple side project—renting out leftover decorations from her wedding—quickly grew into a full-fledged business. But her journey to entrepreneurship was anything but conventional. She took the leap while she was expecting a baby, proving that determination and vision could overcome even the greatest of challenges.

Shauna-Marie’s vision was clear: she wanted to create an event space that was both elegant and accessible to her community. She saw a gap in the market—many venues had rigid rules, high costs, and restrictions that made it difficult for people, particularly in Bridgeport’s diverse community, to celebrate in the way they envisioned. Creative Venue & Rentals was her answer to that problem, providing a versatile space where clients could host weddings, events, birthdays, and more, with the flexibility to personalize every detail.

But starting a business—especially while preparing for motherhood—came with significant hurdles. Finding the right location, navigating permits, and managing finances were all daunting tasks. That’s when Shauna-Marie discovered the Community Economic Development Fund (CEDF). She first encountered CEDF at a small business seminar, where their approach stood out. Unlike traditional banks, where applicants are often reduced to a number on a loan application, CEDF took the time to understand her business, her goals, and her challenges.

CEDF provided not only critical funding but also invaluable mentorship and resources. “Having a business advisor was amazing,” Shauna-Marie recalls. “It wasn’t just about the loan—they checked in, sent helpful information, and provided guidance. It was like having a coach in my corner.” This support proved especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic when the event industry came to a standstill. With events canceled and uncertainty looming, CEDF stepped in with updates, financial assistance, and personalized support to help her weather the storm.

As the business grew, so did its impact on the Bridgeport community. Creative Venue & Rentals became a go-to location for those seeking an elegant but affordable event space. Shauna-Marie took pride in making celebrations special, ensuring that clients—many of whom might not have been able to afford traditional venues—could still have beautifully curated experiences. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces, knowing that I played a part in making their special moments happen—that’s the most rewarding part,” she says.

Looking ahead, Shauna-Marie has ambitious plans. She dreams of purchasing a building to lower overhead costs and expand her offerings, including catering services. She’s also celebrating a major milestone: the business’s 10-year anniversary, an achievement she plans to commemorate with a special event.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women balancing business and family, she offers this advice: “Do your research. Know what’s out there and what’s needed. And don’t be afraid to seek support. Having a network like CEDF can make all the difference.”

Shauna-Marie’s story is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of community support. With CEDF’s help, she turned a personal frustration into a thriving business—one that continues to uplift and inspire those around her.

For her, Creative Venue & Rentals isn’t just a business—it’s a labor of love, a symbol of perseverance, and proof that with the right support, dreams can become reality.

Laura Krueger is a writer based in Southbury.