The Downtowners – Denise Hull, owner of D Is For DOG
March 27th, 2025
Meet Denise Hull, a dynamic entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Downtown West Palm Beach. A local Realtor and rental expert for 30 years and it was her property management career that led her to Downtown West Palm Beach in November 1999, when she managed and leased at what is now Flagler Pointe (formerly Jefferson at Flagler). In 2015, she launched her firm Media by Midge, but it was her lifelong love of pets ― both her own and others’ ― led her to her true passion: founding D is for DOG in 2020, a pet grooming and pampering business. Inspired by her eye for design, she also began offering a selection of stylish products for people. The response was so positive that, in 2021, she opened a boutique called D is for DESIGN.
What do you like most about being in Downtown West Palm Beach?
The proximity to everything! I’m a high-rise dweller and love to be able to walk most places. I’m close to everything ― the Atlantic Ocean, shopping, dining, culture and more. Downtown West Palm Beach is a tropical paradise and a place I’ve felt at home since I first came here.
What do you do for fun in Downtown West Palm Beach?
When I was leasing at The Alexander (now Avalon), I had an amazing mentor (Jennifer Stull-Wise) who encouraged me to “pursue my passion.” That’s what ultimately led to the creation of D is for DOG. So, I would say that with the daily running of my businesses, my hobbies are now how I spend most of my time. As the old saying goes “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” That’s me! But in my free time, I love biking, cooking, playing golf and traveling. I visit the GreenMarket regularly and take advantage of being so close to all the cultural and entertainment options nearby. And I love the convenience of being so close to Brightline when I need it.
How has Downtown West Palm Beach evolved since you’ve been here and what do you forsee in the future?
I’ve seen major changes since the fall of 1999. We now have more than 10,000 residential units, which has brought a lot of economic growth. The City of West Palm Beach and the Downtown Development Authority, along with high-end developers, have been instrumental in improving the vibrancy of the city. And since the pandemic in 2020, the area has only grown larger and more diverse. I am very optimistic about the future of Downtown West Palm Beach as it continues to grow.