New Bedford Woman Buys The Vault With Plans for 'Something Big'

Growing up in New Bedford, Michelle Pimentel never would have thought she'd be a business owner in the city.

"I grew up in a poor family," Pimentel said. "I worked for everything that I have. I bought the cars I've owned, I put myself through college while working two jobs. I had five jobs at one point to save for my first three-family house. I never thought I'd be in a position to buy a restaurant and a venue."

But here we are. She did it.

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Pimental closed on The Vault Performing Arts Center and Pub on July 1.

While she initially planned on bringing in some partners to help her run the business, the 31-year-old is taking on this venture alone.

"We came up with a plan that works for everybody in the long run," she said. "It gave me this opportunity to do something big."

Michelle Pimentel's Background

Pimentel worked at Buffalo Wild Wings in Dartmouth Mall for nine years. She started as a hostess and worked her way up to a bartender. She began at The Vault as a bartender five years ago before becoming The Vault's manager two years ago. She also started getting involved with the bookings and shows in the venue.

Michelle Pimentel's Plans for The Vault

"I want to become more involved with the community," she said. "I want to give the city a place to be able to do things. If the New Bedford Tourism Department wanted to do something this summer, if they want to throw a concert, we will be able to make that accessible to them. I want to make fundraisers accessible to people. I didn't grow up with a lot, so if I have an opportunity to help other organizations out, I'm going to love that."

Pimentel also emphasized how much of her attention will go toward growing the venue at The Vault.

"That is an everyday job," she said. "It takes a tremendous amount of work and time to bring the venue up to its full potential."

Advice For Young New Bedford Girls

"Stay focused on your dreams," she said. "Work hard. It's not going to be easy. Nothing worthwhile is easy. But if you stay determined, you'll get there."