Story & Lesson Highlights with Heather Bunkelman of Monroe

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Heather Bunkelman. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Heather , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I like to get up early and have coffee with my cats. Then I try and go for a jog before the sun is fully out. I don’t like to be rushed in the morning so I make sure to give myself plenty of time to relax and workout in the mornings before I start my work day. I always find I work much better and am able to sustain my energy when waking up early.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes! I’m Heather, owner of Art Box Creations and Hair and Makeup by Heather. I am a full time photographer, hairstylist and makeup artist. I specialize in fantasy/theme photography and vintage styles. I love creating a unique, fun and safe atmosphere for my clients to dress up, play and express themselves in ways they haven’t done before. I want my models and clients to leave feeling empowered and refreshed. I love creating unique experiences and memories.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a kid I always felt I wasn’t smart enough or talented enough to follow my own dreams. I wanted to create art and make people happy but I didn’t think I could make a living doing that. School was always hard for me so I never in a million years thought I could run my own business. I realize now my difficulties only motivated me to push myself further than I ever thought I could go. I am really proud of where I am and how far I have come.

When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
I was a sensitive child so I was always terrified of everything. I spent a lot of time alone daydreaming. My imagination has always been my safe space. I could daydream for hours. I would go for walks and bike rides , climb trees, look for frogs and bugs, and cuddled my stuffed animals. I loved my barbies and drawing and adored watching my favorite VHS tapes.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
You don’t to have the newest and greatest gear to be a good photographer. When I first started I had great friends and family who donated a lot of gear to me. I would practice so much, learning everything and got really creative with my approach. Of course it feels great to upgrade but as long as you have a vision and motivation to learn your tools, you can create some beautiful art.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I want people to smile when they think about me. To say I had a huge heart. To laugh because they thought of something funny I did. To say, wow she created some beautiful art and made me feel so good about myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://instagram.com/artboxcreationsinc
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/heatherkristinachapman
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/artboxcreationsinc

Image Credits
Abigail Katherine Loise Breimayer
Ashley Gervais
Bianca Josephine
Lilith Von Tal
Marisa Racquel
Trisha Putt
Rusty Tate
Anna Jackson