Art has always been my way of making sense of the world. Now, it’s the way I help others do the same.
Hi! I’m Mel.
Art has been part of my life for as long as I can remember—color, creativity, and self-expression were my quiet companions growing up.
I never imagined I'd be doing it as a full-time passion all these years later.
At first, I thought my path would lead me into teaching and psychology. I even spent two years exploring those fields in college.
But life, in its beautifully unexpected way, guided me toward a Bachelor's in Fine Arts and Graphic Design instead—and I’ve never looked back.
Now, all those early dreams have come full circle. Teaching, creating, and helping others express themselves are at the heart of the business I started in 2008.
It turns out, everything I loved found a place here.
So what does Haven 33 Creative mean?
Haven 33 Creative
is more than just a studio name—it’s a reflection of everything this space was meant to be.
Haven
Speaks to the safe, soulful place I’ve created for my clients to explore creativity with intention, depth, and heart. Feeling safe and trusted are incredibly valued here.
33
A number that holds personal & spiritual meaning for me—a symbol of growth, guidance, & purpose—which also aligns with the ways I help my clients.
Together, it’s a space where art meets authenticity, where your ideas are nurtured, and where meaningful creative work can unfold in a way that feels true to you.
Founder
Graphic Designer
Photographer
Storyteller
Artist
Creative Director
Educator
Guide
Founder Graphic Designer Photographer Storyteller Artist Creative Director Educator Guide
Some Fun Facts
I believe in slow mornings, deep conversations, and meaningful connections.
Creativity blooms when we feel safe, seen, and free to explore without pressure.
I was born + raised
in Minnesota.
I have also lived in Florida + Montana.
I LOVE to travel
and explore new places.
My husband and I
met in 2015.
We married in Montana in 2022 + chose our wedding date based on our life path numbers.
My favorite projects are the ones that feel like friendship.
I care deeply about the humans I work with. Getting to know you is just as important as working with you.
I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts with a Graphic Design Concentration in December of 2008. I started this business that same month.
My dad was born in Argentina and moved to the U.S. in his teenage years. We also love our Italian roots!
My parents met not long after he arrived in Minnesota in 1969.
For 10 years, my business was built at night, one dream at a time.
I worked a full-time job during the day and created by moonlight until I could finally go all in.
Nature grounds me and guides me—so I do my best to return the favor.
I reuse whatever I can, whenever I can, because small choices make a big difference.
I thrive best on plant-based and gluten-free foods. My vegetarian journey began in 2012 and gluten-free in 2018.
Bringing It All Together
Bringing It All Together
Haven 33 isn’t just a business—
it’s a reflection of my journey, my passions, and my deep desire to help others connect with their creativity, embrace their authenticity, and share their story in a way that feels true to them.
Whether we’re working together on a custom project, or a creative photoshoot, my goal is to make sure you walk away feeling inspired, empowered, and deeply connected to your authentic self.