We were lucky to catch up with Heather Bunker recently and have shared our conversation below.
Heather, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?
If you could go back in time, do you wish you had started your business sooner or later?
If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t change the timing of starting my business. I trusted in the peculiar sense of timing and divine comedy that aligned the birth of my child with the birth of my entrepreneurial journey. It allowed me to embrace the joys and challenges of motherhood while building my own empire, proving that creativity and success are not mutually exclusive.
Give us the backstory – when did you start your business, where were you at life-wise/career-wise?
I started my business during a pivotal moment in my life. Coming from a family that had limited resources, I had a burning desire to pursue my creative passions and make a genuine difference. I had experienced the challenges of agency life and craved something more meaningful. As a newlywed, I ventured into the freelance world while navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood.
What would starting later or sooner have been like for you?
Starting later would have meant missing out on opportunities and delaying progress. Starting sooner might have meant facing greater challenges without being fully prepared. The timing of my entrepreneurial journey allowed me to have some harmony in my personal and professional life effectively, proving that being a great mom and succeeding in business are possible.
What would have changed about your experience, and looking back, do you wish you had started sooner, later, or at the same time?
Starting sooner might have meant diving into entrepreneurship with less experience and facing greater challenges. Starting later might have resulted in missed opportunities. Looking back, I believe I started at the right time. The challenges I faced and the lessons I learned shaped me into a resilient and resourceful individual. It allowed me to prove to myself and others that creativity and success can go hand in hand, while also being a dedicated mother.
Heather, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
How did you get into the industry of helping creatives?
Growing up surrounded by a family of artisans, my passion for design and business started at a young age. From woodwork to pottery, I was exposed to various creative outlets that ignited my curiosity. As I began creating my own brands without even realizing it, I eventually discovered the world of brand design and became captivated by its power to shape businesses. This led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a competitive design and communications program, where I gained valuable knowledge in both design principles and business strategies. The combination of my upbringing and formal education laid the foundation for my journey into the creative industry.
What types of products and services do you provide your clients?
At Heather Bunker Branding Co, I provide a range of products and services tailored to the needs of creative entrepreneurs and artisans. Through my online course and personalized coaching, I empower creatives to overcome obstacles and build successful online businesses.
I specialize in brand development, helping clients create compelling visual identities, refine their business models, conduct market research, and craft effective marketing strategies. Not only do I teach my clients how to apply business I actually help them do it with brand design, websites, copywriting and so much more. Additionally, I offer resources and guidance on areas such as time management, financial planning, website optimization, social media strategies, content creation, and more. My goal is to equip creatives with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in their chosen endeavors.
What problems do you solve for creatives?
I solve a multitude of problems for my clients, addressing common challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs.
These include overcoming self-limiting beliefs, managing time effectively, developing efficient work systems, navigating the complexities of branding and marketing, understanding financial management, and finding their unique position in the market.
I help clients bridge the gap between their creative talents and business acumen, empowering them to build a solid foundation for success. By providing guidance, strategies, and practical solutions, I enable creatives to overcome obstacles, unlock their full potential, and achieve their desired outcomes.
What do you think set’s you apart from other creative business coaches or consultants?
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my unique combination of expertise in both design and business. With a bachelor’s degree and over 20 years of experience working in the business realm and over 10 years working with creatives, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the creative industry and a deep knowledge of effective business strategies.
But the kicker is that I actually CAN apply them to their business. They won’t have to get my advice and then hire an agency or find a company who specializes in creating business elements. I quite literally walk them through from A to Z.
I blend my passion for design with practical business insights, allowing me to provide holistic solutions to my clients. Not all creatives have the same passion or goal and I love that I can tailor a solution for each client.
Additionally, my personal journey of overcoming adversity and building a thriving business while being a present mother gives me a unique perspective and empathy towards the challenges faced by my clients. I strive to create a supportive and empowering environment where creatives can thrive and find success on their own terms.
What are you most proud of and what should people know about you?
I am most proud of the impact I have made in helping creatives put food on the table, build thriving businesses, and achieve a healthy work-life harmony—cause let’s face it balance isn’t a real thing when you are juggling a home based business and life.
My passion lies in helping others overcome the “starving artist” mentality and transform their creative endeavors into profitable ventures.
I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that I am deeply committed to their success and I love hearing stories from my clients about their successes. It’s seriously what drives me.
Through my expertise, personalized guidance, and comprehensive resources, I aim to empower creatives to dream bigger, think bigger, and build systems that bring them financial stability and fulfillment. Together, let’s redefine what it means to thrive as creative entrepreneurs and create a supportive community where artistic brilliance flourishes.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Let me take you on a remarkable journey where circumstances were challenging, resources were scarce, but the indomitable spirit within me prevailed. It’s a story that showcases the power of determination, resourcefulness, and the belief that one’s circumstances don’t define them. So, buckle up and prepare to be inspired!
In my early years, I found myself facing the harsh reality of homelessness. With uncertainty as my constant companion, I learned to navigate life’s unpredictable terrain with unwavering resolve. Money was a luxury I didn’t have, but that didn’t deter me. Oh no, I had a secret weapon in my arsenal—imagination.
When meals became a puzzle and hunger loomed, I conjured up a culinary masterpiece that defied all odds—the legendary ketchup sandwich. With a dash of creativity and a pinch of ingenuity, I transformed the simplest of ingredients into a feast fit for a conqueror. It was a testament to my resilience and unwavering belief that limitations were merely stepping stones to triumph.
But the adventure didn’t end there. Fashion became my canvas, and I became a master of transformation. Armed with a needle, thread, and a knack for repurposing, I turned tattered curtains and remnants of fabric into sartorial wonders. Each stitch was a declaration of my resourcefulness, a reminder that style knows no boundaries and creativity has no price tag.
My humble beginnings instilled in me an unwavering determination to make the most of what life offered. It taught me that circumstances are transient, but the power of perseverance is everlasting. I refused to let my surroundings define my destiny. Instead, I harnessed every experience, every person, and every act of kindness as building blocks on my path to success.
God, in His infinite wisdom, used every aspect of my life to shape my journey. He took me through winding paths, introduced me to remarkable individuals, and illuminated opportunities where others saw only obstacles. Every moment, every setback, and every small act of kindness paved the way for me to stand where I am today.
I want others to know that their circumstances don’t define them. It’s what they do with what they have that truly matters. Adversity is merely an invitation to rise above and discover the depths of one’s resilience. Life’s challenges are temporary, but the strength we derive from them becomes an integral part of who we are.
So, my friend, let my story be a testament to the boundless potential within you. Embrace every circumstance, for they are the threads that weave the fabric of your journey. Remember that nothing is permanent, and with unwavering faith and determination, you can defy the odds and create a life that transcends limitations.
Let the small acts of kindness, the unexpected turns, and the power of your own spirit guide you. Embrace each moment as an opportunity to shape your destiny. You have the power to transform your circumstances and leave an indelible mark on the world. Believe in yourself, for the possibilities are infinite, and the journey ahead holds extraordinary promise.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Absolutely! I am an avid reader, or well I was, before I had kids—now I manage to squeak out reading a book every few weeks. Which isn’t so bad when you consider how crazy life is with 3 under 9. Besides the normal, ‘Cat In the Hat’ and ‘Where The Wild Things are’ I try and read about 8 books a year. Anyway over the years there are a few books that I would recommend to a creative. As someone who understands the transformative power of knowledge, I have come across several resources that have profoundly influenced my management and entrepreneurial thinking:
“Psycho-Cybernetics” by Maxwell Maltz:
Prepare to embark on a fascinating exploration of self-image psychology and its impact on your creative potential. Maltz’s groundbreaking work offers valuable insights into the power of your mind and its influence on your artistic brilliance. Through this book, you’ll discover strategies to harness the full potential of your creative mind and achieve remarkable success.
“Work the System” by Sam Carpenter:
In the pursuit of optimizing your creative process and increasing productivity, Carpenter’s book provides practical strategies and techniques to streamline your workflow. By implementing a systematic approach to your art, you’ll work smarter, not harder, allowing you to focus more on the creative aspects that truly matter.
“Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz:
Understanding the financial aspect of your artistic endeavors is vital for long-term success. Michalowicz’s book introduces a revolutionary system for managing your finances, prioritizing profitability, and securing the financial stability of your creative career. It’s an invaluable resource for artists seeking to achieve sustainable artistic success.
“The Personal MBA” by Josh Kaufman:
For those aspiring to enhance their business acumen without pursuing a formal MBA degree, Kaufman’s book provides a comprehensive understanding of fundamental business concepts. It covers various topics relevant to artists, empowering them to make informed decisions and develop a well-rounded understanding of the business side of their creative pursuits.
And now, for an unexpected but profoundly influential resource:
“The Bible”:
Regardless of personal beliefs, the Bible contains timeless wisdom and moral guidance that have influenced countless artists throughout history. Exploring its narratives, parables, and teachings can be a transformative experience, shaping your artistic journey in unexpected ways. It offers profound insights into personal growth, purpose, and the value of dedicated work.
An example?
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23 (NIV)
This verse reminds us to approach our creative pursuits with passion, dedication, and wholeheartedness. It encourages us to view our work as an opportunity to honor and serve a higher purpose, rather than seeking validation or approval from others which is perfect when you are seeking validation from others as a creative. By recognizing that our creativity is a gift to be nurtured and shared, we can find fulfillment in the process and produce work that reflects our unique talents and abilities and we can be more grateful for what we have and where we are.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.heatherbunker.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherbunkerbrandingco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherBunkerBranding/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherbunkerbranddesigner/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdW9KPPLqN0FsI6y8AptNfQ
Image Credits
Dana Ashley Photography