
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 16 years ago.
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
Underneath the Roots
What Shapes Me Personally
HUMAN DESIGN
MANIFESTING-GENERATOR
ASTROLOGY
LEO
GEMINI
LEO
PERSONALITY TYPE
INFJ
TYPE 4
As a Manifesting-Generator (MG), I’m wired for multi-passionate creativity, fast-paced ideas, and an ever-evolving journey—which perfectly explains why I thrive in the many facets of graphic design, photography, art, and helping others.
MGs aren’t meant to fit into a single box…
We move where inspiration takes us, making things happen quickly and efficiently.
This means that when you work with me, you’re not just getting someone who follows a formula—
You’re getting someone who thinks outside the box, adapts, and finds the most exciting, innovative ways to bring your vision to life.
After years of trying to niche down to one service after ‘doing it all’ (because that’s what all the cool people were doing)…
I realized doing just one thing felt too limiting and quite boring for my multi-passionate mind.
When I found out about Human Design and being an MG, it all made sense!!
I now embrace my natural ability to pivot, explore, and master multiple creative skills, which is why my business isn’t just about one thing—it’s about bringing creativity to life in many forms, whether through custom stationery, brand storytelling, artistic photography, or immersive experiences.
SUN
LEO
MOON
GEMINI
RISING
LEO

Written in the Stars
How Astrology Shapes My Work
Leo Sun
At my core, I’m passionate, driven, and deeply creative.
I pour my heart into everything I do and believe in helping others shine through their own self-expression.
My work is all about making people feel seen, valued, and celebrated through design, photography, and art.
Gemini Moon
My emotions and inner world are fueled by curiosity, communication, and adaptability.
I love connecting with others, learning new things, and sharing knowledge—which is why teaching and capturing the unique essence of people through photography and design feels so natural to me.
Leo Rising
The energy I bring into the world is warm, engaging, and full of enthusiasm.
I love making people feel inspired and empowered to express themselves authentically.
Whether it’s through branding, photography, or helping you succeed in other ways, my goal is to create a space where people feel safe to explore, play, and create without judgment.
TYPE 4
My work is rooted in helping others feel seen and understood through intentional design, soulful photography, and creative experiences.
Whether I’m consulting, creating, or teaching, I bring a calm presence, a listening ear, and a deep commitment to helping you express who you truly are.
INFJ
As an INFJ and Enneagram Type 4, I’m a thoughtful creator, intuitive guide, and deeply empathetic soul.
I see the world in layers—of color, meaning, and energy—and I’m always drawn to what lies beneath the surface.
Why Share My Intuitive Side?
Creativity isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about tapping into who you are at your core.
Over the years, I’ve found that my Human Design and Astrology have helped me understand how I work best, how I connect with others, and how I can show up authentically in my creative journey.
I share this side of myself because it’s a huge part of how I connect with creativity, approach my work, and help others express themselves in an authentic way.
Whether or not you're into things like Human Design or Astrology, my focus is on creating an experience where you feel supported, understood, and inspired—because your creativity matters, and your story deserves to be shared.
A Few Things You Might Not Know
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 full-time jobs 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 gluten-free and plant-based foods. My journey to vegetarianism began in 2012 and while not 100%, I strive to be a raw vegan!
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.