Meet Melody Pekarek of Another Pretty Face

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melody Pekarek.

Melody, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started painting faces in 1999 after receiving positive feedback on the artwork I produced when volunteering for my eldest child’s school Fun Fair. I bought a small kit, tried it out at a few local birthday parties and block parties, and was hooked. I’ve always been an artist – I’m sure I was drawing long before I could read or write. So the concepts came to me quickly, and the draw of a new art form was irresistible. At that time, face painting had just begun to evolve into the full blown art form that it is today, miles from the volunteer mom at a church picnic using Qtips and acrylic paints! In the 18 years since that summer, my own style and capabilities have evolved a ton, too. Today’s industry calls for a constantly updated, socially relevant and artistically flexible artist and I believe I fit that description as a face and body artist. Along the way I have added other services like henna tattoo art, temporary tattoos, storytelling. and my most recent addition, balloon twisting and decor. All of these are fantastic art forms, entertainment, and ways to positively connect with the public. I would like to stand out colorfully in an often black and white world.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Along my road, in addition to growing my business, I have also grown my family. It is a real challenge to focus on one’s home life and not have the business suffer, and vice versa. I’ve had periods where my home life had to take precedence, and periods where I could focus more on the business. In general, it’s been an upward climb and I am proud to say that last summer was my most productive ever. We’re hoping this summer will top it!

Another Pretty Face – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Another Pretty Face has been transforming children of all ages in the Chicagoland area for nearly eighteen years! We focus on the small details to make our clients’ unique event even more special. As proprietor of Another Pretty Face I am proud to present my clients with the highest quality craftsmanship in our industry, showcasing my passions for artistic beauty and playful fun. I work with other Chicago area entertainers to bring a well rounded and professional experience to our clients, and many former clients are now friends as well.

I have a service to suit all occasions. We are on the job for bustling corporate events, intimate private parties, maternity belly blessings, vendor booths at community events and festivals, private art functions, elementary and high school special events, fundraisers, and much, much more.

Personally, I feel that while special individual treatment for the birthday child or special guest is important, I do like to make every guest at an event feel just as special.

I have another passion – one of bringing joy to all children, no matter how they fit into the world. What better way to raise funds for a great cause and spread some cheer at the same time than with entertainment? I am proud to partner with 4 different charities each year and help them bring joy to children who may be less fortunate, struggling with illness, or simply a little bit different than a “typical” child. If I could do something nice for all of the forg0tten children of the world, all of the time, I would.

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
This is a moment that is repeated often, but I never tire of it and the shine hasn’t worn off since the first time I heard it. When my client or their guests tell me that the service I am providing is the very BEST they have ever seen. It’s a powerfully motivating moment to be told that something I made, some interaction I’ve had, mattered. I’m never so proud as in that moment.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.apfacepainting.com
• Phone: 847-754-9918
• Email: paintme@apfacepainting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anotherprettyfacechicago/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/facepaintchicago/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/APFace1

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