Conversations with the Inspiring Jenni Pennington Gacek

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenni Pennington Gacek.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I was young, I was deeply involved in the theatre and choir. I have always been attracted to all things fantasy and creative. For a long time, I spent that energy on making cakes and baked art.

I had my daughter in 2011 and I stepped back for a while artistically. I would consider myself a late bloomer. It took a long time for me to figure out my “niche” in life. I also overcame many hurdles that held me back for far too long. I never gave up.

About four years ago, I made major changes in my life. I started doing hair and makeup professionally.

Ive spent this time improving my craft, and also pushing the boundaries of what it is I do. I like to consider myself a concept artist or a creative director. I think of all the small details. I create costumes and elaborate headpieces. I make sets. I do hair and makeup. I completely transform people into fantasy beings. I bring fantasy to life.

 I absolutely wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the support of my husband, my family, friends and fellow creatives I collaborate with. I have finally found my tribe. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.

The Denver fashion community took me in with open arms and I am never looking back.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it has not been a smooth road for me. I have faced many adversities. In particular, I come from abuse. I was never allowed to be an artist.

People say I shouldn’t talk about it. That I shouldn’t be such an open book. It took so much courage to get to where I am now. I am finally healthy, and finally happy. Its a foreign feeling.

Art saved my life. I felt so empowered by making art and being surrounded by fellow creatives that I finally had the guts to change my situation.

My advice to young women would be to never give up. Never let someone tell you who you can and cant be. Never let some limit you. Don’t make yourself small to suit someone else.

Be loud. Be fierce and be yourself.

 But also, be forgiving, loving and kind.

Don’t be unteachable. There is always something you can learn. I have learned so much from others. Be humble.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Beauty By Wicked Bubbles story. Tell us more about the business.
So as I said in the first question. I consider myself a concept artist/creative director of sorts. I specialize in avant-garde/fantasy hair and makeup. I also make headpieces.

I have been published in magazines and won trophies and features but honestly, what I am most proud of is the way I make people feel. Turning people into a mythical character and seeing how happy it makes them makes me happy. My ability to make them happy.

I think what sets me apart is my attention to detail. I will notice the smallest detail like pre-melted wax on a candle to look old, or bits of hair on a fur look. I can see the big picture and the little details matter.

I also have an insane drive. I am constantly dreaming up new ideas. I can barely lay still at night, and when I do finally get to sleep, I dream in vivid color! I’m a big dreamer.

Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
My mother for one. I watched my mother overcome many adversities in her life. She inspires me every day.

My sister. She took her dreams and the road. She is very brave and tough. She takes risks and I find it endearing.

My best friends. My rat pack. A loving group of women that have had each others backs through thick and thin and supported each other for years.

The women I meet daily in the Denver fashion community and art scene. I am sooo blown away by these talented women.

Contact Info:

• Email: guccigirl92@hotmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/beauty_by_wicked_bubbles
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/beautybywickedbubbles

Image Credit:
Models: Seth Harrington
Dani Trevino
Mars Woche
jackie groetken
Paul gacek
Jaz Tanaya
Femi Nassi
Savvy Lee
Rebecca Ann
Photographers: Ginger Broderick of Blue Eclipse Photography
Erik Ballew of FEN RIR Photo
Body paint artist: Allison Frost EternalFrost Art

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