We’re looking forward to introducing you to Heather Lopez. Check out our conversation below.
Heather, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think one of the biggest misconceptions about my business is that social media marketing is just an added expense rather than an investment. My goal isn’t to take tons of money from small businesses—especially in times like these when the economy can feel unpredictable—but to help them grow sustainably through high-quality, authentic marketing. I believe every business deserves professional, eye-catching social media that reflects their hard work and passion. That’s why I focus on creating top-notch content and strategies that make a real impact without breaking their budget.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Heather Renteria, the owner of Pen & Pixel Collective LLC, a social media marketing company based in Missouri. I started this business with a heart for helping small businesses & indie authors tell their stories in creative and authentic ways. What makes Pen & Pixel unique is our personal approach—we don’t just create content; we build relationships and help brands find their voice online.
From eye-catching visuals to strategic storytelling, my goal is to make professional marketing accessible without the
overwhelming price tag. I truly believe that every business, no matter its size, deserves to shine online. Right now, I’m focused on helping local businesses grow their digital presence through creative campaigns, website design, and community-centered marketing that connects with real people.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a dreamer with a journal full of ideas, a heart full of faith, and a love for creating things that made people feel seen. I was someone who found beauty in the little moments — storytelling, helping others, and building connections. Over time, life and expectations tried to reshape that, but through my journey — as a mom, a business owner, and a creative — I’ve come back to that original version of myself. The one who believed she could make an impact simply by showing up authentically and using her gifts to serve others.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
Absolutely—what I miss most, and that not many people might know, is my sense of adventure. Life gets busy with responsibilities, work, and family, and somewhere along the way I traded spontaneous road trips and last-minute plans for schedules and routines. I still crave that thrill of exploring the unknown, discovering new places, and diving into experiences without overthinking. It’s a part of me I’m slowly learning to bring back into my life.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say that what really matters to me is people—showing up for them, encouraging them, and helping them see their own worth. They’d also say I care deeply about faith, family, and purpose—living a life that feels meaningful, not just busy. I’m the friend who reminds everyone to slow down, find beauty in the small things, and never lose sight of what truly matters.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What light inside you have you been dimming?
I think the light I’ve been dimming is my sense of adventure and spontaneity. Life’s responsibilities—work, family, and the daily grind—sometimes make me play it safe, hold back, and stick to routines. But deep down, I know that part of me thrives when I explore, take risks, and embrace the unexpected. I’m learning to nurture that spark again and let it shine without guilt.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://penpixelcollective.my.canva.site/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-lopez-renteria-942200342?trk=people-guest_people_search-card
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Pen-Pixel-Collective-61570088801594/
Image Credits
All Photos were taken by random strangers
