Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariel Gamarra
Hi Mariel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Bees Media was born from resilience, courage, and an unshakable drive to overcome the challenges I faced as an immigrant. When I arrived in Texas in February 2017, it wasn’t just a new place, it was a new beginning. I left behind my dreams in Venezuela, forced out by the political situation, but I found something special here: a community that embraced me and shared my belief in hard work, determination, and the pursuit of a better future. This blend of Texas hospitality and my deep-rooted perseverance became the foundation for my new journey.
Armed with a bachelor’s degree in Communications and another degree in Marketing, I was determined to not let my education and experience fade. However, I quickly realized that what I had brought with me wasn’t enough. I had to improve my English, push past my comfort zone, and immerse myself in a culture that I admired but had never lived in. Over the past 7 ½ years, I gained invaluable experience working for various companies and top Dallas marketing agencies, collaborating with renowned brands like Heineken, Maseca, Dos Equis XX, Yakult, and Jarritos. But even then, the dream I had in Venezuela still felt out of reach here in the U.S.
The dream began to take shape when I started working independently from home. The opportunity arose right when COVID hit. As businesses were closing their doors, some were seeking help to establish their presence in the online world. I went door to door, finding companies that entrusted me with supporting their digital transitions. That’s when, inspired by the harmony of bees and their contribution to a flourishing hive, I envisioned building something beyond traditional marketing and founded Bees Media. My goal was to help Texas businesses thrive while also providing work to talented friends, some of whom live outside the U.S. This has been incredibly fulfilling, and thanks to their contributions as well, I hope to open our first physical location soon.
Now, there’s deep satisfaction in what I do. Helping businesses not just survive but thrive is my passion. Whether I’m helping them understand the challenges of the digital world, guiding them through the transition from traditional models to an online presence, launching their digital advertising campaigns, or planning marketing events, my mission remains the same: to maximize their potential and to share my knowledge. This work isn’t just a job; it’s the joy of seeing my clients succeed and knowing I played a role in their growth.
I’ve faced struggles, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt, but those challenges have shaped my resilience. My children give me strength, and my mother’s good spirits and my father’s wisdom, continue to inspire me. Now, nothing can stop me from moving forward.
Today, I see the future I once had to leave behind, and it’s bright. For me, for my children, and for the businesses I’m honored to support. I’m here to help businesses, whether Hispanic or American, navigate their digital transformation, thrive in this new age, and exceed their own expectations.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has been filled with hurdles, from personal struggles to professional challenges. When I first arrived in Texas, my ex-husband became severely ill, and I had to care for my two children entirely on my own. This meant facing not only the loneliness of being away from my family but also the overwhelming responsibility of raising my kids without the support I once had back in Venezuela.
Professionally, I faced my share of challenges, working under leaders who didn’t always recognize the value of my contributions. People sometimes see your willingness to help along your immigrant background as something they can abuse, and that wore me down. But I kept pushing forward, determined to prove my worth and those experiences only helped me refine my skills, strengthen my resolve, and gain a clearer understanding of the kind of work environment I wanted to create.
Along the way, one of my best friends, my right-hand brand designer, was diagnosed with cancer and had to step away. Finding someone to replace him was incredibly difficult, not just because of his talent, but also because of the bond we shared. Losing that connection was a profound emotional blow.
Then, there were cultural challenges. I’m Venezuelan, and learning to understand the nuances of working with other Latin American clients or Texans took time. It’s not just about language, but about building trust and finding common ground in a new place.
Through all of this, I’ve learned resilience. It hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has made Bees Media stronger, and for that, I’m grateful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Bees Media | Marketing Agency?
At Bees Media, we are more than just a marketing agency; we are a committed partner for businesses. Our mission is to help companies thrive in an increasingly online world and to assist them in understanding what it all means. We specialize in crafting tailored digital strategies, from engaging websites and compelling content to effective Google positioning and impactful branding or ad campaigns. However, recognizing that each business has unique needs, we excel not only in guiding companies through their transition from traditional to digital marketing but also in offering traditional strategies, leveraging our extensive experience in both areas.
What sets us apart is our deep understanding of the digital challenges faced by small and mid-sized businesses, particularly those led by Generation X. For many, the digital landscape is unfamiliar, and the methods that once fueled their growth no longer apply. I personally resonate with the struggles of building a business from the ground up. My own journey has shaped my approach to marketing, wherever I see potential, I see possibility, and I believe in maximizing it.
We pride ourselves on creating a collaborative environment where our clients feel heard and understood. I make it a point to form genuine connections, taking the time to listen to their stories, goals, and dreams. This personalized approach allows us to create strategies that not only meet their objectives but also resonate with their audiences.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of our commitment to community and empowerment. I believe in lifting others as I climb, which is why I also aim to provide job opportunities to talented individuals, including those living outside the U.S. My goal is to create a ripple effect of growth and support that extends beyond just our agency.
Ultimately, I want readers to understand that Bees Media is fueled by passion and a genuine commitment to helping the businesses we serve. We are dedicated to transforming challenges into opportunities, sharing valuable knowledge, and celebrating every success -big or small- along the way.
What’s next?
My immediate plans include expanding our reach and opening our first physical location, allowing us to provide more hands-on support to local businesses. I’m committed to empowering businesses that need help understanding how marketing can drive growth. Whether they have invested in the wrong places or are just starting with limited knowledge, my goal is to provide tailored strategies and ongoing support while also creating job opportunities for both local and international talent. As the digital marketing landscape evolves, I will remain focused on maintaining our personalized approach and delivering high-quality results.
In the long term, I envision Bees Media becoming a trusted partner for many businesses across the U.S., an agency known for innovation, integrity, high ethical standards, and community impact, a school of marketing that builds a lasting legacy of growth and collaboration.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beesmedialab.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beesmedialab
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beesmedialab
- Other: https://beacons.ai/beesmedialab
