After suffering a traumatic brain injury in August of 2014, Heidie Buffomante's life dramatically changed. Her active life as a teacher suddenly slowed down and healing became her focus, but it wasn't easy.
"Quiet literally, my brain changed. I found that being home with my loving husband Adam and our pup, doing interior styling relaxed me, it brought me comfort and joy. I began challenging myself to find ways to repurpose my brain and things around me," Buffomante said.
And so, the idea of buffBOXes came to be. The boxes contain locally made crafts, decorations, housewares and sometimes snacks. They're designed with people in mind - to fit the need their circumstance. The name stemming of course, from her last name.
Within a short period of time, friends, families and co-workers began asking Heidie to do the same to their spaces - take buffBOXes and re-invigorate their personal spaces with light, hope and joy.
Fast-forward three years, and Buffomante is now an Assistant Principal, but the demand for these one-of-a-kind boxes hasn't slowed down.
"We do this in our own time. We want to beautify Buffalo. I want to give back-- give back to the multitude of people that gave to me during such a difficult time," Buffomante shared.
"We work with local vendors, artists, shops, and creators everyday. From Molly & Kate in Hamburg to Tattered Tulip in Lockport to Buffalo Pallet Art, the list goes on. This started as a humble beginning and it's growing and we only hope it continues to grow. All that means is more joy and healing is being shared from us to the world."
Now they want to expand their reach, including more WNY artists and talent in every box.
They are also considering a store front, where the couple can showcase their side passion with the world.
To find out more about buffBOXes and the Buffamonte's platform visit: @buffalove_Heidie and @buffboxes on Instagram.
Boxes range in price from $10 to $65.
