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Boho Camper Vans offers thoughtful, handcrafted spaces for adventurists
BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
David Sodemann and Brett Ellenson are the gurus behind the ultimate all-in-one vehicles available from Boho Camper Vans. The business partners convert commercial vehicles into camper vans for both the weekend explorer and the full-time van lifer. The duo creates beautiful, fully functional living spaces available to buy or rent with components such as beds, running water, kitchenettes, outdoor showers, and cooking stations that run off solar energy and grid use. “Giving someone an affordable option to live without a mortgage and with immense flexibility is what motivates me every day. I feel we’re on the cusp of an important movement, both socially and environmentally,” Ellenson says. Sodemann and Ellenson were born on the same day in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and became friends once they found their way to Arizona despite their diverse backgrounds. Ellenson grew up working in machinery and fabrication and has always been a hands-on guy. He moved to Phoenix to work in machinery sales, giving him the experience to run Boho’s shop. Sodemann has a degree in design from Arizona State University, and has since worked on the marketing side of many startups in Phoenix. He has built brands in a variety of industries and his penchant for design and hospitality has helped in the branding of Boho. Both Sodemann and Ellenson are avid hikers and campers, so the idea of starting a business in this industry came naturally. In the age of rideshare platforms, Boho exists to focus on the destination rather than the journey. “I’m inspired by the life-changing experiences Boho creates by disconnecting people from their daily routine and giving them a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Sodemann says. The team even each other out, with Ellenson as the creative visionary. “[Ellenson is] Extremely detail-oriented and meticulous when it comes to building vans. He’s a true creative when it comes to new layouts and features. Give the man a drill and amazing things happen,” Sodemann says. Sodemann, on the other hand, has the entrepreneurial spirit. “[Sodemann] loves working with people and enjoys engaging with renters and prospective clients looking to purchase. He has no shortage of business goals, some crazier than others, but they keep pushing the company forward. We feed off each other, it’s a blast,” Ellenson explains.
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Uptown August ‘19