Balancing Life & Work

For me, success has never just been about numbers or titles—it’s about living a life that feels whole. I believe work and life should support each other, not compete. When I’m grounded outside of work—whether that’s painting or designing a new space, spending time outdoors, or just enjoying a quiet moment on my back porch—I show up sharper, more creative, and more present in my professional life. Balance keeps me energized and aligned, and it reminds me that the best leaders are the ones who lead full, meaningful lives both in and out of the office.    I always feel it's very important when hiring to know that an individual has balance in their life, to understand what they are interested in; it helps define them as a person and understand their level of creativity and how they relate to others.

Painting & Home Decor

Painting and interior design have always been a creative outlet for me—more of a passion than a profession, but something I truly love. I paint as a way to relax and express myself, usually playing with color and texture until something just feels right. When it comes to interiors, I’ve had fun helping transform spaces into something that feels warm and inviting, including staging homes with Tampa Showhomes. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how a few design choices can completely change the energy of a space. Whether it’s a canvas on the wall or the way a room comes together, creating beauty in everyday life is something that brings me a lot of joy.  Here is a beautiful space I designed complete with one of my larger paintings.

In the Kitchen with Melissa

Cooking has always been one of my favorite ways to show love and get creative, I just love it! It’s where I relax, experiment, and bring people together. My first cookbook, “In the Kitchen with Melissa: A Sassy Southern Girl’s Favorite Recipes,” was a true labor of love—born from years of sharing meals, laughter, and stories with family and friends. I’ve always had a flair for turning simple ingredients into something a little gourmet (but still totally doable), and this cookbook is full of those go-to dishes that bring comfort, joy, and a little Southern sass to the table.

Coastal Days & Mountain Ways

I’ve always felt at home outside—whether it’s the fresh air of the mountains where I was raised or the salty breeze of a beach day. Nature keeps me grounded and energized, and I try to spend as much time as I can in it. I love a good long walk with a view, a quiet fishing spot, or a spontaneous picnic with a bottle of wine and no agenda. Staying active is important to me, so you’ll often find me working out, exploring new trails, or chasing sunsets. I do love the outdoors, but I’ll admit—I still like having the city close by for a little culture, great food, and the occasional retail therapy.