Accolades

"Melissa brought a fresh perspective to our Museum Store from exciting new product offerings from established artists/vendors, developing and designing unique products inspired by items and images in our collection to being a key contributor to our new online store. Melissa looked beyond the products that were traditionally offered by long term vendors which had become stale and outdated. In addition to product development, Melissa also redesigned and refreshed the merchandising in our Museum store which resulted in a small space (529 square feet) looking like an inviting and exciting place to shop for that special gift or memoir from our visitors' trip to the Museum. I credit Melissa 100 percent for making this transformation a reality."

- Joy Hanson, Former Director of Finance at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

"It was such a pleasure working with Melissa at Topaz. Initially hired as a part-time sales associate, Melissa quickly proved to be an employee that consistently went above and beyond the requirements of her assigned responsibilities. Whether providing exceptional graphic design services for collateral materials, skillfully merchandising product, or artfully conceptualizing special events, Melissa was timely and concise in the execution of every task of which she took part. Her boundless creative capabilities and strong work ethic are an enviable combination. She is an excellent researcher and meticulously well organized. I found Melissa to be insightful, even-keeled, quick to find the solution to any problem that arose. I highly recommend Melissa--she would be a genuine asset to any company or organization."
- Stacy Jethroe, Brand Consultant

"There are so many positive things I can say about Melissa. Working with her on a team or as a partner, I have found her to be highly organized, inspired, personable, creative and positive. Melissa is the kind of person that really makes you question if you are performing, at your own full potential. Her work ethic is inspiring to anyone who is around her.The artist in Melissa helps her to think outside the box in business as well as design. She is a complete professional who brings fun and innovation to the table. I thoroughly enjoyed working along side her, and hope to do so again"

- Nina Fuller, Interdisciplinary Arts and Design Professional

"Melissa has a tremendous sense of self discipline. Often bringing things to my attention before any difficulties could arise. She helped motivate the staff and always kept things moving well in a highly organized manner. She is a self starter and great for morale. She was a wonderful asset not only in the production of the merchandise but agressively pursued sales."

- Nicole Rueda Watts, Principal at NYX Studio Jewelry

"From her first day on the job, she jumped in with both feet and hit the ground running, She had to learn the job without much assistance and very quickly made it her own. Melissa was a wonderful public face for the Museum as she got out and interacted with both the local artists and the downtown merchants. As a result, we had the best year in Museum store sales and the most art submissions in our short history. She came up with some very creative fundraisers and fun activities for children in the Museum gardens. The Visitor's Information Center is also more efficient because of the new procedures put into place by Melissa."
- Anne Lane, Board President of the Palmer Museum of History & Art