Growing up in Phoenix, Melissa thought she’d be one of two things: A photographer or she’d live on a farm, wear overalls every day and marry a guy named Bob. Well, some poor soul named Bob missed out, because, lucky us, she chose photography. But, as mom to Bennett (5) and Owen (1), she has managed to maintain that girl-in-overalls mentality, really taking the time to enjoy the simple pleasures in being a parent – bike rides to the lakefront, relishing in those quiet moments at home where her oldest says something mind blowing or feeling pride when they take the time to interact and say hello to a stranger on the street. When she’s not at her adorable Lakeview studio, this Fulbright Scholarship recipient serves on the Special Service Area (SSA) and local park committee, contributes her photography skills to Chicago Public Schools and has started a “Service Sunday” tradition where her family picks a weekly task (big or small) to stay engaged altruistically with their community.
Advice for a young girl today:
”I think it would be to say “it’s ok” - whatever path that you choose: Stay-at-home mom or working mom OR not a mom. I think that currently women have created so many roles for themselves that they have to feel good about what they choose and not put so much pressure on themselves because you can’t have the best designed home, be involved in every kid and school activity, be the most successful at your job . . . you have to let a few things go and leave room for different things to take the front seat at different times in your life."
Tried and true tips for balancing work commitments and family: “I read somewhere at one point, ‘don’t balance, integrate’ and the minute I switched my mindset to that, everything became ok. I integrate my kids into my work life and vice versa.”
Favorite quote: “Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth.” -Mike Tyson
