Hello!
I’m Melissa…
Art and design are my passions, alongside a love for traveling and experimenting with various cuisines.
From a young age, I was always building or creating something. If asked what I do in my free time, the answer is invariably "random art projects." Each project is different because I thrive on challenges, curiosity, and the joy of learning. Essentially, I’m a creative problem solver. My expertise spans from digital design (apps, websites, logos) to needle-felted sculptures. While I rarely make the same thing twice, I do enjoy crafting elaborately decorated sugar cookies for my niece and nephew, who eagerly anticipate them each holiday season. There's nothing quite like winning them over with cookies!
Before transitioning to UX design, I was a competitive figure skating coach and choreographer. My career took me to three different countries, where I trained athletes in both technical and artistic aspects. This experience led me to UX design when I had the opportunity to redesign the ice show experience at a prestigious club in Minneapolis, MN. This project involved numerous user experiences and opportunities for innovation. I engaged with hundreds of clients - children and adults alike - understanding their needs and analyzing how to create the best possible experience. This process required considering various perspectives, from event judges to audiences and alumni. Through redesigning the ice show, I began to deeply understand the principles of user-centric design, creating a unique and enjoyable experience for all.
I’ve since translated these learnings and my passion into a career in digital UX. My approach is highly user-focused, grounded in thorough research, open discussions, and collaborative teamwork. I believe that by aligning user and business goals, we can create exceptional experiences and products.