Hi! I’m Melissa, the creative mind behind melissa b interiors, where passion for design meets decades of expertise in retail and merchandising. My journey into the world of design began with a love for decorating, cultivated from my early experiences transforming spaces from dorm rooms to my first home. However, it was my career in retail that truly ignited my passion for interior design.
Graduating from Western Illinois University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising, I discovered the idea of becoming a Corporate Buyer after completing an elective course on that topic. I absolutely LOVED this class, and with that, accepted my first career employment as a Merchandise Manager/Buyer for JCPenney upon graduation. This led to an exciting and fulfilling career, where I spent twelve years gaining invaluable experience in various roles. In 2002, armed with a wealth of knowledge, I took a leap of faith and opened The Home Store, the retail predecessor to melissa b interiors, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my professional journey.
I find inspiration EVERYWHERE! But “THE inspiration” for me, when starting a new project with a client, needs to come from the ONE non-negotiable item that the client loves and must have in the space. For me, a great inspiration piece is a selection of artwork or an area rug. I believe it is really important for the client to choose and love this piece allowing me to professionally design a space that reflects the client’s style.
Born and raised in Quincy, I moved away for college, started my professional career, and met my husband. Our return to Quincy was driven by our desire to raise our family surrounded by our loved ones and community. Quincy holds a special place in our hearts, offering not only a nurturing environment but also a supportive community for locally-owned businesses.
The support from our hometown community has allowed me to do what I truly love for more than twenty years, offering the residents of Quincy area a place to shop for unique home furnishings while providing custom design services to make their special spaces ones they will appreciate for years to come.