ABOUT

Hi, I'm Melanie Graves.

Founder & Lead Stylist

Like many stories, you never truly know where a path will lead until you take that first step. Mine began in the spring of 2021, when I purchased my first fixer-upper. It didn’t take long to realize I had underestimated the process… quite a bit. Like many, I had watched plenty of HGTV and was drawn to the final reveal—but there’s a big difference between imagining a finished space and actually bringing it to life.


During the day, I worked as a Digital Project Manager. In the evenings and on weekends, I was busy figuring out flooring, fixtures, and how to create a cohesive design. You name it...it all needed to be done. There were moments I questioned whether I had taken on too much—but I kept coming back to it. I was energized by the process—gathering inspiration and making thoughtful choices.


You might ask—why a fixer-upper? There’s something about a home that needs a little care that draws me in. I’m able to step back, see what it could become, and begin piecing it together—whether through layout, furnishings, or the smallest details—all with the goal of creating a space that truly feels like home.


When the renovation was complete, I staged the home for sale—and it sold in just five days.


But what stayed with me wasn’t just the sale—it was the transformation. Seeing how intentional design choices could completely shift the way a home felt—and how it made others feel—sparked something I couldn’t ignore.


In 2025, I took a leap. After a 25-year career in digital technology, I chose to follow something that had been on my heart long before that first renovation. It was both exciting and uncertain, but I knew I wanted to build a life centered around creativity, purpose, and meaningful work.


That decision became the foundation for Modern Willow Staging—a place where creativity and natural warmth come together to transform houses into homes that feel inviting, intentional, and unforgettable.


Today, I partner with sellers and real estate agents to bring out the full potential of every home. My goal is to create an experience that feels approachable, collaborative, and thoughtfully tailored—so you feel confident every step of the way.


When I’m not designing interiors, you’ll likely find me outdoors—walking my dog, hiking, spending time in the mountains, or relaxing on a cozy patio with friends and family. These moments keep me grounded and continue to inspire the nature-driven aesthetic at the heart of Modern Willow.

Hello! We'd love to hear from you

Laguna Niguel, CA

Staging homes with warmth, balance & intention

©2026. Modern Willow Staging & Styling | 30025 Alicia Pkwy, Ste 220, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677