Hi, I'm Melanie.

Home Stager & Stylist

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. I quickly learned that HGTV had glossed over a few things like the dust, noise, and the late‑night Pinterest spirals. While I love dramatic before‑and‑afters, living through the renovation was something else entirely.

As the last major project wrapped up, I staged the home for sale (while still living in it). It sold in just five days, but what stayed with me wasn’t the speed of the sale. It was the shift in how the home felt, and how others felt when they walked through it. That moment sparked something I couldn’t ignore, and it stayed with me long after the project was finished.

With a huge leap of passion, and after a 25‑year career in digital technology, I finally followed what had been on my heart long before that first renovation. That decision became the foundation for Modern Willow, a place where creativity, natural warmth, and lived‑in beauty come together to create homes that feel inviting, refined, and unforgettable.

Since then, I’ve continued to deepen my expertise and formalize the work I love. I am an HSR Certified Home Stager and Redesigner, a member of the Orange County Realtors Association (OCR), Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), and the American Society of Home Stagers and Redesigners (ASHSR). These professional affiliations reflect my commitment to ongoing education, industry connection, and the continual refinement of my craft.

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 inspire the organic, welcoming style at the heart of Modern Willow.