Hiya! I'm Melanie
I’m a Gemini
I like long walks on the beach
I’m seeking meaningful connections with wireframes, user testing, and brainstorming sessions.
As you know, I’m Melanie, and while I'm not here to find my perfect match, I am your go-to UX designer, researcher, and writer. But I come with a twist: I bring two decades of sales management wisdom to the table, all wrapped up in a package of collaborative teamwork expertise.
Understanding users, fostering easy communication, and leading the way are my jam. I bring a fresh, holistic perspective to every project. No roses and candlelight, just user flows and microcopy!
More of me
Don’t take my word for it…
"Melanie showed us what we needed to do to be more engaging with our audience and generate more donations to help our Veterans. She was thorough in her knowledge of what we needed after taking the time to find out about our program and why it is so important to us. Melanie made the process understandable for me and put my mind at ease that she knew what she was doing and cared about our cause."
— Hollie, Meals for Vets, Supervisor and Project Coordinator
“[Melanie] demonstrated an impressive ability to conduct thorough research and distill complex information into clear and concise written content. Melanie's dedication to producing high-quality work is truly commendable, and she consistently met deadlines with meticulous attention to detail."”
— Frank Suarez-Milan, Instructor
"Melanie quickly grasped complex UX concepts and methodologies, consistently delivering high-quality work that exceeded expectations. Her dedication, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit, combined with her open-minded attitude and receptiveness to feedback, make her a valuable asset to any UX design team."
— Janice Yang, UX Designer
"I was particularly impressed by her ability to grasp new concepts with ease, articulate concisely and write succinctly. Melanie's problem-solving, storytelling, and strategic thinking skills are evident strengths, enabling her to consistently deliver exceptional work."
— Yasir Hussain, UX Designer
“Melanie is hard-working, responsible, and easy to work with. She is a strong team member who also works well independently. She was a pleasure to group with during our studies.”
— Stephany Lein, Teammate
Education
University of Toronto - UX/UI Certification
I transitioned from two decades in sales management to UX/UI design with a clear goal: to enhance my existing skillset and gain the technical tools needed to excel in the field. Now, I seamlessly combine my deep understanding of customer needs with technical proficiency, setting me apart in the UX/UI design industry.
University of Toronto SCS - Creative Writing
Poetry was my muse in this program, and what a revelation it was. It showed me the impact of every word, line, and punctuation mark. Just as in UX Writing and Design, it's all about the nuances of language and the art of storytelling. Oh, and exciting news – I proudly received Honours for my final manuscript!
My Reading List
Beyond UX
E-commerce
As the founder and owner of Freddy's Vintage, I am deeply passionate about vintage fashion. Within my e-commerce shop, I curate eclectic pieces spanning multiple eras. In addition to my online presence, I actively engage with the community through markets and the organization of pop-up events. This hands-on approach allows me to delve into the intersection of design and user experience, enriching my ability to create captivating and meaningful interactions in both digital and physical realms.
Photography
I have a love for analogue photography. With its nostalgic appeal and unique aesthetic, film photography allows me to slow down and truly connect with the art of capturing moments. The deliberate process of selecting film, setting up shots, and eagerly awaiting the development of each frame fuels my creativity and deepens my appreciation for the craft. Exploring the interplay of light, composition, and emotion, I find joy in preserving memories through film.
Property renovations
With a deep passion for home renovations, I have successfully revitalized three properties, honing my skills in project management, collaboration, and hands-on craftsmanship. From working closely with designers and contractors, to taking on DIY projects, I have immersed myself in the intricacies of tear-downs, tiling, flooring, painting, and more. Each renovation journey has not only transformed physical spaces but has also sparked my creativity, allowing me to bring visions to life and create inviting and functional environments.
Fun stuff
I'm all about the good times! Trivia nights, karaoke sessions, and head banging at metal concerts get my adrenaline pumping. When it's time to chill, you'll find me beachside, working on my tan. Staying fit is important, so I hit the gym regularly to keep the energy flowing. And of course, cozying up on the couch with my furry bestie, Mabel for Netflix marathons is my idea of a perfect night in. Life's a wild ride, and I'm here for every thrilling moment!