Meet Caitlin Melo | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Caitlin Melo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caitlin, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Honestly, as an entrepreneur there are many times where I contemplate whether or not I made the right choice. Between working full time, being in graduate school, running my business, and trying to balance it all with my personal life, it would be really easy for me to “give up” on everything.

But, my great-grandmother always taught me to have ‘Paciencia y Fe’, patience and faith. You have to have faith in yourself and your process, or else no one will. You also have to be patient with yourself which entails extending the grace you need when things go wrong.

Everything in life has its ups and downs, but I truly believe that even when you’re down, there is something to gain. If it’s not a lesson, its an experience, if it’s not an experience maybe it’s that patience my great grandmom told me about.

I find that people who have already reached success, however they define it, in entrepreneurship try to make it seem that the journey is black and white, that if you grind hard enough you’ll see results. This “grind culture” is unhealthy and unrealistic! In reality, even on days where you’re giving it your all and doing everything “right”…you won’t make a sale, you won’t get any engagement, you won’t gain any new clientele, etc. It is VERY frustrating.

At times like these is when I prioritize mental health. Since I’m juggling so many things, my mental health is definitely tested. But, If I don’t take care of myself how am I supposed to find the strength I need to hustle? You need to know your limits and set clear boundaries in order to function as an entrepreneur, if not you’ll give up on yourself and your vision before it even comes into fruition.

As a daughter of immigrants, I know what it looks like to overwork yourself to the point of exhaustion in order to provide for your family and/or prove something to yourself or others. I’ve learned a lot of lessons watching each and every one of family members hustle for years. They have made me into who I am today, a conscious hustler. To me this means three things. First, and most importantly, I know my purpose in pursuing each and every one of my ventures. My journey and purpose is personal, it is not dictated by anyone else. If you don’t have a meaningful purpose, then what will drive you? Second, I know when to step back. This doesn’t mean I’ve given up, it doesn’t mean that I’m weak, if anything it means I’m strong. Knowing my limits builds my resilience, so when I fall I have the strength to get right back up. Lastly, I know when to ask for help. Doing everything on your own is possible and almost expected in this field, but it is also very draining and can have negative effects on your hustle. Knowing when to ask for help allows both you and your business to grow because of the support, knowledge, and clarity you gain from engaging others in your creative process and vise versa.

So, to the answer the question, there is a lot that goes into deciding whether to give up or keep going. But, I don’t really think any one truly gives up. I also don’t believe that choosing to step away from something should make you feel guilty or as if you failed because as I mentioned before there is always something to gain. When one door closes another one opens. There are lessons learned and when you move on to your next journey you will be better equipped and know how to hustle consciously with ‘Paciencia y Fe’.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For many years, I struggled with my body image and confidence. Due to some trauma, I always worried what others would say or think if I wore certain clothes which really prevented me from feeling comfortable in my body and exploring my style. I started Meluxe to finally express myself unapologetically through clothing and invite others to do the same. When people wear my pieces I want their confidence to shine through. I want them to feel like the world is theirs, because it is. Too often fear holds us back from doing what we want and being who we truly are. My brand represents fearlessness and expressing yourself on your own terms. There is a real person behind Meluxe and when I see my girls feeling themselves in MY brand, it gives me an indescribable feeling of pride and joy that fuels my passion.

With Meluxe, I am also proud of my self-awareness and willingness to learn. I wear all of the hats with my boutique and it is a lot to juggle especially with all of my other roles in life, so I don’t always do everything right and I know that it’s okay. Even though my brand is small right now, I’m proud of where I am and so excited for where I’m going. Many may look at my brand and not think that where I am is a big deal, but listen….it’s a big deal TO ME because it took A LOT of work to get here. Deciding to pursue my passion and launch Meluxe was not easy. I wanted to wait for the perfect time, but between being in graduate school and working full-time, there was never going to be a perfect time. I just went for it and I am so proud of myself for investing in my vision.

I never knew how hard it was to set up a business, let alone launch it, and keep it going. But I truly enjoy the journey of learning more efficient ways to run and build my business. Whenever I encounter a hard time, I remember the advice that my great grandmom gave me, ‘Paciencia y fe’. I have faith in myself and my brand which is what gives me the motivation to keep going when my morale is low. I know that with patience I will reach my purpose with Meluxe because I will continue to grow, learn, and apply myself moving forward.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I haven’t been in Atlanta too long, but I know about some great spots! For food, my favorite restaurant by far has been Ms.Icey’s!! You HAVE to try their cornbread, mac and cheese, and etoufee… they are to die for. Not to mention that their drinks are also so good and so strong! Another great spot to hang out with friends (or a special someone) is Skyline Park! This place is so fun because it’s part rooftop bar and part amusement park, so the adult and kid in you can make the most of it! I’ve had so much fun here, the vibes and the people are great, I’m actually excited to go back.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to all of the amazing women in my life who have loved and supported me unconditionally since day one. Mami, Rosy, Kayla, Kirsten, Erin, and Dany each one of you continuously inspire and strengthen me, I’m beyond blessed to have such a dynamic support system. To anyone who has supported me and my business journey in any way, you have no clue how much it means to me, thank you for believing in my vision.

Website: www.shopmeluxe.com

Instagram: @shopmeluxe (business) @melo.cx (personal)

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-melo-701360156