We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Michaels. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.
Melissa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?
This idea has been percolating for years. While in an acting class at the Beverly Hills Playhouse, a classmate mentioned that there’s an energy about me that was very grounding and healing. That resonated with me. Experiences began to reinforce those words. I intended to create what I believe WE need to be better humans. As a result, I gave birth to Inpeloto. It is an acronym which stands for – INfinite, PEace, LOve, TOgetherness. Inpeloto is a socially conscious company consisting of artistic expressions in the form of jewelry, t-shirts, and accessories. Wear the change you want to see.
My inspiration comes from the activism of the hippie movement in Haight Ashbury. Some of my designs pay homage to that decade that started raising consciousness and had soul affirming music. What is old is new again.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an award-winning author, indie film producer, designer and activist. I came to design after acting and modeling because of wanting to express beauty in wearable art that has something to say. “I want the men and women that wear my designs to appreciate the brand name because it stands for something. I want it to be an experience. I want them to refer it as the go-to brand for protests and marches for positive social change—as well as comfort and beauty.”
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I had a stroke at 29. Stress levels were on another hemisphere. It’s a miracle that I made it through that traumatic season. At the time, I did not know how to advocate for myself. It took years for me to find my voice and to recover. My healing journey began.
Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.
My brand is handmade by me and made with love. I purchase beads, crystals and metal products from vendors that share the same values here in the states. I work with a local graphic person and print shop. Recently, I connected with a brilliant branding expert. My team is incredibly talented. Healthy energy, grit, love, respect and communication are everything. We’re on that limitless vibration.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.inpeloto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inpelotobymelissamichaels/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InpelotoINfinitePEaceLOveTOgetherness/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inpeloto
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/inpeloto
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sunshinemelissa