Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marissa Hitt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Marissa, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.
Like other qualities, generosity is a trait I have to practice. I have a genuine love for making others’ days better, but I must be intentional in the art of serving others. Growing up, my parents didn’t force me to be generous in such a way that made my actions ingenuine. Rather, they modeled kindness, provided a nurturing home, & showcased their expectations of me in their own actions. Because I had security given to me by wonderful role models, generosity naturally became a part of my lifestyle. Generosity consists of attitude & action. It’s a skill that must be practiced day by day, moment by moment.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I could say Melane & Co. began with a pack of watercolor paints found in my basement, but the Melane & Co. lifestyle also took place in my everyday, before I knew I would run a lifestyle business. My days were filled with creative pursuits–from painting nature scenes to looking at illustrated children’s books while cuddling with the family dogs.
After my two childhood dogs passed away, my perspective on pet portraits grew. I know the excitement of gaining a new furry family member & what it is like to paint a precious pet who has passed. Custom Melane & Co. pet portraits are our most popular, beloved service. When I am creating your furry (or feathery) family member, not only do I put paint to paper to reflect their features, but I study their body language, eyes, & personality from their photographs.
I also use the same watercolor paint for Melane & Co. cards, wall prints, & custom floral paintings.
The Melane & Co. watercolor wall prints & cards bring joy into the home, while our custom floral paintings feature pretty petals with a touch of whimsy.
One of our newest launches is floral notecards & wall prints. It is a delight to officially announce this exciting occassion through this interview!
All things Melane & Co. can be found on melaneandco.com
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Humility, creativity, & determination are a few multi-faceted qualities, skills, & areas of knowledge that have been beneficial to me & also for Melane & Co.
For example, I can showcase humility by asking for help when needed or learning about another person’s life before talking about my own. I love asking others about their passions & pursuits, because the things that excite others are inspirational to me. A practical way to seek humility is to ask yourself, “how can I serve others?” The answer to that question may look like stepping out of your comfort zone to get to know someone, opening the door for a few people, or smiling a genuine smile throughout the day.
While there are many jobs that differ from mine, I believe everyone has the ability to express creativity. Whether you’re an artist like me or a mother of 3, your lifestyle is an art, as you have an influence on others. Artistry is not categorized to those who are crafty or can sketch well–artistry is your lifestyle, talents, & uniqueness. If every person held the same creative gifts, we would not be able to admire individual uniqueness. If you want to be more creative, identify the qualities, skills, & knowledge you have. Continue creating a lifestyle full of joy.
Like layers of watercolor paint on paper, I have recognized that my determination has come to life thanks to multiple experiences. For example, I wouldn’t hold the same determination I do now if I didn’t have my little sister in my life. Not only has Brooklyn, my little sister who faces multiple heart defects, taught me determination, but persistence, & that every breath is a gift. After many life lessons, I have discovered that determination can begin in a quiet confidence. To strengthen the gift of determination, it’s important to find stillness in an endeavor, This may require taking a step back and asking yourself, “how can pursue this experience, this moment, from a place of peace?”
Because I hold the knowledge of humility, creativity, & determination, it is my responsibility to put each one into practice.
Essentially, determination & persistence are a couple of key factors to any endeavor. As a result, your lifestyle can become an art.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
A portion of the cover is adorned with a quatrefoil pattern, while the bottom right corner spells out my mom’s name in a silver cursive font. Years ago, I noticed a pen mark on its front. I tried to wipe it off, frantically running over its thick cover with rubbing alcohol, but then a piece of the pattern became smudged. Panicked, I showed my mom, who was saddened to see a part of her new Bible ruined. Not too long after the incident, she told me that the Bible was even more beautiful to her than it was before, because the Book represented something meaningful to her: God looks at our mistakes, all of our flaws, & carries us (John 3:17). A few of my favorite verses are Jeremiah 29:11, John 3:17, & 1 Corinthians 15:10. When I study the mar on my mom’s Bible, I am reminded of how her words reflect the truth of Scripture. There is no greater artistry from the Creator’s divine Word, which was made to guide us into Life.
Contact Info:
- Website: melaneandco.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/melaneandco/ & www.instagram.com/marissa_hitt/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/melaneandco
- Other: Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/melaneandco/ & www.pinterest.com/marissa_hitt/
Threads: www.threads.net/@melaneandco
Image Credits
Photos by Jenny Shipley Floral arrangement by Victorian Gardens Watercolor notecards, wall prints, & paintings by Melane & Co.
