An expert wordsmith and storyteller for women-led brands, communications strategist Melody Bay gives us a peek into her life and work.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented and inspiring folks, so we’ve decided to share the love by interviewing some of the lovely Launchpad members. Looking for inspiration? Check out how Melody Bay, the founder of Fresh Pages Communications, gets it done like a boss.
What is your backstory and why did you decide to launch your business?
Writing has always been my first love. Before this, I was a journalist at a lifestyle magazine, but every article has a shelf life. I’d pour my love and energy into a piece, but it’d be irrelevant by the next month.
I decided to become a creative copywriter for websites because that way, I could really make a lasting impact and lift up others with my words. I help female-led businesses define and amplify their brand story, stand out from the crowd, and sell their wonderful products or services in a much easier way. It’s heartwarming to see them come back and say they’re booked out after their website revamp!
What has been your biggest challenge so far and how did you overcome it?
Unlearning habits learned from corporate life. As a Type A, I gravitate towards structure and results. I push myself too hard sometimes. Running my own business has put me in charge of my own schedule, but I tend to give myself far too much to do in too short a time. It’s an ongoing challenge to be gentler with myself and to give myself space for rest.
Another thing is boundary defence, which I’ve learned is a daily fight. Everyone wants your time and attention, so it’s up to you to choose carefully whom you respond to and what you engage with. Putting processes in place helps to establish clearer boundaries, like having meeting days strictly only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The important thing to remember is that you run your business, not the other way around.
How do you stay motivated and energised?
My morning routine is my go-to motivator! Washing my face and putting on sunscreen, giving myself a high-five in the mirror (a habit I learned from Mel Robbins that sounds a bit silly but really gives me a boost of dopamine), having a quiet moment with my coffee and journal, and getting on the treadmill while reading Blinkist. I also built an IG account that follows only motivational accounts, which I visit whenever I need a boost.
How do you keep stress levels low?
By giving myself Monday mornings and Friday afternoons off. This way, I don’t get the “Sunday scaries” as much because I know Monday morning’s still technically the weekend. I reserve that time for reading and catching up on marketing news. Friday afternoons are off just because I love the idea of ending work early and going to the beach or park!
Favourite place to work?
In my brightly-lit home office, with fresh flowers, a steaming hot mug of tea, and a scented candle! Sometimes, when it’s admin work like replying to emails, I use my treadmill desk in the living room so I can get some steps in.
Can you share a work mantra that you use?
My favourite mantra is, “I do wonderful work in a wonderful way, for wonderful people and wonderful pay”. It embodies everything I want for my business: to keep loving what I do, to meet lovely partners and clients, and to create high value for others.
One thing you can keep talking about for hours?
Design- and home-related stuff. I’m a total homebody and love beautifying my space! I also used to write for a design magazine.
Your go-to self-care activity?
Flowers. I’m no expert, but I really enjoy spending two hours on a Saturday afternoon cutting and arranging beautiful blooms in a vase. It really brings me back to the present and the resulting arrangement gives me so much pleasure for the rest of the week.
One piece of advice to your younger self?
You’ll get everything you want — remember to slow down and don’t work yourself so hard.
Get in touch with Melody Bay online.
Launchpad is a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It is designed to make the entrepreneurial journey not only easier, and more successful, but also a whole lot more fun. We offer almost daily activities for members to connect, along with weekly masterclasses, member networking roulette, small-business mentoring and media profiles on Honeycombers. Check it out and join us!
