Just a bit about us...
Maria
Co-CEO, Creative Director, CSF (Chief Sister Friend)
"The beauty of a woman
is not in the clothes she wears,
the figure that she carries,
or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes;
because that is the doorway to her heart,
the place where love resides.
True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.
It is the caring that she lovingly gives,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows.
– Audrey Hepburn
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As a wife and mom of three daughters and one son, I wear many hats—award-winning designer, creative director, certified life coach, and passionate mentor. Teaching, sharing, giving, listening, and creating beauty in every form has always been second nature to me.
I'm a romantic at heart—there’s just something about LOVE that captivates me. I’m also enchanted by the world’s natural beauty and rich cultural diversity, finding inspiration in music, food (cupcakes with sprinkles, always!), fashion, and, of course, a killer pair of heels. But don’t let the heels fool you—I can throw down in volleyball, basketball, football, dodgeball, and pickleball (yes, I’m a sports girl at heart). Add CrossFit to the mix, though, and I’ll admit… burpees and I have a complicated relationship (if you know, you know!).
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of designing for and collaborating with incredible women from all walks of life—from award-winning musicians, artists, and authors to professionals across industries, and everyday moms, wives, and friends working tirelessly to bring their dreams to life. Each of them, including my own mother and grandmother, has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, greatness, determination, and self-worth. Their strength and wisdom continue to inspire me, and my mission is to help women become the best versions of themselves—not by changing who they are, but by embracing and elevating their own unique gifts and talents.
Melanin & Muscles came to life (in my head) in the middle of an intense workout session while I was "attempting" to have a conversation with my cousin about her trip to Greece with the "Melanin" Travel Group. At that very moment (through the sweat and exhaustion), I saw what I was going to do with my experience, skills, passions, talents, and desires. A place where women could be strong & feel strong in their lives. This was a lightbulb moment that came to fruition during a "catch-up" conversation with my fab friend Chantae, who had an incredible idea of her own. Flame Lit! Together, we brought our ideas to life, this beautiful space for women like us!
And on that note, I want to say THANK YOU for allowing us into YOUR lives. Together, we can conquer obstacles and achieve goals, and I'm here for all of it!
Chantae
Co-CEO, Business Manager and CRF (Chief "Realest" Friend)
As a wife and mother of four (all daughters), I am passionate about uplifting women and empowering them to accomplish their dreams and full potential. I understand the unique challenges that women face daily in balancing their personal and professional lives. I live it everyday! That's why I'm committed to creating a supportive and inclusive community where women can connect, learn, grow together and thrive.
As a young woman I always had a passion for helping others. I have held many titles from Production Manager in the NYC Fashion Industry, creating dresses with the right fit for women to feel like their best selves, to a Teacher of underprivileged youth helping them achieve their highest potential. As much as I have enjoyed working in these professions, I still had a feeling of wanting to do more and reach more people. People like me! Women! Women of color! That's when I made it my goal to become an entrepreneur and start my own business focused on empowering women.
A Business: For Women, By Women! A forum to address the whole woman. Our needs, our desires, the things we don’t discuss but that need to be spoken about. While I was pondering this idea for quite some time I happened to have a casual but meaningful chat with my friend Maria (who was contemplating something of her own). Little did we both know that simple but important chat would spark an idea and come to be what we know today as Melanin & Muscles. Our shared connection and love for women would become our passion.
THANK YOU for allowing us to share our stories. We look forward to hearing yours!
Interested in Partnering with Us?
At Melanin & Muscles, we collaborate with brands that share our commitment to wellness, empowerment, and self-care. If you’re interested in joining our mission, review our Advertiser Agreement Form to explore partnership opportunities