YOU’RE WELCOME HERE.

I’m a writer who uses poetry as memoir, and memoir as a way to stay curious about moments that bring out our humanity in an increasingly non-human world.

In addition to my writing, I offer creative consulting services, host communal writing retreats, and perform in spaces where artists can connect with each other honestly.

Latest News & Events

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Latest News & Events *

Frogs, death, and stutters!

  • Check out this new flash CNF piece published by The Good Life Review for a clear example of how a finding a frog on one of my daily hikes inspired much deeper reflection.

I FOUND FRESH AIR IN Portugal!

  • The DISQUIET International Literary Program awarded me the Literary Cleveland Fellowship for 2026. The fellowship allowed me to learn from brilliant writers and teachers for two weeks in one the most delightful European literary cities. My work shifted and grew, and I’m heading into fall with renewed eyes and ears.

ARTIST GRANT!

  • Thank you to Assembly of the Arts for a Boost Grant to fund creative development and artistic projects. It’s a gift of dollars, yes, but the unexpected gift is the validation and inspiration I’ve received from meeting other creatives through Assembly. Cleveland artists are rich in support, and I’m excited to become a member of this incredible organization.

LIBRARIES ROCK!

  • Cuyahoga County Library System featured 30 Ohioan poets for National Poetry Month 2026… and I was one of them! Here’s a link to “2024 on the Cuyahoga,” first published in the NEORSD Odes to Infrastructure zine. (And performed in the coolest reading ever — deep in the sewer on their podcasts promoting clean water. Check out the podcast of the reading here, minute 6-ish.)

  • "I cannot express well enough how grateful we are that we found Melissa. SHe was absolutely wonderful to work with...from the initial group workshop to the one-on-one meetings."

    — College Essay Advising client

  • "Words in the Woods helped me to feel more confident, comfortable, and connected in my transition from writing poetry to fiction. I'm very grateful for the experience."

    —Retreat participant

  • "She helped me write a beautiful essay that was still 100% my voice and inspiration. She made the difference between good to great."

    —College Essay Advising client

  • "Best investment ever of time, energy, money and emotion! She is a gracious host and an experienced event planner. Her insights were amazing, fresh, and incredibly sharp."

    — Writing workshop client

  • "As a beginner, I learned so much from Melissa in the craft talks, and the writing exercises helped to ‘dislodge’ things that I have been thinking about so I could finally write them in a safe and supportive environment."

    — Writing workshop client

SERVICES

WRITING RETREATS →

This retreat was the perfect way to reset, clarify my goals, and make significant progress on a large writing project.

(I finished The first draft of my novel!)

- Susan in Ohio, WiW Dec .2025

Get In Touch

If you're interested in working with me, complete the form with a few details about your project. I'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.