Melanie has so many wonderful qualities they would be too numerous to list here. But perhaps what I love most is her ability to bring out the best not only in herself but in those around her as well. Any room, gathering, party, or creative endeavor is immediately enhanced by her presence. She has a vision for herself and what she wants to accomplish, but more importantly she has the intelligence and drive to translate her aspirations into reality. We were friends before lovers, but even before we started dating I could not imagine my life without her. I feel amazed, lucky, and honored to call her my companion and partner. I will always love you Melanie.

Often times, friends are made or lost in the blink of an eye; a tiny moment that bonds or seperates them into infinity. A moment of photographic brilliance on my deck is what has bonded me to Melanie forever. I remember it like it was yesterday!

After plowing through Pat's Crocs and pillaging Eg. Bot's plate of food, I heard a "click click" coming from Melanie's chair. There was a small black electronic apparatus in her hand that I simply HAD TO HAVE. I ran full-speed and plowed into her lap, lunging for the noisemaker. (which I later learned was a "camera.") She put the camera over her head - away from my lunge (ALAS!) - and continued to make it create that "click click" sound... I never got the camera as Mom came over and pulled me away! BLASTS!

Two nights later, I noticed Mom and Dad looking at the computer where Melanie posts her pictures - and the pictures she had taken on the deck that day were on the computer! And they were AMAZING - dare I say breathtaking! (I mean, how couldn't they be? I was the subject!! :-).....) Seriously, though - my Dad's jaw was dangling on the floor and he was drooling worse than I do. Mom, stood by, silent and I swear I saw a tear in her eye! Of the thousands and thousands of photos taken of yours truly - the two Melanie had taken in my lunging for the camera were hands down and by far THE BEST!

I've noticed that many people fear my affection and almost all will do anything to protect things considered "valuable" in my presence. (My dad's the only one who didn't get upset when I ruined something like that... His I-POD remains one of the best meals I ever had!) But Melanie... ahh, Melanie... She absorbed my charge, protected the camera, and still had the where-with-all to use the thing during the whole episode. And for that, we're all the better!

Melanie's presence of mind in such situations is unmatched! Her artistic drive and uncanny ability to put the artwork FIRST have made her many friends and enhanced the lives of all who see (and hear) her work. Be it photography, DJing, or visual decor, Melanie drops bombs all over! Folks like her are few and far between and the Philly crew is lucky to have her! YOU ROCK, MEL!!!

The first thing I noticed about Mel was her many beautiful tattoos. I remember thinking, "this is a bold woman". After getting to know Melanie, I realize that she is as strong as she appears, yet she's as gentle as a lamb. I know I can always count on Mel to be grounded, even in the most precarious situations & nurturing as a mother. She's always prepared & if you forgot to be prepared, she'll be prepared for you! Not only will she have enough food to feed an army in the middle of the woods, but she'll have iced champagne & strawberries to boot! This woman has got class! And what a photographer she is! Often the photographer has to sacrifice their own experience, to capture if for others to enjoy later. I feel this captures Mel's essence perfectly - giving of herself for the enjoyment of others. I feel lucky to not only know Melanie, but to have her as a dear friend is such a blessing. She's a keeper. Keep smiling with that beautiful, lovely smile of yours...you could warm the coldest heart. xoxoxo

I met Mel in 2001. We're not quite sure we remember meeting, but we just happen to be at alot of the same parties. Flash forward a few years, and Mel re-entered my life when I needed someone like her the most. Her over flowing abundance of creativity continues to astound me. The talent and drive to create, paint, design and sew is what keeps her heart beating. Always right there to give a hug to a friend in need, she has no problem making anyone feel welcomed or part of the gang. With her camera handy, and a smile ready she's right there to capture every moment with her friends! Willing to share the shirt off her back (or out of her closet), her genrosity knows no bounds. Here's to an beyond awesome and talented chic that looks hot in anything the glows--including hot pink fish nets!! Let's raise a glass to our next painting and to our next adventure....may the be bigger and better then we could ever imagine!! Thank you for being in my life.... without you I wouldn't be creating things I have!!! Mel I wish Love, music, peace and hugs!!!

Melanie brings happiness to all walks of life. She's highly inclusive and never fails to ignite passion in everyone she meets. She brings joy and hilarity to all situations, has a completely carefree attitude, and somehow spontaneously creates harmony in even the most chaotic scenarios. Eternally grateful to have her as a friend.