MetroMom Melissa Stanchock
Melissa Stanchock, a veteran-turned-designer-turned-mom of 3-year old Evan and 7-month old Kyle, created ModernMe during her first pregnancy. Her concept is clever, and her company is community conscientious, donating a portion of profits to Reach Out and Read and the San Diego Zoo Conservation and Research for Endangered Species Foundation.

MM - What did you do “before kids” or “before modern me?”

Before becoming a wife, mother and business owner, I spent eight years of my life serving my country in the United States Air Force. I believe this was really the beginning of Modern Me, as it took me out of my small hometown in Pennsylvania, and gave me a glimpse of what the world had to offer. It also taught me discipline, persistence, and hard work. After I fulfilled my service obligation, I set out to get my college degree in graphic design. I graduated with honors and a big idea tucked quietly away for the future. I then worked several jobs, sometimes more than one at a time, thinking then that it was to make ends meet, but looking back on it now; I realize each job was teaching me something I needed to know so I could someday apply it to my own business. I was a Marketing Manager, a retail store manager, and a children's photographer. Funny how things all seems to come together in the end.  

MM - How did you decide to start Modern Me?

I decided to start Modern Me when my first son was born. I always vowed that when I had children, I would stay home with them, so I could witness every milestone, kiss every boo boo, and be the greatest influence in their young lives. And I am so grateful that I am able to do so. But after Evan was born, it came down to the time when I had to either go back to work or find some way to stay home and still generate an income. I went searching for my portfolio (which was full of dust and in much need of updating) when I came across this idea I had back in college, for an assignment focused on launching a clothing line. My professor at the time was so excited about the idea, he wanted to partner up with me and launch the line immediately. I wasn't ready then, but I was certainly ready to give it the old college try now.

MM - How did you come up with "The Me Tee?"

I came up with the "Me Tee" one day while I was spending time with my nieces. I really didn't have any experience with children, so I realized that my first question to them would always be "What's that on your shirt?" And naturally, they would always look down at their shirt, and then up at me with the 'I don't know' shoulder shrug. It finally dawned on me that it would be cool if they could see the design on their shirt when they looked down, a shirt designed just for them to enjoy looking at when they wore it. Why can't they dress for themselves, instead of for everyone else?

MM - In hindsight, did you have realistic expectations as to the amount of time and work needed to open, operate and promote Modern Me?

Absolutely not. I am no stranger to long hours, the feeling of exhaustion and the desire to throw in the towel. But Modern Me has definitely challenged me more in these areas, than any other endeavor I have ever attempted. Since you only get out of it what you put into it, I do get discouraged more often than not, since my time (and resources) to devote to the business are a bit limited right now. But I really believe in the line, I have faith that it is what I am meant to do, and I know that the more successful I make Modern Me, the more money and time I can devote to charity. Not to mention the time it allows me to spend with my children (in between sales calls, making orders, updating the website, contacting buyers, etc.) I am so grateful for each day that my children are healthy, have a roof over their heads and I have food in their bellies, that I feel it is my duty to try to make it so for those who are not as fortunate.

MM - You are very supportive of charitable causes. How do you influence your children to be involved?

Since my boys are still pretty young, it is mostly through dialog with them. I also ask my three year old to give away some of his toys on the eve of a birthday or event where he might receive new toys, and try to help him understand that he can help make another child happy by giving them a toy that he no longer wants. I am so proud of his compassionate heart, and know it will only grow bigger with his years. We also limit the amount of material items that come into our house, and try to teach our children that the true meaning of happiness comes from helping and caring for others.
 
MM - How do you balance work and Motherhood?

For me it's more of a juggling act. My husband and I live in California, the rest of our entire family lives on the east coast. Because we are virtually the only family that my children have constant contact with, they always come first. There are many times where I am in the middle of completing an order, and my six month old just needs to be held, or my three year old wants to play a game. As difficult as it can be sometimes to tear myself away, I realize that these moments are fleeting, and that I have their school years to work. I put down the phone, turn off the computer, and turn my attention to them. As I type this I am dancing with a stuffed moose and tickling ten tiny toes. After they are asleep, or are otherwise occupied, I go back to working. I have also learned that life doesn't always go as planned, so being flexible is vital. And that sleep is overrated.