Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Monge.
Hi Melissa , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in the corporate world, but entrepreneurship quickly called. Alongside my sister, I co-founded Guardian Angels Sitting Service, followed by launching MDM Design and Marketing, where I continue to help businesses grow through strategic marketing and development.
After my son left for college, I was ready for a new chapter. In 2023, a visit to Sea Love in New England sparked inspiration—combining creativity, connection, and experience in a way Hilton Head was missing. Today, I’m excited to bring that passion and my business background to grow Sea Love in the Lowcountry and create a space where people come together to make memories.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This month, December we are celebrating the start of our 3rd year in Hilton Head Island and 1 year in Savannah, GA.
Launching Sea Love Savannah was both exciting and challenging. Like many small business owners, we built it step by step—learning, adapting, and growing along the way. The support from the Savannah community, visitors, and local partners helped shape Sea Love into what it is today: a welcoming space for celebrations, girls’ trips, family outings, date nights, and corporate events.
Today, Sea Love Savannah is more than a business—it’s a place where memories are made, stories are shared, and creativity comes to life. I’m incredibly proud of how far it has come and excited to continue growing a brand rooted in connection, experience, and heart.
We’ve been impressed with Sea Love , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sea Love Candle Bar & Boutique is a retail brand built around connection, creativity, and storytelling. We specialize in custom candle-making experiences where guests hand-pour their own candles and blend personalized fragrances in a welcoming, coastal-inspired space. Whether someone is celebrating a birthday, planning a girls’ trip, hosting a corporate event, or simply looking for a fun afternoon activity, Sea Love offers an experience—not just a product.
What sets Sea Love apart is our focus on guided, hands-on experiences led by certified scent stylists who help guests create a candle that reflects their personality and memories. Every visit is interactive, intentional, and designed to bring people together. Our candles aren’t mass-produced—they’re made by our guests, which makes each one truly one-of-a-kind.
We’re known for creating a space that feels both elevated and approachable. In addition to in-store experiences, we offer private events, off-site candle-making, corporate team-building, weddings, and group outings, making Sea Love a go-to destination for meaningful celebrations. Our boutique also features curated gifts that align with our coastal, lifestyle-driven brand.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how Sea Love has become part of the community. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to slow down, connect, and create lasting memories. Our brand is rooted in the belief that scent tells a story, and every candle made at Sea Love carries a personal meaning tied to a moment, a person, or a place.
What I want readers to know is that Sea Love is more than a candle bar—it’s a space for experiences, connection, and creativity. We’re proud to offer something truly special in Savannah and Hilton Head, and we’re excited to continue growing a brand that brings people together through scent and story.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is bringing people together and creating meaningful experiences. Seeing friends, families, and even strangers connect—laughing, creating, and making memories together—is incredibly fulfilling to me. That’s why Sea Love means so much; it’s not just about candles, but about slowing down and sharing a moment.
I’m also deeply happy when I’m spending time with my family—watching my son play hockey, being with Jeremy and our family, and soaking up time with our granddaughter. Those moments remind me why I took the risks I did and why building a life and business rooted in connection matters.
At the heart of it, I’m happiest when I’m creating—whether that’s building a brand, helping others grow their businesses, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Lowcountry with the people I love.
Pricing:
- Candle making experiences start at $49
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sealove.com/savannah
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sealovesavannah
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sealovesavannah
