Woman in striped dress, hand on face, stands near a framed picture of a white building on a dune.
Watercolor bird painting with paints, brush, and water in a white workspace.
Woman smiling, holding a floral-shaped watercolor palette; setting is indoors with a window.

Welcome to One Light Studio, where whimsical watercolors and contemplative words intersect.

I’m Melissa, and I’m not an artist, or a writer; well, at least I never used to be. 


A few years ago, I was at a low point in my life. I have a history of saying “yes” to things that aren’t meant for me, and I was struggling because of it. The job I was working, left me feeling belittled, overseen, overworked, and frustrated. I was trying to balance my job with being a present mom to my highly-sensitive daughter, and somehow find time for my marriage. In addition, I was battling hypothyroidism, a challenging autoimmune condition that drained me of my energy, and messed with my hormonal balance. 


I needed an outlet; a mental space that would bring me peace and comfort, and help me shift my focus to be more present amongst the chaos. 


I picked up my daughter’s watercolors, and began to paint. I quickly realized how relaxing the act of painting was. I painted day after day, adding short, contemplative writings to my work, and before I knew it, “One Light Studio” was born. 


Today, I’m using my story and experiences to connect with you; to share in this life-journey, and to hold your spirit in a positive light. 


So, I guess I AM an artist and a writer—and I’m thankful. 


Artistic expressions of watercolor and writing bring me joy, and have become a vessel of inspiration; honing in on faith-based content, and a mission of hope.


Creating artful illustrations and words that uplift, inspire, and drive the spirit, is my ministry; my purpose in this life–now, I’m eager to share my mission with YOU, and spread my light as far as it’ll go. 


I hope you’ll join me on this journey. 


In light and love,


Melissa


Woman with blonde hair, arms crossed, in front of a desk in a light-filled room.
Watercolor painting of a blue cross, in a wooden frame, on white background.
Hand holding a white paint palette with colorful watercolor paints.

With Gratitude

Nothing worth having, ever comes without the support of others…


God is so good. Not a day of chasing this dream has gone by, without prayers of thanks to the Father who’s walked alongside me through it all. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to fully become the person He’s created me to be, and to share the love He’s placed within me, with the world. 


To my Husband…

There aren’t enough words to exude how grateful I am for you. From the moment I picked up a brush for the first time, you’ve believed in me. You never doubted this journey; only encouraged me to follow it. Your support and love, bless me beyond measure. Thank you–for believing, for supporting, for encouraging. For doing “bedtime duties” so I could keep writing and creating. For the set-up’s and tear-down’s at events, fairs, and markets. For holding me when I felt discouraged. For celebrating me when I felt successful. For loving me, in all of my weaknesses. You are light–always. I love you. 


To my daughter…

There will never be a day that I don’t celebrate all that you are. You have a light within you, sweet girl, and your artistic talents are plentiful–I can’t wait to see where they take you! Thank you for being my number one cheerleader. For smiling with delight whenever I show you a newly finished piece. For jumping for joy at every little sale and success. For showing up at every event, every time. For being the most beautiful heart, in every way. I’m blessed to be your mama. I love you, Bug. 


To my mom, my grandma, and my grandpa…

Without your support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Thank you. For cheering me on, for seeing my gifts and encouraging me to use them, for pushing me to go further. Your love and support shine so brightly in this world–I am forever grateful. I love you all.


To my sisters…

From the moment I decided to chase this little dream, your work as small business owners, inspired me. Amy and Hallie, you both have a light that glows, endlessly, in our world–and I’m eternally grateful to feel its warmth. Thank you for sharing who you are, thank you for loving me for who I am. I adore you both–always. 


To my friends…

You’re the best. Everyone should have people in their life that make them feel like they’ve won the friendship lottery. You’re always ready to celebrate my tiny wins, and encourage me to keep going. You make me feel unstoppable, and I’m forever grateful for that. I love you all, dearly. Thank you for walking alongside me, and cheering me on–I couldn’t do this without you! 


To the communities…

Without the start-up support from my hometown community of Waunakee, Wisconsin, I wouldn’t be sitting here, writing. I am eternally grateful to the small businesses that welcomed my artwork on their shelves; who rallied around me when I wanted to go further. To the community members who showed up at every event to support me–I thank you. Waunakee, and the people who live there, will always have a special place in my heart. 

To the community of Lake Elmo, and the people who’ve stepped in to shower me with support and excitement–thank you! I am thrilled to see where my dream takes me, and I couldn’t do it without those who’ve willingly given me space to grow. To Erica, Julie, and Sabrina, Owner’s of Sunshine Coffee in downtown Lake Elmo–I can’t thank you enough. Your support, encouragement, smiles, and “girl-power” energy gives me life, and sends me out feeling unstoppable. 


And, to YOU…the beautiful people that I haven’t had the privilege to meet. To the businesses, the families, the communities and my fellow creators…I am humbled by your supportive spirit. May the work I do, bring out the best in us all. 


With glowing Light,


Melissa