Meet MELISSA LEDEZMA | DESIGNER

We had the good fortune of connecting with MELISSA LEDEZMA and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MELISSA, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have the tendency to dress how I feel and sometimes i’m a little lazy. So on those days I like to be comfortable and normally wear sweats. But the problem with sweats is that , in my opinion, they’re not really made to be worn outside the house. Very unflattering and looks like you just rolled out of bed. For me and my current lifestyle, that wasn’t something I wanted to be wearing.

Every time I step out of the house theres meetings I need to go to or pictures are being taken. And quite frankly, I don’t want to be meeting people or coming out in pictures looking like I gave up on life. So I started thinking about a form of lounge wear that would be easily transitionable. One that you could wear at home but also to a meeting or to lunch and still look professional, sophisticated, and well put together.

Theres also a saying I always grew up hearing, “the things you do at home, you will eventually do in public”. It mostly pertains to manners and etiquette but for me its also about mind set. If you’re fabulous at home you’re just as fabulous in public.

That was really how the process for House Twenty Two began. We brought back the elegance of being at home.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Being completely honest, I think the thing I am most proud of was being able to start to begin with.Starting a business has been one of the most challenging and life changing things I have ever done. Every day is a new lesson. There’s always different people you have to deal with and trying to adjust when things don’t go as planned.But the amount of self growth this whole process has given me is priceless. That really has been my number one achievement, growing up.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Elleven, Gold rush and La Granja!

I’m just kidding. Miami has something to offer for everyone. For the foodies, Miami is quickly becoming the go-to for the best culinary experiences. Omakai in Wynwood, has the freshest selection of sushi and Omakase. They have a different selection of fish from all around the globe. I must admit, I will eat there at least three times month. You also have some beautiful parks right on the water for those interested in walking or biking. Of course, most people believe the only thing you do in Miami is party and walk around in bikinis! I will take this opportunity to let the readers know, THIS IS NOT TRUE! We wear real clothes here!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I believe every person who is and has been in my life deserves a little recognition. Each person has been a mentor in one way or another. My biggest support system however, has been my friends. They have helped me with everything from keeping me in shape (physically and mentally) to helping me with shows, interviews, and events. Life gets busy and I am forever thankful they have taken the time to help me. Sounds cliché, but I truly wouldn’t have been able to do even launch without them!

Website: www.housetwentytwo.com

Instagram: @house_twentytwo

Linkedin: house twenty two

Facebook: h.twentytwo

Youtube: @housetwentytwo