LOCAL FACES, PLACES & SPACES.

Why I Built My Mayne Island

MY MAYNE ISLAND August 20, 2026 • 4 min read
Why I Built My Mayne Island
A place to breathe, reflect, and reset.

A SANCTUARY FOUND

After 25+ years of working in sales and marketing, I've always had a passion for supporting and helping small businesses thrive. Long before I officially made it my home, I had been coming to Mayne Island for years with friends. Those visits were always a quiet escape into the beauty of Mayne Island.

When I needed to heal and navigate a profoundly new life after both of my children passed away in a three-year period, Mayne called to me. This island and its grounding, quiet beauty offered a space for me to breathe and rebuild. In many ways, this site is like a thank you to Mayne for helping this mama heal a little bit, even though I will never be the same as before.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. - Audrey Hepburn”

Honoring Memory & Celebrating Our Community

For a long time, I searched for a meaningful way to memorialize my children and keep their spirits alive. Through this site, I wanted to create space to honor my daughter, Sophia, whose beautiful artistic sketches and creativity left such a mark on my heart. I am designing products featuring her artwork, with every single dollar of profit going directly to charity, alongside using this voice to raise awareness for SUDEP.

As someone who loves supporting small businesses, I also couldn't help but notice how much of what makes this island magical is quietly tucked away—in roadside farm stands, studios down winding dirt lanes, and the dedication of local artisans. Building My Mayne Island is my way of planting that garden to connect people with those hidden gems.

- Melonie 💛

Mayne Island community and landscape
In loving memory of Sophia and Jack

HONOURING JACK & RAISING AWARENESS

When Jack passed away, my world changed forever. Part of my mission with Littles for Littles is ensuring that other families, caregivers, and communities have access to information, understanding, and hope.

Learn more about SUDEP