Meet Melissa Agu-Udemba | Owner, MA Designs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Agu-Udemba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always known I wanted to build something for myself and be successful at it, I just needed to find out what I was passionate about. I had entered in an extremely low moment in my life and struggled with my mental health. My counselor told me to focus on things that I liked and to gain new hobbies. I knew I was really great at crafts, home decorating and just turning items into beautiful things! That blossomed into wreath making and other handmade items that I became good at. Then one day my husband dragged me to a workshop with him. I am not someone who can sit still for a long period of time, so I began doodling and thinking and dreaming. I came up with MA Designs right then and there. I nudged my husband and said “I want to do this!”. It’s amazing to me how God can give you an inspiration in the midst of some of your lowest moments. Even at your bottom, He is never done with you!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At MA Designs, I specialize in modern, unique and minimalist handmade wreaths, as well as other home decor. I add a modern flair to the typical and traditional wreath. My wreaths can be hung on your front door, of course, but many are even suitable for indoors, in a nursery or even to be used for a baby shower or bridal shower. Currently my fall collection also includes handmade candle rings, which are perfect for a beautiful fall table scape! I love bringing beautiful items together to create a gorgeous aesthetic. Although my business is still somewhat new, I am incredibly grateful for the small amount of success I’ve had so far. I think the quality of my work speaks for itself and that’s why customers are eager to own an MA Designs wreath. I’ve spent countless hours learning from others who are more successful than me, watching tutorials, reading and just overall growing so that I can be a better entrepreneur, but also so that I can provide the best service to my potential customers. That is something I’m really proud of. I’m excited for the continued growth of MA Designs, particularly the upcoming holiday season. That’s a huge season for those of us in the home decor arena! I am hoping to solidify my mark even further.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think I would start with some relaxation time first. I would introduce my friend to the practice of acupuncture. I love going to Beachside Community Acupuncture in the Addison area. I sometimes start my weekend with acupuncture because of all the amazing health benefits, but also because it is so incredibly relaxing! Beachside is such an incredible place! Then, I would follow that up with a traditional Thai massage at MyThai Massage & Spa. Their Thai massages are so interesting and healing!

Next it is time for some fun, so we would probably hit up an escape game at Ultimate Escape Game in Dallas/Addison area. They have a variety of escape games with different levels. My husband and I have been there several times and the staff is always super friendly and helpful!

Lastly, some fun places to go hit the town on a nice evening would be to visit the Trinity Groves area. It is not only a beautiful view, but also there are so many restaurants within walking distance! You can choose from a variety of cuisines and then eat in the courtyard outside and enjoy the view. It is a nice way to just casually hang out, grab a few drinks and a bite to eat!

On another night that may require more dressing up, I would take my friend to Bob’s Steak and Chophouse, primary the downtown Dallas location off of South Lamar. It is seriously the best food I have ever had in my entire life. Spending the money is always worth it at Bob’s. Their juicy bacon strips are to die for! And I could probably order a few extra steaks to go!

There are many great places in the area, however these are some of my go-to.

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?
Absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt, my husband deserves a huge shout out! My husband, Keddrick, is my biggest supporter and cheerleader. I would have never found the confidence to start my business without him. He has started and ran several businesses before so most of the knowledge I even have of business comes from him pouring into me. He has heard my cries, my frustrations, the sound of the “cha-ching” every time an order comes through, etc! He even helps to package items for me and drops them off to be shipped. He is the best partner I could ever ask for. I also have to shout out my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ because I wouldn’t even be me without Him. He’s the real MVP.

Website: www.madesignswreaths.etsy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madesigns_shop/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MADesignsWreaths/

Other: Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/madesigns_shop/