Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Ishage.
Hi Mel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Nearly 20 years ago, I began my career in the media industry as a street team member for a Charlotte-based radio station. My passion for behind-the-scenes work led me to move up the ranks, eventually becoming an assistant for the program director. During this time, I also worked as a part-time server, which further solidified my dedication to serving others.
After being laid off from my assistant role, I moved to Las Vegas and eventually Los Angeles, where I worked as an assistant for high-level executives in various industries. These experiences laid the foundation for my current business, Bespoke Opulence, a luxury concierge service specializing in lifestyle management and travel.
Through meditation and planning, I gained clarity on my vision and launched Bespoke Opulence after moving back to Charlotte in June 2022. My mission, as it always has been, is to give clients the ultimate luxury of time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In the face of unexpected challenges, I persevered on the path to realizing my entrepreneurial goals. After securing a full-time remote position at a company, I relocated back to Charlotte, NC with a plan to dedicate five years to building my company part-time. However, fate had other plans. In August of 2022, I suffered a labrum tear and underwent surgery in December of the same year. Despite the setback, I did not take medical leave, as I was working remotely. Unfortunately, I was laid off in January, thrusting my part-time venture into the forefront of my priorities much sooner than anticipated.
Undeterred by my physical limitations, I launched my business on social media the same day I was laid off, still on crutches and unable to engage in networking or assume the public face of my company. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to my vision and steadily progressed towards its realization.
As you know, we’re big fans of Bespoke Opulence. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
Bespoke Opulence is a premier virtual luxury concierge company, offering exclusive membership-based services that cater to the discerning needs of individuals seeking superior lifestyle management and travel assistance. Our mission is to provide our clients with the most valuable and sought-after commodity of all, time. From making dinner reservations, finding vendors for events, and booking travel, to purchasing concert tickets, planning itineraries, and more, we offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to our clients’ daily lives.
At Bespoke Opulence, we go above and beyond to ensure that our clients receive personalized services tailored to their unique preferences and requirements. We offer an extensive network of vendors and service providers who are among the best in their fields, ensuring that our clients receive exceptional service and quality.
Our dedication to personalizing our services is what sets us apart from other concierge companies. We understand that lifestyle encompasses a wide range of factors, including fashion, entertainment, kids’ activities, schools, sports, leisure, wellness, art, nannies, cleaning, and more. That’s why we provide our clients with valuable tips and information on a broad range of lifestyle-related topics to help them make informed decisions.
When you work with us, we’re going to build a relationship with you and connect with you. We want to know about you and your family and how we can work together to give you back time to focus on the important things in your life.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
For personal growth and mindset:
Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
Living Forward by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy
7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma
The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale
For business and entrepreneurship:
Think Like an Entrepreneur, Act Like a CEO by Beverly E. Jones
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
Twelve and a Half by Gary Vaynerchuk
For learning on-the-go:
Blinkist App
For financial education and entrepreneurship:
Earn Your Leisure Podcast
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bespokeopulence.com
- Instagram: bespokeopulencellc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bespokeopulence/
Image Credits
Jonathan Keitt
