Through my career in print and digital communication, I've developed a reputation as a reliable and accomplished editor and writer known for strong storytelling, effective relationship building, quick copy turnaround, and strict, almost fanatical adherence to deadlines. While my career has taken some interesting turns over the years, the greatest job satisfaction I experience is working as a writer and editor, whether helping readers understand how their local government works, or helping businesses communicate with their customers, employees or each other.  I eagerly embrace new opportunities to learn, meet new people and develop new skills that will be valuable in journalism, marketing and corporate communications. 

And, this, to the left, is my dog Rufus, a tyrannical editor.

I provide journalistic services for news outlets and magazines. Additionally, I write for businesses including interviewing, ghostwriting, blogging, press releases, case studies, and anything else you don't have time for. Pricing is based on an hourly or set rate, so email me and lets talk.

I hired Melissa to write an SEO blog for Harvard Extension School. Her work was thorough, well-written, and exactly what we were looking for. Melissa is also a joy to work with — quick to provide edits and keeps to deadlines. If the opportunity presents itself, I would hire her again!

--Abbi Matheson, Harvard School of Continuing Education


Melissa is one of my go to freelance reporters. I know no matter the assignment, Melissa can handle it and will do a great job. She's great with communication. I never have to chase her down to find out what is going on with a story or project; she let's me know before I even need to ask. Whenever I hear from editors looking for a trustworthy, reliable and thorough freelance reporter, Melissa is always the one I send their way. I highly recommend her.

--Melanie Plenda, Granite State News Collaborative

I've been hiring and directing freelance writers for more than 20 years, so I know deft skill and voice when I see—or rather, read one. Melissa and I have only been working together a few months now, and as I expected based on her previous work, she has really stepped up and provided the partnership, quality, and productivity that my team needs. So very grateful to have her on board!

--Paul Pegher, Emerson College School of Communications

I hired Melissa to write some customer case studies for digital marketing. Melissa quickly understood my business and target audience, and pieced together a narrative from existing recordings with very little direction. She was communicative, flexible and easy to work with. I plan to use Melissa again in the future.

--Becki Harrington-Davis, CareAcademy

I had first met Melissa when she was an editor for a local paper and I followed her work. I needed to take my business to next step and as a small business owner I needed to remove one of the hats I was wearing. Hiring Melissa to work on my communication was one of the best business decisions I have made; Melissa has continued to help keep our business visible and in the media. I highly recommend Melissa to help a company grow their brand identity/awareness.
--Erin Calvo-Bacci, owner, CBStuffer chocolate manufacturer

Melissa worked with me on an eNewsletter for Wachovia (now Wells Fargo) for five years. She's a diligent self-starter who can grab the ball and run with it. She creates compelling copy from an outline and always meets the deadlines, even when they get shortened on us! She cares tremendously about the quality of her work, and listens and incorporates feedback. I'd highly recommend her.

--Carey Earle, Vice President, Creative Services, Association Solutions

Margaret Atwood