Melissa “Mel” Landon
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Melissa “Mel” Landon arrived in Melrose in 2014, bringing with her a background in biotech and a vision for something new. While working remotely, she was inspired by the coworking spaces she had utilized while living in Canada. Recognizing a need for a similar space in her new community, she set out to create one. In 2021, that vision became a reality with the launch of her passion project, The Worklery, a coworking space nestled in the heart of downtown Melrose at 441 Main St, 3rd Floor.
More than just a shared office, The Worklery serves as a hub for professionals seeking both productivity and connection. It offers a range of workspace options tailored to diverse needs: Open Desk Coworking for those who thrive in a collaborative atmosphere, Private Office Spaces for individuals seeking a quieter, dedicated workspace, and a Conference Room designed for group meetings and events.
But Mel’s mission extends beyond office space. She has cultivated The Worklery as a vibrant community center, regularly hosting workshops, networking events, music jam sessions, and art exhibitions. Her passion for community building is evident in the many events held there, including the annual Ugly Sweater Party co-hosted with the Melrose Chamber of Commerce, Swap Days with Zero Waste Melrose, and various local meetings aimed at fostering connection and collaboration.
As if running The Worklery weren’t enough, Mel is also a coach and mentor for startup companies, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs on their journeys. A mother of two boys, she balances her professional pursuits with her love for music, performing as a singer in The Emersons, a Melrose-based band known for its eclectic mix of rock, blues, and pop.
Her deep appreciation for music makes her a natural fit as an organizer for Porchfest. The 2025 festival is already set for September 20th, and she is currently seeking volunteers to bring it to life. This year, she also launched the first-ever Porchfest Indoor Concert Series in collaboration with Follow Your Art. The inaugural event took place in February, with two more performances on the horizon.
What Mel cherishes most about Melrose is its small-town charm — the ability to walk through the streets and be greeted by familiar faces, reinforcing the strong sense of community that first drew her in.
Starting her own business was one of her biggest bucket list dreams — one she proudly achieved, gaining invaluable experience along the way. But there’s still plenty on her list, including traveling more, with South America and Africa at the top of her destinations.
As for what she finds delightfully quirky about Melrose? The unexpected hills and steep driveways. One quirky thing about Mel - She never forgets a name! Now that is a talent.
Through her many roles—as a business owner, mentor, musician, and community leader—Melissa “Mel” Landon continues to shape and enrich the fabric of Melrose, bringing people together and creating spaces where ideas, creativity, and friendships can flourish.
