Melisa

What’s the best part of life after 40?

Life after 40 isn’t about fading—it’s about focus. Who we become is our choice. After retiring from hairstyling at 30, I found my outlet in furniture restoration—breathing life into forgotten pieces feeds my soul. Staying active and my skincare routine keep me strong, but confidence and spiritual growth define this chapter. As a single mom to my 19-year-old daughter, I want her to see that life doesn’t shrink after 40—it expands. Every choice matters. This is my masterpiece unfolding.

What makes you feel fabulous?

I feel fabulous after a vigorous hike, pushing my body harder every day and feeling strong. Trying on pieces from my vintage collection—I own over 40 mink coats—just for the hell of it makes me happy. Cooking dinner for my daughter and her friends fills my soul; they say I’m pretty good at it. Fabulous is confidence, hands down. It’s knowing myself, embracing my creativity, and living fully. It’s the freedom to be playful, powerful, and unapologetically me at every age.

What would you do with $40,000?

Renovate my 100-year-old family home. It’s been in my family for generations and needs serious updates Ceilings are unstable, insulation is lacking, and our utility bills are insane. I want to create a safe, comfortable living space that honors this home’s history while making it functional for today. This house has stood for over a century and deserves to stand strong for the next chapter. Just like restoring vintage furniture, it’s about bringing life to something precious.