Meet Maria Melkonian-Maissian | Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Enove Agency

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Melkonian-Maissian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My decision to start my own business stemmed from a deep desire for change and a commitment to prioritizing what truly mattered to me. Several key factors shaped my thought process:

Fulfilling Work-Life Balance: Working for companies had its benefits, but it often meant sacrificing precious time with my family. I realized that achieving a better work-life balance was a priority for me, especially as I wanted to be present for my family’s needs and milestones.
Utilizing Experience: Over the years, I had accumulated valuable experience and expertise in my field. I felt that it was time to leverage this knowledge and use it to benefit others. I wanted to take what I had learned and apply it to helping businesses grow and thrive.
Empowering Talent: I had witnessed talented individuals in my industry struggle to balance their careers and family life. It struck me that there was a gap in the market for a business that not only provided professional growth but also prioritized the well-being of its employees. I wanted to create a work environment where talented people could flourish without sacrificing precious time with their families.
In essence, my thought process revolved around creating a business that aligned with my personal values and priorities. It was about finding a way to use my expertise to assist others while fostering a supportive work environment that valued both professional growth and family life. Ultimately, starting my own business allowed me to take control of my career, make a positive impact on others, and build a company that reflected the values and aspirations I held dear.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Enove Agency, was founded with a clear mission: facilitate connection. To innovate and assist businesses in achieving their full potential through social media management and digital marketing. What sets us apart from others is our unwavering commitment to helping businesses not only establish a strong online presence but also to develop a brand that resonates deeply with their target audience.

One of the things I’m most proud of is our dedication to personal branding. We understand that a strong personal brand can be a powerful asset, and we work closely with our clients to harness their unique qualities and values to drive their goals.

Getting to where I am today in the business world was not without its challenges. Balancing the demands of the fashion industry with the responsibilities of motherhood was a significant hurdle. It often felt like I was being pulled in two different directions. However, this challenge inspired me to start Enove Agency, with a focus on helping businesses grow while also fostering a work environment that values and supports personal and family life.

The journey was not easy, and overcoming these challenges required perseverance and a strong support network. I learned several valuable lessons along the way:

Resilience is Key: Facing obstacles and setbacks is inevitable in business. The ability to bounce back and adapt is crucial. Resilience has been a cornerstone of my journey.
Seeking Mentorship: I’ve learned the importance of seeking guidance and mentorship. Having mentors and supportive friends like Amy has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
Balancing Priorities: Achieving a work-life balance is essential. It’s possible to pursue a successful career while also prioritizing family and personal well-being. It requires effective time management and setting clear boundaries.
Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in digital marketing is vital. The world of social media and digital marketing is ever-evolving, and staying informed is essential to stay competitive.
Giving Back: My experiences have taught me the significance of giving back. Through Enove Agency, I aim to support businesses and individuals in achieving their goals and dreams.
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and the importance of balancing personal and professional life. Enove Agency is not just about helping businesses grow; it’s also about creating a work environment that values the well-being of employees and their families. We are dedicated to helping businesses unlock their potential and achieve their dreams, while also fostering a culture of support and mentorship. Our commitment is not only to our clients’ success but also to giving back to the community and industry that have played a significant role in our journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
if my best friend were visiting the Glendale and Westlake Village areas for a week, here’s an exciting itinerary to show them the best time ever:

Day 1: Exploring Glendale

Morning: Start with a delicious breakfast at Porto’s Bakery & Cafe, a local favorite known for its Cuban pastries and coffee.
Mid-Morning: Visit the beautiful Brand Library & Art Center, which combines art, architecture, and gardens. It’s a serene place to explore.
Lunch: Head to The Habit Burger Grill for a tasty burger or salad.
Afternoon: Explore the Americana at Brand, an upscale shopping and dining complex. Take a ride on the iconic trolley.
Dinner: Savor Mediterranean cuisine at Raffi’s Place, known for its delicious kabobs and friendly atmosphere.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Morning: Take a short drive to Griffith Park in Los Angeles. Hike up to Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Home Restaurant in Silver Lake, known for its farm-to-table comfort food.
Afternoon: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or explore The Getty Center for art and culture.
Dinner: Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at El Compadre, famous for its flaming margaritas and lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Beach Day

Morning: Head to Santa Monica Beach and stroll along the famous Santa Monica Pier.
Lunch: Dine at The Lobster, an oceanfront restaurant with excellent seafood options.
Afternoon: Explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic street performers and vendors.
Dinner: Savor Italian dishes at Gjelina in Venice, a trendy spot loved for its pizza and atmosphere.
Day 4: Westlake Village

Morning: Drive to Westlake Village and have breakfast at The Stonehaus, a charming vineyard restaurant.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Gardens of the World, a serene park showcasing diverse themed gardens.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic at Westlake Village Community Park.
Afternoon: Take a scenic hike in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
Dinner: Dine at Zin Bistro Americana for a blend of American and Mediterranean flavors.
Day 5: Malibu Adventures

Morning: Drive along Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu and start your day with a breakfast burrito at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe.
Mid-Morning: Visit the Getty Villa, an architectural gem housing ancient art collections.
Lunch: Enjoy seafood with ocean views at Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe.
Afternoon: Spend time relaxing at Zuma Beach or exploring Point Dume State Beach and Preserve.
Dinner: Head back to Westlake Village and dine at The Grill on the Alley for classic American fare.
Day 6: Wine Tasting

Morning: Drive to Malibu Wine Safaris and enjoy a unique wine tasting experience with animals.
Lunch: Have a leisurely lunch at Saddle Peak Lodge, known for its wild game dishes.
Afternoon: Explore Malibu Creek State Park and take a hike to the famous MAS*H site.
Dinner: Return to Westlake Village and dine at Mastro’s Steakhouse for a luxurious meal.
Day 7: Relaxation

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Marmalade Cafe in Calabasas.
Mid-Morning: Pamper yourselves with spa treatments at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village.
Lunch: Dine at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, ONYX.
Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon by the hotel’s pool or explore the surrounding gardens.
Dinner: Wrap up the trip with a delightful dinner at Boccaccio’s in Westlake Village.
This itinerary combines the beauty of Glendale, the excitement of Los Angeles, the charm of Westlake Village, and the coastal allure of Malibu. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural exploration to outdoor adventures and relaxation. Your best friend is sure to have a memorable and enjoyable week exploring these wonderful areas in Southern California.

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?
The journey to success is often not a solitary one, and I’ve been fortunate to have several individuals who have played pivotal roles in helping me overcome challenges and develop essential skills and qualities. Among them, my father, my younger sister Seda Melkoni, and my dear friend Amy have been the most helpful and influential.

My Father: My father has been my unwavering cheerleader throughout my life. He has supported and encouraged me in all my dreams and endeavors. His belief in me and his constant encouragement have provided me with the emotional strength and motivation needed to face challenges head-on.
My Younger Sister, Seda Melkoni: Seda has consistently been my biggest supporter in everything I’ve pursued. Her belief in my abilities and her unwavering encouragement have been a source of inspiration. Having a supportive sibling like her has been a great blessing in my journey.
My Mentor and Friend, Amy: One of the most impactful figures in my life has been my long-time friend, Amy. She has not only achieved great success in her own career but has also been generous in sharing her knowledge and resources with me. Amy’s mentorship and guidance have played a significant role in my personal and professional growth. Her willingness to sit down with me, offer insights, and share her wisdom have been invaluable.
Amy has impacted my life in ways she may not fully realize. Her mentorship has helped me navigate challenges and make informed decisions, and it’s a debt I aspire to repay by offering similar support and mentorship to others in the future through my philanthropic endeavors.

My father, my sister Seda, and my friend Amy have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for my journey towards success. Their unwavering support, belief in my potential, and mentorship have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to my life and career.
Sheryl Sandberg’s book, “Lean In,” had an immense impact on me, particularly from the very beginning when she addressed the critical changes needed to support working mothers. Her candid and honest discussion of the challenges faced by women in planning their careers while simultaneously planning their families struck a deep chord with me.

What truly stood out was Sheryl’s willingness to openly address these issues from her position of influence and authority. It was inspiring to see a woman in her role speak boldly about these often overlooked topics. Her words resonated with me on a personal level, igniting a strong sense of responsibility.

Sandberg’s book motivated me to not only advocate for change but also to actively contribute to it. It reminded me that I must play a part in creating an environment where working mothers can thrive. It’s not enough to ask for change; I need to be a driving force in shaping that change, ensuring that the space for working mothers to succeed is not just a concept but a reality in our workplaces and communities.

Website: https://enoveagency.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/enoveagency/about/?viewAsMember=true

Image Credits
Photography by Angie McPherson