Melissa Walton-Gideon

10/02/2026

🪿 Fun Fact Friday!

Did you know the white marking on a Canada goose’s face is called a “chinstrap”? A little signature style to go with a whole lot of attitude! 😂

This one looks like it’s about to ask who gave me permission to photograph its pond.

09/25/2026

🎃👻Who wants one of these cuties on sale now $15 comes framed and personalized! DM Me, how many you’d like🎃

09/21/2026

Thinking about buying traditional media—TV, radio, print, or billboards?

Before you spend a dollar, look for these three things:

1️⃣ The Right Audience
A large audience doesn’t automatically mean the right audience. Make sure the station, publication, or placement reaches the people most likely to buy from you.

2️⃣ Frequency and Consistency
One commercial or one ad usually isn’t enough. People need to see or hear your message several times before they remember—and trust—your business.

3️⃣ A Clear Way to Measure Results
Use a dedicated offer, landing page, QR code, phone number, or simply ask every new customer, “How did you hear about us?” If you can’t track it, you can’t improve it.

Traditional media still works—but only when it is purchased strategically and connected to your overall marketing plan.

That’s where I come in. Through Starfish Communications, I help businesses choose the right media, negotiate smarter, and create messaging that turns attention into action.

Are you getting real value from your advertising—or are you simply buying spots?

09/19/2026

Today’s message: Learn to trust the journey. ⭐️

Not every detour means you’re lost. Sometimes the unexpected turns are leading you exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Starting this new chapter with Starfish Communications has reminded me that growth doesn’t always feel comfortable—and the whole plan doesn’t have to be visible before we take the next step.

So today, I’m choosing to trust the timing, trust the lessons and trust myself. If you’re in a season of change, keep going. Your next chapter may be better than anything you originally planned.

Follow along as I share real talk about starting over, building a business, marketing and creating a life that feels like your own.

09/18/2026

09/18/2026

When you value yourself—and value work-life balance—Friday afternoons can look like this: painting whales by the pool. 🎨🐋☀️

Success isn’t just about how much you accomplish. It’s also about creating a life with room to breathe, play, and rediscover the things that bring you joy.

Today, I’m choosing creativity, sunshine, and a little watercolor therapy—and I don’t feel guilty about it! 💙

09/18/2026

Rise & Thrive, challenged us to think differently about the F-word: FAILURE.

What story are you telling yourself about your failure? What will your next chapter be? And instead of focusing on what you have to do, ask yourself:

What do I get to do today?

I could tell myself that leaving my last position meant I failed—or I can recognize that it gave me the opportunity to begin a new chapter.

Today, I get to use more than 25 years of marketing experience to help small-business owners grow. I get to build Starfish Communications, make meaningful connections and create something that truly reflects who I am.

Failure isn’t the end of the story. Sometimes, it’s the first sentence of an exciting new chapter. ⭐️

Thank you, Kelly, for the reminder!