As a women owned business, Cabana Life is passionate about supporting fellow females in the workspace. We are so excited to introduce you to our new “Wear to Work” series that highlights inspiring women in business styling our dresses for the office. These women are taking over the business world, one stylish dress at a time.
Melissa Berry is the founder of Cancer Fashionista, a website dedicated to helping women feel their best through their breast cancer journey and after. Read on to learn about her successes, and be sure to take a look at her website as well!
What led you to this career?
I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer 6 years ago. I'm a fashion and beauty publicist so once I knew what my course of treatment was (a bilateral mastectomy and very aggressive chemotherapy including the loss of my hair), I was like....where is the Vogue of breast cancer? Where do I find lashes? Wigs? Post mastectomy bras? There was no singular resource that had everything I needed in one place. So I created it myself, and CancerFashionista.com was born!
What's a normal day at the office look like?
Every day is different. Some days I have very focused "desk" days where I'm in my office most of the day writing, pitching, as well as connecting with other amazing thrivers and entrepreneurs. Other days I'm out and about at press events, conducting workshops and doing my advocacy work, which I just love.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a fashion designer. I went to Marist College for fashion design, and the director of the program secured a public relations internship for me at Anne Klein. The rest is history!
What’s a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?
I'm really proud of the fact that I launched not only a website, but I've created a community of women. We support each other like nobody's business, and I've made life long friends through the process. Which is why it hardly ever feels like work!
What’s the best career advice you were ever given?
The best advice I've ever received is from my dad. He told me to always just do my personal best. And that my 60% is someone else's 100%.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Honestly, it's shutting my phone off and turning off all notifications. I find it impossible to complete task and do them well if I'm answering emails and engaging on social media.
What motivates you?
The women who I meet with and talk to every day. They inspire me and motivate me the most. From breast cancer patients and thrivers to previvors and "cancerpreneurs" who have created much needed products out of their own journeys...they literally light me up.
How do you define success?
Inspiring, educating and lifting others up. When I've helped someone even with a simple trick or just a few words of advice...that is the most fulfilling for me.
What does living the Cabana Life mean to you?
Living the Cabana Life holds a special meaning for me. It represents turning lemons into lemonade. Melissa turned her skin cancer diagnosis into a much needed clothing brand for all of us to enjoy. It's about living a healthy, mindful life, but with a splash of luxury!
Is there anything else you would like us to include?
I'm super honored to be a part of this wonderful series! Thank you Cabana Life, and thank you to Melissa for all that you do.
Prepare for Your Next Meeting with a Cabana Life Fall Dress! Nothing says confident like a new dress. Both in and out of the office we’ve got you covered. Browse the Fall Collection to find the perfect style for you.