Hey there — I'm Mel.
A big-idea machine with fourteen years in the creative trenches, partnering with powerhouse brands and purpose-driven organizations alike. I’ve danced across disciplines, crafted culture-shaping campaigns, and led with heart — bringing authenticity and originality to everything I touch.
Mentoring up-and-coming creatives is something I’m passionate about — helping them find their voice and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
My client list? Let’s just say it spans from Fortune 500s to cultural icons — Target, Google Play, The United State of Women (a Barack Obama White House initiative), Coke Studios, Krispy Kreme, Nissan, UGG Australia... and the list keeps going.
Rooted in Swiss heritage (shoutout to precision and clean lines) and raised in bourbon country, I blend thoughtful design with fearless storytelling. Whether it's broadcast, social, experiential, or somewhere in the whitespace between — I bring clarity, craft, and a little magic.
These days, I’m based in the Midwest, but my weekends are all about getting messy — dyes, clay, looms, and the boundless imagination of my four-year-old creative partner-in-crime. Check out some projects on my craft website.
Say hi: MelissaRiggs13@gmail.com
CLIENTS
EXPERIENCE
VML September 2021 - Present
Associate Creative Director Art Director on Intel, BP, Butterball, Krispy Kreme, Coke Studios, Espolòn Tequila, Smirnoff Vodka
Chicago, IL
Barkley March 2019 - August 2021
Associate Creative Director Art Director on Planet Fitness
Kansas City, MO
Freelance October 2018 - March 2019
Deutsch LA July 2017 - October 2018
Senior Art Director on Target
Los Angeles, CA
BBH LA September 2015 - June 2017
Senior Art Director on Google Play, Google Play Music, The United State of Women (An Obama White House Initiative), E! News
Los Angeles, CA
M&C Saatchi April 2013 - July 2015
Art Director on UGG, San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Epson, Visit West Hollywood, Veggie Grill and The Getty
Los Angeles, CA
TBWA\CHIAT\DAY May 2011 - April 2013
Art Director on Nissan, Infiniti, Crate & Barrel, Singapore Airlines, Pink Berry, and Johnson & Johnson
Los Angeles, CA
Factory Design Labs May 2010 - May 2011
Art Director on Audi and Northface
Denver, CO
AWARDS
One Show - Bronze
Addy Awards - 3x Golds, 1 Silver and 2x Bronze
Shorty Award - Gold
Reggie Award - Bronze
FWA - Site Of The Day
Webbys - Nominee
EDUCATION
The Creative Circus 2007 - 2009
Art Direction and Design
Atlanta, GA
The University of Kentucky 2002 - 2007
B.A. degree in studio photography, Minor in PR/Communications