Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Trajano
Hi Melissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Bluebonnet & Brie started from my love of hosting and bringing people together over good food. Charcuterie boards were always my go-to—whether I was attending a gathering or hosting one myself. There’s just something about mixing cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit, creating a little edible work of art, that I’ve always loved.
Working in property management, I started making boards for work events and get-togethers, and before I knew it, my coworkers and friends were telling me, “You should start a business!” At first, I was hesitant, but the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. So, I finally took the leap, and Bluebonnet & Brie was born.
Now, I get to turn my passion into something that brings joy to others. Every board I create is more than just food—it’s a little piece of art, meant to be shared, enjoyed, and celebrated.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Owning Bluebonnet & Brie has been such a rewarding journey, but it definitely comes with its struggles. Some months, business is booming, and I’m juggling orders nonstop. Other months? Not so much. It can be tough when things slow down, but I’ve learned to use that time wisely—perfecting my craft, brainstorming new ideas, and finding creative ways to get my business name out there.
There have been moments of doubt, wondering if I’m doing enough or if people will keep coming back. But every time I get an order, a returning customer, or a message from someone who loved their board, it reminds me why I started this in the first place. I love what I do, and I know that with consistency, creativity, and passion, I can keep growing Bluebonnet & Brie into something truly special.
It’s all part of the process—learning, evolving, and trusting that hard work will pay off.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In my professional life, I work in property management as a Senior Transitions Associate, where I handle account setups for all new apartment communities we acquire. It’s a fast-paced, detail-oriented role that requires problem-solving and keeping things running smoothly—something I thrive on.
Beyond my day-to-day, I’m passionate about leadership and community involvement. I serve as the Regional Lead for both our Pride ERG and Serves ERG, creating spaces for inclusivity and giving back to our communities. I’m also on the Austin Apartment Association’s Events Committee, helping plan industry events that bring people together. One of my proudest moments? Being selected for the 2025 Lyceum Leadership Program with the Austin Apartment Association—an incredible opportunity to grow as a leader in this industry.
But what really sets me apart is that I bring creativity into everything I do. I don’t just handle logistics and processes—I find ways to add art, innovation, and connection into my work. One of my favorite creative outlets other than charcuterie is painting wall murals, something I absolutely love. Whether it’s transforming a space with art or leading initiatives that make an impact, I believe in bringing both strategy and creativity to the table.
At the end of the day, I love what I do, and I’m always looking for ways to grow, create, and leave a lasting impression.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are a few go-to resources that help me stay on top of my game, whether it’s in my career, personal growth, or just living my best life.
Apps:
Notion & Google Keep – Keep my life organized, from work projects to personal goals.
MyFitnessPal & FitOn – Help me stay on track with my fitness and health goals.
Canva – A must for creating content, marketing materials, and even brainstorming ideas for my charcuterie business.
Books:
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear – A game-changer for building better habits and breaking bad ones.
“Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown – Helped me level up in leadership and confidence.
“The ONE Thing” by Gary Keller – A great read for focus and productivity.
“The Let Them Theory” – by Mel Robbins – A total mindset shift on letting go of what you can’t control and focusing on what actually matters.
“Glow in the F*cking Dark” – by Tara Schuster – This one’s all about healing, self-discovery, and learning to take care of yourself in the most real way.
Podcasts:
“The Ed Mylett Show” – Inspiring conversations about mindset and success.
“The Goal Digger Podcast” by Jenna Kutcher – Perfect for business, branding, and motivation.
“Huberman Lab” – Science-backed insights on health, wellness, and performance.
These keep me motivated, focused, and constantly learning.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluebonnetbrie
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bluebonnet-Brie/61559738395970/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-t-aba889b0/
