What is your name and occupation?

My name is Melissa McNaboe. I’m always a floral designer, Yarmouth school gardener, retail manager at Rosemont Market & Bakery in Yarmouth, and “Mom.”

What are you known for now, and what would you like to be known for in the future?

I believe I’m known as a familiar community face in retail—with a deep knowledge of food, farming, and strong family values.

I hope to be remembered that way—and most importantly, for being kind along the journey. Helping people in whatever ways I can, and mentoring the younger generation by leading with example and a strong work ethic. Working in retail means I have many interactions each day. If I can talk with someone about a new recipe, educate them on the value of supporting local food, or inspire them to plant something new this year—then I feel pretty darn fulfilled.

What advice would you offer to someone new to Maine hoping to build a life here?

I would encourage those new to Maine to be open-minded toward the people who smile at you and to engage in small talk—it’s how connections begin. Many people here are genuine, and there are so many groups, programs, and resources to get involved in.

We also have an impressive number of small businesses, and within them, you’ll often find people who remember your name after just a few visits. These relationships can lead to other connections and opportunities, both personally and professionally. Mainers truly do “know someone who knows someone!”

Maine is known for its work ethic. Do you think that living in such a rural state has shaped the way you approach your career and your goals?

Absolutely. I was raised with a strong example of work ethic. Both of my parents worked while also creating a fulfilling home and family life. My dad was a firefighter, ran a painting business on the side, grew incredible vegetable gardens, fished, hunted, and included me in all of it.

From them, I learned to appreciate an honest day’s work and the reward that comes with it. I was taught to work hard, save toward my goals, and value family time. I started working as soon as I could get my worker’s permit, and those early jobs and experiences shaped my outlook on work and community.

Maine is full of strong, independent women—how do you feel connected to the women around you here, whether it’s in your community or your workplace?

Yes—and I feel so fortunate to know many of them and call some of them my dearest friends! There’s a common thread among these women. Whether they’re doctors, designers, entrepreneurs, chefs, or mothers, they all have grit.

They lead with passion, intelligence, and integrity. When you talk with them, you feel a connection—they care, they listen, they show up. I currently work at Rosemont Market & Bakery and am lucky to be part of a team where 65% of leadership positions are held by women.

If there is one thing you could change or improve for women in the workforce in Maine, what would it be, and why?

I would improve approachability. Sometimes, women aren’t immediately heard—and that can be discouraging. I’ve learned that when I’m not answered, I need to pause, ask again, and be persistent until I’m truly heard.

Patience, timing, and knowing how to ensure people are ready to listen have all been important lessons for me.

What advice would you give to young women growing up here in Maine who are dreaming of building careers, perhaps in industries where women are underrepresented?

Start by getting involved—volunteer or work modestly at a young age to gain real-world experience and learn core lessons about the workforce. Ask questions. Make mistakes. Learn from everyone. A great supervisor will welcome your curiosity.

Surround yourself with good people. The path may not always be clear—and it rarely is—but keep moving forward. Talk to your community. The bank teller, the cashier, the nurse—they might know someone in your field of interest.

And don’t be afraid to choose a path that’s different. We’re all wired differently, and there are many ways to build a meaningful and fulfilling career. Pay attention to what inspires you—what makes you tick, what grounds you, what makes you smile. Pursue a path that supports the life you want to live.

Maine is a place of incredible beauty but also challenging winters. How do you stay motivated during the tough months—when the days are short, and the weather is harsh? 

I love that we have four distinct seasons. Winter, while challenging, brings its own kind of peace. It gives us time to decompress, reflect, nest, and prepare for the year ahead.

We live in a world that moves fast, and winter provides a natural pause. A good snowstorm can slow everything down—even if it means time spent shoveling. There’s still space to gather with friends, slow-roast a meal, and appreciate how lucky we are to live in this beautiful state.

With so much focus on family and community in Maine, how do you manage the expectations that come with being a working woman in a small town or rural area?

I’ve had to learn patience and self-forgiveness. It’s not possible to do it all—and certainly not without letting something slip. I try to maintain a healthy balance and give myself the space to stay grounded. For me, that might mean cleaning the chicken coop or making a meal for someone I love.

I’ve also had the privilege of owning my own business while raising my children. It allowed me to work hard and still maintain a level of flexibility. Both work and family are equally important to me, and I strive to honor them both.

Looking back on your career, what are you most proud of? What’s the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Maine?

I’m most proud that people remember their interactions with me—whether it’s a Rosemont customer who loved a haddock recipe I shared, a student who enjoyed planting tulips at the school garden, a young employee who said I inspired them, or someone who recalls a Thanksgiving flower arrangement I made years ago.

Just being remembered in those ways feels pretty amazing.

I hope I’ve made a difference in the local food industry through my passion for gardening and growing, and now, by working with a company that supports and strengthens the local food economy.

The legacy I hope to leave is one rooted in kindness, passion, hard work, and generosity—living each day with intention and making someone’s day just a little better. Sometimes the smallest gesture can mean the world to someone, and we all need more of that.