sunsets

margaritas

livestock shows

a few of my favorite things

turquoise

k-state wildcats

A dedicated cattlewoman who pairs art and agriculture to help others market their operations.

Melissa

Beginning at a young age, my family's Maryland farm planted in me a love for agriculture and gave me wings to chase after my creativity. Growing up, I was always discovering ways to document our farm life through drawing, painting and eventually photography and graphic design. It was the perfect way to combine my passion for this industry and art.

Now, I’m a full-time creative helping other farmers and ranchers promote what makes them proud.
I love helping others. I love learning from others. I love seeing others succeed, and being a part of their team.
It’s my heart for people, cattle and rural life that led to Melissa Photography & Design.
This business is my love language and I truly believe that serving others in this way is my calling in life.

Today, home is God’s Country — the Kansas Flint Hills where my husband, Shane and I, breed and raise hereford and simmental cattle as grimmel schaake cattle company. We remain proud of our roots and our families who instilled in us a love for agriculture, good livestock and this way of life. learn more about our operation at:

As much as I am an artist,

It's the greatest honor to serve this industry, and help other families carry on their heritage and build successful businesses of their own.

I AM A PROUD CATTLEWOMAN.

FEATURES

click to read or listen

lake days

fun fact

WE'RE BIG BELIEVERS IN THE VALUE OF JUNIOR LIVESTOCK PROGRAMS. WE CREATED THIS LOGO and helped establish the overall look FOR THE JUNIOR NATIONAL HEREFORD EXPO!

My suitcase is always packed, and my camera and computer are ready to work. 

Let's chat and make some magic!

meet

It's rare you'll find me far from my cows, computer or camera, but if you do I'm probably playing with my dog kiddos — Sage, Skye and Star, or sipping on a frozen strawberry margarita (frozen, please!)