Melissa Gutierrez Nelson

Melissa Gutierrez Nelson has had a varied and successful career in the health and wellness industry. In 2021, they began their current role as Head of Community at We Sparkle, a woman and BIPOC-owned social enterprise. Melissa is responsible for leading community initiatives, facilitating partnerships, and managing social media and special events. Melissa also serves as the primary connection to customers.

In 2019, Melissa was part of the founding team of Mina, a Maternal HealthTech startup, as the Director of Community Outreach. Melissa was responsible for building the brand, voice, and vision, as well as serving as a subject matter expert, community building and management, writing, and communications.

From 2015 to 2021, Melissa worked at Everyday Miracles, where they began as an Educator providing accessible, evidence-based education to families during the pregnancy year. Melissa then moved into the role of Program Manager, Doulas and Education, where they managed all aspects of the nonprofit Doula and Childbirth Education program. Melissa was also responsible for hiring and managing doulas and educators, curriculum development, and community partnerships.

In 2011, Melissa worked at both UCare Minnesota as a Fitness and Yoga Instructor and Mindful Birth and Yoga as a Birth Professional.

From 2010 to 2015, Melissa worked at Fitness Crossroad, where they were a Yoga Teacher and Group Fitness Instructor. Melissa also held the role of Communications Coordinator.

In 2021, Melissa began a role as Special Project Coordinator and Assistant to the CEO at Spinning Babies | Maternity House Publishing.

Melissa Gutierrez Nelson has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism & Mass Communications and Public Relations from the University of Minnesota, which they obtained between 1996 and 1998. Melissa also studied Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of St. Thomas between 1993 and 1995. In addition, Nelson has obtained various certifications, including Birth Doula Certification from Childbirth International, Group Fitness Instructor from NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association, Hypnobirthing Trained Doula from HypnoBirthing NY, Mindfulness Based Childbirth Educator from The Mindful Birthing and Parenting Foundation, and Yoga Teacher, RYT-230, RPYT from Yoga Alliance.