PEI Business Women's Association Spotlight

Always happy to share the story behind Black Cat, Mel had the opportunity to be the member highlight for the month of August.

Check out PEIBWA’s Q&A with Mel Burke of Black Cat Woodcraft.

PEIBWA: What is the inspiration behind your business?

Mel: When I hit my mid thirties, my life looked nothing like I’d expected–and I’m so grateful!

I'd worn a chef coat, a lab coat, and trading it all in for steel toes was the culmination of all the skills I'd learned along the way.

I'm inspired by the renaissance women in my life, who can make something beautiful out of anything. My mom raised me to be incredibly handy, resourceful and resilient. She inspired me to become the kind of person who can take on a challenge like this, and she plays a huge part in the success of my business.

PEIBWA: What is your favourite part of being an entrepreneur?

Mel: Being able to innovate and pivot at light speed. No red tape, no peer review, just creativity in action.

PEIBWA: What exciting thing are you working on these days?

Mel: Recently I worked with Tourism PEI to create some artful urban furniture to be placed at iconic Island destinations in coordination with a campaign celebrating a Netflix series soon to film in PEI. In documenting the design and fabrication of those benches, I somehow cracked the code and got my first viral video. As I write this, we are preparing to launch the tourism campaign and I can only imagine how much more engagement and online community is headed my way.

PEIBWA: Anything you would like us to promote? A certain product, service or event? 

Mel: Right now I'm building my online community in preparation for an exciting new chapter, so be sure to follow on socials and stay tuned for what's next!