Melanie is a Filipino-American born and raised in Orange Park. She graduated from Johnson and Wales University ('07) for Pastry Arts and the University of Central Florida's Rosen College (09') for Restaurant Management. For the past 15 years, Melanie has worked her way through a handful of kitchens and has spent the last 9 years at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa. Currently, she is a Sous Chef at the resort helping to oversee the culinary for banquets and restaurants. Melanie's inspiration and passion stems from her mother, Lolita. She is also a founding member of Jax Filipino Chefs, led by photographer Agnes Lopez.