What’s in a Name

Copper Top Creative

I often get asked about Copper Top Creative and what inspired the company name.

As someone with naturally curly red hair, I’ve grown accustomed to my hair being a topic of conversation, memorable, and sometimes susceptible to jokes and nicknames.

Copper Top is a nickname that just sort of stuck over the years—and since I love alliteration, Copper Top Creative feels fun. A little playful, but personal and rooted in identity, much like the work of interior design and writing.

Me holding a new baby cousin,

who likely won’t have red curly hair.

DBA (doing business as) Mel Hopewell

When I write, and order something at a local coffee spot, I use short-hand and go by Mel. If you’re ever in a coffee shop and hear a behind-the-counter clerk say, “Mel - hot chai,” that’s me!

The name Mel is easier than my full first name, Melanie, which is often mispronounced and misspelled. I become Melody, and then feel an awkward desire to break out in song.

Hopewell is a last name I chose for myself to honor my family and my Ohio roots, and I enjoy the rhyming of Mel and Hopewell.

C.S. Lewis believed we should “write with our ear.”

I love how Mel Hopewell rolls right off the tongue and is simple and straightforward.