Melissa Gullatte- Owner & Designer
Melissa’s artistic journey began at a young age- she was constantly drawing and painting on every scrap of paper she could find! With degrees in Studio Art and Business from Auburn University, she launched Gracefully Made Art during her senior year. As a majorette in the Auburn University Marching Band, Melissa’s passion for all things Auburn and collegiate blossomed, sparking the creative direction of her business. Every piece at Gracefully Made Art is hand-painted by Melissa herself, reflecting her unique blend of artistic talent and business savvy. Each design is crafted with care, creativity, and a deep love for her collegiate roots.
Lauren Schmidt- Director of Wholesale
Lauren was born and raised in Auburn, Alabama, and her Auburn roots run deep. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and her Master's in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Auburn University. During her time on campus she was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and twired on the Auburn University Marching Band Majorette line. Today, Lauren has come full circle as the Majorette Instructor at Auburn University- pouring her heart back into the program that shaped her.
Lauren and Melissa's friendship was forged through twirling-built on shared passion, artistry, and laughter. When Melissa first founded GMA and began creating wedding stationery, the two would often laugh about how they would figure out a way to work together one day. When Melissa transitioned GMA into collegiate products and Lauren became a mom of three, the time finally felt right to make that dream into something real.
For Lauren, being part of GMA is a blend of creativity and fulfillment- a place where she can watch ideas transform into beautiful realities and witness the artistry and growth that unfold with each design.
Peyton Owens- Social Media
Peyton is originally from Birmingham, AL and attended Auburn University! She first applied to Auburn as a fashion major but graduated with her B.S. in Rehabilitation & Disability Studies and now she is obtaining her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at UAB! With that being said, she still loves all things creative & keeping up with the trends so she is so thankful for her role here at GMA to allow her an outlet to create & share our beautiful items! At Auburn, she was also a majorette in the AUMB, a member of the Gamma Rho chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha, & a WING with the EAGLES Program - all which she is still so proud of! You can usually find her on a long walk, somewhere with good food & drinks with her best friends, or at home watching reality TV her cats!