Sweet Melissa Media Recognized as Emerging Business of the Year
January 26, 2026
One great idea can change your life. For Melissa Levine of Sweet Melissa Media, an inspiration about how to support local restaurants during the worst times of the pandemic evolved into a successful social media marketing business, fueled by a passion for food, small business, and community spirit.
In the fall of 2020 as COVID numbers spiked, Governor Pritzker introduced indoor dining restrictions for restaurants. A registered dietician, culinary educator, photographer, and dedicated foodie, Melissa saw the innovative tactics restaurants were using to serve customers and was inspired to spread the word via social media. She started producing video content at Northbrook area eateries - Little Louie’s, House 406, Oliverii’s and more - telling the story behind the businesses and showcasing their COVID-safety strategies. These promotional videos, posted on the Foodie Films by Melissa Instagram, were all donated to help support the restaurants - but they also proved to be a great investment in teaching Melissa about the restaurant business.
Months later, conversations at the Northbrook Chamber helped Melissa see the potential business opportunity in her video projects. Sweet Melissa Media launched in 2021, quickly expanding beyond restaurant videos to include a variety of businesses. Melissa currently produces TikTok, Instagram and Facebook content for clients based on the North Shore and Chicago, all marked by a fun spirit that encourages a sense of community between business owners and customers. She also has helped promote Northbrook stores and restaurants with creative holiday season videos for Find It in Northbrook, the social media marketing partnership between the Chamber and Village of Northbrook.
Among Melissa's enthusiastic clients are Julie Cohen and Jennifer Santos of boutique Hubba Hubba in Wilmette. “Working with Melissa has given our social media a fantastic boost," they share. "She’s produced wonderful videos that show off our store’s personality as a fun, welcoming place to shop. She is proactive, professional, super creative - and we always have a great time working with her on our videos!"
Melissa also continues the community service element to her business, providing promotional videos for local causes like Hunger Resource Network. In particular, she has donated promotional videos for many of the Chamber’s major events, capturing the fun and excitement of the Golf Outing, Auction & Taste, and Business Award Dinners. She received Alignable Local Business Person Awards for 2024 and 2025, recognizing local business leaders who go above and beyond to support their peers and communities.
As her business evolves, Melissa is expanding her services to include menu design, public relations, and other marketing support. “Over the next five years, I hope to continue growing Sweet Melissa Media with intention while supporting small businesses as they navigate an ever-changing digital world,” says Melissa. “I’m passionate about helping brands discover who they are and show up creatively in a way that feels aligned with their brand.”
