About Melissa

Melissa Akkaway is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and product designer based in Malibu, CA.

Born into a family with deep industry roots, Melissa has always had an interest in women’s fashion and accessories. Through the experience of opening and operating boutiques in Los Angeles and Las Vegas for her women’s ready-to-wear label, Beckley, Melissa developed a passion for championing emerging designers. She launched her blog The Particulars in 2018 as a way to share these women’s stories and highlight distinctive and hard-to-find products.

Today, Melissa supports unique consumer businesses as an angel investor and Board member. She’s lucky to be part of the investment teams behind Fathead, Monica and Andy, SAIE Beauty, Cadence, Loper, Freestyle, Hazel, Enhanse, and Olive & June.

Interested in connecting? Say hi at ma@melissaakkaway.com or visit Melissa's Investment Portfolio Site.

About the N.I.C.E. Pack

In 2021, Melissa drew on her background as a fashion designer and boutique owner to create a casual and cool bag that can be worn three ways—cross body, around the waist, or as a clutch. Right away, the N.I.C.E. Pack was a hit, appearing on everyone from Mandy Moore to Gwyneth Paltrow and more. Melissa continues to evolve the iconic Pack through limited-edition seasonal colorways and popular brand collaborations. You can shop the N.I.C.E. Pack here.