When Melissa Harkins moved to Savannah Quarters earlier this year, she knew she had found the perfect place to put down roots. After her job brought her to the Pooler area in 2022, Melissa quickly fell in love with the sense of connection and community the neighborhood offers. “All the amenities and events to connect with other residents made it seem like the perfect place for me to settle as a first-time homeowner,” she shared.

A Wilmington, North Carolina native, Melissa has lived in Westbrook for six months and is already enjoying everything that makes the area special. The resort-style pool was one of her favorite features when deciding on her new home. “Having access to a resort-style pool to bring family and friends to enjoy was a big selling point,” she said. “Some are eager for me to bring them on the golf course, and I look forward to one day making that happen!”

Though Melissa describes herself as a “one-person household,” family plays an important role in her life. Her parents and extended family visit often, and she enjoys spending time with their Yorkie, Zoey, who joins her for walks when they’re in town.

Melissa works in billboard advertising, a career that runs deep in her family. “My dad brought me into the billboard industry right after graduating from UNCW,” she said. “I grew up around it—my late grandfather and uncle were in the business their whole lives as well. It’s really special knowing I’m following in their footsteps.” She finds joy in the variety of her work, helping businesses of all kinds tell their stories and seeing her clients’ billboards around town.

Outside of work, Melissa enjoys rollerblading, playing guitar, and spending weekends relaxing at home or hosting friends and family. Looking back on her first holiday season in her new home, she says it was even more special than she imagined. “It was my first Christmas in my first house, so decorating felt really meaningful,” she shared. “I had such a great time getting festive—especially after how much fun I had with Halloween. And I loved taking evening walks to see all the lights and how creative everyone got this year.”

Melissa looks forward to becoming even more involved in the community in the months ahead. Her warmth and enthusiasm embody the welcoming spirit of Westbrook—proof that even as a new homeowner, she already feels right at home.