Mellissa Hartigan

For Mellissa, baking is more than a profession—it’s rooted in family tradition. She grew up practicing the multi-generational craft in her parents’ donut shop. Those early lessons, combined with years of bakery management experience and working with a broker, built the foundation she brings to her role as a Technical Counselor at Rich Products.

Joining the Rich’s team marked a major new chapter for Mellissa both professionally and personally. With her youngest child heading off to college, she saw the timing as the perfect opportunity to take on a new role. From training decorators in Chicago to supporting a major launch in Fort Smith, she’s made her mark by blending technical expertise with enthusiasm.

Mellissa’s specialty is cake decorating, something she loves to teach because it combines precision with creativity. She also trains teams on a wide range of other bakery products, including breads, cookies and pastries, ensuring that associates develop well-rounded confidence in their work. For her, the best part of the job is the people—meeting new teams, sharing best practices, and helping others grow.

Mellissa describes joining Rich’s as a “dream come true.” It’s been a chance to combine her love for travel, teaching and bakery artistry within a company that shares her values.