In this episode of Women in Retail Talks, Women in Retail Leadership Circle Co-Founder Melissa Campanelli interviews Melissa Clayton, founder and CEO of Tiny Tags, a fine jewelry brand. Clayton recalls her company’s milestones, including making the Inc. 5000 list multiple times (1:30), including the steps taken to reach that point (4:30). Additionally, she shares Tiny Tags experience with celebrity endorsements, most notably Meghan Markle, which drove significant sales and brand recognition (7:00), including a partnership with Target (9:00). Clayton explains her approach to maintaining a balanced work-life dynamic for her team, emphasizing family time and personal well-being over rapid business growth (12:00).

While preparing for the personal transition to becoming an empty nester, Clayton reveals future plans for Tiny Tags, including new retail partnerships and potential store openings (20:00). She expresses her excitement at the opportunities to travel more and engage directly with customers and community members.

Melissa Clayton is CEO and founder of Tiny Tags, her “heart and soul and an absolute extension of what is in my heart.” She is a former CPA who is passionate about entrepreneurship and sharing the lessons she has learned along the way with other women. Clayton was a semifinalist in Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year (2018), New England Regional Award, and is a sought-out speaker on entrepreneurship. She has been featured on NBC’s “Today Show,” NBC Boston and NY PIX11. Melissa spoke at the 2017 Massachusetts Conference for Women and has been interviewed by Entrepreneur Magazine, Inc., and many more.

Date: October 13, 2025

Credits: Melissa Clayton

Duration: 23:06