I’m Melody Anne Lorenzo, a Filipina immigrant, woman of color, wife, mom, storyteller, creative entrepreneur, community builder, and public servant.

Many people first came to know me as the Pinay Pie Lady, founder of Sweet Condesa, where I shared Filipino-inspired desserts and experiences rooted in culture, connection, and storytelling. What began as a love for baking grew into something much bigger, a way to bring people together, share pieces of my culture, and create moments of belonging.

After years of balancing work, entrepreneurship, motherhood, marriage, and creative pursuits, I realized that slowing down wasn’t stepping away from my purpose. In many ways, it helped me find my way back to it.

That realization planted the seed for Gabay Collective.

Gabay is the Filipino word for guidance, and it reflects an idea I’ve been holding close, a creative wellness community rooted in food, culture, creativity, connection, and intentional living. I originally imagined Gabay through gatherings, workshops, shared meals, storytelling, and mentorship. But true to what Gabay represents, I’ve chosen not to rush it. I’ve put the gatherings on pause while I settle into this new season of life and give myself the space to discover what Gabay is meant to become.

Recently, I returned to public service with the State of California, a career that was part of my life long goal before entrepreneurship. Baking and creativity are still very much a part of who I am, but I’m learning to make space for them in a way that fits into my life rather than allowing them to take it over.

This season is about being present…for my family, for the work I’ve chosen to return to, for the things that bring me joy, and for myself. I’m making room for all the parts of who I am; a wife and mom, a full-time public servant, a part-time baker, a creative, and a woman who still has dreams of her own.

Not every passion has to become a hustle. Not every idea has to be launched right away. And I don’t have to do everything at once for it to have meaning. Maybe that’s part of gabay too. Allowing ourselves to be guided rather than always feeling like we need to know exactly where we’re going.

For me, this chapter is about creating with intention, serving with purpose, being present for the people I love, and building a life that feels as nourishing as it is fulfilling.