Melinda Stone

I'm "practically a California native" (as they say) having lived here since 1984-first in Huntington Beach and now in San Clemente since 1992.  Formerly from the Midwest (PA & Ohio) I was transferred by my employer at the time-most of my adult work experience is in the sales field, specifically-advertising.  I am married to my closest friend and valuable business partner since 1988.

My background with Welcome Express (http://www.welcomeexpress.com/) began as a sponsor in 2002.  I was operating a Pet Sitting company and was advised by a successful pet-sitting service that Welcome Express was one of her top sources of new clients.  After utilizing WE for my pet sitting business, I began part-time bringing new sponsors onboard.  Convinced of the great service WE provided and unable to effectively operate two businesses, I made the difficult decision to sell the pet sitting business and focus solely on growing Welcome Express-and have never looked back.  Over a period of several years, I bought into the business city-by-city, eventually buying out the intellecutal property from the original founder. 

Welcome Express has been the premier welcome service in Orange County since 1986.  Partnering with cities, chambers, community organizations, and local businesses, we provide new OC residents with a large & valuable package of tools, community resources, and gift certificates.  No other advertising program can hold a candle to our deluxe package, with its guaranteed "openership" and readership.

Early in 2006 We expanded into the pre-move market (as well as post-move) with the introduction of our Home At Last newcomer directory and relocation guide, available for licensing in other cities.  (http://www.homeatlastrelocation.com/) Then in 2007, we launched our online directory http://www.orangecountyresourceguide.com/ to supplement our print offerings and position our company to reach out to ALL residents of the OC who are using Local Search to save time and gas.    I am excited about the future potential our South Orange County location provides and look forward to what new opportunities the upcoming years will bring our way.

 We are currently looking for guest bloggers interested in free publicity.  We have editors to help enhance your 200-500 word blog and will credit you.  Our blog for business owners is www.OrangeCountyAdvertiser.com and for consumers is www.WelcomeToOC.com.