Nestled in the vibrant community of Edina, Melissa Bang has carved out a niche that beautifully marries passion with practicality. For the past 18 years, Melissa has called Edina home, where she met her husband, fell in love, and raised two active boys, Hudson, nine, and Colton, 13. Both boys are hockey players, and their dad is a dedicated hockey coach, making the Bang household a hub of puck and rink excitement. In this bustling environment, Melissa found herself immersed in the world of youth sports—not just as a spectator but as a creative force seeking innovative ways to spark joy and pride among parents and players alike.
Every hockey season brought one recurring challenge: finding unique, high-quality gear that allowed Melissa to showcase her support for her sons while still feeling stylish and comfortable. After searching high and low with fellow parents for apparel that resonated both on the rink and off—as something comfortable enough to wear to the grocery store—Melissa realized there was a significant gap in the market. Drawing from her professional background in digital and e-commerce marketing, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
Thus, the idea for Rebel Citizen was born on an inspiring road trip to Tennessee. It was there, amidst the scenic views and family discussions, that Melissa envisioned a brand that married functional game day attire with fashionable designs. "I wanted something that leaned into design and fashion because that’s where my passions truly lie," she explains. Without missing a beat, she secured the URL for Rebel Citizen during the drive, setting the wheels in motion for what would soon be a family-based venture.
Rebel Citizen officially launched about a year ago, and since then, Melissa has made it a priority to involve her family in the budding business. From assisting with orders to getting essential feedback on men's designs, her husband and sons play an integral role in her entrepreneurial journey. "Everything is a team effort," she says, emphasizing her belief that family involvement enriches the experience and strengthens their bond.
As the creative mind behind the brand, Melissa designs everything herself, pouring her heart into each piece. She outsources the final clothing production but maintains rigorous quality checks to ensure that each garment is something she can be proud of. "I want to create clothing that not only looks good but will also wash well and last," she insists. The positive feedback from customers validates her efforts, with many expressing their satisfaction with the fun designs and high-quality materials.
Learning has been a significant part of this journey for Melissa. From mastering Adobe Photoshop to taking online courses in web coding and development, she embraces the challenges of entrepreneurship with a sense of adventure. "It’s been fun finding new ways to enhance my skills," she shares, underscoring the growth that comes with pursuing one’s passion.
Most importantly, Melissa’s entrepreneurial spirit has been an enlightening experience for her sons. By showcasing what can be accomplished with creativity and hard work, she hopes to inspire them to explore their own passions and understand the power of dedication. “I'm proud to model this for my boys and encourage them to pursue their own ideas,” she reflects.
For sport-loving families and fashion enthusiasts alike, Rebel Citizen has become a go-to source for apparel that seamlessly transitions from game day to casual outings. Each piece not only celebrates a love for the sport but also embraces the spirit of community—a vibrant reminder of Edina’s rich culture and camaraderie.
For those interested in exploring Melissa's unique offerings, everything is available on the Rebel Citizen website, rebelcitizencompany.com.
As Melissa Bang continues to grow her brand, her dedication to quality, design, and family values stands as a shining example of how passion can transform into a thriving business.