A New Path Brings Flexibility, Growth and Connection For Knoxville-Based Entrepreneur
Melanie Ramos is living proof that when one door closes, another opens — sometimes to a better opportunity. After working at Disney’s corporate offices, her job was eliminated during the pandemic when parks were closed. At the same time, her son was born, leaving Ramos to rebuild her life from scratch. While it didn’t seem like a blessing at the time, she now sees that it set her on a path to success and fulfillment.
“I needed something that allowed me to be flexible and still earn a good living,” Ramos says. “I’ve been able to double my income and have more flexibility than I ever dreamed possible.”
Finding the Perfect Fit
Ramos learned about Blue Moon Estate Sales from a franchise consultant. Her dream of owning a business had always been in the back of her mind, and the consultant presented her with five franchise options that met her criteria. Blue Moon stood out immediately. “It was so unique and really suited my background.”
Having previously worked at an auction house, Ramos was familiar with the world of estate sales. She loved the idea of being able to help people during stressful transitions, such as downsizing or settling the estate of a loved one. “After seeing how franchisees spent their days, I liked how I would be spending mine — touring homes, meeting clients and being a resource for them,” she says. “It’s so rewarding to be a trusted source for elderly clients and their families during vulnerable times.”
Knoxville, Tenn., where Ramos chose to launch her franchise in April 2021, proved to be the perfect market. With a large retiree population and a steady demand for estate sales, the business was poised for growth.
The Business Model
What makes Blue Moon Estate Sales unique is its well-structured business model. Franchisees like Ramos receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from the franchisor. “They were there every step of the way,” Ramos says. “The training was robust, and I felt confident getting started. I could even tweak the model to fit my market in Knoxville.”
The model focuses on a mix of online marketing and partnerships with local Realtors. Half of Blue Moon’s leads come from sources like Google, thanks to optimized content that makes the business searchable. The team stages items in clients’ homes, researches fair market values and typically sells 90% of the items.
“We take a commission on what is sold, and we also offer add-on services like clearouts or dumpster services,” Ramos explains. Her 25-member team, composed mainly of retirees and stay-at-home parents, manages two sales per week. She plans to grow to three sales per week in 2025. Her husband, Alan, who owns the business with her, is employed, but does their social media marketing and gear delivery.
Blue Moon’s approach helps franchisees like Ramos scale at a comfortable pace. In just one year, her business conducted 64 sales, surpassing $1 million in revenue.
What Ramos loves most about her work is its variety. “It’s never the same thing twice. It’s like a treasure hunt,” she says. From jewelry to antiques, clothing and furniture, Blue Moon sales encompass a wide range of items.
Her days involve consultations with potential clients, planning sales and ensuring everything runs smoothly. “I do six or seven consults a week. Once we decide a sale is viable, we schedule it, market it, take photos and coordinate with the crew,” Ramos explains. She even films walk-through videos for Blue Moon’s YouTube channel to attract more buyers. Ramos actively works with other franchisees to share best practices. “Everyone is so welcoming and willing to help. If I’m struggling with accounting, for example, someone will show me how they manage their books. And I share my tip with fellow franchisees as well. For instance, I am very good at closing contracts, an area where others can struggle. I am always happy to share what works for me,” she says.
Ramos is proud to have found a career that blends flexibility, financial success and meaningful work. “I love helping people in stressful times. Knowing I can make a difference is incredibly rewarding,” she says.
For more information, visit Blue Moon’s franchise website.
