Having lived and worked in the vibrant communities of Athens, Oconee, and Atlanta, Melinda Edwards brings a unique blend of local knowledge and dynamic experience to her real estate career. “My journey in real estate is deeply intertwined with my love for these communities and the people who make them special. For close to two decades, my partner Ken Manring and I have owned and operated two beloved local restaurants—White Tiger Gourmet in Athens’ Boulevard neighborhood and White Tiger Deluxe in Downtown Watkinsville. Our thriving catering business under the White Tiger name has further connected us with the hearts and homes of our neighbors. Through these ventures, I’ve honed invaluable skills in business, finance, negotiation, leadership, and problem-solving.”
Melinda’s roots trace back to Jacksonville, Florida, but it was the magnetic pull of the University of Georgia that brought her to Athens in 2000. Drawn by the city’s indie music scene, she immersed herself in the local culture while studying advertising and art history. Internships with music industry greats like Warm Electronic Recordings, Aubrey Entertainment, The Caledonia Lounge, and Flagpole Magazine enriched her college years and fueled her passion for community and creativity.
After graduating, Melinda dedicated the next decade to Flagpole Magazine, where she delved deep into the essence of Athens. She worked alongside Athens’ greats in organizing and executing the renowned AthFest Music, Arts, and Kids’ Festival, an experience that ingrained her with an intimate understanding of the city’s vibrant offerings.
At the heart of Melinda’s world is her family. Together with Ken and their daughter Glenlee, they are known for their spirited themed Halloween decorations, home-made Christmas parade floats, and their infectious sense of fun. Their family motto, “Melinda has a wild idea, Glenlee takes it up a notch, and Ken makes it happen,” speaks volumes about their collaborative and joyful approach to life.
Travel is another of Melinda’s passions. She loves the thrill of spontaneity, often buying random plane tickets that lead to unexpected and enriching adventures around the globe. These experiences have brought her to the unplanned wonders of Ethiopia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and the Arctic Circle, among other destinations, where she embraces the thrill of the unknown.
Melinda is also deeply committed to giving back. She volunteers with the Athens Community Council on Aging and their Meals on Wheels program, works with IRC Atlanta to support refugees in Atlanta, and supports World Central Kitchen in their efforts to feed people in need on the frontlines of crisis.
Joining Corcoran Classic Living, Melinda is excited to blend her extensive community ties, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. “Real estate is more than transactions; it’s about building relationships and creating lasting impacts. I’m thrilled to help my clients find not just houses, but homes where they can build their own beautiful stories.”
