HISTORY OF NATIONAL MELANIE DAY
Melanie reached its most significant popularity, according to Google search data research, in December 2017. And was highly prominent in the fifth century as the name of two Roman saints. It was imported from France to England during the Middle Ages; nevertheless, Melanie actually rose to prominence in America between the 1930s and 1960s with the publication of, and subsequent film, “Gone with the Wind.” It was also the name of one of the characters in Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” and the names of two Spice Girls members, Mel B and Mel C.
The name is feminine and is derived from the Greek word ‘melania,’ which means ‘blackness,’ and ‘melas,’ which means ‘darkness.’ Melanie was the 80th most common girl’s name in the United States in 1957, and it was the 86th most popular girl’s name in France in 2004, written slightly differently as Mélanie, with an accent on the ‘E.’
In pop culture, it’s been very prominent, having been given to several high-profile singers and actors, including Melanie Griffith and Melanie Brown. Melanie has several spelling variations, including ‘Melany’ and the grand ‘Melania.’ The name has consistently been on baby girl name lists because of its delicate voice and styling. It has weathered the test of time, avoiding the stigma of being fashionable or outmoded. Melanie may easily stand on her own but can also be abbreviated to ‘Mel’ or ‘Melly’ if you choose. ‘Lani’ is another unusual moniker choice.
NATIONAL MELANIE DAY ACTIVITIES
- Listen to the ‘Melanie’ song
Donna Summers’ iconic dance floor hit, ‘Melanie,’ was released in 1981 and to this day is a much-loved track from her album “I’m a Rainbow.” It’s the perfect way to start your National Melanie Day in the morning, with a brisk walk and the song playing in your ears. Get up, get going, and have a wonderful day.
- Read up on Melanie Griffith’s colorful childhood
Griffith was born in 1957 to then-model and future actress Tippi Hedren and ex-child actor turned advertising executive Peter Griffith. Tippi moved Melanie to Los Angeles when she was four years old after her parents’ marriage dissolved, and she spent her days playing with her pet lions, tigers, and elephants. Discover more about her childhood on this special day.
- Paint a portrait of a Melanie you know
This is a fun activity for anyone wanting to take a more playful approach to celebrate the Melanie in their life. It doesn’t have to be a Picasso standard painting; you can have some fun and create an interpretation of your favorite Mel. Now, that’s a true dedication to a close friend and extra special on National Melanie Day.
5 Famous Melanies You Probably Didn’t Know
- Melanie Lynskey
Lynskey is an actress hailing from New Zealand known for playing quirky yet headstrong characters in films like “Win-Win” and “Seeking a Friend for the End of the World.”
- Mélanie Laurent
Celebrated French actress, Laurent has won some major awards, including two Césars and a Lumières Award.
- Melanie Counsell
Counsell, a Welsh filmmaker, and installation artist, works with various unique media.
- Melanie Blatt
This English singer-songwriter skyrocketed to fame in 1997 when she joined the girl group All Saints.
- Melanie Weisner
Weisner, an American professional poker player, is also known as ‘Callisto 5,’ her PokerStars online screen name.
