In Western North Carolina, where creativity and the outdoors intersect in powerful ways, storytelling plays a vital role in how brands connect with their communities. Today, we’re highlighting one of the talented creatives helping bring those stories to life: Melodic Sorbet Productions.
Founded by director, videographer, and photographer Nelson Morlock, Melodic Sorbet blends strategic marketing with cinematic, heart-forward visuals; crafting content that not only looks beautiful but drives meaningful results. As an active member of the Outdoor Business Alliance, Nelson has become part of a collaborative network of outdoor brands and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the industry here in WNC and beyond.
In this interview, we dive into Nelson’s creative philosophy, the evolution of his business, the impact of community, and the personal milestones that have shaped his journey.
1. Tell us about Melodic Sorbet Productions. What do you create, and what inspired you to build a business around visual storytelling?movement and lifestyle-focused practice?
Hi there! My name is Nelson Morlock and I’m a director, videographer, and photographer originally from Minneapolis, MN. I started Melodic Sorbet Productions to fill a void in the marketing space: businesses need creative storytelling that actually helps them achieve their goals. Oftentimes, brand content (website videography, commercials, social media posts etc.) is either beautiful and tells a great story or it generates sales. My production company focuses on both. Well-crafted video and photo for your business should be strategic and have heart!
2. What sets Melodic Sorbet apart in the outdoor and lifestyle space, and how would you describe your creative approach?
One thing that I’m really excited about is incorporating more travel shoots into our offerings. A lot of our work is done locally, but we’re starting to bring WNC brands to beautiful locations around the world. At the moment, we are actually in Mexico creating video and photo for two amazing OBA brands. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase products in different environments and create really exciting content.
Our creative approach is customized to your brand’s needs. If you have a new product launch, we can work on a video for your website, a creative ad for socials, and take your new product photos. Or, if you need consistent content for social media but don’t want to hire a full-time videographer/photographer, we can plan out quarterly shoots that get you excellent content that is ready to post.
3. How has being part of the Outdoor Business Alliance shaped your journey, both professionally and personally?
Being a part of the Outdoor Business Alliance has been nothing short of amazing. When I moved to Asheville four years ago, I was immediately drawn to the outdoor community. The number of exceptional brands and extremely talented entrepreneurs in WNC is truly awe-inspiring. What surprised me, however is how down-to-earth, kind, collaborative, and welcoming they all are. Everyone in the OBA remembers your name, is excited to introduce you to someone new, and truly wants to see you succeed. It’s an honor to be a part of such a vibrant community
4. Looking back on the past year, what project or milestone feels especially meaningful, and why?
I’ve celebrated a lot of growth for my business in the past year, and I’m incredibly grateful for all the new friendships and connections made in the OBA, but the milestone that feels especially meaningful is my ADHD diagnosis. I think a lot of entrepreneurs (especially in the outdoor space) can relate to having a very creative brain that can think outside the box, innovate, and problem solve with ease, but then struggles with remembering to send an email. Getting the ADHD diagnosis along with medication has allowed me to lean into my strengths as a creative and has really brought me a lot of joy as a business owner and a creative.
5. What advice would you offer someone hoping to start a creative business in the outdoor industry?
When you’re just starting out, create examples of the work you want to be doing. If your dream is to direct a commercial for a kayak brand, go out with your friends and film that commercial. Having passion and joy for my work makes me a better director, videographer, and photographer. As we all know, it’s hard to run your own business, but it makes it a lot easier when you’re doing something you truly love.
