Melissa Bartow is the creative mind behind Wanna Date, a brand known for its unique, date-based spreads. She gained national attention after appearing on Shark Tank.
In her pitch, she introduced an innovative product and secured a deal with Mark Cuban. Today, her journey from a college student with an idea to a successful entrepreneur is an inspiring story.
It highlights determination and hard work. Let’s explore Melissa Bartow’s net worth, early life, career milestones, and where she is now.
Wanna Date founder Melissa Bartow’s Net Worth
Melissa Bartow’s estimated net worth is $1 million as of 2024. She started with a small-scale production in her dorm room. Over time, Melissa turned Wanna Date into a recognized brand.
Her appearance on Shark Tank played a crucial role in scaling her business. It gave her the resources and visibility needed to grow.
With her products now available in major retail outlets and online platforms, Melissa’s financial success continues to grow. This growth mirrors the increasing popularity of her brand.
Personal Status
| Age | 26 |
| Source of Wealth | Wanna Date |
| Residence | Florida, United States |
| Citizenship | American |
| Marital Status | Not Disclosed |
| Children | Not Disclosed |
| Education | New York University (NYU) |
| Social Media | Instagram, LinkedIn |
Early Life and Career
Melissa Bartow was born in Florida and developed an interest in health and wellness at a young age. While attending New York University (NYU), she noticed the lack of healthy, natural alternatives to sugary spreads in the market.
This realization motivated her to start experimenting with date-based recipes in her dorm room.
Her early days involved testing these recipes at local farmers’ markets. She received valuable feedback from customers, which helped refine her product.
This hands-on approach gave her the confidence to turn her passion into a full-fledged business. It also laid the groundwork for the success of Wanna Date.
Wanna Date on Shark Tank
Melissa Bartow appeared on Season 11 of Shark Tank, where she sought $100,000 for 20% equity in Wanna Date. Her pitch highlighted the health benefits and versatility of her date-based spreads. The Sharks were impressed with her knowledge and enthusiasm.
Mark Cuban saw potential in the product’s niche appeal within the health-food industry. He offered her a deal of $100,000 for 33% equity, which she accepted. The exposure from Shark Tank proved to be a game-changer. It significantly boosted sales and introduced Wanna Date to a much larger audience.
Current Status
Melissa Bartow continues to lead Wanna Date with a focus on innovation and expansion. The brand has introduced new products, such as protein bars and dessert spreads. These new offerings cater to the growing demand for healthy snacks.
Wanna Date is now available in major retailers and on online platforms like Amazon, further cementing its place in the health-food market. Apart from running her business, Melissa is a strong advocate for healthy eating and entrepreneurship.
She frequently shares her journey through social media and speaking engagements, inspiring others to pursue their goals.