Meet Melissa
Building Legacies, One Family at a Time
Hi, I’m Melissa Peterson—Owner and Field Underwriter at Cardinal Family Insurance.
Starting this agency wasn’t just a career move for me—it was a calling. I’ve always believed that real security doesn’t come from guesswork or generic plans. It comes from care, understanding, and creating a future with intention. That’s what inspired me to build Cardinal Family Insurance: a place where families like yours are seen, heard, and supported.
What I love most about this work is knowing that every policy we put in place can change the outcome of someone’s hardest day. We help protect homes, futures, and the people inside them. We do it with heart, and we do it with purpose.
Cardinal Family Insurance is more than a business to me—it’s a mission. And one day, I hope to pass it down to my own family as a legacy rooted in compassion, service, and strength.
How I Help Families Like Yours
Compassionate, Personalized Planning
What You Can Expect
When you reach out to me, you won’t be treated like a number or handed a generic policy. I take a personal approach to every conversation, beginning with a simple Needs Analysis to understand your goals, your current situation, and what matters most to you. We’ll explore your reason for reaching out, and I’ll help craft a plan that provides real protection—without pressure. My clients can expect compassion, transparency, and the kind of support that makes navigating big decisions feel a little less overwhelming. This work is about listening, serving, and making sure you feel secure in the plan we build together.
Plans Made to Fit
Every Family Is Different
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all when it comes to protecting your future. Every client I meet has a unique story—different health histories, financial goals, and family dynamics. That’s why I work with more than 23 A+ rated insurance carriers, giving us the flexibility to find the right plan for you, not just the easiest option. My job is to ask the right questions, uncover the real “why” behind your concerns, and ensure your family isn’t left with difficult decisions or financial burdens during life’s hardest moments. Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a recent life change, we’ll find a path forward that fits your life and brings peace of mind.
A Story That Stays With Me
This Work Is Personal
I’ll never forget a couple I worked with—a retired military family with two sons—who had just purchased a new home when the wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. They had some coverage, but not enough to fully protect their family or their home if the unthinkable happened. I was able to help them secure a policy that now ensures their mortgage will be paid whether due to illness or loss. They don’t have to worry about their sons facing that burden—and neither do I. These are the moments that remind me why I care so deeply about what I do. This isn’t just about policies—it’s about people, families, and building a safety net when it matters most.
Life Outside the Office
A Little About Me
I grew up just outside Minneapolis, but I spent every summer in Webster, Wisconsin with my grandparents—training horses with my sister and riding in small-town county fairs. That’s where my love for animals began. I’ve been a lifelong animal advocate and a proud member of PETA for over 20 years. Over the years, my household has included everything from dogs and cats to guinea pigs, goats, frogs, and even snakes. In 2024, I made the move to Pensacola to escape the cold winters and be closer to friends. I’ve fallen in love with the Gulf Coast lifestyle—poolside hangouts, beach days, catching a matinee, or taking road trips just to explore new corners of the country. I believe in living life fully and helping others do the same—secure, confident, and cared for.