Her Story
About Merri
Merri is the CEO and Owner of Kashwére, a globally recognized luxury lifestyle brand known for its exceptionally soft, high-quality products that bring comfort, warmth, and joy to consumers around the world. For more than 25 years, Merri has led the company with a commitment to authenticity, innovation, and uncompromising quality, helping establish Kashwére as a trusted name among luxury retailers, fine hotels, spas, and discerning customers. Under her leadership, the brand has earned widespread recognition through features in prominent editorials, spa publications, and prestigious consumer accolades, including Oprah's Favorite Things.
Before building Kashwére into an international success, Merri developed a strong foundation in sales, marketing, and brand development through leadership roles with respected companies including London Fog and Marithé François Girbaud. Her passion for global culture and design was shaped by her studies in Chinese language and culture, including a year spent studying abroad in Beijing, where she achieved her goal of becoming proficient in Mandarin while gaining a deep appreciation for international perspectives. These experiences helped shape her entrepreneurial vision and customer-focused approach to business.
Beyond business success, Merri is driven by a strong sense of purpose and philanthropy. A proud advocate for women-owned businesses and a 10-year cancer survivor, she believes that true success is measured by the positive impact a company has on people's lives. Throughout Kashwére's history, she has quietly supported charitable causes and disaster relief efforts, choosing to focus on helping others rather than seeking recognition. What continues to inspire her most are the countless stories from customers who turn to Kashwére products during life's celebrations, challenges, and everyday moments of comfort. Guided by the belief that when you put good into the world, good comes back, Merri remains dedicated to leading with heart, integrity, and compassion.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Merri
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being goal-driven, hardworking, and committed to continuous growth. I've always approached challenges with determination, stayed focused on my goals, and remained open to learning new things along the way. I believe success comes from dedication, adaptability, and never becoming complacent. Outside of work, I enjoy wellness, fitness, spa experiences, and cooking, which help me maintain balance and support a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to never quit. Success comes from perseverance, staying focused on your goals, and continuing to move forward through challenges. I've also learned the importance of surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people who encourage your growth. Finally, always use your voice and experience to advocate for others—some of the most meaningful success comes from making a positive impact on the people around you.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to communicate confidently, build strong relationships, and never be afraid to put yourself out there. Take chances, pursue opportunities that challenge you, and trust in your abilities. Most importantly, be proud of your accomplishments, own your success, and remember that your voice, perspective, and leadership have value.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is continuing to expand brand leadership, sales strategy, and global operations within the luxury hospitality and wellness space. As consumers increasingly seek products that enhance comfort, well-being, and everyday experiences, I see tremendous potential to grow our partnerships with luxury hotels, spas, and retailers. My focus remains on delivering exceptional products that bring joy, elevate everyday living, and create meaningful connections with our customers around the world.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in doing things for the right reasons and putting good out into the world, because when you put good out, you get good back. We are very philanthropic and have a company with a great heart. I never wanted to broadcast our charitable work because I wanted it to be about why we're doing it versus a marketing opportunity. Greed is an ugly thing, and sometimes people do things for the wrong reason, and we're so not about that. I'm pro-woman and pro-women-owned businesses. I believe in associating with good people, because the people that we associate with really matter. At the forefront of everything is wellness - without it, you have nothing.
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