Her Story
About Shasta
Shasta Colmenares is an interior designer, creative leader, entrepreneur, dance instructor, and community builder whose work has been centered on one purpose: creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
With nearly two decades of experience in residential design and architectural interiors, Shasta has collaborated with respected firms including North Coast Tile & Stone, Fairweather & Associates, and SOLV Architecture Studios, while also building her own business, Shasta Rose Design. Since beginning her career in 2006, she has partnered with homeowners, architects, builders, and contractors to guide projects from concept through completion, specializing in space planning, finish selections, material curation, and collaborative project management. Known for blending creativity with technical expertise, she believes thoughtful design has the power to transform not only homes, but the everyday lives of the people who inhabit them.
Beyond the design industry, Shasta has built a career rooted in service and human connection. Beginning in 2008, she worked in labor and delivery, supporting women and families during some of life's most meaningful transitions. That experience shaped her leadership style and strengthened the compassion, communication, and calm presence that continue to define her work across every professional endeavor.
In 2009, Shasta's passion for dance evolved into another avenue for empowering others. After teaching and performing with dance companies throughout Sonoma County and across California, she founded BaShasta in 2020—a women's dance community dedicated to helping women reconnect with their bodies, build confidence, and experience the joy of movement in a supportive, judgment-free environment. Through weekly Latin dance classes and community events, she continues to inspire women to embrace confidence, authenticity, and self-expression both on and off the dance floor.
Although her career has spanned multiple industries, each chapter has been connected by a common mission: helping people experience greater confidence, connection, and belonging. Whether designing a home, mentoring a client, or leading a room full of women through movement, Shasta is driven by the belief that meaningful transformation begins when people feel genuinely supported.
A dedicated mother of two, Shasta brings creativity, resilience, and empathy into every aspect of her life and work. She has been recognized for her contributions to the design community in Sonoma County and was featured in Marin Magazine's Top Women in Business 2025. Her ability to combine creative vision with thoughtful leadership has earned her a reputation for building lasting relationships, fostering collaboration, and guiding others through change with integrity and purpose.
For Shasta, influence is not defined by titles or recognition, but by the lives touched along the way. Her work reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, authentic leadership, and creating environments—physical, emotional, and creative—where others can flourish. Through design, education, and community, she continues to inspire those around her to live with intention, confidence, and connection.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shasta
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to pursuing work I am truly passionate about, showing up consistently even when it’s challenging, and listening deeply to what is needed. I combine diligence with adaptability—following through on the work in the in-between moments, while being brave enough to pivot when something no longer aligns with my growth or values. My success also comes from empowering others, especially women, to step into their potential, and from creating opportunities that allow both myself and those around me to evolve and thrive.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to follow your passion and allow your skills to cross over into different areas. Be willing to adapt your offerings to fit the realities of your life—for example, modifying classes for other moms. Listen to your community and create accessible spaces that uplift and support other women. Finally, confidently claim your professional value in male-dominated fields while lifting up your peers along the way.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges in my field include navigating male-dominated trades and helping women overcome imposter syndrome. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities: women are increasingly recognized as a primary market, and there is a cultural shift that gives women-owned businesses greater visibility and influence. This combination of challenges and opportunities makes it an exciting time to support and empower women in our industry.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me are supporting others in their growth and staying connected to my own evolution. I believe in creating safe, inspiring spaces where people—especially women—can step fully into their potential. Becoming a mom reinforced the importance of balancing roles with self-awareness. By following my passion and committing to personal growth, I can make meaningful impact while holding space for others to grow, create, and thrive.
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