Michelle (Shelli) Mehri
Michelle (Shelli) Mehri is a multidisciplinary creative and operations strategist who transforms spaces into fully immersive experiences. With a background spanning fine art, fabrication, and construction, she approaches projects far beyond the traditional scope of interior design. Rather than simply selecting finishes or furnishings, Shelli envisions a completed space from the moment she walks in—then works backward to bring that vision to life. Whether sourcing materials, fabricating custom elements, or collaborating directly with trades, she ensures every detail—from lighting and texture to sound and atmosphere—contributes to a cohesive, experiential environment.
Her hands-on approach sets her apart. Shelli is not only a creative visionary but also a builder, project manager, and problem-solver who understands the work at every level because she has done it herself. From constructing large-scale installations in restaurants to designing brand elements like menus and logos, she operates at the intersection of creativity and execution. Her experience spans high-end residential projects in Naples, where she created imaginative, story-driven spaces, as well as commercial environments that elevate how people feel the moment they walk through the door. Her ability to bridge concept and construction allows her to deliver projects that are both visually compelling and functionally grounded.
At the core of Shelli’s work is a deep sense of purpose and empathy. She has used her talents to give back through initiatives like designing spaces for terminally ill children, ensuring their environments offered comfort, joy, and escape during difficult times. She believes in the value of craftsmanship, the importance of respecting the trades, and the power of creating spaces that truly impact people. Through her work, Shelli continues to redefine what it means to design—not just creating rooms, but shaping meaningful human experiences.
• Licensed Painting Contractor
• Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Associate of Science, Visual Communications
• Featured on front page of Naples Daily News for Star Wars party
• Featured in Naples Daily News for Jewish Community Center Library project
• Featured in Naples Daily News for neighborhood health clinic project
• Founder of Play for the Mind Foundation (501c3)
• Play for the Mind Foundation - conducting pilot studies on cognitive benefits of games like Mahjong for isolated seniors
• Nonprofit work doing children's rooms at reduced rates (10%) for terminally ill children
• Mahjong Cafe pop-ups with proceeds supporting Play for the Mind Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the foundation I received early on from my family, especially learning the trades from my uncle and grandfather. That hands-on training taught me not only the technical side of the work, but also the discipline and pride that comes with craftsmanship. Over the years, I’ve continued learning directly from tradespeople, clients, and real-world experience, which has allowed me to build a broad and practical skill set. I’ve always been willing to step in and do the work myself when needed, and that persistence has been a key driver of my growth.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received came from my Uncle Frank, who believed in committing to mastery in seven-year increments. His perspective was that if you dedicate yourself fully to learning and refining a craft over that period of time, you build real expertise—and you only need a few of those focused chapters in your life to become truly exceptional. That mindset has stayed with me and shaped how I approach both learning and career development.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women not to dismiss any skill they enjoy or feel drawn to. Every skill has value, and over time, those skills become your toolbox. Be curious, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty or step into spaces that may feel unfamiliar. Respect the trades and the people doing the work, and don’t be afraid to pivot if your path changes. Growth doesn’t always look linear, and that’s okay.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is that work like mine is often seen as a luxury, so during economic downturns, it can be one of the first areas where clients pull back—especially in restaurant and commercial spaces. At the same time, that creates opportunity to adapt and evolve. I’ve been able to explore different service models, expand into nonprofit work like Play for the Mind, and use visibility to connect with new partners and audiences. There is always a way to pivot and continue creating value.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is the foundation of everything I do. Along with that, I value empathy, humility, and a strong sense of service to others. I believe in treating people with respect, especially those in the trades, and understanding the effort behind the work. Staying grounded, being transparent, and contributing to the community are principles that guide both my professional and personal life.
Locations
Shelli Mehri LLC
Naples, FL 34114