Daily Inspiration: Meet Alyssa Shelley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Shelley

Hi Alyssa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began when I was a college student at Coastal Carolina University, and I had a dream of doing something bigger than just finishing school. Like many students, I found myself questioning the traditional 9-to-5 path, wondering if there was a way to create something of my own—something that would give me the freedom to pursue my passions. I had two years left of college, and I was determined to have something significant going for me by the time I graduated.

At the time, I had a deep love for interior design and travel, particularly boutique hotels, which inspired me to dream of one day designing my own. I spent countless nights reading books, scouring Google, and learning everything I could about the hospitality industry, especially how I could blend my love for design with a business venture. One day, it hit me—what better stepping stone into the hospitality world than owning and designing my own Airbnb? I booked a two-day trip to Nashville, scouted properties, flew back to college, and quickly made the decision to take the leap. I asked my best friend Myranda to invest in my idea, and she was in! I moved to Nashville for four weeks, where I set up my Airbnb—Denim Dreams—completely by myself, with a little help from some friends along the way.

Once everything was ready, I knew I needed to get the word out, so I reached out to one of my favorite influencers at the time, Emily Harris. I sent her an email, hoping for a response, and to my delight, she agreed to stay at Denim Dreams. That moment was a turning point. I knew that this was going to work, and that I had the ability to succeed in this industry.

Fast forward to today, and it’s been three years since I started this journey. I’ve partnered with incredible influencers and companies, and Denim Dreams has become not only a Superhost property but also a Nashville Guest Favorite. My college dream has come full circle, opening the door to even more exciting opportunities in the design industry. I’ve had the privilege of helping clients reimagine their properties in meaningful ways. From breathing new life into short-term rentals to refining investment properties for resale and curating warm, inviting living spaces, I’ve specialized in turning visions into reality. But through all of this, I’ve learned that design is more than just aesthetics—it’s about purpose, function, and creating an atmosphere that feels like home. I’m excited to bring that same passion and expertise to every project, whether it’s a boutique hotel, a rental space, or a personal home, curating spaces that reflect each owner’s unique story and elevate their experiences. It doesn’t matter if you’re 19 or 45, it is never too late to have a goal, and I hope everyone will choose to the path, risky or not to achieve it.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While the road wasn’t always easy, it certainly wasn’t a scary one because I believed in my dream from the start. The real struggle in the beginning was simply launching something that could generate passive income while I was still in college. Balancing school and starting a business meant juggling a lot of unknowns—figuring out how to manage a property 9 hours away by myself, learning hospitality, and designing a space from scratch. But the unpredictability of the industry never fazed me. I knew I’d find a way to make it work.

The biggest challenge was testing whether it would actually succeed. I didn’t want the unpredictability of the industry to define me. Instead, I kept pushing forward with confidence, believing that if I stuck with it, I’d figure out the rest. And here we are, three years later—Denim Dreams has become a success, and I’m proud to say that every challenge only made me more determined

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in creating spaces that blend style with purpose, focusing on interior design for short-term rentals, investment properties, and unique boutique experiences. What sets me apart is my ability to not only design beautiful environments but to craft spaces that tell a story and elevate the guest experience. I believe design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming, functional, and reflective of the community around it.

A key aspect of my work is increasing ROI through design. I design short-term rentals that produce higher revenue, attract more bookings, and stand out in a competitive market. My approach ensures that each space I work on is not only visually appealing but also strategically designed to maximize profitability.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor and building a strong network is key, and my advice is to seek out people whose work you admire—whether through social media, local events, or industry groups. Be proactive but also genuine in your approach. For me, networking has been about being open, curious, and offering value in return, whether that’s sharing experiences or supporting others.

I’ve learned that being consistent, staying in a routine, and continuously marketing yourself is essential. Even if business proposals don’t come to life, the process of creating them keeps you sharp and creative. It’s a constant work of innovation, and it’s crucial to stay determined and think big—don’t let financial challenges scare you. Find a way, trust in your abilities, and trust in God. The right people will come into your life when you stay true to your vision.”

Pricing:

• N/a, people can reach out to me via email and book a free consultation to discuss pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/Denimdreamsnashville
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denimdreamsnash/
• Twitter: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/53943260