Melissa Grimes holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas and attended the New York School of Interior Design. She is registered as an interior designer with the State of Texas and is NCIDQ certified. Prior to launching Studio West, Melissa gained experience in design-related businesses and worked on projects throughout Texas. Her industry experience spans 16 years and includes teaching interior design classes at Texas Tech University. She is also a Texas Association of Interior Design (TAID) board member.

Melissa is actively involved in the communities in which she lives and works. Her involvement includes three years' participation in Chamber of Commerce Leadership programs, serving as a steering committee member for two of those years.