Studio Mähd is a strategic design consultancy that builds digital products, stories, and visual identities.

We are committed to partnering with investors and the high-potential start-ups they work with to grow, raise funds, and generate both fiscal and societal returns.

Hi, I'm Shahla

Founder + Creative director

I am a full-stack designer, with an emphasis on digital. I began my career studying Graphic Arts at the University of Louisville. I also became interested in front-end development, after learning HTML and CSS in an attempt to make the coolest MySpace page 🤓. I became a self-taught hybrid designer and developer in the agency space for number of years.

My career eventually shifted into that of a creative leader and strategist. I thrive on thinking through user journeys and flows, and love turning concepts into reality. I have lead teams of designers, developers, and strategists, and have worked in leading projects for some of the best innovators and VCs in the country.

My clients range from innovators, to the people who fund them, to the people they impact. This horizontal expertise provides me with the unique ability to view a client’s story from 20,000 feet and bring a new visual life to it.

Shahla Mahdavi
My trusted partners and I believe that technology and startups should be at the forefront of creating a more inclusive, equitable future.

We know that when you bring together people with diversity of thought, backgrounds, and experiences  to work together on an idea or product, you end up with something that is so much more than the sum of its parts. If you are on-board with this, let's join forces to make the world a better place.

Values

Empathy
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Tranparency
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Inclusion
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Humor
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Curiosity

I've worked with some really smart people.

I've been fortunate in my career to have worked with a wide variety of VC's, tech start-ups, small businesses, and non-profits. Here are just a few companies I have had the pleasure of working with at previous firms, and on my own:
Amplify Louisville LogoAppify LogoBCV LogoBoldstart Logo Campaign Deputy LogoConcrete Rose LogoForgepoint LogoGreylock LogoGoodMaps LogoM12 Logo Mayfield Logo Non Binary Solutions Logo Pav*r LogoPenny Jar LogoSofinnova LogoTrilogy Logo UL Health Equity and Innovation Hub LogoWellframe Logo

What others are saying...

"Shahla’s ability to take complex ideas and turn them into creative and beautiful design is a unique talent. Her knowledge in both brand and digital design is a true asset that benefitted multiple departments and partner needs."

Kimberly Gordon

Head of Brand Marketing | Bain Capital Ventures

"In my life, I have been privileged to work with global talent a few times, and it is wonderful to find here in our backyard. Shahla's combination of insight, creativity, and follow-through has resulted in millions of dollars of grant and investment funding for us."

Ben Reno-Weber

Deputy Director | University of Louisville Health Equity & Innovation Hub

"I can not say enough good things about working with Shahla. Her ability to take the ideas in my head and turn them into something tangible is truly incredible."

Jessica Bledsoe

CEO | Pav*r

"Shahla created our pitch deck and feedback was amazing. The output and process was fantastic and would work with her again! Would highly recommend any founder connect w/ Shahla for deck and design work"

Dan Ross-Li

CEO | Affinna

"Shahla's visual work encapsulating my company's mission speaks for itself, yet the details and the back work she provided in turning my deck into a living, breathing business plan - invaluable."

Anora Morton, JD

CEO | Nori

"Professional, swift, and razor sharp! Such a pleasure to work with!"

Amanda Ralston

CEO | Non-Binary Solutions

Let's Chat

If you’re an innovator, investor, or company focused on building a better future, we want to partner with you.