FOUNDER

Marielle Shortell is the Founder and CEO of Capricorn Creative, a creative production and experiential design studio specializing in high-impact corporate events, custom fabrication, and immersive brand environments. With more than two decades of experience producing events across the U.S. and Europe, Marielle is known for pairing strategic thinking with refined design execution. Her work spans large-scale conferences, executive gatherings, product launches, and bespoke installations for leading global brands. Marielle brings a thoughtful, detail-driven approach to every project, balancing creativity, operational rigor, and client partnership.
In her role as a Creative Director, Marielle leads the creative strategy and design vision from concept through execution. She oversees ideation, spatial planning, custom fabrication, and visual storytelling, ensuring each experience is both aesthetically compelling and operationally sound. Working closely with clients, designers, fabricators, and production teams, Marielle translates business objectives into cohesive, immersive environments while maintaining creative integrity, budget alignment, and production feasibility.

EXECUTIVE MANAGER

Based in Ohio, I bring over 10 years of experience in operations and procurement, supporting fast-paced environments with clarity, intention, and a people-first mindset. Much of my work centers on helping teams stay aligned and confident, approaching challenges with a calm presence and an intuitive sense of what needs to happen next. Problem solving has always felt natural to me by turning moving parts into clear, workable solutions that actually make people’s days easier. My focus is always on creating communication practices and workflows that feel supportive, efficient, and genuinely useful. Outside of work, I’m a wife and mom of three daughters, and we’re happiest outdoors, exploring new places, or spending time in or near the water.

EVENT DESIGNER

I’m an Experiential Producer based in Chicago, IL, and for the past four years I’ve been bringing events to life with the team at Capricorn Creative. Once a client moves into the “okay, let’s build this” stage, I’m their go-to — shaping ideas, smoothing details, handling curveballs, and making sure the final experience feels effortless, intentional, and a little bit magical.I thrive in the beautifully chaotic world of events, where creativity, flexibility, and quick thinking rule. From polished corporate gatherings to quirky pop-ups and immersive installations, I love turning big ideas into moments people can walk into and remember long after. When I’m not in event mode, I’m usually spending time with my husband and our puppy, planning our next adventure, or soaking up a great night at the theater.

CONCEPUTAL DESIGNER

Based just outside Baltimore, MD, I’m a 3D Conceptual Designer with over eight years at Capricorn Creative and many more in creative direction. I turn early event ideas into immersive visual environments, blending creativity with technical precision to translate concepts into detailed renderings, build plans, and experiential designs that help clients clearly envision their event. I thrive on elevating themes, creative problem-solving, and shaping spaces that feel intentional, dimensional, and memorable. Outside of work, I’m usually cheering on my two very active boys at their games, planning our next family adventure, or enjoying weekends filled with live music and beer gardens.

CONCEPUTAL DESIGNER

Based in Buffalo, NY, I’m a 3D Conceptual Designer with three years at Capricorn Creative and many more shaped by visual merchandising and store design. I specialize in developing early concepts into dimensional, detailed visuals that help clients understand exactly how their event will come to life. From concept to completion, I guide each design with intention and refinement, using renderings, graphics, and drawings to bring every detail into focus. My design background shapes this process, blending creativity and clarity with a deep understanding of how people move through and experience a space. When I’m off the clock, you’ll find my husband and me exploring new corners of the U.S., diving into home renovations, and never missing a Buffalo Bills game — go Bills!

OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

Based just outside D.C. in Maryland, I’m an Operations Coordinator who thrives where creativity, logistics, and teamwork meet. My role combines supporting teams behind the scenes, moving between the warehouse and on-site projects, and bringing creative visions to life. By connecting people and ideas across the team, I make sure every detail contributes to the bigger picture. I love blending creativity with hands-on collaboration, turning projects into experiences that feel thoughtful, intentional, and memorable. From coordinating teams to being on-site to manage details firsthand, I jump in wherever needed to keep projects moving and experiences coming together smoothly. When I’m not behind the scenes, you’ll find me planning my next adventure, exploring nature, or keeping up with my four puppies.