July 3, 2025 •Anya Wells
Shelby Humphreys was in digital marketing for ten years before deciding to step into the world of entrepreneurship. Now, she offers a full range of digital marketing services like social media management, email marketing, and website development to businesses across the Missoula area. Shelby combines creativity and a passion for community in her work through her business, Missoula Social Media.
. 
A Lifelong Blend of Creativity and Tech
Creativity and design have been a part of Shelby’s life since she was young. “I'd see a commercial and I would imagine a better way to make it look, or I would imagine a play and how we would do the set to make it very impactful.” When social media gained popularity, her creative ability and knack for using technology set Shelby up in the perfect position to use it for marketing.
Embracing Community and Connection
Owning a business, especially as a “solopreneur”, can be difficult. Sometimes, the list of to-dos feels like it will never end. Shelby’s trick to combat this? She reminds herself of why she started her business in the first place. “...I didn't start a business just to have a business. I wanted to connect with people. I wanted to connect people in the community...”
Launching with Support: The Power of Entrepreneurial Programs
When Shelby was starting Missoula Social Media, she joined a course with what would become the Rocky Mountain Women’s Business Center (then called Pursue Your Passions). Shelby remembers that the program ushered her from business ideation, all the way to launching. But one of the most valuable parts of the course was the small group that Shelby joined. This group of women entrepreneurs found community among one another and continue to meet regularly even now.
The Rhythm of a Workday
Over the last five years, Shelby has learned that flexibility is key to being an entrepreneur, especially when working with clients. “Things change, circumstances change, our clientele changes, and we have to adapt the flow of our days to match that.”
Shelby Humphreys’ journey into entrepreneurship reflects the blend of creativity, adaptability, and purpose that defines so many small businesses. Through Missoula Social Media, she has created a vehicle for connection, storytelling, and local impact. Her work is rooted in community, fueled by a lifelong love for creative problem-solving, and supported by the kind of intentional relationships that keep entrepreneurs grounded. As she continues to adapt, grow, and serve, Shelby remains a powerful example of what it means to lead with both heart and strategy in a digital age.
If you are interested in hearing more of Shelby’s story, you can watch the full video below!
To read the video's transcript, click here.
Connect with Shelby on Instagram @missoula_social_media or on her website.
Professional photos were taken by KC Lostetter Photography. Follow her on Instagram @kclostetter.
Want to hear more stories about Montana women entrepreneurs? Click here to explore the Rocky Mountain Women in Business Series library.
Are you a woman business owner in Montana? Click here to learn more and apply to tell your story!
Interview by Anya Wells, RMWBC Marketing Assistant and Storytelling Extraordinaire
