our hot mess
Zan and Michelle
Founders
Mess Hall was founded by Zan Starr and Michelle Starr starting from an idea to open a creative space where art and craft activities could be done, that individuals would not want to do at home given the mess! The idea became a reality and Mess Hall’s grand opening was November 6, 2021. Zan had the original idea and Michelle designed the original kids birthday party program. Since inception, Mess Hall has grown and expanded to be what it is today, which includes a new owner, additional programs, inlcusive art programs and educational classes for all ages.
Alex
Owner
In 2024, Alex started looking for another way to put Joy into her life. Being at home with 3 very busy kids under 7, while working opposite shifts as her wife was really taking a toll on her mental health and the whole family.
Alex has a culinary background and teaches kids and adults how to cook since 2017 and operates a small catering business. Zan was looking for someone to cater their employee appreciation event in 2023 and that is when they met. Alex was asked to do some art while visiting and she was hooked. Art has become a big part of her family. Her oldest is neurodivergent and on the Autism Spectrum and has found Art to be her safe space. This is a huge reason Alex has been focused on Inclusive art and the many ways to serve the communities that don’t have as many resources for outings.
Long story short…Zan moved out of the country and needed the business to be taken care of. Alex stepped in with her new company, Mess Hall Arts. Using the foundation that Zan had built, Alex has started expanding the Messy Offerings and plans to grow in the next few years to include Food Art Classes and new Food Centric party packages.
Maddy
Event Manager
Hi! My name is Maddy, I love getting to be a part of our all of our different events and work with such an awesome team. When I’m not working you can find me biking, knitting, or hanging out with my hairless cat named Big!