Mendes studied Fashion Design and Merchandising at the University of Rhode Island, followed by a second bachelor’s degree in Web Marketing at Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio. She came to PFI to study sewing, garment construction and fashion design and complete the Fashion Forward program in 2016 with her label Love, Stephanie. She currently creates custom garments and bridal alterations for private clients and holds the VP of Communications position on the board of the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals.