The Mahaley Family
Military Makeover with Montel® proudly introduces the Mahaleys, a veteran family whose story embodies the sacrifice and dedication for this nation and their loved ones. Hailing from Mooresville, North Carolina, Benjamin and Melissa Mahaley's story is filled with valor and commitment.
Melissa's journey into service began straight out of high school at 18 years old, when she joined the US Marine Corps as a radio operator. Meanwhile, Benjamin, inspired by his Uncle Dan's unwavering loyalty as a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, felt the call to serve his country and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005 at the age of 23. Trained in Parris Island and stationed in Okinawa, Japan, Benjamin speaks with immense pride about the discipline he learned during his early service.
Like Benjamin, Melissa too was stationed in Okinawa and later sent to Bangladesh and Korea, experiencing the trials of military life firsthand. Their service took them to different corners of the world, exposing them to the rigors of combat and the sacrifices demanded by their duty.
Despite facing the grim realities of war and enduring physical and emotional scars, Benjamin and Melissa remained steadfast in their mission. In recognition of his exemplary service, Benjamin has been awarded several honors, including the USMC Good Conduct Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal. However, the scars of war run deep, and both Benjamin and Melissa have returned home with physical and emotional wounds that continue to impact their daily lives.
After being honorably discharged in March of 2011, Melissa pursued a career in nursing to continue serving others. Sadly, her journey was not without its challenges, as she suffered injuries during her time in the Marine Corps, leading to hip surgery in 2009. Additionally, she grapples with depression stemming from a myriad of military-related issues. Nevertheless, Melissa's commitment to service remains firm.
Benjamin, now finding solace in his role as a firefighter with the Charlotte Fire Department, continues to serve his community with the same dedication instilled in him during his military service. His commitment to others extends beyond the firehouse, as he actively engages in outdoor activities with his family.
The Mahaleys are the proud parents of five beautiful children: Easton, Ryder, Lyla, Zoey, and Kira. Benjamin and Melissa exemplify the unwavering resilience and enduring strength that define military families. Through the generosity of partners and the power of community, Military Makeover with Montel is honored to shine a spotlight on their Inspirational journey. To honor the Mahaley family, we are committed to creating a home that reflects the American spirit and the love that permeates every aspect of their lives. Join us as we salute the Mahaleys and their bravery!
We invite you to look through this Style Guide and watch the Mahaley Family season to see how we transformed their home with the help of our generous partners.
Meet Our Hosts
United by their passion for giving back, Montel Williams, Art Edmonds, and Jennifer Bertrand co-host Military Makeover, devoted to transforming the lives of military families and honoring their service.
Montel Williams, a former Marine and Naval Academy graduate, is best known as the Emmy Award-winning host of The Montel Williams Showand is a dedicated advocate for veterans, education, and health.
Art Edmonds, with over 20 years of experience as a TV host, spokesperson, and voiceover talent, has contributed to series like NatGeoWild'sSwampMenandDr.K’s Exotic Animal ER .
Jennifer Bertrand, winner of HGTV’sDesignStar , is celebrated for her accessible design approach and hosted her own show, Paint Over! with Jennifer Bertrand .
The Mahaley Family Home
Welcome to the Military Makeover Style Guide featuring the Mahaley Family. In this edition, we are thrilled to showcase the transformation of their home into a stunning farmhouse boho haven. The Mahaley family's strength and determination have inspired us deeply, and it has been our privilege to create a space that mirrors their journey. Join us as we delve into the design choices and unique touches that have turned their home into a warm, inviting haven, blending rustic charm with bohemian flair.
Jennifer Bertrand gave the Mahaley family’s living room a beautiful farmhouse boho makeover, blending unique finds with smart design. She sourced a striking live-edge wood piece from Facebook Marketplace, which became the room's rustic centerpiece. Val, the construction manager at Purple Heart Homes, added a handcrafted touch with custom upper wood details.
Cozy couches, a stylish lamp, and a plush ottoman from Apartment 2B created a comfortable seating area, complemented by a vibrant rug from the same brand. Jennifer also added art and a decorative tree from Amazon to enhance the space. Her top design tip? Scale décor to match high ceilings by raising the fireplace and placing items higher on the walls for balance and impact. Head to our Amazon storefront to shop the look and bring these design elements into your own home!
Jennifer Bertrand gave the Mahaley family's kitchen a fresh new look, blending modern updates with personal touches. Lowe’s provided all the paint, using Sherwin Williams Dorian Grey for the grout and Magnolia White for the upper cabinets, while chalk paint added charm to the rest. Donated countertops from N2 Granite brought a sleek, sophisticated feel, and Navy Mutual installed new flooring downstairs, with the old floors sanded and clear-coated to keep some original character. To top it off, the family will be enjoying premium steaks from the 6666 Ranch, donated for the next six months, making their new kitchen the perfect space for unforgettable meals. We couldn’t have done this makeover without Jersey Mikes fueling the entire Military Makeover cast and crew.
A cozy dining area featured a table and chairs from Apartment 2B, and Jennifer repurposed the homeowners' old lights for a sentimental touch. To top it off, she added a stylish coffee breakfast bar with everything sourced from Amazon to give the children more independence in the mornings. If you're inspired to create this breakfast bar at home, head to our Amazon storefront to shop the look and bring the convenience and charm into your own space!
The second Jennifer Bertrand stepped into the Mahaley family’s bedrooms, she saw blank canvases ready to be transformed into personalized, dream spaces. Eager to reflect the family’s unique styles, she envisioned rooms that were not only beautiful but practical and clutter-free.
In the primary bedroom, Jennifer made the bed the focal point, with fully covered walls creating a serene atmosphere. Painter’s tarps cleverly doubled as curtains, while side tables, artwork, and furniture from Apartment 2B, along with extra pillows, added comfort and style. To ensure Melissa and Ben have a safe place to store their valuables, Master Lock provided a state-of-the-art safe, offering both security and peace of mind. Plus, their closets are now filled with brand-new shoes, thanks to SAS, adding a fresh step to their stylish new space.
In the girls’ bedroom, she used a fun design trick by extending stripes from the walls across the ceiling to break up the long space, blending different styles and repurposing the family’s old coffee bar as a cabinet. Prominence Homes provided the fan, and Navy Mutual installed plush carpeting.
The boys also received a stylish makeover in their bedrooms, with lighting by Prominence Homes, carpets from Navy Mutual, and fun furnishings sourced from Amazon. The boy’s bedrooms were transformed into a soccer players paradise. Easton and Ryder’s rooms featured modern touches from Prominence Homes, completing a set of bedrooms that were functional, clutter-free, and filled with the personality of each family member.
Speaking of personality, the boys' love for gaming was also considered in the design, creating cozy nooks for their gaming consoles and setups. This perfect blend of style and play makes their rooms the ultimate hangout spots. And to celebrate their new spaces, the family can look forward to fun outings at our partners Dave & Buster's, where the boys can immerse themselves in an exciting world of gaming and entertainment!
But the transformation didn’t stop with the decor. Thanks to Service Experts, the Mahaleys now enjoy brand-new HVAC, water, and air filtration systems throughout their home, helping them save money on bills while conserving energy and improving their health. Service Experts also installed a cutting-edge automated connected home system, allowing the family to control various aspects of their home with the touch of a button bringing both comfort and convenience into their newly designed spaces.
Jennifer worked her magic in the Mahaley family’s home by transforming the primary bathroom, the boys' bathroom, and the girls' bathroom into personalized spaces that reflect each family member's unique style. In the primary bathroom, she introduced a modern yet tranquil feel with new fixtures and finishes, giving Melissa and Ben a luxurious retreat. The boys' bathroom was upgraded with sleek and durable materials, making it both functional and stylish for their daily routines. The girls' bathroom became a whimsical retreat, with handpainted flowers adorning the walls, adding a delicate and artistic touch.
To ensure that these stunning transformations are not only beautiful but also energyefficient, Great Stuff helped seal all the gaps and cracks throughout the bathrooms and the entire home. This attention to detail not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also improves insulation and reduces energy costs.
Now, Ben has a designated area to store his new Lenire machine from Neuromod, which helps manage his tinnitus, ensuring he has easy access to this important tool in his daily life.
To top it off, Suave filled each bathroom and shower with all the products the Mahaley family will need, ensuring they’re set for every self-care moment. But the makeover didn’t stop at just the home Melissa also received a personal touch. Our friends at Milan Hair Removal provided her with a consultation, addressing all her makeover needs and helping her feel as refreshed and revitalized as her newly transformed home.
Now, with their beautiful new bathrooms, the Mahaley family has the perfect space to get ready for their upcoming Caribbean vacation, courtesy of our friends at CheapCaribbean Vacations. These stunning transformations will serve as the ideal backdrop for preparing for their much-needed getaway!
Jennifer completely transformed the Mahaley family’s gym and playroom, creating functional environments for both the parents and kids. The home gym was designed to be an ideal workout area for Benjamin and Melissa, featuring handcrafted wood details made by local craftsman Laura Holiday, while Navy Mutual installed the flooring. The family’s existing equipment was kept in the space, giving it a familiar and functional feel.
To enhance their physical activities, the Mahaleys now have the ability to monitor and record their health with the Zepp App. This innovative technology allows them to optimize their health, fitness, and wellness better than ever before. With the combination of their revamped gym and the support from Zepp, the family is set to embrace an active lifestyle while making the most of their newly designed spaces.
In the playroom, Jennifer worked with Western Governors University to create a fun, rainy-day retreat for the kids, with a stylish cabinet from Apartment 2B providing ample storage. The only item the family requested to keep from before the makeover a personalized name sign was lovingly placed back in the room, blending the new design with a cherished piece of their past.
To make way for this beautiful new space, Junk King was our go-to partner for the process of "out with the old and in with the new." Their efficient and ecofriendly service ensured that any unwanted items were quickly and responsibly removed, allowing the Mahaley family to fully embrace their fresh, updated playroom without the clutter of the past. With Junk King's help, the transition was seamless, creating a perfect environment for the kids to enjoy.
Jennifer thoughtfully designed a dedicated homeschooling area for Easton and Ryder, ensuring it became an ideal setting for focused learning. She created a functional yet inviting environment, incorporating spacious desks, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage for books and supplies. The room is free from distractions, with calming colors and organized workstations that encourage concentration and creativity.
Western Governors University played a key role in bringing this vision to life, handling everything except the flooring, which was provided by Navy Mutual. Jennifer’s design also includes a designated area for hands-on activities and art projects, making it a versatile space where Easton and Ryder can thrive academically and express themselves creatively. This homeschooling haven blends practicality with comfort, giving them everything they need to succeed.
“Whencreatingadesignatedworkroomforhomeschooling,ensurethespace
Jennifer completely transformed the outdoor space of the Mahaley home, turning what was once an underutilized area into a stunning retreat. She extended the deck on the second floor, enhancing its size and functionality, and added an outdoor staircase to provide seamless access to the yard below. The entire deck was expertly crafted by Armadillo Deck, ensuring a beautiful and durable finish.
For the setup, Jennifer collaborated with Art Edmonds to create an inviting atmosphere that complements the new design. As a generous addition to their outdoor living experience, Purple Heart Homes presented the Mahaleys with a new Pit Boss grill, a Goat ice chest, and Pedego Bikes, providing everything they need for outdoor cooking and family fun.
To further enhance their outdoor adventures, SpotOn provided the Mahaley family with the world’s first wireless fence, allowing them to take their dog anywhere and set up a safe boundary on the go. With this groundbreaking technology, they no longer have to worry about containing their dog in public spaces, giving them more flexibility when traveling. Now, the whole family can enjoy their outings without leaving anyone behind, making their outdoor living experience even more enjoyable.
Upgrade Your Space With Home-Schooling
Transforming a home into a conducive learning space is no small feat. In the latest season of Military Makeover, the team tackled the Mahaley Home with a special focus on a room, which was once both a guest and a home-schooling room. However, it was reimagined to focus on one thing: being an ideal home-schooling area.
Jen’s approach to this project highlights several best practices essential for crafting an effective educational environment at home. Here are the key elements for setting up an exceptional home-schooling space:
1. Designate a Dedicated Learning Room
A separate room dedicated solely to schooling can significantly enhance focus and organization. By converting the Mahaleys' multi-purpose room into a home-schooling area, Jen ensured that the space was exclusively reserved for learning activities. This separation from other home areas minimizes distractions and helps establish a clear boundary between educational and personal spaces.
2. Create a Distraction-Free Zone
To foster concentration, it is crucial to minimize potential distractions within the learning environment. Jen’s design for the Mahaley home emphasized the importance of a space where interruptions are kept to a minimum. This involved selecting a quiet room and using thoughtful design elements to create an atmosphere conducive to studying and teaching.
3. Incorporate Functional and Ergonomic Furniture
Comfort and functionality are paramount in a home-schooling area. The Mahaleys’ new room features spacious desks and ergonomic chairs, chosen to support long hours of learning. Ergonomic furniture not only enhances comfort but also promotes proper posture, which is essential for maintaining focus and reducing physical strain during study sessions.
4 Utilize Organizational Tools
Effective learning requires a well-organized environment. Jen integrated various organizational tools into the Mahaleys' home-schooling room, including boards for scheduling and planning. These tools help students and parents keep track of assignments, deadlines, and educational goals, ensuring that the learning process remains structured and efficient.
5. Design an Inviting and Stimulating Atmosphere
An inspiring environment can motivate and engage learners. The transformation of the Mahaley guest room into a dynamic home-schooling space involved creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages enthusiasm for learning. Bright colors, ample lighting, and personal touches can make the room more appealing and stimulate a positive educational experience.
By adhering to these best practices, you can create a home-schooling environment that supports effective learning and fosters a love for education. The Mahaley Home's makeover exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform an ordinary room into an extraordinary educational space.
Purple Heart Homes’ Fishing Tournament Takes Military Makeover with the Mahaleys to New Heights
In the latest episode of Military Makeover with the Mahaleys, Purple Heart Homes elevated the home transformation with their innovative “Reel Heroes” initiative, creating a memorable and impactful experience for the Mahaley family. The organization’s inaugural Fishing Tournament, Reel Heroes Fishing Tournament, further showcased their dedication to supporting veterans through dynamic fundraising efforts.
The Reel Heroes Fishing Tournament drew an impressive crowd of approximately 100 attendees, who enjoyed homemade BBQ grilled on-site and had the opportunity to tour the Purple Heart Homes facility. John Gallina, cofounder of Purple Heart Homes, appeared on camera with Art Edmonds to discuss the significance of the “Reel Heroes” initiative and its role in the organization’s ongoing efforts. You can watch the entire conversation on www.militarymakeover.tv
During the event, John Gallina presented fully outfitted kayaks and “Patriot” shoes from R.D.C. Shoe Company to Benjamin and Easton Mahaley. Gallina also honored Art with a pair of “Patriot” shoes and provided additional pairs for Montel Williams and Jennifer Bertrand. This was definitely a touching moment within the season.
However, it was Easton Mahaley’s participation in the fishing event that emerged as a standout moment of the makeover. He made sure to let everyone know that this was his favorite part of the entire project. This made everyone happy as Purple Heart Homes is always on a mission to enhance the experience of military veterans and their families.
All in all, the integration of the Reel Heroes Fishing Tournament into the episode of Military Makeover went beyond a simple home renovation, weaving a narrative of community, shared experiences, and profound support for the Mahaley family.
OFFICIAL NON-PROFIT PARTNER
ANNUAL PARTNERS
DEDICATED
COMMUNITY PARNTERS
Construction & Home Services
Band of Brothers Construction
Closet Factory
Discount Floor Covering Outlet
Doug & Cindy DeLuca
Driver’s Custom Homes, LLC
Dulin Designs
GB Electrics
Hughes Plumbing
JB Godfrey Construction
Lansing Building Products
Lightside Electric
Lowe’s
Nick’s Lawn and Landscape
N2Granite
Watterson Builders
Government & Community
City of Mooresville
Gary West Commissioner at
Large, Town of Mooresville
Honorable Mayor of Mooresville
North Carolina Chris Carney
Iredell County North Carolina
Lisa Qualls Commission, Town of Mooresville
Mooresville Chamber of Commerce
Mooresville CVB
South Iredell High School
MCJROTC
Financial Services
Synchrony Bank
Non-profit Organizations
Better Business Bureau
Goodwill
Marine Corps League –
Detachment 1097
Redell County Marine Corps
League Det. 1097
Food & Catering
Donut I Love You
Gatherings Catering
Muchachos Tacos
Paige’s Plate
Transportation & Logistics
Go Transportation
KRM Golf Carts
LKN Party Rentals
RVs
Sam A. Byers & Sons Moving
Real Estate & Property Services
Prominence Home
Republic Services
Superior Storage
Hospitality & Retail
A Greener Clean
Fatboy
Latham’s Nursery
LKN Mercantile
SpringHill Suites Charlotte/Lake
Norman/Mooresville
