Marley grew up in Eagle Rock, California. Her mother, Carol, was a teacher and former singer and her father, Christopher Shelton, worked as a director and producer. She has three sisters: Koren, Erin and Samantha Shelton. Both of her parents were involved in local theater projects, but as a teen, Marley was never interested in life on the stage. While at Eagle Rock High School, she was a varsity cheerleader, was voted Prom Queen and held part-time jobs at stores like Contempo and Wet Seal.



Her high school prom date was with her boyfriend at the time - "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (1997) actor, Nicholas Brendon. He bought her 100 roses, wore a tux and drove a black convertible Mustang. Marley said that he "totally did it right". Engaged to producer Beau Flynn. [July 2001] She was announced for the part of "Annabeth Schott" in "The West Wing" (1999)'s 6th season but was replaced by actress Kristin Chenoweth when the character was aged a bit and submitted to a few changes. Studies acting with Kathleen King. Daughter, West Flynn, born September 6, 2009. She weighed 9 lbs.