I come from a family who loves to cook and entertain. Growing up, I spent a lot of time observing in the kitchen, hoping that some of that skill would be passed on to me. My father's family is Greek and my mother's is Lebanese, Scotch-Irish and German. Originally from Arkansas, I grew up eating a variety of classic Mediterranean dishes mixed with comforting Southern specialties as well. However, I didn't plan on a career in the catering and events industry.

When I was a little girl I would accompany my mother to the ballet studio where she taught classes. As soon as I was old enough I began studying dance myself; always eager for the opportunity to be on stage. I went to college at Missouri State in Springfield, Missouri where I studied Dance and Business. After college, I spent about a year living in New York City with my future husband. Together, we decided to move back to the Midwest where he grew up.

We were married in 2004 and it was while planning our wedding that my interest in the special events industry was sparked. I've always been a very structured person and I found that I had a knack for organizing all the parts and pieces of our wedding weekend. It was then that I began to seek out an opportunity to continue this work as a profession.

I was lucky that a local landmark gave me the opportunity to handle their event rentals, and I learned a great deal about the industry from my supervisor there. As my knowledge and interest grew, I sought out a position where I could play more of a role in the overall planning process. I was given a position with a local catering company where I handled catering sales and planning for more than two years.

I am now thrilled to become a part of the Butler's Pantry team. My primary focus will be executing the events at the Missouri History Museum, a venue that I absolutely love! There is a great opportunity to work with a variety of clients at the museum — from brides and birthday parties to non-profit organizations and corporate clients — it really keeps me on my toes.

Because of my background, I see events in a very theatrical way — the venue is my stage, the decor is my set, and all of the details must be choreographed harmoniously in order execute a flawless event. It is a great pleasure to watch an event in progress after months of detailed planning. My proudest moment, however, was very recently when my husband and I had our first baby, a little girl! A new baby, a new company, a new year...I can't wait to see what else 2010 has in store!