kirsten fsbWhile I’ve known Kirsten for years, I always worked with one of her associates at the Four Seasons Biltmore, Santa Barbara when producing weddings at this gorgeous ocean-front luxury resort.  Recently with a change in the catering department, Kirsten took over my client’s wedding and we had the chance to get to know each other even better.  One of the first things that struck me about Kirsten is her consistent professionalism balanced with a great sense of humor.  She has been a leader at the Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara for years and has earned an incredible reputation as one of Santa Barbara’s best event industry professionals with her attention to detail, direct style and the ability to cultivate relationships.  While many may know the professional side of Kirsten, a look into her personal side may reveal some fun trivia you never knew:

Where were you born and raised?

Portland Oregon

Where has been your favorite place to live?   Santa Barbara, California

Where have you traveled to that you simply must return to (or never been to and want to go)?

Working with the Four Seasons has afforded me the luxury of travel!  We are fortunate enough to stay at all Four Seasons!  My goal has been to stay at every hotel in the company….we have 90 hotels and resorts.  That said, I am not big on repeating my vacations.   So much to see and do…and I want to see it all!!!  I do want to go back to Africa… I hear Four Seasons Tanzania calling my name….

 

What are your hobbies? What do you love to do most when not working/planning events for Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara?

Horseback riding…When I am not working  I can be found at riding my horse over the hills of Montecito! Or cleaning stalls but that seems so unglamorous….

 

What makes you feel most alive?

Walking my dog on the beach when the sun is rising or setting….I start most days like this …roll out of bed, throw on the sweats, leash up the dog, drive to beach…walk begins at 615am …rain or shine…If I miss the sun rise in the I will catch it on the way out….feeling grateful!!!

 

How did you get into the events world?

Living on Maui, became enamored by the hotel business and specifically the party planning!!

What do you love most about what you do?

Everything!!!  I am one person that can honestly say I love what I do!! Sure there are those days…but at the end of the day….wow the accomplishments that happen!!!

Specifically, I love that it is always changing, we meet and get to work with the most amazing people, we get to see the most phenomenal decor and food… I could go on and on.

 

What is the one thing most people may not know about you?

That Meyers Briggs recognizes me as an introvert….

 

What is your favorite food?

I like everything…and am will trying anything once!

 

What are your top three favorite Four Seasons Biltmore event menu items?

Mushroom Risotto, Celery Parmesan Salad

Herb Focaccia Crusted Beef Tenderloin

and a simple but delish…Vanilla Creme Brulee