I was born here in Excelsior Springs and went to High School in Lawson. I started my career in the Hotel industry at the age of 18, working for John Q. Hammons properties, Marriott, Holiday Inn, and even The Elms Hotel in Excelsior Springs. I worked as a Director of Catering; Events and Wedding Planner for over 20 years and helped plan over 300 weddings. In 2020, the COVID pandemic forced me to make a career change and I was again faced with the question “What do I want to be when I grow up?”.
I knew I wanted to spend more of my time outdoors and less time wearing high heels. In the Spring of 2021, I found myself shopping one day at Blue Sparrow’s Garden Center and knew I wanted to work for this company. As soon as I met the owner Jesse and his sister Sheryl, it felt like family. What a perfect fit!
Thanks to my Momma, I had a pretty good knowledge base of flowers, and perennials….or at least I thought I did! I’m now going into my 3rd year at Blue Sparrow and I continue to learn something new about plants every single day. In my off time, I love to spend time with my family, take walks with my dog Ryder, and cheer on the KC Chiefs with friends. I also co-own a plumbing company called R & J Mechanical on the side with my husband Richard.
You’ve probably seen me cruising your neighborhood in the “Speedy Sparrow”, giving out estimates on landscaping. If you happen to see me out and about, give me a honk and a wave!