Q. Events play a prominent role in the mission of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, bringing together the business community and the public. You have a strong background in community engagement and event planning. What drew you to Siesta Key, and what opportunities do you see ahead for the Chamber and the Siesta Key business community?
A. What drew me to this role was the opportunity to be part of an organization that celebrates the people and businesses that make this community so special. Siesta Key is a world-class destination, but it still has a welcoming, small-town feel where relationships matter.
I’ve always believed great events do more than entertain. They introduce people to new businesses, create lasting memories and give residents and visitors another reason to return.
I’m excited to build on the Chamber’s traditions while exploring new opportunitis that benefit our members and continue showcasing everything this area has to offer.
Q. Last month, the Chamber celebrated one of its most successful Fourth of July fireworks fundraisers to date on Siesta Beach. Are there plans to expand sponsorship opportunities for area businesses to participate in Chamber activities, both large and small?
A. Absolutely. One of the things I’m most excited about is creating even more opportunities for businesses to get involved in ways that make sense for them. Every business has different goals, and we want to offer sponsorship opportunities that not only increase visibility but also help businesses build meaningful relationships within the community.
The success of this year’s Fourth of July fireworks fundraiser was a great example of what’s possible when people rally behind something they care about. It demonstrated the strength of our partnerships and how much pride people take in supporting traditions that bring everyone together.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to build on that momentum by creating additional opportunities for businesses to become part of the events, traditions and experiences that make Siesta Key such a special place.
Q. Kristin, you bring experience from the sports industry as well as a background in managing large charitable events and fundraising initiatives. What plans do you, CEO Sarah Firstenberger and the Chamber board have for the 2026-27 season?
A. One of the things I’ve enjoyed most since joining the Chamber is working alongside Sarah, our Board of Directors and our staff to focus on both the big picture and the details that make our programs and events successful.
We have a great mix of long-standing traditions that people look forward to every year, and we’re always looking for ways to build on those while creating new opportunities for our members.
Looking ahead, we’re focused on expanding sponsorship and fundraising opportunities that allow businesses to become more involved with the Chamber while supporting the events and initiatives that bring our community together.
We’re also excited to introduce more educational programs and networking opportunities that provide our members with practical tools, fresh ideas and meaningful connections to help them grow.
Whether it’s a community event, a networking opportunity or an educational program, everything we do is centered on supporting our members. Our goal is to create meaningful connections, help businesses grow and ensure the Chamber remains a valuable resource for our members and partners.
Q. What do you enjoy most about event planning, fundraising and event execution? How did you begin your career in hospitality and event management?
A. What I enjoy most is bringing people together around a shared experience. Whether it’s a networking event, a community festival or a fundraising campaign, I love watching an idea grow from a simple concept into something that creates lasting memories, strengthens relationships and has a meaningful impact on our community.
I’ve always believed the most successful events aren’t just about logistics. They’re about creating experiences that help people feel connected. When attendees leave having discovered a new business, made a valuable connection or simply enjoyed a wonderful day with family and friends, that’s incredibly rewarding.
My career began with a passion for hospitality and serving people. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in private clubs, sports and recreation, membership organizations and nonprofit community events.
Each experience taught me something different, from delivering exceptional member experiences and leading teams to developing sponsorships, fundraising initiatives and large-scale events. Throughout my career, one thing has remained constant: my passion for building relationships and creating experiences that bring people together.
That’s what makes my role with the Siesta Key Chamber so rewarding. Every event is an opportunity to support local businesses, celebrate our community and create experiences people remember long after the event is over. Being part of that inspires me every day.
Q. The Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival is one of the Chamber’s signature events and returns to Siesta Beach Nov. 13-16. What can you tell us about this year’s festival?
A. I’m really excited about this year’s Crystal Classic. Last year, I had been with the Chamber for only about 30 days before the festival, so it was an incredible introduction to both the event and the tremendous amount of work, passion and collaboration that goes into making it such a success. I spent much of that time learning, observing and taking it all in.
Going into this year’s festival, I have an even greater appreciation for what makes the Crystal Classic so special. We’re building on that strong foundation by adding a few new touches and surprises that will enhance the overall experience while honoring the traditions people have come to love.
Tickets are already on sale, and we’re welcoming sponsors who want to be part of this signature event. Whether you’re attending for the first time or have made the Crystal Classic an annual tradition, we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Siesta Beach Nov. 13-16.
