Laurie landed in Fort Collins from Atlanta as part of her family’s quest to visit all 63 National Parks before her daughters graduate high school . “We’re at 38 right now, with just 5 years to explore the other 25 parks” Laurie said, “Living in Colorado feels like a natural place to be and gives us access to so many more outdoor adventures.”
Laurie has years of experience honing her incredible skills in hospitality and event planning.
First stop Walt Disney World. “I was working at the ‘happiest place on earth,’ and it was a masterclass in guest services,” Laurie said. “It opened me up to the hospitality industry, fine dining and marketing, and it was one of the best educations.”
Next up, working front of house at fine dining restaurants including Herons at the Umstead Resort in Cary, North Carolina, and Manny’s Steakhouse in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Private event catering and sales soon followed. “It’s another arm of hospitality and I became focused on creating moments to remember. I really enjoy helping facilitate meaningful, lifecycle events.”
She then planned events for an Atlanta boutique firm, managing parties of all sizes including a family celebration at the Georgia Aquarium complete with acrobats, DJs and a server walking around in a custom-made hoop skirt that held 100 filled champagne glasses.
Years later, she planned a baby shower for a member of that same family. “There’s a lot of history and opportunities to have return customers when event planning is done right,” Laurie said. “I love providing people with reasons to return and treating them like family.”
Laurie joined the Ginger and Baker Events Team in 2025 and has hit the ground running. “Everyone here is super warm and welcoming,” Laurie said. “ I love the strong sense of culture and can’t wait execute more successful and memorable events.”
When not working, Laurie loves traveling, hiking, cooking, and spending time with her husband and their two daughters, along with their beloved cats Jake and Jonah.
Her favorite pie? “Growing up, my mom made a spaghetti pie!”
