Experience Designer
"The role of a creative leader is not to have all the ideas; It's to create a culture where everyone can have ideas and feel that they are valued."
Skills
Microsoft Office
Fluency with Word, PowerPoint, Excel
Proficiency with CRMs
Raiser's Edge, Constant Contact, Mail Chimp
Website & Social Media Management
WordPress
Proficiency with accounting software
Quickbooks
Rudimentary Spanish
Client and contractor relations
Plant curation software
IrisBG- professional software and database for botanical collections.
Whether I’m co-leading a strategic plan for an arboretum, creating sensory-rich gardens, or coordinating public events with a dozen moving parts, I bring curiosity, collaboration, and a whole lot of follow-through. I like finding creative solutions, empowering teams, and turning blank slates into meaningful, engaging places.
Experience
Haverford College Arboretum
Plant Curator & Recorder2018- Current
- Spearheaded the implementation of IrisBG, a cutting-edge plant curation database, enhancing collection management and accessibility.
- Developed and launched the Arboretum Explorer website, providing interactive access to plant records and educational resources.
- Curated and expanded the plant collection, prioritizing native and endangered species to support conservation efforts.
- Led the design and installation of landscape projects, integrating sustainable practices and aesthetic considerations.
- Managed membership relations and communications through Raiser's Edge, fostering community engagement.
- Co-authored the Arboretum's five-year strategic plan, aligning with institutional goals and sustainability initiatives.
- Directed the process to achieve ArbNet Level III Arboretum designation, elevating the institution's recognition and standards.
- Led the creation of annual reports, showcasing achievements and future directions to stakeholders.
Bloom Thyme Design & Gardens, LLC
Owner2009-2018
- Founded and operated a design and consulting firm specializing in horticultural projects, event planning, and experiential design.
- Delivered turnkey solutions for residential and commercial clients, from concept development to project completion.
- Managed all aspects of business operations, including budgeting, contract negotiations, and vendor relations.
- Developed and maintained a strong online presence through website management and social media marketing.
- Cultivated a network of clients and collaborators, ensuring high-quality service and client satisfaction.
Aramark
Special Events SupervisorEagles 2017 Season
- Oversaw premium event spaces at Lincoln Financial Field, including the Tunnel Club, Touchdown Club, and Club Level.
- Managed a team of up to 10 staff members per location, ensuring seamless event execution and guest satisfaction.
- Coordinated logistics and operations for multiple events simultaneously, adhering to tight schedules and high standards.
PA Horticultural Society Pop Up Garden at the Viaduct
Project Manager; General ContractorDec 2015 - June 2016
- Directed a multi-disciplinary team in the creation of a temporary urban garden funded by the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage.
- Managed all project phases, including design, construction, artistic installations, and historical interpretation.
- Served as the primary liaison among PHS, artists, contractors, and community stakeholders.
- Ensured project delivery within budget ($450,000) and on schedule, meeting all aesthetic and educational objectives.
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society
Shows and Events Coordinator; Project ManagerNov 2014 - March 2015
The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is an annual event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in March. It is the world’s largest and longest-running indoor flower show, which brings 270,000 visitors and creates a $61 million economic impact to the city.
- Managed production of select Main Concourse programming and exhibits, including interactive and immersive visitor experiences.
- Planned and executed a wide range of show features including themed exhibits, entertainment, live demonstrations, and educational spaces.
- Worked collaboratively with union teams, designers, and vendors to oversee installation and breakdown logistics.
- Recruited, scheduled, and supervised a team of volunteers, and managed budgets for multiple concurrent event spaces.
- Helped introduce innovative public engagement features that increased show interactivity and visitor dwell time.
DreamWorks Animation / Parker 3D
Art Department CoordinatorSept 2014 - Nov 2014
- Coordinated the completion scenic work for DreamWorks Adventure to Santa houses across multiple states.
- Managed staffing and logistics for scenic artists, ensuring timely and quality execution of installations.
- Collaborated closely with construction teams to synchronize efforts and meet project deadlines.
The Highlands Mansion & Gardens
Directing Horticulturist2009 - 2013
- Managed the restoration and maintenance of a 44-acre historic landscape, preserving its ecological and aesthetic value.
- Developed and led a horticultural outreach program in partnership with Carson Valley School for disadvantaged youth.
- Coordinated with executive leadership, board members, and staff to ensure program excellence and property preservation.
David Brothers Landscape Services
Sales Associate; Designer; Horticulturist2011 - 2013
- Expanded service offerings by building and nurturing client relationships, providing design solutions, and promoting sustainable practices.
- Focused on native materials and green infrastructure solutions to enhance land use and environmental impact.
- Developed and edited monthly e-newsletters, contributing to marketing and promotional efforts.
Awbury Arboretum
Supervisor; Designer; Team Leader2008 - 2009
- Designed and oversaw the installation of original designs for residential clients and public spaces.
- Implemented a new pricing structure, resulting in a 27% increase in profit with 100% client retention.
- Partnered with Awbury Arboretum for community outreach and financial viability.
- Managed and trained apprentice program participants from the local community, fostering skill development and engagement.
Donald Pell Gardens
Production Supervisor2002 - 2007
- Supervised projects, managing profit and loss responsibilities, material sourcing, team management, and client relations.
- Handled administrative and operational tasks, including budgeting, client interfacing, payroll, permitting, estimating, contracts, and invoicing.
- Developed and maintained excellent working relationships with over 30 vendors across various sectors.
Education
Graduate work in Horticulture
Temple University Ambler1998 - 2000
Bachelor of Arts degree
University of Colorado Boulder1991 -1994
Coursework in Liberal Arts
Hartwick College1989 - 1991
College Prep
Mercersburg Academy1986 - 1989