Kelly brings a unique perspective to the beverage industry, with deep roots behind the bar and in hospitality management, as well as experience in the education and legal fields. She’s spent over a decade crafting guest experiences, building beverage programs, and leading teams in a varied set of establishments, in Chicago and beyond. Her path from bar manager to award-winning spirits sales professional gives her firsthand insight into both sides of the bar—what brands need to succeed, and what bartenders and operators actually value.

Now a Key Account Specialist at Winebow Illinois—and Spirit Salesperson of the Year three years running—Kelly bridges the gap between supplier and service, helping on-premise accounts grow with intention. She holds a WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits and has served the hospitality community as a leader within the United States Bartenders’ Guild in both Silicon Valley and Chicago.