Meet Karen

A passionate events professional, Karen has over ten years of experience in executing social and employee appreciation events, concerts and entertainment activitations,and the occasional conference and fundraiser. She has worked with virtually all of the major tech companies in the Bay Area, a slew of Fortune 500 companies, the San Francisco 49ers organization, and major celebrity entertainers to bring excitement and a bit of escapism to her attendees.

In 2019, Karen found herself unexpectedly involved with GMIC NCN (Green Meeting Industry Council, Northern California) as she stepped in for a friend in need to help produce their annual fundraiser. That experience opened her eyes to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and how event professionals were contributing to building a more sustainable industry. It was a pivotal moment that led to a newfound drive to work with clients already committed to these objectives, or to inspire clients (and friends) to reflect inward and see what steps they could take towards these goals. She is still involved with GMIC today.

Prior to moving into events as a full time career, Karen spent time in the public accounting industry, both as an accountant herself, and then in the Talent Acquisition and Human Resources space. Once immersed in the events profession, she climbed her way up the proverbial ladder and worked to develop and spin off the full production division of her prior company. This diverse experience developed her business acumen and contributes to her success running the daily operations of 196.

When not working, you can generally find Karen at an Orangetheory Fitness studio, attending a live music event (and praising or critiquing the production to her poor friends who agreed to come with her) or sampling the menu at the latest cocktail bar.