Staff Profile: Sarah Conklin

SARAH CONKLIN
EVENTS DIRECTOR,
The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch
sconklin@cordilleraranch.com
830.336.9000

NAME
Sarah J. Conklin

HOMETOWN
Garland, Texas

FAMILY
2 Mini Daschaunds: Mocha & RitzC

EDUCATION
The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR FIELD?
When I was 8 years old, I was with my mother in our small town at a parade. We walked by a new bakery in town and I looked at my parents and said, “I want to do that when I grow up.” Several years later I was in high school and I took a culinary class and fell in love.

WHERE WERE YOU BEFORE CORDILLERA RANCH?
I opened 18 Oaks and oversaw all food and beverage for TPC San Antonio at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa.

HOW DID YOU END UP IN TEXAS?
I began my career after college at the JW Marriott, Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes. With Marriott I was able to travel and relocated to open the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa. I came back home!

YOU WENT TO THE CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA IN HYDE PARK, A.K.A. ONE OF THE BEST IN THE NATION, WHAT WAS IT LIKE?
Attending The Culinary Institute of America was one of the best and eye opening experiences of my life. It was highly competitive and our instructors demanded the utmost dedication. I was able to meet and dine with some of most interesting foodies from Julia Child to Anthony Bourdain.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT AND WHY?
Aviary, Chicago, IL. It is hands down the best “cocktail & bite” experience of my life. They have their cocktails paired like you would be going to a wine dinner but each course is paired with a one-bite dish that explodes with flavor. Very fun and playful atmosphere.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT THE EVENT PLANNING PROCESS?
My favorite part is of the process is the client. They allow me into the special events in their lives. I have been a part of planning proposals, weddings, anniversaries, showers and more. Events that occur once in a lifetime and I am invited into those moments. Every detail matters.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS?
I love horseback riding, practicing yoga and brewing beer.

FAVORITE MOVIE?
I love romantic comedies.

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