EXPERIENCE

Founder – Rey Hospitality 2021 to Present

• Crafted unique and memorable experiences, pioneering trends in the beverage and cannabis industry.

• Developed a diverse portfolio, contributing to award-winning programs.

• Led a team with an outreach of over 30 million viewership through influential platforms.

Managing Director/CINO – Nexem Group 2023 to 2024

• Designed the Chitiva Wicker Park Space and handled all operations, including staffing, hiring, and festivals.

• Created concept including branding & led the marketing team.

• Opened three locations and collaborated with Michelin pastry chef Steve Krizman.

• Developed Chicago's first THC lounge concept, increasing venue visits by 60%.

• Managed overall business operations, talent recruitment, and strategic marketing.

• Spearheaded innovative culinary and beverage programs, integrating THC-infused products.

• Worked closely with local authorities to ensure compliance with legal and safety standards.

Chief Marketing Officer – Vintage Nightlife Productions 2018 to Present

• Developed and executed brand strategy for Brando's Speakeasy, King of Cups, Esmeralda's, and Brando's Lincoln Park.

• Increased customer engagement by 35% through targeted marketing campaigns.

• Enhanced online presence, growing social media followings by 50%.

Marketing Director – Storyville Chicago 2021 to Present

• Defined and communicated the brand's unique vision and positioning.

• Managed a viral marketing campaign that garnered 10 million views.

• Fostered influencer collaborations, expanding reach and credibility.

• Engaged with the local community and contributed to initiatives.

Beverage Director – Lulu's Speakeasy 2024 to Present

• Featured the venue on NBC.

• Streamlined FOH service for both Lulu's Speakeasy and Storyville.

• Stabilized high turnover rate of bartenders by creating inventory and steps of procedures.

• Enhanced overall customer experience and operational efficiency.

Beverage Director & Partner – Esmeraldas 2020 to Present

• Managed all bar services, operations, and hiring/training of new hires.

• Developed cocktail menus that increased sales by 20%.

• Handles social media/marketing and organized successful events.

Bartender – King of Cups Oct. 2019 to Present

• Collaborated with the owner and bar manager on venue operations early on.

• Helped in the creation of the social media and marketing department.

• Consults on seasonal cocktail menus and conducted company-wide cocktail workshops.

Bartender – Brando's Speakeasy 2019 to Present

• Consults on seasonal cocktail menus and conducted company-wide cocktail workshops.

• Fostered a community of regulars increased customer satisfaction by 25%.

Bartender/Consultant– The Violet Hour 2018 to 2019

• Worked at a James Beard awarded bar program.

• Developed a strong relationship with the venue for 8+ years.

• Worked closely alongside GM and Improved FOH/BOH standards and procedures.

• Filled operational gaps as needed, ensuring smooth operations.

Consultant – Victor Bar 2016

• Streamlined bar back duties, improving efficiency by 15%.

• Contributed to the team of an acclaimed bar program.

Bartender – The Drifter 2018 to 2020

• Managed cocktail standards, guest satisfaction, and created a high turnover rate.

• Increased customer retention by 20%.

Bartender – Untitled Supper Club 2019 to 2020

• Worked in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

• Created and maintained high cocktail standards.

• Trained new hires, resulting in improved service quality.

• Assisted in inventory management and operational procedures, reducing costs by 10%.

Bartender – Xoco Bistro 2014 to 2014

• Worked alongside with world-renowned Chef Rick Bayless & Chef Andres Padilla.

• Assisted in the preparation of craft cocktails, maintaining the highest quality standards.

Director of Marketing / PR – Chicago's Dog House 2013 to 2015

• Managed summer festivals, increasing brand visibility by 50%.

• Handled social media and television marketing campaigns, driving a 30% increase in customer engagement.

Bar Manager – Masada 2014 to 2016

• Trained by Violet Hour & Aviary Alum.

• Experimented with techniques alongside Violet Hour & Aviary trained bartenders.

• Expanded understanding of modern classic cocktails, increasing sales by 20%.

Head Bartender – Trenchermen 2016 to 2017

• Assisted in cocktail creation, inventory, and training of new hires.

• Enhanced operational efficiency, reducing costs by 10%.

Bar Manager – Ada Street 2016 to 2018

• Curated a boutique wine menu and geeky cocktails.

• Improved ambiance, vibe, and feel.

Server – Beatnik 2018 to 2019

• Server at a high-volume, chef-driven establishment.

• Contributed to a 20% increase in customer satisfaction.

Server – La Josie 2017 to 2018

• Worked as a server and helped streamline FOH service.

Trainee – The Aviary (Alinea Group) 2017

• Trained for Front of House (FOH) operations.

• Gained hands-on experience in one of the most innovative bar programs in the world.

• Learned advanced techniques in mixology, service standards, and guest relations.

• Worked alongside industry-leading professionals to refine skills and enhance knowledge in high-end hospitality.

Host, Producer, and Editor – Ed Eats 2021 to Present

• Created and hosted the popular series "Ed Eats," showcasing culinary adventures and unique dining experiences.

• Produced and edited content that has garnered over 20 million views and counting.

• Built a strong following of 50K followers across social media platforms.

• Notable mentions in various media outlets for innovative and engaging content.

AWARDS

• "Top Ten Hottest Restaurants in Chicago" - Chicago Magazine

• "2021 Best Bars in Chicago" - Timeout Chicago

• "12 Best Chicago Speakeasies And Hidden Bars To Visit In 2023" - Noms Magazine

NOTABLE MENTIONS

• Featured on: Chicago Reader's Best TikTok 2024, NBC Chicago, News Nation, Block Club Chicago, WGN, ABC News

EDUCATION

Culinary Arts Management – Moraine Valley Oct. 2007 to Jun. 2009

High School – Amos Alonzo Stagg High School Aug. 2004 to Jun. 2007

SKILLS

Business Operations:

• Inventory Management

• Marketing/PR

• Merchandising

• Recruiting

• Social Media Management

• Website Design/Management

Service:

• Customer Service

• Events Management

• High Volume Service

Wine & Beverage:

• Beer Knowledge

• Cocktail Making

• Cannabis Knowledge

• Coffee Knowledge

• Spirits Knowledge

• Wine List/Program Creation

Cross-Functional:

• Conflict Resolution

• Team Development

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITY

• Illinois Safe School Alliance (Volunteer Musician): Perform at fundraisers for Illinois LGBTQ safe schools movement.

• Ronald McDonald House (Art Donor): Donated artwork in collaboration with Chicago Blackhawks alumni.

• Dave Bolland Foundation (Art Donor): Donated artwork to help marginalized and at-risk youth.