Elaina J. Spring, CMP

The Heart Behind My Work

I pride myself on being a passionate people person with a creative and reverent dedication to celebrating life’s simple pleasures. Over the past three decades, I’ve had the privilege of working on extraordinary projects alongside some of the most talented and inspiring individuals on the planet. I bring a sharp attention to detail, strong planning expertise, and a deep passion for genuine hospitality. My journey, shaped by both academic achievements and entrepreneurial ventures, has allowed me to weave together extensive experience in project management, the wonderful world of wine, and the event industry.

In a previous role, I served as a catering coordinator, managing critical timelines, budgets, menu development, and strategic planning for a wide range of events at one of Vancouver, BC’s most highly regarded catering kitchens. Currently, I serve on the Food & Beverage Committee as an advisor to the Board of Directors at the Multnomah Athletic Club. Over the years, I’ve found tremendous joy and inspiration in traveling to experience some of the world’s finest restaurants. To date, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at more than 16 Michelin-starred establishments, including four memorable three-star experiences.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from The Evergreen State College, along with a Business Certificate in Meeting and Event Management from the University of Oregon. I’ve earned the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, one of the highest honors in the events industry. In the spring of last year, I completed the prestigious Wine Executive Program through the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis.

My career has centered on creating memorable experiences that connect people and strengthen communities. Most recently at Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest, I supported the CEO and Board on mission-driven initiatives, coordinating events that engage diverse stakeholders. I also serve as VP of Philanthropy on the Board of Directors for the National Charity League’s Oregon Rose Chapter. I am an active member of Meeting Professionals International, and contribute to both the Events and Communications Committees of Les Dames d’Escoffier International.

As a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, I was honored to contribute to the planning efforts for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. In addition to managing a range of corporate-sponsored events surrounding the Games, I spent four years with the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) as part of the Brand and Creative Services team. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—an extraordinary project that allowed me to both showcase and further develop my skills.

In 2013, my uncle purchased a 35-acre biodiverse farm on the northwestern edge of the Willamette Valley, and I relocated back to Oregon to help build the family business. It has been a tremendous privilege to establish and grow our boutique wine label while managing both the farm and vineyard. Over the past eleven years, I’ve remained deeply committed to producing high-quality wines through sustainable farming and innovative winemaking practices. We proudly follow organic farming principles, and our vineyard is certified LIVE sustainable, Salmon-Safe, Bee Friendly, and accredited by the International Organization for Biological Control. In 2017, I became the first Craft Certified wine producer in the state of Oregon. Previously, I operated two urban winery tasting rooms and community gathering spaces, where I created a series of full-sensory tasting workshops, curated experiences, and special events.

In addition to bringing a steady flow of innovative ideas and creative problem-solving, I wholeheartedly embrace a charismatic approach to building efficient, collaborative relationships, both internally and externally. I’ve learned that no matter how similar two events may look on paper, each one inevitably unfolds into a unique experience. I find energy in that unpredictability and thrive in environments where adaptability is just as valuable as a well-laid plan.

What truly sets me apart, however, are my inherent people skills. I’m energized by connecting with others and have a genuine passion for taking care of people. One of the highest compliments I receive is that I’m hospitable. To me, hospitality is the art of warmly welcoming someone into an experience, exceeding their expectations, and sending them on their way feeling just a bit better than when they arrived.