our team

A veteran of the events industry, Kristi began her career over 20 years ago when tradeshows and incentive programs were literally dropped on her desk on the first day of her new job straight out of college. It was love at first sight and she hasn’t looked back. 

Over the years, Kristi has developed and planned every format of program from conference to incentive, hybrid, live and virtual. Specializing in production and logistics, Kristi is passionate about working with clients to deliver engaging and thoughtful events. 

When she’s not planning the next client event, you can catch Kristi planning her next adventures with her husband, four teenagers and two adorable Labs; Max and Kala.

As a highly motivated event professional with over 10 years in the industry, Chelsea brings a devised passion to the team.  From planning large events of over 5000+people to intimate dinner gatherings, she handles each with devotion and care.

Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys spending time with her husband, two kids and dog. She also loves to bake and discover new recipes and enjoys watching classic movies.

  Dana joins Sandbox Events with over 15 years of sales experience with the past 8 focused on the hospitality industry.  Having previously managed large-scale venues with Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality, she is passionate about finding spaces that inspire her clients and will work tirelessly to find the right fit.

Being a self-professed foodie, Dana enjoys trying new foods and restaurants and especially new wines. Dana is located in the Ottawa Valley, where with her husband and daughters and enjoys hosting friends and family around the lake.

  Amanda joins the Sandbox team with over 

18 years of experience in the hospitality and event management sectors. Her career started as a wedding planner and has since transformed by working in; resorts, not-for-profit, association, corporate and most recently the incentive market. Her passion for customer satisfaction continues her success in creating extraordinary experiences from start to finish. 

She is best known for her collaborative approach, humor, transparency and dedication. 

Amanda loves travel, cottage time, laughter, live music/theatre, and prioritizes self-care with yoga, meditation and breathwork. Family, friends, life experiences are her reason to smile. 

  With over two decades of experience in the dynamic world of events, Kris is a seasoned professional with a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Her journey in the events industry encompasses a diverse range of expertise, from orchestrating seamless corporate events to curating captivating trade shows and designing incentive programs that leave a lasting impact.

In her personal life, Kris finds solace in her personal pursuits. An avid traveler, she explores new horizons, seeking inspiration from different cultures and landscapes. In the company of her husband and daughter, Kris is a dedicated fan of live music, a foodie, and enjoys spending time with family and puppy Ryder. 

Lindsay joins Sandbox with over 5 years of corporate event experience. From in person to virtual, social to educational and from small to large scale events, she is passionate about producing thoughtful and memorable experiences for guests and stakeholders.

In her spare time, you can find Lindsay enjoying the local restaurant scene, drinking copious amounts of coffee, or planning her next camping trip.

  Christelle joins our team with over 5 years of Hospitality and Tourism experience. She has a passion for customer service and truly creating an exceptional experience from beginning to end. As our resident registration and event website expert, she can't wait to jump in and get started working to support all our clients on their event needs! 

In Christelle's free time she enjoys volunteering with organizations that help francophone newcomers to Canada, exploring new places or in a singing session with her choir. 

Kayla's journey in the hospitality and events industry began in high school and has blossomed into a vibrant career marked by global experiences and a deep passion for creating memorable occasions. After honing her skills as a bar manager and working with prestigious small luxury hotels in Australia, Kayla expanded her expertise into weddings and, more recently, corporate events. Now settled in Canada, she is excited to bring her unique touch of elegance and excitement to your special moments.

Known for her optimistic outlook, sense of humor, and genuine honesty, Kayla infuses every event with her signature flair. Outside of planning, you might find her enjoying time with her husband and friends, exploring the great outdoors through hiking, camping, and snowboarding, or indulging in a delightful charcuterie board.

Kayla looks forward to making your events extraordinary and unforgettable.

 With over a decade in sales, hospitality, and event planning, Megan brings organization, creativity, and a passion for service to every project. Her diverse background—from hotel operations to corporate events—gives her a sharp eye for detail and seamless execution. As an Event Coordinator at Sandbox Events, she thrives on teamwork, fresh challenges, and staying true to her values. 

Outside of work, Megan is a busy mom of two, an avid traveler, and a home renovation enthusiast. Her most unforgettable adventure? Eloping in Maui—a moment she’ll never forget. 

 Based in Surrey, BC, Rishi Bhatnagar is a seasoned event professional with 400+ virtual and in-person events under his belt. From registration and logistics to speaker training and check-ins, he ensures every detail runs seamlessly. Known for his calm expertise and dedication, Rishi once earned a public shoutout from a client in front of 800 attendees. 

Outside of events, he’s an avid traveler, foodie, and occasional singer, always ready for his next adventure. Rishi’s passion, adaptability, and professionalism make him an essential part of the Sandbox Events team. 

Mary Ellen's skill set comes with extensive Graphic Design experience, a sound marketing background and skills in teaching and managing creative projects under tight timelines. 

What drives her is her profound desire for a positive impact on those she meets, and the world around her. She relishes in intellectual and creative challenges, finding them captivating and stimulating. 

You can often find Mary Ellen in Costa Rica with her best friend. 12 years ago her friend introduced Mary Ellen to his homeland on an impromptu trip. She fell in love with them both,  married one and has visited the other every year since. It’s become her home away from home and safe place to rejuvenate and reconnect with core values.  Pura Vida.