Behind the Welcome: My Journey from Events to Concierge Services
- Kristen Dorval
- Aug 25, 2025
- 3 min read
From a young age, I found immense joy in bringing people together. Whether it was a family gathering or a kid's birthday party, the thrill of hosting and creating memorable experiences sparked a fire in me. The planning, the decorations, and, most importantly, the smiles on everyone's faces were what I lived for. Little did I know that this early passion would shape my career in transformative ways.
As I transitioned into adulthood, I entered the corporate world. While these jobs provided stability, they didn’t ignite the same excitement I felt when hosting those early gatherings. I came to realize that my heart wasn't in the corporate grind but in crafting exceptional experiences for others. This realization led me to take a leap of faith into self-employment, starting by cleaning residential houses and Airbnbs.
The shift to self-employment was liberating. The flexibility of being my own boss allowed me to connect with people deeply, something my previous jobs lacked. Each home I cleaned became a new opportunity to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. I began to envision a broader opportunity—curating unforgettable experiences for those who stayed in these homes.
My journey into event coordination began unexpectedly when a cleaning client reached out, seeking help with her wedding at Penobscot Bay Estate in Winterport, ME. She needed extra support to bring her vision to life, and I jumped at the chance! It was exhilarating to dive into the world of weddings and events, where I quickly discovered a natural talent for it.
Over the next two years, I worked as a freelance coordinator, supporting couples and families in crafting their dream events. Each wedding and celebration felt like a unique canvas, and I enjoyed painting it with my clients' distinct stories and personalities. Witnessing everything come together on the big day was incredibly rewarding.
Eventually, I embraced a new challenge as the executive manager of housekeeping at Bayview Collection in Camden, ME, a group of boutique luxury hotels. In this role, I could blend my passion for hospitality with my love for creating remarkable experiences. I was now in a position to influence guest experiences on a larger scale, ensuring every visitor felt welcomed and cherished.
Yet, the desire to create unforgettable experiences never left me. I realized that my career was not just about managing people, running departments or coordinating events; my mission was to create memorable moments that people would cherish for a lifetime. Whether it was a couple celebrating their wedding day or a family enjoying a vacation, I wanted to contribute to those special occasions.
As I reflect on my journey, I am eager about what lies ahead. I aim to share my knowledge and experiences, whether you’re planning a wedding, seeking travel tips, or looking for hidden treasures around Maine. My goal is to help you create your own exceptional experiences, just as I have done for so many others.
In this blog, you can expect practical tips on travel, event support, and insights into the stunning state of Maine. I will share my favorite boutique travel spots, luxury accommodations, and unique venues that can elevate your events.
I believe that every gathering, whether big or small, has the potential to be extraordinary. It’s all about the details—the little touches that make a significant impact. I have learned that the heart of hospitality lies in the connections we make and the experiences we create. From personalized decorations to carefully curated itineraries, I’m here to help you navigate the world of events and travel effortlessly.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I can’t wait to see what we create together!
Beyond the Welcome, into your next adventure,
Kristen

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