I'm Lena, a crafting enthusiast, wine lover, professional volunteer, strategic marketing professional, and the world's proudest sports mom rolled into one dynamic package. When I’m not strategizing sales or overseeing marketing operations, you can find me cheering my heart out on the sidelines for hockey, football, and soccer.
Immersed in a book, sipping a glass of wine, or working on my latest crafting project, I bring the same level of passion and dedication to creating engaging content and valuable customer experiences that drive growth and loyalty. From glitter that somehow finds its way into every nook and cranny to hot glue gun miracles, I'm all about turning the ordinary into extraordinary, both in my personal hobbies and in the competitive marketing arena.
I also hold a special place in my heart for giving back to the community. I believe that the true essence of life lies not only in the joy we derive from our passions but also in the happiness we spread through acts of kindness and generosity. I'm actively involved with a few non-profit organizations that resonate deeply with me. I've also roped my family into joining the cause, making it a heartwarming, collective effort to spread love and support where it's most needed.
With a life as colorful and varied as mine, it’s only natural that I have a knack for throwing unforgettable gatherings. My love for crafting, wine, and celebrating life’s milestones has turned me into the go-to party planner among friends and family. Whether it’s a theme-based birthday bash, or a post-game celebration for sports stars, I bring creativity, enthusiasm, and a touch of magic to every event. The secret ingredient? Love, sprinkled with a dash of meticulous organization and a generous helping of creativity.
At the end of the day, what truly fills my heart with joy is spending time with my husband, my kiddos, and our three mischievously adorable Dobermans. They're the real MVPs of our home, keeping life exciting and our hearts full. They remind me that the foundation of great marketing, like family, is understanding, engagement, and love.
So, there you have it - a glimpse into the life of Lena, a woman who thrives on creativity, adventure, and the chaos of a sports-filled weekend. Here’s to a life full of love, laughter, and a little bit of glitter (because everything is better with a sparkle!).
VOLUNTEERING
Volunteering is a passion that enriches my soul. Giving back to the community is deeply important to me—it's about making a meaningful difference and connecting with others on a profound level. Each opportunity to volunteer brings a sense of joy and fulfillment, reinforcing my belief in the power of collective kindness. For me, volunteering isn't just an act of service; it's a way of life, a chance to weave a tapestry of compassion and community through every act of generosity.
Serving as President of the Buffalo Youth Hockey Association (BYHA) for five years was an honor, where I was responsible for managing a substantial annual budget of $2.5 million and nurturing around 500 young athletes annually. My tenure, defined by commitment and community impact, culminates with a heartfelt induction into the BYHA Hall of Fame, recognizing my contribution to the sport and organization. As I reach my term limit and step down, I take pride in our achievements and look forward to the BYHA's continued success.
In 2022, I was honored with a significant request from the Minnesota Hockey Director of District 5 and the Vice President of the MN Hockey's Maroon division, which serves the metro area. They asked me to take on the role of President for District 5. This prestigious position entrusted me with the oversight of 10 youth hockey associations within the district, directly impacting the athletic and personal development of several thousand young athletes. This opportunity not only reflects a recognition of my past commitments and achievements within the hockey community but also entrusts me with a grand responsibility towards nurturing the future of youth hockey in Minnesota.
This year, I've embraced the exciting new role of Team Manager for my daughter’s soccer team. Venturing into the world of club soccer, which operates nearly year-round, has been a novel experience for me, but it's one that I deeply cherish for the opportunity it provides to be actively involved in my daughter's sporting journey. My responsibilities are diverse, spanning from locating and scheduling tournaments for the team to ensuring the first aid kit is well-stocked with extra ice packs. Each task, no matter how big or small, contributes to the smooth running of the team and enriches my understanding of the dedication behind youth sports. I find great joy in navigating this role and contributing to a positive, supportive environment for all the young athletes on the team.
The annual All Night Graduation Party for Buffalo Senior High seniors is a cherished event that I help organize, ensuring a fun and safe celebration right after commencement. Working with the school, vendors, and the community, we create memorable nights for the graduates. Despite a sleepless night, the joy it brings makes it all worth it. I'm committed to contributing to this fantastic tradition until my daughter graduates in 2029, making each year's event special for the seniors
I was recently honored with an invitation from the BHM school district to join the BHM Schools - Parent Key Communicator Panel. This initiative is designed to serve as a bridge between the community and the school district, providing a platform for voices that have consistently shown dedication and commitment to the betterment of BHM Schools. It's a privilege to be recognized for my efforts and to have the opportunity to contribute to our educational community in this meaningful way.
During my tenure as president of the Buffalo football boosters for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, we achieved unparalleled fundraising success through direct engagement with our community. In addition to these accomplishments, I spearheaded the organization of weekly meals for nearly 100 players, orchestrated multiple events throughout the year, and strategically reduced the number of fundraisers while simultaneously increasing revenue. My leadership not only supported a new coach's smooth transition into his role but also significantly strengthened the booster club's position, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the program.