COMPANY’S VITAL STATISTICS

What Makes Us Different

Our Principles

Destinations West, LLC is a small, Reno-based female-managed Destination Management company specializing in the organization and logistics of meetings and events in the Northern Nevada/Lake Tahoe area. Destinations West, LLC aka Female Expressions, was formed in 1999 by two partners, Jim and Kristy Hawke, long-time business partners in Northern Nevada.

We offer more than 25 years of experience with special event research, planning, management, logistics and execution with refinement of our services to deliver high-quality events, meetings and programs.

Our company was built on a foundation of principles that help guide us every day. We serve small to large businesses and opt for proven, long-term strategies. While we share information on our website, we believe it’s more important to provide personalized attention and build relationships.

We pride ourselves on running a lean, efficient company. Our elastic structure enables us to respond quickly and effectively.

We are pledged to:

• Excellence
• Integrity
• Teamwork
• Trust
• Respect

We are members of the following associations:

• National Association of Consumer Shows
• Better Business Bureau
• Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce
• Sparks Chamber of Commerce
• American Business Women's Association
• Professional Saleswomen of Nevada
• eWomen Network

At the end of the day, we’re looking to achieve something specific for our clients – a great return on their marketing dollars with face-to-face exposure, targeted sales, qualified leads, visits, market intelligence, information, education and fun.

Our Core Team

Kristy Hawke, managing partner, is the founder and promoter of the Nevada Women’s Expo.™ After many years working with elected Nevada State Constitutional Officers and coordinating their high-profile special events and seeing their vision for making things happen, she decided to put her passion and experience to work for her and other women. Through her community research, she discovered an untapped market for her services and in 2003 launched the first Nevada Women’s Expo™ held at the exciting and convenient Reno-Sparks Convention Center, where it continues today.

We're very proud to add that Kristy has been named 2010 Most Influential Women of Northern Nevada by the Northern Nevada Business Weekly, as well as 2010 Top Ten Woman of the Year and 2009 Woman of the Year by the local chapter of the American Business Women's Association.  In 2007, she was a finalist for Saleswoman of the Year by Professional Saleswomen of Nevada, a long-established women's organization.

Jim Hawke, Ph.D. As an educator, Jim enjoys sharing his knowledge and years of experience with public and trade shows. He enjoys sharing his passion during the workshop he provides to participating exhibitors about getting the most return on their marketing investment.

Judith Harlan, Web editor, joins us this year as our Web marketing expert and Website manager. Owner of Harlan Editorial, Inc. - Website Words That Work!, Judith brings us her background in journalism and technology, as well as her passion for inspiring women and girls to achieve their own inner confidence and power. She's part of our continuing effort to bring you the info you need to have your best Nevada Women's Expo ever. 

Meet Our Show Advocates

Marge Frandsen, Expo Spokesperson. "This is the premier annual event for women in Northern Nevada both for exhibitors and those who attend to network, try before you buy, gather information about life skills and products available in the area, or just have a day out for fun with friends."  Marge is a Realtor with Trans-Action Realty.  Reach her at CLOAKING

Sue Ehrlich, Press Writer and Volunteer Coordinator.  "I have attended every Expo and have made it part of my lifestyle since 2003.  Exhibitors and attendees will get nothing short of fun, value and a worthwhile weekend that they can look forward to each spring."  Sue works full time with Asbestos TEM Lab.

Dee Sykes, Ticket Sales Manager.  "The stream of attendees during the Expo keeps us hopping with no time for lunch, but we wouldn't have it any other way."  Dee works full time with Trainor and Associates Property Management.

Amy Koeckes, Door Prize Guru.  "I have been working with the Nevada Women Expo for 4 years. I am the prize guru, so make sure to fill out your door prize form when you come to the Expo to win a great prize."  Amy works full time at the University of Nevada Reno with the ASUN Student Government.

Linda Lovie, Happy Exhibitor.  "As a participant in the Women’s Expo for four years so far, I have found it to be an excellent way to meet new people, build relationships and grow my business.  Nowhere have I found the type of positive energy that Kristy is able to offer with the Women’s Expo.  The business I have been able to generate more than pays for the cost.  Most importantly I have some very fun clients that have stayed with me throughout the years as a result..  I plan on having a booth again next year for my fifth time!!  The proof is in the pudding!!"  Linda is a financial advisor with a well-known financial firm.

Marga, Exhibit Concierge.  "I feel so proud to be a small part of the Nevada Women's Expo team!  The Expo is the ultimate "happening" for women of all ages and is such a bargain!  Where else can you find out about health and financial issues, specifically geared towards women, enjoy a multitude of demonstrations, sample yummy goodies and GO SHOPPING in one place!  All this for a nominal admission fee."  Marga is retired.