Ellie Rayner
Co-Owner and Executive Chef

Ellie first developed her passion for the event industry with the design and production of her sister’s wedding at Beacon Hill in 1997. After graduating from the University of Washington in 2001, she excitedly returned to Beacon Hill as Event Director. In the first year of her return, she managed over 100 special events with her philosophy that each occasion is a unique personal statement.

Through these events she realized what an important role catering plays in its success. In 2003, Ellie and father Pete became business partners and decided to add food to Beacon Hill’s repertoire of services by creating a full-service catering company: Grace Catering. Thus began Ellie’s journey to become Executive Chef; starting with her tutelage under a 40-year catering veteran she learned the tricks of the trade, and from experience she developed her own culinary voice. In 2004, she traveled to Paris to train at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school.

Through travel, research, education and experience, she continually looks for original ideas to provide inspiration for creative and distinctive events.

You can contact Ellie with any inquiries via e-mail at ellie@beaconhillevents.com, or you are always welcome to call her directly at 509.482.3556.

"At Beacon Hill, our ultimate goal is to produce unforgettable memories. To ensure this, we care for every detail, so that you can enjoy your special occasion in a state of relaxed beauty."

          ~Ellie Rayner

Pete Rayner
Owner & Developer

In 1996, Pete Rayner, owner of Beacon Hill Properties, LLC, made an important discovery. Local companies in need of meeting space were often not having their needs met by existing facilities in a timely and professional manner. Trained as an attorney who had spent more than his share of time in continuing education meetings and conferences, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand that most conference and meeting sites available in Spokane were entirely without charm--even a window.

In addition, local companies were often not considered the "preferred customers" for meeting space since they did not require lodging in the hotel. Pete hoped to develop an alternative to traditional meeting space facilities and services for businesses and other groups whose attendees are primarily from the local area. His goal has been to provide a simple but comprehensive pricing structure and booking process; a responsive, friendly, professional staff; a unique setting promoting memorable meetings and events; and well furnished, well lit rooms, which also provide an abundance of natural light.

In 1997, Pete used all of these ideas to create and build Beacon Hill Events on 200 wooded acres in the Spokane foothills.

Lindsay Murphy
Wedding & Event Director

Lindsay joined the Beacon Hill team with years of experience in the hospitality and service industry. Working for various prestigious fine dining restaurants and hotels from coast to coast including celebrity chef Todd English’s Bluezoo at the Walt Disney World Resort Dolphin in Orlando, FL, and the Five Diamond Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, CA, Lindsay began to develop her passion for the art of food and entertaining. But it wasn’t until her training under Orlando’s private catering chef, Chef Lo, that Lindsay fully realized her passion for event planning and the true meaning of "personalized service".

Working under Chef Lo, Lindsay managed numerous special events including large political fundraisers, local celebrity dinner parties, and countless weddings. Immersed in an environment of cutting-edge culinary creations and innovative event design techniques, Lindsay was able to expand her knowledge of the catering, food, and service industry.

Lindsay brings her passion and understanding of "personalized service" to each event that she coordinates at Beacon Hill. She believes that each event requires ingenuity, creativity, and an extreme commitment to every detail and it is her goal to make your next event as stylish, individual and memorable as you are!

You can contact Lindsay with any inquiries via e-mail at lindsay@beaconhillevents.com, or you are always welcome to call her directly at 509.482.3556.

Whitney Franklin
Sales & Marketing Assisstant

Whitney discovered her enthusiasm for events and marketing early in her college career, at Seattle Pacific University. As a student government Publicist, she organized a variety of events, from student rallies to fundraising galas. With each event, her commitment increased, and she found many rewards in producing a successful special occasion.

As she completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration, Whitney earned an Internship with Waterways Cruises and Events in Seattle. At this time, she was planning her own wedding, and was quickly directed to the Wedding Department. Whitney had the opportunity to work first hand with the bride and her family, and loved making sure that their dreams of the perfect day came true. Upon graduation, she was promoted to Wedding and Sales Coordinator.

In 2006, Whitney returned to her native Spokane and was hired at Beacon Hill as Marketing and Sales Assistant. She instantly immersed herself in new career challenges, by aiding in many aspects of the business from finances and marketing, to event sales and planning. Her non-stop enthusiasm and commitment to excellence make her a vital part of the team.

“I find the greatest joy in making our guests elated by creating a beautiful event and exceeding all of their expectations. My goal is to make sure everyone leaves an event smiling!”

~Whitney Franklin.


You can contact Whitney with any inquiries via e-mail at whitney@beaconhillevents.com, or you are always welcome to call her directly at 509.482.3556.

 

Karena Burns
Sous Chef

Karena began her journey with Beacon Hill with her wedding in 2004. After sitting down with Co-Owner & Executive chef Ellie to plan her special day, Karena realized her extreme passion for the catering industry. Putting her passion into action, Karena began taking classes at the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy.

In May of 2005, Karena returned to Beacon Hill, not as a bride, but as an Intern. Working side by side with Ellie, Karena was able to grow and learn the duties of a professional Sous Chef. One year later, Karena completed her Presidential Degree with the Inland Northwest Culinary Academy and was featured in the Spokesman Review for her five course culinary masterpiece. Shortly after graduating, Karena was promoted to the position of Sous Chef.

Karena has demonstrated her culinary and catering expertise time and time again. From stunning spreads for a 300 person wedding to orchestrating a sit-down multi-course meal for an intimate holiday dinner party, Karena’s knowledge and culinary passion reveal themselves with each opportunity.


You can contact Karena with any inquiries via e-mail at karena@beaconhillevents.com, or you are always welcome to call her directly at 509.482.3556.