Business Echo - Kristin Bartosik

After more than a decade in the hospitality industry, Kristin has seen it all—the long nights, the laughter, and the quiet pride behind every guest experience. With a background in psychology, holistic nutrition, and hospitality management, she’s combined mindfulness and passion to create something extraordinary: Peaks to Vines, a gala that celebrates the often-unseen people who make the Okanagan’s hospitality scene shine.

What began as a vision to recognize servers, chefs, and service staff has evolved into a movement—one that uplifts, connects, and honors the heartbeat of Kelowna’s service community. Alongside her co-founder, Teighan Keller, Kristin is redefining what celebration looks like in the industry she calls home.

OE: Thank you for granting this interview. Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

KB: I’m 30 years old and have been working in the hospitality industry—mainly as a server—since high school. I’ve studied psychology, holistic nutrition, and hospitality management, and my mom was a flight attendant, so I grew up surrounded by incredible food, wine, and travel experiences around the world. That exposure sparked a lifelong passion for creating memorable guest experiences. I also hold my yoga teaching certification and try to bring mindfulness into everything I do, whether it’s at work, in relationships, or through community projects.

Q: After more than a decade in hospitality, what inspired you to create Peaks to Vines?

After working in hospitality for so many years across Canada, I often felt unseen—as if I was just another employee number rather than Kristin, a person with dedication and heart. Recognition, when it did come, was usually through a review that was quickly forgotten. I knew I wasn’t alone in feeling that way. That’s what inspired me to create Peaks to Vines: to shine a light on the people who truly make this industry special—the charismatic servers, the unforgettable moment-makers, the rising stars, and every individual who contributes to the guest experience that defines the Okanagan.

Q: The hospitality industry is the backbone of Kelowna. What do you hope this gala will mean for the people working in it?

I hope this gala becomes a night where we finally feel seen and celebrated for the work we pour ourselves into. I want it to set new standards of recognition for those entering the industry and encourage employers to view their staff not just as workers, but as vital contributors to their success. My dream is for people to leave this event feeling proud of what they do, inspired to grow, and reminded that what they bring to the table truly matters.

Q: What’s your long-term vision for Peaks to Vines—do you see it becoming an annual tradition?

Absolutely! I see Peaks to Vines as an annual tradition for the entire Okanagan hospitality community. The summer season here is long, hot, and demanding, and there’s rarely an opportunity to pause and be recognized. I want this gala to be that moment of celebration—a chance to give back to those who give so much. Beyond the gala, I’d love to expand into smaller events throughout the year that help strengthen community connections within the industry.

Q: What’s been the most rewarding part of bringing this event to life?

The feedback. Hearing people say “thank you for creating this” has been incredibly rewarding. Most galas celebrate business owners or executives, but this one is for the people on the ground—the ones fueling a huge part of the Okanagan’s economy every single day. Seeing how much it means to them makes every challenge worthwhile.

Q: Can you share a moment in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

I’m most proud of creating Peaks to Vines alongside my amazing business partner and friend, Teighan Keller. Neither of us had prior event-planning experience, so pulling this off from the ground up was a huge achievement. Watching the room fill with people, seeing the excitement on their faces, and realizing we’d built something that genuinely uplifts others—that’s a moment I’ll never forget.

Q: If you had unlimited funds for one day, what’s the first thing you’d do for your business?

I’d reinvest it right back into the event to make it even more memorable—bigger venues, elevated experiences, incredible entertainment, and meaningful giveaways. My goal has always been to give back to the people who make this industry thrive. With unlimited resources, I’d create an unforgettable night where every hospitality worker feels celebrated like a true star.

Q: What’s your favorite Okanagan spot to relax or find inspiration?

Anywhere with a view of the water. Whether it’s sitting at the beach in Oyama or hiking Pincushion Mountain, being near the lake helps me slow down and reset. It reminds me how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful place. My inspiration often comes from working within the industry itself—experiencing firsthand the stress and dedication it takes to create magic for others. That’s what motivates me to build events that say, “I see you, I appreciate you, and thank you for what you bring to this community.”

Q: What’s one thing about you that people might not know?

I’m extremely detail-oriented, but what people might not realize is that I’m also deeply intuitive. I can sense the energy and emotion in a room before a single word is spoken. It’s something that’s guided me throughout my career in hospitality—reading people’s moods, anticipating their needs, and creating the right atmosphere without having to ask. It allows me to connect with others on a genuine level, and I truly believe that intuition is one of the most valuable tools you can have when your work revolves around people.

Q: How can people reach you?

People can reach me at peakstovines.ca or directly on social media @peakstovines.