Andrew Freeman Founder, af&co. and Co-Founder, Carbonate Named one of the Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, Andrew brings over 40 years of hospitality expertise, along with tremendous passion and endless creativity, to all of his endeavors. A New Jersey native, Andrew got his start in the restaurant business working through the ranks at several legendary New York venues including Windows on the World, the Russian Tea Room and the Rainbow Room. He went on to become Vice President of Public Relations and Strategic Partnerships for Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants for 10 years, helping to launch over 40 hotels and restaurants, as well as the global brand. In 2005, Andrew founded lifestyle marketing and media relations agency af&co. The firm has developed and launched hospitality concepts, created unique culinary events, and provided ongoing marketing, public relations, and operations consulting for over 300 restaurants and hotels. In 2019, Andrew co-founded Carbonate to offer expanded brand strategy, design, and communications services. Together, the agencies publish a highly regarded annual trend report, which is regularly cited by publications and educational institutions, and Andrew has served as a guest speaker at industry conferences worldwide. When not eating and drinking his way around San Francisco, Andrew can be found playing with his beloved dog Dolly (named after Dolly Parton), and spearheading charitable initiatives for numerous non-profit organizations such as Dress for Success, FoodWise, and Meals on Wheels. Candace MacDonald Co-Founder & Managing Director, Carbonate A seasoned brand strategist and results oriented marketer, Candace has nearly 20 years of experience creating and growing hospitality brands and concepts. Having worked with clients ranging from large corporations, to bespoke properties, multi-concept operators, and Silicon Valley startups, she's adept at translating creative vision into communications programs that build brands and generate revenue. Prior to launching Carbonate, Candace was Managing Director of Consulting Services at af&co., one of the country's leading hospitality consulting firms. In this role, she led a team in creating, launching and refining brand identities for over 40 different restaurants, hotels, and culinary experiences nationwide. Her team also authored af&co.'s highly regarded annual hospitality trend report for over a decade. Candace holds a B.S. in Communications from Northwestern University and an M.S in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University's Medill School. A former actress and classically trained vocalist, Candace has performed on stage, tv and in film. She can even be spotted in a vintage McDonalds commercial, ""This is my McDonalds!" PHOTO: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CVYX_9FhuB3MxSzylTGK7IIo7b3iHRRS/view?usp=drive_link