Whether you’ve been a part of the My Place Family since day one or recently joined the team, chances are you’ve had a large number of meaningful interactions with our captivating Director of Franchise Relations/Executive Assistant, Staci Kay. From her amazingly cheerful spirit that perfectly complements the hard work she does to the inspiring words she shares with you whenever you need them, Staci makes the My Place Team proud every single day. In the latest installment of The Layover, we found time to get real with Staci about the many hats she wears.
How did you find My Place?
When I started working for the company, I was hired on as the admin for the Paramount Estates Apartments and as Ryan’s Assistant. Aside from the daily apartment tasks, one of my first projects was to assist with the My Place hotel that was under construction in Dickinson, ND. So, I’d say my new job landed me right at the front door of My Place.
Describe your job in 5 words:
A whole lot of everything.
What was the last thing that made you smile?
My boys… Gunner dropped a cup and Jett thought it was hilarious. So, Gunner continued to drop the cup and Jett continued to belly laugh.
What is a typical day in the life of Staci Kay like at My Place HQ?
There is no typical day… It is fast-paced and always changing. Multiple phone calls and emails that open more doors to more phone calls and more emails. I love it!
Staci, Tabitha Cantalope, and Jennifer Zaruba!
If you could trade places with one My Place HQ team member for a day, who would it be and why?
Tabitha Cantalope, because I used to be in her position. I’d love to see how much the position has grown & changed – and I miss being in daily contact with our franchisees as they open their hotels!
What is the most memorable place you have ever visited and why was it so memorable?
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – it was where my husband and I went on our honeymoon. We had never been on a tropical vacation together before, so it was a first! We met many great people and made amazing memories!
Would you ever plan a convention with Lisa Frank art? We thought you might be receptive to the suggestion.
I had to Google who Lisa Frank was – it takes me back to my grade school years!!! But probably won’t be using her art at any My Place Conventions.
If you could listen to three songs for the rest of your life, which songs would they be?
- Friends in Low Places – Garth Brooks
- Fishing in the Dark – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
- Slow Hands – Niall Horan
What is the coolest gift you ever have received?
A homemade Mother’s Day sign which read “Moms are like buttons; they hold everything together”
Describe the value of My Place in two sentences?
My Place is more than just the place I work, it’s like my 2nd home. I treasure the value of the friendships I’ve gained while working here.
What is your favorite part of working at My Place HQ?
The people and culture
What was the last show you binge-watched?
13 Reasons Why
What is your go-to drink?
I don’t have just ONE go-to drink, it all depends on the occasion:
- Water
- Red 55 with Olives
- Moscow Mule
What is it like to play an integral role in the relationships we have with our franchisees?
It’s rewarding. I love getting to see everyone come together and catch up like it’s a big family reunion. It’s gratifying to know that I contributed to the planning of the event.
Will you ever divulge the secret to the Executive Office’s insanely delicious Pina Colada recipe?
Speaking of Pina Colada’s, can we bring summer back? 😝
Editors note: we’re going to count this as a “no” answer… At least we tried...
What is your go-to bedtime story to read to your kids?
What was it like to become a mom?
Exciting and terrifying at the same time and the greatest amount of instant love that I had ever experienced prior to that moment.
If you had the opportunity to decide where the next My Place Con is held, where would it be?
Anywhere warm & beach-worthy!
What was the last film that made you cry? Wait… Do you cry?
I can’t remember the last film I watched that wasn’t a kid’s movie. And neither The Grinch nor Woody the Woodpecker make me cry.
Is Pineapple Pete’s leaf-do real or is it true that he has leaf-extensions in at all times?
Hmmm, the leaf-do is real.
