About Book Events West
Book Events West was founded in July 2003 with the goal of connecting people, stories, and ideas through books. We’ve worked to bring leading authors and thinkers to organizations of all types and sizes from across the country.
Owner
Lara Hamilton
Book Events West owner, Lara Hamilton, spent her early career learning all the ropes of HR at Microsoft— from college recruiting to leadership development. Her love of learning, books, and food led her to working with Kim Ricketts, who created the Book Events company in 2003.
Lara’s leadership has broadened the client list and event scope of Book Events West. In 2011, she also opened Book Larder, the city’s only culinary bookstore. Lara is an enthusiastic cook, reader, traveler, cookbook collector, and spends her free time enjoying Seattle with her husband and two children.
Program Director
Debra Carnegie
Debra Carnegie joined Book Events West as Program Director and brings a background in writing and editing to the team. When she is not enjoying the outdoors with her husband and two boys, she loves to read, cook, and travel.
Marketing Manager
Monique Shira
Monique Shira has worked at art museums on both coasts and brings experience in communications to the team as Marketing Director. A mom of twin teens, she loves books, movies, and cooking with her husband.
Office Manager
Abby Cerquitella
Abby Cerquitella, Office Manager at Book Events West and Book Larder, comes to us by way of Budapest, Indiana, and Chicago. She has a background in communications, film and podcasting and possesses a deep love for food and books.