Behind the scenes at Aker Ink, Brandy is the quiet engine that keeps us running — organizing tools, coordinating events and creating a workplace that feels like home. She’s the glue, the gears and the good vibes all in one.
And outside of work, her world is just as beautifully curated. A lifelong hospitality enthusiast and self-proclaimed crafting queen, Brandy fills her days with meaningful traditions, whimsical travel plans and creative hobbies that spark joy in everyone who’s lucky enough to know her.
From passport stamps to quilting squares, Brandy doesn’t just capture moments — she transforms them into lasting memories.
Here are five things you didn’t know about our one-of-a-kind Office Manager.
1. A Passport (And Tree) Packed with Stories
Having visited 10 countries and 18 U.S. states, Brandy has quite the intercontinental repertoire. She’s hiked the misty ruins of Machu Picchu, admired the grandeur of the UAE Presidential Palace and wandered historic streets everywhere from Germany to Mexico.
But traveling isn’t just about the destinations for Brandy. It’s about the stories tied to every trip. She picks up a unique Christmas ornament at each stop, creating a tree full of captured moments. Her most cherished is a hand-painted ornament discovered in a Muscat souk. Every year, she and her loved ones reminisce as they spot familiar memories on the tree.
2. Sew Much More Than a Hobby
Brandy spends more time hunting for fabrics and quilting supplies than your average JoAnn.
Every two weeks, she gathers with friends for a sewing circle, allowing her to slow down, get creative and bring a little more beauty into the world — one patchwork at a time. The coolest things she’s stitched together so far? A crewneck with her two corgis on it for her husband, and a vinyl record quilt for her best friend.
3. As Bill Nye & Brandy Once Said: Science Rules
Did you know the queen of crafts, quilts and operational excellence has a very fancy degree that she does not use whatsoever? That’s right, Brandy earned a bachelor’s in biomedical sciences with a minor in chemistry. But it didn’t take her long to discover her real passion was being surrounded by people — not petri dishes.
Right after graduation and before starting her favorite job ever at Aker Ink, she entered the hospitality field. Namely, Brandy had a blast serving as an Activity Department Manager for two Scottsdale resorts.
But that doesn’t mean her scientific skills are all for naught: She puts them to use in her current role to create a welcoming ecosystem, hypothesize the needs of the team, and plan with precision.
4. Two Corgis = Endless Adventures
Brandy’s home is filled with the wagging tails and cute, stubby legs of two spoiled Pembroke Welsh Corgis: Pork Chop, the affectionate tricolor with a heart of gold, and Pocket, the spirited redhead who never runs out of energy.
They accompany Brandy and her husband Jake just about everywhere — from patio brunches to weekend road trips — bringing an abundance of fun and unconditional love wherever they venture.
5. Come for the Food, Stay for the Feels
Brandy’s love for hospitality started early, inspired by her Grandma Mary Ann: a fabulous cook, a natural host and a downright joyful person to be around.
She’s also a die-hard Ina Garten fan, because her views on food, hosting and connection mirror those of her grandmother’s. Ina famously says, “I love you, come for dinner” — meaning it’s more than an invitation to share a meal; it’s a chance to form connections.
Whether hosting family and friends for a feast of her famous roast chicken with potatoes, coordinating the Annual Aker Ink Retreat or helping a new team member get acquainted, Brandy always brings people together in genuine and meaningful ways.