​​Director of Membership & Government Affairs, Northern Virginia
Kristen Karrfalt - kristen@vrlta.org
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Before joining VRLTA, Kristen spent 19 years in hotel sales -- working in various Hilton, Starwood and Marriott branded properties in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, North Carolina and Virginia. Originally from Northwestern PA, she attended Widener University, in Chester, PA, where she received her Bachelors in Hotel and Restaurant Management. In her free time, Kristen enjoys working with The Starlight Foundation Mid-Atlantic and is an active member of Park Valley Church, in Haymarket, VA, where she currently serves as the Greeter Ministry Leader. And in her really free time, Kristen is attempting golf lessons and strives to improve her running.

More about Kristen...

What is your ultimate Virginia weekend getaway?
Somewhere with a spa, golf, and good wine or exploring a small town. 
 
What is your favorite cuisine, and a favorite Virginia restaurant that serves it?
I’m not sure I have a favorite cuisine, but some of my local favorites are Trattoria Villagio in Clifton and Bazin’s on Church in Vienna.
 
Which places are on your travel bucket list – Virginia and beyond? 
Domestically, there are too many charming small towns to name.  Sweden, France, and Australia are at the top of my list internationally. 
 
Mountains or beach?
Mountains
 
Eat out or carry out?
Both – it depends on how many are in my party.
 
Amusement park or camping?
Camping – I have great memories of going to Father-Daughter Girl Scout camp every year with my dad and friends with their dads. 
 
Name a place in Virginia you’d like to visit.  
I would like to spend more time in Charlottesville and the Shenandoah Valley. 
 
What’s your area’s best-kept secret?
I’m not sure how much of a secret it is, but Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. 
 
Favorite place for a beer or a cocktail?
Trummer’s (also in Clifton) has unique cocktails.

Perfect day in your (Virginia) hometown? 
Early morning golf with friends or exploring local antique shops.