Team Profile: Kayla Chandler
/Kayla joined The Campfire Experience early in 2016 and has been an incredible force of nature with a wonderfully creative soul. In addition to assisting with day to day operations, she has taken her love of music and injected it into leading the upcoming Campfire Sessions - which we cannot wait to announce! Take a moment to get to know Kayla.
How did you hear about The Campfire Experience?
I stumbled upon the company almost immediately after it had launched and inquired about purchasing a gift card to share with friends. I loved the style and concept. Months later, it seemed a bit serendipitous when a mutual friend connected Amy and I.
Why did you join the team?
I joined the team not only because I had been connected via a mutual friend, but because of the enthusiasm and energy that Amy has about the company. Her drive is contagious. I’m generally not a very conventional person, as this is not a very conventional job.
What has been your favorite part of being a part of The Campfire Experience?
We have become teammates, on and off the court, per se. Unpredictable circumstances can always arise, and they can be very bonding for a team. We’ve traveled to many different places and cities together (usually, driving a very large box truck). We’ve been stuck, lost, scared, spontaneous, exhausted, and stuck working in unfavorable weather at times. And yet, it is rewarding to organize and execute events, build relationships with others, and bring joy to those who are participating. No matter what, we are always able to prioritize and pay attention to the small details that are so important both at an event and on the road.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a Pisces by definition. I value a good meal, especially Korean. I love warm weather. I love the open road. Live music is my church. I value community. Yes, I am a feminist. Mascara is enough. I can do anything.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Riding my bicycle every day and showing up all the boys with my speed. Climbing trees. Exploring the forest. Being surrounded by so many friends. Playing tag outside until it became too dark. Summertime seemed like a lifetime.
Describe your relationship with nature?
I need to connect with nature regularly. It’s meditative to take it in with all of your senses. I regularly try to step outside and visit the Scioto Audubon Metro Park to stay connected when I have little time to do so. It truly has a psychological effect.
What is the most memorable trip you have taken?
I’ve been fortunate to travel many places, domestically and internationally. After my first semester of college at Miami University, I had a round trip flight to Honolulu, Hawaii to visit a high school friend who was attending college there. I fell in love with the island immediately. I had decided to skip my flight and stay awhile. I ended up staying in Honolulu for 3 months. I was able to find a job and spend my extra time exploring the island. It was a beautiful experience.
How have you challenged yourself this year?
I am fortunate to have 2 very small children, Jack and Charlie. It is the most challenging, yet rewarding experience of my life, thus far.
Tell us something few people know about you?
Music is a huge part of my life, as I’m sure it is for many of us. Live music, especially, is food for my soul. The experience becomes intimate and personal. Nothing compares to being able to watch the music being made in front of your eyes. I’m captivated by this communal experience. It’s extraordinary to be able to absorb sounds without being “plugged-in” to a device. I also spend a lot of time dissecting songs, finding out what the lyrics mean to the artist(s), and learning how others interpret them, as well.
Photography is also a passion of mine. I have had a camera in my hands since I was a small child. I experiment with many types of cameras, including film. I will forever be learning and critiquing my photographs.
What’s in your coffee?
When I’m not drinking green tea, I am usually having a hot mocha. I can’t resist.
How do you practice self-care?
Sometimes it can be difficult to find time for yourself. We are always juggling tasks and schedules. Allowing myself to release some creative energy is a way to recharge my mind. Sometimes, for me, that is spending a night at home painting, or even going outside and taking photographs. Walking the aisles of a thrift or an antique store can be mindless, yet meditative, as well. Sometimes moments that I spend alone can be the most inspiring.
Finish this sentence: I’m never without…
My phone and my calendar. Guilty.
Favorite quote?
“The work you do while you procrastinate is probably the work you should be doing for the rest of your life.”