OUR TEAM

MARY BRAINARD

Director of Sales

Mary has been in the catering & hospitality world since 2008 and recently made the move to be with the Dockside at Duke’s family. She is inspired by her clients, creating fun & exciting events and loves seeing all the magic come together beautifully!

What is your favorite item off the Dockside menu?
I really enjoy the ahi tuna & watermelon appetizer.

What is a quote that inspires you?
"Carry out random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you” Princess Diana

What is on your bucket list?
Northern Lights in Iceland, wine tasting in Argentina, stargazing in the Atacama Desert, climb a mountain, jump out of an airplane and see a live lava flow

What did you want to be when you grew up?
An archeologist

AMANDA HERRERA

Executive Chef

Amanda has built a remarkable career in the food and hospitality industry since 2005, starting her journey at the esteemed Canlis. In 2006, she ventured into the catering sector, where she honed her skills and developed her passion for creating memorable culinary experiences. In May 2021, Amanda took on an exciting new role as the Executive Chef of Catering for the Dockside at Dukes team. She is thrilled to be part of the Duke’s family, a company that prioritizes the well- being of both its guests and employees.

What is your favorite item off the Dockside menu?
The menu item I always want a bite of from the Dockside menu is the Blackened Cod Tostada.

What is a fun fact about yourself?
I will never buy a cookbook that doesn’t have pictures for every dish. I get inspiration from the photos.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a pilot or a forensic scientist.

If you could see anyone in concert, dead or alive, who would it be?
Led Zeppelin

KATIE MELVIN

Venue & Catering Coordinator

Katie has dedicated over 15 years to the food and hospitality industry, gaining a wealth of experience in various roles that include restaurant hostess, server, catering server, event coordinator, and sales manager. Her diverse background enables her to view events from a holistic perspective, ensuring that every detail contributes to a memorable experience.

A proud Washington native, Katie grew up on the Eastside before pursuing her college education in Los Angeles. After spending a decade in the vibrant city of LA, she returned to her roots in Washington with her husband.

Passionate about her work, Katie thrives on being a part of the special moments in people's lives, helping to create unforgettable events that bring joy to her clients and their guests.

When she’s not busy curating remarkable experiences, Katie enjoys quality time with her husband, their two sons, and two cats.

What is your favorite item off the Dockside menu?
My favorite menu item is the Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with our house made barbeque demi!

What is a fun fact about yourself?
I ate so much orange food when I was a baby, that I ended up turning my skin orange.

What is your favorite event trend?
I love when couples choose to privately read their vows to each other before the ceremony. It creates such an intimate moment between the couple and allows them to connect before all of the craziness of the big day.

LISA LLOYD

Operations Manager

Lisa began her career in the hospitality industry in 2015, moving away from retail management where she was for a decade before that. In 2023, she joined the Dockside at Duke’s team, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to the waterfront venue. She feels fortunate to be a part of a dedicated, passionate team that thrives on anticipating the needs of their guests to provide a seamless experience. She believes that in each detail is an opportunity to create a lasting impression.

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys hosting dinner parties, boating, and going out for cocktails and appetizers with friends and family. She has a passion for exploring new cafes and restaurants, traveling, and experiencing new cultures and destinations.

What is your favorite item off the Dockside menu?
Mexican Street Corn Dip and the Bourbon Meatballs.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill

What vacation would you like to take next?
A road trip on the Mediterranean coast.

What is your favorite cocktail?
Espresso Martinis