Celebrate Door County’s Hospitality Heroes

Door County’s frontline and customer-facing staff work hard every day to create warm, memorable experiences for our visitors. They play an essential role in shaping what makes our community so special, and we want to take a moment to recognize their dedication and say thank you.

Nominations for this year are now closed, and the winner has been selected. All nominees are listed below, recognizing the outstanding individuals who help make Door County extraordinary.

Mike from Waterfront Mary's, Sturgeon Bay

Mike is great. His fish boils are the best show in the county. I like how he is friendly to tourists but doesn’t forget to care for the locals and regulars

Mike is always welcoming and friendly. He interacts with tourists and locals and makes everyone feel welcome. He’s most known for the amazing fire display during his fish boils, which he was featured for in the Wisconsin Christmas Pie Movie. I look forwards to seeing him when I visit waterfront Mary’s.

Sarah Taylor from Pheasant Park Resort

Sarah is a friendly face always quick with a referral to a local business whenever a guest needs it. IF a guest has a challenge, she is a calming presence guiding them back to the warm and caring feeling that is Door County. Sarah deserves a shout out!!!

Jonny Walker from Stone Harbor Resort

Jonny truely wants everyone to have a blast any time they walk in the door. He is so enthusiastic about the food menu and how everything is made, he spreads that excitement. He works tirelessly to fix any issues and has a constant smile and silly jokes.

Carly Milligan from The Lodgings at Pioneer Lane

Carly goes above and beyond in providing service and excellence in hospitality. Her culture of fostering friendliness and comfort for her guests is impressive. 
 Accommodations are always 5-Star.

Kevin Marquez from AmericInn by Wyndham

Kevin's consistently demonstrates exceptional service, going above and beyond the typical responsibilities of a front desk attendant. His dedication to guest satisfaction is evident in the numerous online reviews that mention him by name, highlighting his professionalism, warmth, and willingness to help. Kevin's outstanding performance has had a significant positive impact on the hotel's overall guest experience, making him a truly deserving candidate for nomination.

Bryon Shea from Door County Trolley

Bryon works tirelessly to ensure that Door County Trolley runs smoothly! He is always so friendly and is one of the best tour guides around!

Bryon does far more than lead trolley tours. He is always energetic, kind, knowledgeable, FUN & seems to fill in whenever & wherever needed!! If you’re lucky enough to have Bryon leading you on a tour you are guaranteed an amazing experience! We took our three young grandsons on a “treasure hunt” Easter trolley tour . Bryon was dressed and talked as “Blimpy” which was quite an attraction for a 3,5 & 6 year old! (We adults loved it too!) He held the attention of all on the trolley, giving clues when the trolley got near a destination to find, allowing even the youngest child aboard to shout out, “I see that!!” As we returned from the ride Blimpy, (Bryon) handed out suckers & took pictures with the kids & families. Bryon is one in a million, making the Door County experience a lasting memory. Thank you for all you do Bryon. Your love of Door County & your service to the trolley company shines through.

Positivity. Generous. Thoughtful. Helpful. Knowledgeable. Kind. Respectful. Honest. Trustful. Fun. Humble.
 
 There are a million (no exaggeration. seriously.) other words and reasons why Bryon is the best person. He is kind, hardworking, fun and humble. He can turn anybody's day around and continues to do it every day at Door County Trolley. He's incredible with guests and goes above and beyond to make their time with us special. Every single person that walks off his tours are always smiling, laughing, and enjoying life. Bryon makes that happen with everyone he meets.

Bryo runs excellent tours of Door County driving the Door County Trolleys. 

Bryon is hard working, kind  and always shows up with a smile. Bryon will go out of his way in a heartbeat for anyone   He is a lover of Door County and all that it has to offer.  You will not meet a kinder gentler soul than Bryon Shea!

Kristal Antholt from Red Room

Kristal may be the most efficient bartender I have ever seen. No matter how busy it gets she never seems flustered. She makes everyone who stops in feel welcome whether it’s your 1st or 100th visit. She definitely deserves this recognition. She is a positive representative of Door County hospitality.

Kristal is one of a kind! She is a very talented bartender who can manage a full bar and 6 tables filled with very pleased customers, sometimes on a daily basis during the summer months. She is an ideal candidate, taking care of a mix of tourists and locals in an iconic historic location. She is very attentive, kind, speedy, accomodating, courteous and a pleasure to visit with. Dealing with this mix of customers is a special talent that is often overlooked in the service industry.

Krystal can run the whole bar on Saturday lunch rush. Seat people, keep drinks full, take orders,cook, pretty much by herself and never make a mistake.

Bryon Groeschl from Chanticleer Cabins

His 34 years of exceptional service at providing a outstanding experience for guest. After his divorce he still wanted to be sure he could provide the same experience for guest and in my opinion has offerd a cabin experience like no other. He strives to keep his property in emaculant condition that does not go unnoticed by his guest. He will go out of his way to be sure that new and old guest will always feel welcome here in door county. No requests are too big or too small.

Frank Maloney from Roots

We visit Door County 2-3 times per year. Even though there may be 2-4 months between visits, Frank always remembers us when we dine at Roots. It's the feeling of seeing a friend who provides that personal touch when serving the best food. Thanks, Frank! We appreciate you!

Carina Helm from Blue Horse Beach Cafe

Carina cares about the community and her employees. She donates coffee to local organizations, businesses, and groups. I just saw Blue Horse coffee at the Gibraltar Fire Station’s Halloween event. She greets customers with a cheery hello, often by name. She has had Blue Horse open, with her partner eric, for almost 25 years. In large part due to her care, plus her excellently crafted drinks and Eric’s good food, Carina has created a business that is a part of the our community with a warm comfortable vibe which people Love and return to time and again.

Heather Popp from Dromhus

Heather is building an awesome community there! So many happy people and good vibes. She's always taken care and helped so many people over the years. I'd love to see her recognized for her hard work and love of community.

Kathryn Warren from Main Street Market

Kathy is a burst of sunshine and joy to our customers. Seasonal, year-round, tourist - she treats our customers as the most important people she knows.
 Kathy works the end-of-day shift and will stay late if necessary to fulfill every customers' needs.
 She is thorough and conscientious, which allows us to leave the store in her capable hands and not worry. As any business owner knows, that is priceless!
 Our customers love Kathy. People will wait to go through her register line! Fortunately our staff understands this and no one has hard feelings about that!
 Kathy is a huge asset to our Main Street Market family. We are so so lucky to have her on our team.
 Kathy Warren is a gem.

JR Jarosh from Edgewood Orchard Galleries 

JR Jarosch is truly the definition of the Ultimate Door County Host...Whether it be welcoming guests to the beauty of his Edgewood Orchard Galleries with a complimentary orange soda drom the cooler, or getting even cooler by hosting the annual Polar Bear plunge, there is literally no one who is a cooler host. A STELLAR Gentleman!

Lisa Maedke-Hartwig from Westwood Shores

Lisa goes above and beyond for every guest here at Westwood Shores, making sure every detail is attended to. She is concerned about everyone's needs around her, so much that she forgets about her own! 
 She does all this despite having Type 1 Diabetes, which has been a life changing diagnosis for her. Lisa is kindhearted and thoughtful, two qualities that we could use more of in this world! If anyone deserves this recognition it is her.
 If Lisa isn't working at Westwood, she's taking care of her family. Her husband and son, both named Jeremy, and her dog Owen all receive the utmost care from her. When she gets a little time, she of course spends it on the birds! Feeding birds, squirrels, rabbits and whomever wanders into her little sanctuary-nobody goes away hungry! Like I said, she's always concerned about everyone else. 🥰
 Being recognized is never her concern but I think it is something she deserves. After caring for people since she got out of high school (almost 30 years! Don't tell her I said that!) it's about time for her to be spoiled like she spoils everyone around her! ❤️🙏👏

Nicole Duffeck from Brygga Plates & Pours

Nicole “Nykee” is one of the most hardworking and dedicated individuals in the hospitality industry. Every day, she arrives prepared for a full schedule of managing her staff and ensuring guests receive the highest level of service in the Restaurant. Her role extends far beyond leadership—she actively cooks on both the restaurant line and the banquet line, consistently producing high-quality dishes that guests love and remember.
 
 In addition to her kitchen responsibilities, Nykee also oversees essential operational tasks, including ordering, inventory management, and scheduling. She handles each of these duties with precision, organization, and an unwavering commitment to keeping the team running smoothly. Her eagerness to learn and adapt is evident in her willingness to take on new challenges and continually improve every aspect of the dining experience.
 
 What makes her achievements even more remarkable is her ability to balance her demanding professional responsibilities while being a devoted single mother. Her resilience, work ethic, and passion for hospitality inspire everyone around her. Nykee brings heart, strength, and excellence into everything she does, making her a standout example of dedication and professionalism. We are proud to have Nykee as part of the Brygga team!

Robyn Kornusky from Rushes Resort

Robyn’s personality lights up a room. Professional, friendly, smart, down to earth, are just a few things that describe her. Her knowledge and adaptability are one of a kind. A true blessing!

Pamela Butler from Harbor Fish Market & Grille 

Pam has been an integral part of DOOR COUNTY hospitality for more years than she would like me to mention. Although she has worked in a number of places in DOOR COUNTY for the last at least 25 years she has been at Harbor Fish Market And Grille. She is a favorite for customers, as well as for her coworkers. The best!

Pam is the first person customers see when entering Harbor Fish Market & Grille. She greats everyone with a smile and hello. She is very professional and friendly and will do everything she can do to enhance your dinning experience.

Matt Findlay from The Albatross 

Matt is a phenomenal cook at the Albatross (Alby) on Washington Island. Almost daily he’s told that he’s made someone the best burger they’ve ever had but beyond that he is a kind and gentle teacher to the next generation of kitchen help. Night shift is not usually a sought after summer position for teenagers but when Matt’s at the grill, he never finds trouble staffing the place. He’s patient and always explains why things need to be done a certain way. He’s silly and easy to talk to while emphasizing the importance of doing the job well. He serves hundreds of people nightly, 5 nights a week and truly enjoys what he does. Odds are you’ll see him smiling and laughing at any given point, even when the line is to the road. Yes, I’m a little biased because he’s my husband, but you’d be hard pressed to find a more deserving person to be called a Hospitality Hero.

Barbara Newman-Green from The Pioneer Store

Barb and her sister Liz, supported by faithful staff, keep The Pioneer Store in downtown Ellison Bay stocked and open every single day of the year. Locals and visitors can count on their store to provide just about everything and appreciate their collective effort in faithfully servicing the community.

Barb and her staff keep the only grocery store north of Sister Bay going day in and day out, 7 days/week. She knows what her customers want and need and stocks those items. She allows both civic and philanthropic organizations to post upcoming event information in the store windows. The store is the "heart of Ellison Bay."

Since 1900 a store has been a centerpiece of Ellison Bay. In 1968 Barb’s parents continued the tradition. Barb and her sister Liz Newman now carry on. They keep the welcoming heartbeat open.

William Schartner from the Lodge at Leathem Smith 

ALWAYS happy, smile and kind words for everyone who walks in the door, locals and tourists alike. Takes the time to get to know them, share a story and make them laugh. Just a good, honest, hardworking man.

Willie is a living legend in Sturgeon Bay, having been born and raised here and bringing over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has developed a reputation that draws guests to our location; many people stop at The Lodge specifically to see Willie and chat with him. Conversations with Willie often begin with the St. Louis Cardinals, and he always has jokes or engaging stories to share. His amazing personality and genuine, honest soul ensure that customers consistently leave with a smile on their face. He is a remarkable asset to our establishment.

Jana Schneider from the Nightingale Supper Club 

Jana is one of THE faces of the Nightingale. We love this place for many reasons and seeing Jana and chatting with her is at the top of the list. She always has a big smile and a kind word. She takes time to chat with everyone whether she knows them or not. She helps out where ever she is needed.. washing glasses, running or making drinks, seating patrons. She is a shining star!!

Colin Pustaver-Olson from The Thirsty Cow 

Colin has the greatest disposition-always has a smile for you! He always acknowledges you as a regular, makes you feel right at home. He is ready to be helpful and accommodating whether its a special order, a special seat, special lighting or helping make the Open Door Bird Sanctuary fundraisers successful - he's my hospitality hero:).

Michelle Krueger from The Rushes Resort and Condominiums 

Michelle is a reservation specialist at the Rushes. As you can imagine, guests want to get into their units as quickly as possible so that they can enjoy our amenities and Door County. Michelle makes this possible! Michelle not only works at our front desk services helping guests with their reservations and their needs during their stay, but she also works in our housekeeping department where she takes pride in ensuring that our units are in the peak condition to receive our guests.

Aisha Umar from Casey's BBQ & Smokehouse

Aisha is amazing! She is the sweetest, nicest person. No matter how busy she is, she greets every single customer with a big smile. We get so many compliments on her service. She also helps out everyone as much as possible. Always willing to pick up extra shifts when needed. Aisha just goes above and beyond to make her/our guests feel at home.

Meredith Coulson-Kanter from White Gull Inn

Meredith Coulson-Kanter is the definition of a hospitality hero. A leader whose warmth, dedication, and genuine care uplift everyone who visits and lives in Door County. As innkeeper and co-owner of the White Gull Inn, Meredith has carried forward a generations-long legacy while infusing it with her own sense of purpose and heart.
 
 After earning a degree in veterinary medicine and serving as a veterinarian for eight years, Meredith returned home to help her family and never left. She now oversees the county’s longest continuously operating inn, ensuring every guest is treated not as a visitor, but as part of the White Gull family. Her attention to detail, from the freshly baked cherry pastries to her team’s welcoming hospitality, creates moments people remember for a lifetime.
 
 Meredith’s impact extends far beyond the inn. She serves on local boards, supports community organizations, and shows up consistently for events and causes across the peninsula. Her warm leadership, generosity, and authenticity inspire everyone around her.
 
 Meredith’s mission is simple yet powerful: to make every person feel valued, welcome, and at home in Door County. That spirit of care and connection is what makes her a true Hospitality Hero.

Will Pflum from Simple Life Rentals

Hospitality heroes and dedicated frontline staff work hard every day to create unforgettable moments for our visitors. These individuals are the heart of the Door County experience, and Will Pflum is a perfect example of that spirit.
 
 Will’s dedication to guests and homeowners alike consistently goes above and beyond expectations. He takes pride in every detail — from preparing homes to the highest standards to responding quickly and kindly when guests need assistance. His calm professionalism, reliability, and genuine care turn small moments into lasting memories for our visitors.
 
 Whether it’s ensuring a smooth arrival, solving an unexpected challenge with a smile, or lending a hand to a teammate, Will’s efforts reflect what hospitality in Door County is all about: care, consistency, and connection.
 
 We’re proud to nominate Will Pflum as a true Hospitality Hero — someone who represents the best of Simple Life Rentals and the welcoming spirit that keeps guests coming back to Door County year after year.

Will has consistently gone above and beyond for our guests and company. He has been the emergency contact for guests 24/7/365 which entails helping stressed out guests through every situation from being locked out to a tree fallen on their car during the powerful storms this summer. As a retired chief of police, he has a unique perspective having witnessed far worse tragedies than someone getting locked out, yet he treats each guests' emergency with patience and a sense of humor. And when things go wrong, he's there to drop off a basket with pancake mix and syrup to help make things a little better. I am so grateful to have Will on my team!

Before joining Simple Life Rentals, Will served as a police chief-so he knows a thing or two about staying calm under pressure. These days, he channels that same dedication into taking care of our guests. Whether it’s jumping in during a power outage or enlisting his family to help move mattresses, Will always goes above and beyond. Even when guests are at their most challenging, he greets them with a joke and a smile. His attitude lifts our whole team and perfectly represents what unreasonable hospitality looks like.

Roman Collak from Birchwood Lodge 

He has been serving as the General Manager at the Birchwood Lodge for over 20 years, and he still goes above and beyond to accommodate the Door County guests, as well as to make welcome all employees. I feel like his hard work and dedication should be acknowledged and rewarded.

Aaron Devroy from LOFT (in Fish Creek)

Aaron's honest dedication to hard work extends beyond his 9-5 bank job. For the last 9 years he's spent every summer working in Fish Creek, taking shifts in every dept from bussing to serving to managing. He's one of the kindest, most thoughtful, and dedicated people I know. He wants nothing more than to make sure each guest enjoys their meals, drinks, and days. LOFT is lucky to have him.

Jerod Voster from Sister Bay Athletic Club 

Jerod greets everyone with a smile. He goes out of his way to learn everyone’s name and he is kind to all. He has a great sense of humor and fun to be around. He works hard and is always helpful.

Jerod is great as the "face" of SBAC - he's always freindly, remembers everyone's name and does a nice job keeping up with members' requests. He's also a personal trainer - available to members who are interested.

London Lohmiller from Happy Coffee

It’s always a great day when it starts with Happy Coffee, and a big part of that is seeing London’s smiling face. No matter how early it is, she greets every customer with a positive attitude and genuine warmth. London takes the time to connect with people, and I’ve always enjoyed my conversations with her. She consistently goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome and is truly a wonderful asset to the Sister Bay community.

Tatiana Sawosko from Albatross Drive-In

Having started helping at the Alby as a teen, Tatiana now is a crucial part of the daily operations. Walking up to the Order window, she always a smile and goes above and beyond to make sure every guest is treated like they are the only one there! Whether questions about food or sights to see on the island, Tatiana has all the answers for them!

Cheryl Pfister from The Fireside Restaurant 

Since joining The Fireside Restaurant Family in July 2020, Cheryl Pfister has been an essential part of our team and community. She’s the first to lend a hand when someone needs help and the first to make sure everyone—front or back of house—feels celebrated and appreciated. Whether it’s a birthday, a last day of the season, or just an ordinary shift, Cheryl brings warmth and joy to everything she does.
 
 Outside of work, Cheryl is a full-time elementary music teacher with Sturgeon Bay Schools, a member of the Sheriff’s Department Reserve Team, and a gifted musician who shares her talents with multiple local churches. She’s often found playing for weddings or volunteering her time for funerals.
 
 Our mission at The Fireside is “to give people more than they expect and to do it cheerfully.” Cheryl lives that motto every day. We are all so lucky to live and work in her orbit—she truly makes Door County a better place.

Sherry Sargent from Alpine Resort

It is hard to imagine Alpine Resort without Sherry. From the very beginning of Alpine part 2 she has been there - through every challenge, every success and the ups and downs. No matter what Alpine is facing she has always kept one thing at the center of it all: the guest experience. 
 What truly sets Sherry apart is her loyalty and dedication, even in the toughest times. There were times when things were uncertain and stressful, yet she never once let that stop her from showing up, leading by example, and keeping the team and guests taken care of. 
 She has led with her heart, making sure every guest leaves great memories continuing the Alpine Resort legacy.
 It is with great pleasure, to nominate Sherry Sargent, General Manager of Alpine Resort for this well-deserved recognition.
 Because I have worked along side Sherry I have seen the long hours, the tough decisions and the dedication it takes to keep Alpine running smoothly. Despite everything going on she continues to show up with a smile, encouraging staff to do their best.

Tiffany Porter from Coachlite Inn

Tiffany has been a wonderful addition to Door County. I somehow convinced her to leave the warm Texas climate, to the Frozen Tundra. Tiff has experience in a multitude of Management positions, from retail, to the world of banking, to her current passion of Hospitality. Tiff is an amazing person, dedicated employee, and her guests live her.

Kendall Johnson from Waterfront Restaurant 

She goes out of her way to make all feel welcome and glad to be a part of a door county experience. She always has a ready smile and giggle for all, while working diligently. Kendall is a perfect example of Door County hospitality.

Amy Christianson from Coyote Roadhouse 

Always so cheerful and helpful.

Vicky Wilson from Door County Coffee Co.

Vicky started this business from scratch along with her family and has made it a fantastic business that promotes the brand Door County in addition to providing a quality coffee and other beverage products that exemplifies what we all stand for in Door County.

Susan Holman from Julie's Park Cafe

Susan is a wonderful waitress and face of Julie's Park Cafe'. She's friendly, super efficient and welcoming to all. She is a character and represents not only Julie's but the essence of Door County as a host. 

Cheerful, bright and efficient rolled into one. We frequent Julie's often just to see Susan and interact with her. She does videos for the Cafe that are fun and entertaining. She is our absolute favorite. Hoping she will return for the 2026 season so we can continue enjoying her antics!

Elizabeth Michaletz from Starboard Brewing Company 

Elizabeth is one of the most friendly, welcoming bartenders in Door County. She exemplifies true customer service and what Door County is all about. She is truly deserving of this award.

Carly from Lolo's

Carly is purely a radiant and kind person in all respects. She's poured her heart into her business to serve our community and visitors, whether her food truck or store front. In a world of chaos and bustling tourism she still chooses kindness and respect for all, always delivering service with a smile in every interaction. Carly is truly a gem in our community and would love to recognize her as a hospitality hero.

Carlton Collins from Chive's 

Calton goes above & beyond every time we are lucky enough to get him as our waitstaff. Chive’s is our fave DC restaurant & Carlton just makes every visit even better. Shout out to the amazing wine list & craft cocktails Lucus has brought to Chive’s this year …. Next level!

Jacki Keickhefer from Sister Bay Information Center

Jacki truly goes above and beyond for both locals and visitors. She’s the creative force behind our beloved “Gnomes” and the mastermind behind all our charming decorations. Her passion is simple: she just wants to bring joy and smiles to everyone who walks through the door!

Bob Hintzke from Brussels Beach House

We have stayed at Brussels Beach House for a number of years and have nothing but fun there. Bob always has a very clean house and is very welcoming and willing to help you with anything you have questions about or things you may need. Thank you Bob

Kathy Rick-Haskell from Stone Harbor Resort

I am thrilled to nominate Kathy as a Hospitality Hero of Door County. Kathy exemplifies what true hospitality means - she consistently goes above and beyond at every event at Stone Harbor. Her vibrant personality, attention to detail, and genuine care creates experiences that us locals remember after each visit. One great example of this is when she saved my lunch at an event I was hosting as I was unable to eat with everyone else due to my duties. That’s caring and I truly appreciate it! Kathy’s passion for service and commitment to excellence make her an outstanding choice for the recognition.

Matthew Moxon from Bridge Up Brewing / The Cherry Hut

Matthew has been a part of Bridge Up Brewing and The Cherry Hut since the very beginning. Over the last seven years, he has truly become my right hand man. Matthew is always looking for things to do and for ways to make our customer's experience better. "That's not my job" is not part of Matthew's vernacular. He is on top of the day-to-day tasks without ever having to be asked. He is one of the first to take a shift when someone can't make it. I have received unsolicited emails, texts and various reviews specifically stating that Matthew was the reason that someone had a great experience. At the ripe old age of 23/24 he is wise and trustworthy beyond his years. Matthew truly embodies what work ethic, values and dedication is all about. It is my honor to nominate him for the 2025 Hospitality Hero award.

Brenda Jeanquart from Birmingham's Bar 

Excellent job skills and friendly hospitality.

Joan Tappen from Inn at Cedar Crossing

I couldn’t think of a more welcoming person than Joan,always friendly (and sassy when needed),she will go out of her way to make sure you have a great dining experience!

Cindy Yamileth Pinedea Ventura from The Water Street Inn

Cindy works in guest services at The Water Street Inn. 2025 was her first year here, and she worked very hard to learn her new role quickly. She went above and beyond, to not just learn the property, but the community and activities that she could recommend to our guests. Every day she would greet guests and fellow staff in the morning with her glowing smile and kind words which were always impactful. When a guest would finish making their coffee or leave for their day, she would state, “Have a beautiful day!”. Guests would often come back, email or even post about their positive experiences with Cindy on Tripadvisor. Cindy embodies hospitality in every cell of her body. She truly cares about the guests and their experiences, not just at the hotel, but as they travel throughout Door County.

Jacob VandenPlas from DC Farm for Vets

Jacob is a vet and has started Farms for Vets, Local Food, and Veterans Mental Health He is the president and founder of this non profit organization. This organization is passionate about the value of local and sustainable food and farming practices, veteran's mental health, growing while healing, providing education and support to veterans and the empowerment that comes with producing, growing, and harvesting your own food.

Nyla Small from Door County Historical Museum

Nyla's Ellison Bay family and their restaurant was the progenitor of the Door County Fish Boil; for decades Nyla has been staff for the County of Door, serving the Door County Historical Museum in both volunteer and paid capacities. Knowledgeable and sharing her wide knowledge are attributes unmatched by any other service provider. Recognize her for herself and her offspring, e.g. artist Stacy Small Rupp, who themselves represent Door County as well. Unfortunately I cannot recall the last name of her parents of The Viking restaurant in Ellison Bay where the fish boil began. Nyla is a very worthy recipient of any reward.

Lindsay Wintermute from Wilson’s

Lindsay is very kind to every single person that she interacts with at Wilson’s. In my opinion she is my favorite hostess and she works very diligently to make sure that groups are accommodated and feel welcome. Almost every time I go to Wilson’s she is there, with a smile on her face! She’s great at answering questions that my family has on dietary restrictions and seeing what she can do to make sure that I can get a scoop of ice cream that works for me as someone with a dairy allergy. I really appreciate that she goes above and beyond for not only me and my family, but everyone else that visits Wilson’s and Ephraim!

Lindsay is a great manager at Wilson’s. She does it all, greeting diners with a smile and has a knack for engaging the littlest customer. Lindsay keeps things running smoothly and takes on any and all jobs needed at iconic Wilson’s Ice Cream with a smile. She is especially good at bringing the other staff together, especially the foreign student staff. Lindsay went the extra mile housing the student staff who had been displaced during the damaging storm in Ephraim this past summer.

Katie Potter from Crate Restaurant

She’s fast, friendly, and makes the best drinks! She also bakes and had her desserts on the menu!

Katie Potter from Brick Lot

Katie is the only reason I visit brick lot and always brings in customers and smiles. Talking about books, people and life never gets old when talking to Katie

Lauren Siegesmund from Waterfront Restaurant 

Lauren is amazing! She knows her stuff and always makes sure we have a great time!

The most personable bartender I’ve ever met. She’s got good drinks, good stories, good vibes. 10/10 I want Lauren behind the bar.

Lauren is Epic! Always very fun and knows a lot about what she’s serving!

Lauren is not just a bartender, she is the friend that makes Door County worth the trip every season. She is personable with every customer and is always mindful of their wants and needs. Lauren goes above and beyond when it comes to hospitality, and this is why I would like to nominate her.

Lauren is the best!! Always friendly and helpful!

Lauren is a fantastic and energetic human whose passion elevates every guest experience. She cares deeply about crafting and serving drinks that not only impress in the moment but make you crave coming back to Door County. The Waterfront is a must-stop because of Lauren—her personality, warmth, and captivating smile instantly make guests feel welcomed and valued. Her dedication and genuine hospitality set her apart and make her truly deserving of this nomination.

Excellent service to all customers, friendly and answered all my questions about different drinks on the menu.

Best bartender around, excellent hospitality and everyone loves her.

Very knowledgeable in her trade having even studied different wines & drinks abroad - she loves serving others at & from the bar in the well known Waterfront restaurant in Sisters Bay and the clients love her, often commenting on her friendly demeanor going above & beyond her job.

Lauren always has a smile, and makes the best drinks in Sister Bay!!

Lauren is a talented bartender at one of the finest spots in Door County. She is charming, kind, and her creations give me life! Thanks for adding to the many reasons we love Sister Bay!

Great server and the best cocktails

Her presence and joy serving the customers is infectious. Really enjoyed our before, during, and after drinks!

Lauren always gives us great service with a smile!

I’m pleased to recommend Lauren as an exceptional bartender. She consistently delivers outstanding service, combining deep knowledge of cocktails with a warm, welcoming presence. She handles busy shifts with ease, stays attentive to every guest, and maintains a clean, organized bar.

Lauren is an incredible bartender and one of the most kind people I've had the pleasure of meeting. She provides a stellar experience for all guests, and her passion for her craft shines through in every cocktail. Of all the places/people in Door County, Lauren at Waterfront is by far the best person for this award.

Andrea Polander from Sway

Andrea is always welcoming and engaging. She lifts my spirits and the spirits of the people around her in a sincere and authentic way. I always look forward to going to sway. Sure, Jackie’s bakery and the wonderful ambiance Matt has created are part of it, but an interaction with Andrea is the frosting on the cake… or the foam on the beer if you prefer.

Bev from Samuelson’s

Bev is always upbeat and welcoming. She epitomizes the best in hospitality. She is attentive and works hard. She is past retirement age but works hard and is a great representative of the best of Door County.

Alyssa Schulte from Blue Bear

Just love her.  Always upbeat.  Simply the best!!

Kim Jensen from The Village Cafe

Kim works hard but seems to enjoy herself doing it. She is friendly to locals and to visitors alike. Kim is naturally a welcoming and friendly person. She does a lot to help her J1 Visa employees, her year round employees and her community.

Kim Jensen is one of the hardest working people I’ve come across. She doesn’t ask her employees to do anything she wouldn’t do or hasn’t done herself. She treats her employees with dignity and respect. She runs Pink Bakery, Salute, and Villagio’s in addition to Village Cafe, all in Egg Harbor. Kim is a contributing member of the Egg Harbor community and helps Egg Harbor be the wonderful village it is today.

Karen and Dave from Buttercups Coffee

Karen & Dave always have smiles on their faces, create great beverages, bake wonderful scones, and make all of us feel at home. Our absolute favorite coffee shop in Door County!

Karen Rozek from Buttercups Coffee

Owners Karen and Dave serve great coffee and homemade baked goods with a smile! They open early and you can truly tell they care about what the do. Karen is so kind and thoughtful always remembering my kids and giving us local advice. She loves the area and is invested in it❤️ So grateful for her (both of them) as they always make our getaway’s better.

Dave Lloyd from Wisconsin Cheese Masters

Great customer service!!!

We have come back for several years and he is always so entertaining and knowledgeable about the different varieties of cheese. We make it a mission to come back to see what is new.

Very nice, knowledgeable &took great care of us on our visit to the cheese store! He allowed us many samples, & told us about each cheese.

He was extremely knowledgeable and kind in helping us find the cheese that best fit our needs!

Pam Dean from White Gull Inn

Pam works at the front desk of White Gull Inn. She always greets us by name when we arrive and goes out of her way to make our stay pleasant. When booking future stays or meals, you can count in Pam to look at.all possible openings and if something you were looking for opens at a later time, she will be sure to notify you. Overall She is a warm and friendly person who makes your stay in Door County and White Gull Inn memorable.

Ron Wehringer from Door County Trolley

Ron started a program in Sturgeon Bay called Clean Start. This program offers free laundry and hair cuts once a month. Ron is the stylist and driving force behind this program. I strongly recommend Ron for Hero recognition.

Frontend Staff from Main Street Market

The front end staff is there 7 days a week.  they not only sell groceries but they answer all kinds of questions with a smile.  For example:  shopping, restaurants, beaches, libraries, churches, entertainment venues, etc.  They know most answers but if not, they help the person find out.  They've even been asked where to buy Wisconsin cheese!  And then they carry their packages to their car.  They are definitely the kind of hosts that make Door County the welcoming place to be.

Jasmin Poe from Door County YMCA

Jasmine is truly a hospitality hero for our local community and visitors alike. In her role as Member Service Coordinator she is the friendly face of the Sturgeon Bay YMCA. Her positive and upbeat personality is infectious. You'd be hard pressed to find someone in our community that knows more people on a first name basis. She takes great pride in her work and always strives to do the right thing for our members and guests. She leads our front desk team by example ;and, most impressively, at the age of 20 years old! Jasmine started with the YMCA through the Youth Apprenticeship program. After a year she was offered a full time position as a Front Desk lead and another year she is now a member of our management staff. While she has many great skills, it was her knack for hospitality and customer service that has helped her excel at her position. Jasmine has a gift for connecting with people and building relationships. As her boss (and a seasoned front-line hospitality worker) I am regularly in awe of her ability to make someone feel welcome and appreciated. It is my honor to nominate Jasmine.

Lynell Pickering-Blucker from Door County Medical Center

Lynell is the most compassionate and kind understanding person.   She is there for each person that she meets each day.   She always has  a smile and always takes care of you no matter what reason you may have had to come to the hospital.

Jessie Nielsen from Inn at Cedar Crossing

Outstanding customer service, housekeeping and set up of guest breakfast room food and coffee. Providing a very clean, cozy and welcoming experience.

Deb McDonald from Inn at Cedar Crossing

Deb is amazing. She is one of the most genuine people I've ever met. She genuinely loves her job, and will make sure everyone loves everything about their stay! Please consider Deb!

She has been working at the inn for over 30 years and has dedicated all of herself to this place, the owners over the years, the workers, and her countless guests. She has sacrificed time with her own family over and over to ensure the Inn is taken care of and that all of her guests are happy.

Karen and Dale from Sand Bay Resort

Awesome place to stay! We love celebrating the holidays there with our family 🥰🤗❤️🎄

Alan Gajda from Blue Ox 

Bartender extraordinaire

Lydia Schultz from Hey Daisy in Sturgeon Bay

Lydia exemplifies kindness, friendliness and professionalism! Her smile brightens the day of everyone who walks through the door. Customers of the boutique feel welcomed and engage in conversation, asking questions as needed because of her warm and spirited personality. She takes pride in ensuring customers find exactly what they are seeking and recommends fantastic products they may not have discovered on their own. The boutique is always immaculate and tidy throughout her entire shift no matter how busy and chaotic the day may be. Her attention to detail is phenomenal and she goes about her tasks as if she has been doing her job for years. She’s truly an asset to Hey Daisy and an employer would be lucky to have her on their team!

Krztsztof Krol from Prince of Pierogi 

Krzysztof Krol has been steadily growing the Prince of Pierogi franchise for many years. This past year he opened a second location in Sturgeon Bay, but he first hooked my wife and me at his small outdoor restaurant in Ephraim. No one has better distinguished himself in the area of hospitality, and he goes above and beyond to promote homemade Polish food to tourists and locals alike. Mr. Krol remembers us each time we visit and takes time to visit all the customer's tables to invite feedback and questions. I love that he plans a road trip each year to personally deliver frozen Pierogi to customers homes anywhere in Wisconsin while we await the seasonal opening of his Door County restaurants. He is a remarkable story, and always makes our visits to Door County memorable. I visit many Door County establishments, but if you are looking for a person who distinguishes themselves for hospitality, I cannot think of anyone I have met who comes close to Krzysztof Krol, the Prince of Pierogi.

Alycia Schultz from Saguaro Day Spa 

Alycia radiates love, kindness, empathy friendliness and professionalism in her role as Manager and Licensed Massage Therapist at Saguaro Day Spa. Her genuine care and compassion for every guest radiates through her interactions and bodywork with every guest she works with. Guests of the spa feel welcomed the minute they open the door as they are greeted with her smile and inviting personality. She takes pride in ensuring guests receive exactly the spa services they are seeking and recommends fantastic additions that will allow them to reach the goals of their spa visit. Her attention to detail is phenomenal and she goes above and beyond to ensure that guests not only thoroughly enjoy their services but also educates as needed on self-care and prevention which helps to prevent future issues and injuries with their bodies. She’s truly an asset to Saguaro Day Spa and has been an exemplary leader of the Saguaro Spa team for over 19 years!

Jen Nellis from Cornerstone in Baileys Harbor

Jen is consistently positive to locals and visitors alike. Her smile could light up a room. She is super efficient, always making sure people are comfortable while waiting for their tables and is able to remember customers names after just having met them a few times. She is able to fill multiple roles in the restaurant and we are happy to be the recipients of her many skills.

Laura Blanik from Innovative Printing

Offten takes last minute orders for production and stays late to make sure customer is serviced.

Christianna Trapani from Door County Candle 

She can be seen hand pouring candles, stocking shelves, and always greeting customers with a smile.Every Sunday she posts column on her positive reflections of the week which are so uplifting.It was her dream to do something for the community and the world, which she has in her candles for a cause. Ex.Jamaica, Ukraine, Lucia Strong to name a few.

Kristina Piraro from Thirsty Cow

I highly recommend Khristina as an outstanding server. She provides attentive, friendly service and consistently creates a positive experience for every guest.

Andrew Becker from Journey’s End Motel & Cabins

In 2017 I turned the business over to my son, Andy. My husband & I took over the business in 1996. After being the on sight owners you get to know many of your guests very well & retain many friendships. There are many return visitors, starting on the 4th generation for a few. It makes a Mom so proud when these return guests let me know well they were treated. Andy helps them plan activities, he has set up a mini whiffle ball field for a Grandparent, knows where to send them fishing. The rooms are immaculate. He makes an effort to both greet and say goodbye to them & thank them for staying with him. He has done an outstanding job.