Karen brings a wealth of diverse experiences to her role as the Assistant Director of Dining Services at Light of Hearts Villa. Prior to joining the team, Karen embarked on a multifaceted career journey.
She spent a decade as the Office Manager of CMR Logistics before diversifying her expertise by delving into retail management at Target. Over the course of her 8 ½ years at Target, Karen undertook various roles, ranging from Manager of Pizza Hut and Starbucks to Team Leader of Grocery Department, front end registers, guest service, and eventually overseeing the entire sales floor, including food, soft lines, hard lines, and electronics.
Karen’s educational background is equally varied, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics and Education, supplemented by a minor in Business from Notre Dame College, where she graduated in 1980. She briefly shared her knowledge as a Home Economics teacher at Cuyahoga Heights Jr. High and High School before venturing into entrepreneurship.
In 1985, Karen realized her dream of owning a cake and candy store, “Sweet Creations,” in Sagamore Hills. Though she later closed the physical store after the birth of her second child, Karen continued to operate under the banner of “Karen’s Sweet Creations,” specializing in decorating wedding cakes and occasion cakes from her home for over 40 years.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Karen finds joy in crafts, particularly cake decorating. She also cherishes moments spent with her family, especially enjoying a glass of wine by the patio fire. Karen and her husband, Lou, are proud parents to four boys and doting grandparents to six grandchildren, further enriching her life with love and fulfillment.
