When Union Depot in Saint Paul reopened in 2012 after a $243 million restoration, we were contracted to join the Cathryn Kennedy Consulting team providing strategic media relations for events, programs, and initiatives year-round. From 2012 to 2019, the team led media outreach efforts, helping to build visibility and engagement around this historic venue’s activities.

In 2019, our role shifted to event planning, and we were contracted to lead the planning and execution of one of Union Depot’s signature annual events—the Holiday Bake Sale. This one-day community marketplace showcases over 40 local bakeries, confectioners, and food artisans.

Between 2022 and 2023, the event experienced remarkable growth, with vendor participation increasing by 105% and attendance surging from 8,000 to 17,000 guests. In 2024, we welcomed the largest number of vendors in the event’s history.

Our role goes beyond planning—we handle vendor coordination from pre-event prep to teardown, curate live music to elevate the experience, and spotlight standout vendors and products for media coverage.

https://www.uniondepot.org/