Our Leadership Team.
At the core of our business is a dynamic duo blending creativity, strategy, and decades of experience. Together, we bring a balance of vision and execution—combining Kate’s leadership and innovation with Kristy’s media expertise and PR savvy—to grow our brand, connect with our community, and deliver unforgettable client experiences.
Kate Kotecki — CEO
Kate Kotecki is the visionary CEO and second-generation owner of Kotecki’s Grandview Grove, one of Western New York’s most beloved wedding and event venues. With over a decade at the helm, Kate has guided countless couples through stress-free, unforgettable celebrations while preserving the 40-year legacy her family built.
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Her leadership has earned Kotecki’s a spot as a top-rated venue on WeddingWire and The Knot, along with features in Buffalo Business First, West Seneca Living Magazine, and NY Weekly’s 30 Women to Watch in 2025. She’s also a member of WeddingPro, the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), and serves on the advisory board for VOWS, a platform dedicated to elevating the wedding industry nationwide.
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Kate is passionate about creating events that feel personal, intentional, and memorable. From first tour to last dance, Kate’s approach blends creativity, organization, and heart — ensuring every guest leaves with lasting memories and every couple feels truly celebrated.
Kristy Maurek — Public Relations
President of Successful Strategies, Inc. – providing public relations, government affairs, fundraising,
marketing and lobbying for international/national clients.
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Communications Director/ Liaison to Albany New York State Assembly 143 rd District;
Communications Officer with Erie County Executive’s Office (Gorski); Communications Director, Erie
County Office of Veteran Affairs (Mazurek).
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With a 20+ year career as a TV anchor and investigative reporter, Kristy has worked in major markets including Erie, PA; Buffalo; Detroit; Cincinnati; and Atlanta. She is a seven-time Emmy Award winner and recipient of the prestigious Golden Microphone from the White House for her groundbreaking exposé on Gulf War Syndrome. Kristy is also a panelist on the nationally syndicated program Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, bringing her expertise and insight to audiences nationwide.
Current or previous member on numerous fundraising committees and boards, including: Variety
Club – The Children’s Charity, Miracle League of WNY, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, ARMS-
Advancing Research for Multiple Sclerosis, CATS- Child and Adolescent Treatment Services, The Matt
Urban Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7275, The American Warrior Festival, SAG Union Member, Strength in Numbers, Military Outreach, Angels of Hope, The Judges and Police Executives Conference of Erie County.
Raised on the East Side of Buffalo, NY - in the heart of Polonia, Kristy attended St. John Kanty and
Buffalo Academy of Sacred Heart – before heading off to Edinboro University, then choosing to return
to her hometown and finish her studies in Journalism at Buffalo State.
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career-long technician at ECMC’s hematology lab.