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ABOUT US

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Events carry real complexity—tight timelines, multiple stakeholders, and no margin for error. Getting them right takes disciplined planning, clear coordination, and control of risk at every stage. At First Watch Strategies, we deliver end-to-end event strategy and operations, integrating safety, logistics, and execution into a single, accountable approach.

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Events matter because people do. We manage the complexity, safety, and strategy behind the scenes so our clients can focus on bringing people together—and delivering moments that truly land.

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We do this work because we understand what’s at stake when people come together. Behind every event is a community, a purpose, and a moment that matters—often under tight timelines, high expectations, and real operational risk. Our team has seen firsthand how thoughtful planning, clear communication, and proactive safety measures don’t just protect an event—they allow people to be fully present in it. That’s why we approach every project as a partnership, bringing calm to complexity and turning vision into execution you can trust.

Meet the FWS Team

Our dedicated team at First Watch Strategies is committed to delivering exceptional event management services tailored to your needs.

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President and Chief Executive Officer 

Linda Lindamood

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Chief Strategy Officer

Cindy LoJacono Allen

Linda's extensive event experience includes 14 years at Walt Disney World Resort, where she honed her skills in event management, as well as 13 years as VP of Safety and Logistics with Linder Global Events. Most recently, she served as the Director of Operations for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, where she oversaw all aspects of event logistics and execution. She is also serving as the SVP of Operations for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

Cindy Allen is the Chief Strategy Officer who holds two Master's degrees in Management and Security Studies (Homeland Security & Defense) from Johns Hopkins University and the Navy Postgraduate School, respectively.  Cindy is currently a student at Wilmington University completing her doctorate of education degree in Organizational Leadership, Learning and Innovation this fall.  She has 39 years of law enforcement and public safety experience and is considered a subject matter expert in strategic planning, crisis communications, and risk management.

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Chief Operating Officer 

Kristopher Thompson

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Festival & Event Manager

Candice Williams

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Vice President of Events

Diana North

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Festival & Event Manager

Calle Garneau

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Director of Festivals & Live Events

Aaron Darden

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Director of Business Development

Hayley Swan

EVENTS
THAT
MATTER

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