Join Women Who Really Cook for a special summer happy hour hosted by the marketing team behind Cara Irish Pubs — Aly Haugen, Kelly McManus, and Jessica Bader!
We’ll gather for casual networking, pub snacks, and insights into the creative minds building authentic food and hospitality experiences at some of Minnesota’s most beloved Irish pubs.
Aly Haugen – Marketing Coordinator, Cara Irish Pubs
With a background in marketing and communications, radical hospitality, and a love of food, restaurant marketing is the perfect blend of Aly’s passions and expertise.
In her role as Marketing Coordinator at Cara Irish Pubs, she develops and implements both digital and print marketing and advertising campaigns. Her work includes assembling and analyzing sales forecasts, and preparing strategies, plans, and objectives that reflect Cara Irish Pubs’ mission, vision, values, and the unique culture of each pub location.
Kelly McManus – Founder & Owner, McManus Creative
A brand strategist, identity designer, and creative director, Kelly partners with food & beverage companies (including Cara Irish Pubs and Du Nord) to build meaningful, mission-driven brands.
McManus Creative is an independent design collaborative specializing in brand strategy, identity design, and brand management for small- to mid-sized food and beverage CPG companies and national non-profits. With a focus on helping founders thrive, Kelly provides a full spectrum of services—from brand audits and product launches to interior branding and packaging design.
She embeds directly into companies as a strategic partner, helping teams move further, faster. At the heart of McManus Creative is a commitment to values-aligned partnerships, simplicity, and joy in the creative process.
Jessica Bader – Events Manager, Cara Irish Pubs
With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jessica has worn just about every hat. From hosting and restaurant serving to banquet serving, fine-dining/wine service, restaurant management, social media & marketing, and event planning.
It’s the classic “every day is different” that keeps her energized. She loves coming to work knowing she’ll meet new people, face new challenges, and have the chance to create a memorable event for each client she works with.
What to Expect:
Enjoy light appetizers and happy hour pricing ($2 off draft beers and house wines)
Get a peek behind the scenes of pub marketing, branding, and events
Network with fellow WWRC members and prospective members in a fun, laid-back setting
Space is limited, so RSVP Today!
Location: The Local - West End, 1607 Park Pl Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55416
Parking: Free underground parking is available beneath The Local West End (access via West End Blvd). Additional free parking is available in the lot behind the movie theater (accessible via West End Blvd. or Duke Dr.).
We can’t wait to see you there!
