Our Approach
Our approach to designing successful events is strategic and meticulous. As your event partner, we’re committed to exceeding expectations. Our team of Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) brings decades of combined experience in creating every kind of program and from intimate executive retreats to expansive international conferences. Let AMS Event Partners make your next event the best yet!
Meet Our Team
Kirsten Machi
Founder, COO and CMP
Kirsten Machi didn’t plan on launching a business when she did—or in the association management industry. After the company she worked for was sold, she and two colleagues saw an unexpected opportunity and founded Association Management Solutions (AMS) in 1997. More than 25 years later, that leap has grown into a nationally recognized association management company serving organizations across the country.
As co-founder and COO, Kirsten loves helping clients solve challenges, build strong organizations, and create exceptional meetings and events. Her leadership and contributions to the association community were recognized when she received the 2025 Association Executive of the Year Award from Associations West, and she currently serves on the Associations West Board of Directors (2026–2028). She is also passionate about mentoring emerging professionals, supporting women in business, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
When she’s not working, you’ll find Kirsten enjoying the outdoors with her family or spending time on her ranch with her dogs, goats, and her favorite conversation starter—a zonkey.
Jennifer Higgins
Director of Meetings & Events, CMP
Jennifer joined the AMS Events team in 2019, bringing more than a decade of experience in meeting and event planning, complemented by an extensive background in association and nonprofit management. She is passionate about transforming each client’s vision into a memorable experience, combining creativity, strategic planning, and attention to detail to deliver exceptional results.
“Seeing the incredible events and experiences our team creates for clients—often within incredibly tight timelines—is both inspiring and deeply rewarding. It’s what makes this work so fulfilling.”
Jennifer lives in beautiful Southern Oregon with her husband, Patrick, and their Australian Cattle Dog, Blake.
Mike Parket
Senior Meetings & Events Manager
Mike is a seasoned professional serving as one of our senior meeting and event managers, specializing in in-person, virtual, and hybrid events, and overseeing all aspects of client technology. With over 15 years of experience in association management, meeting/event planning, and client relations, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team, particularly in the healthcare and technology sectors. Mike’s key strength is building strong relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs and objectives, and delivering tailored solutions that exceed expectations.
What makes me tick? Skiing, sunsets, hanging with my kids, alone time with my wife and hazy IPA’s.
Natalie Duran
Meetings & Events Manager
Natalie brings nearly five years of experience in the events industry, delivering exceptional service through every stage of the planning process. From building strong client relationships to managing the behind-the-scenes logistics that make each event memorable for the clients and their attendees. Sustaining relationships with vendors and suppliers is one of the many ways she is able to create memorable experiences, time and time again. Her attention to detail spans all aspects of event processes, from contract negotiation to creating unique, tailored experiences that exceed clients’ expectations. Natalie resides in the Bay Area and enjoys running, cooking, rock climbing, and live music in her free time.
Gabby Croghan
Meetings & Events Coordinator
Gabby has been involved in events of many shapes and sizes and has worked in customer service for nearly a decade. She has years of experience with the hands-on and planning aspects of executing successful events, contributing significantly to important occasions such as golf tournaments, weddings, baby showers, non-profit fundraisers, and international conferences, among others. Gabby is always eager to lend a helping hand and welcomes new challenges with enthusiasm.
“I am passionate about bringing a vision to life and strive to do so with every event I am part of. I also appreciate a good theme! In my spare time, I enjoy exploring nature, traveling, great food, baking sweet treats, and embracing new experiences.”
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