Kaylynn Suarez became executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival in December of 2024. Since then, she has outdone herself at every turn. But it’s not just all her experience, Suarez’s positive, go-getter attitude paves the way for success. With her varied, specialized background and heart for the community, the Dogwood Festival couldn’t be in more capable hands!

GFBJ: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from, and what’s your connection to the Fayetteville community?

SUAREZ: I’ve had the incredible experience of living all over the U.S., Germany and Kuwait, but if I had to call one place home, it would be Lampasas, TX—the longest place I’ve ever lived! My husband PCS’d to Fayetteville in 2016, and I followed in 2017. We built a life here until 2021, then took off for adventures in Miami and Kuwait courtesy of the Army and now we’re back! When we found out we would call Fayetteville home again, it was exciting. We genuinely enjoyed our time here in 2017-2021 and look forward to making more memories the second time around. 

GFBJ: What inspired you to pursue a career in event planning and festival management? 

SUAREZ: Honestly, it was by chance. A dear friend saw the application and told me I needed to apply because he felt I was meant to be in this role. Sometimes, your friends and family can see the things you can’t in yourself and give you the push you need. Little did he know, I set a goal to be a part of a non-profit in 2025... I just didn’t think it would be as the executive director for the Dogwood Festival! Before this role, I have planned events, worked large fundraisers, been in charge of budgeting, [and] helped organize multiple day events. I have a very eclectic background. I just wanted to take those skills and use them to find a way to give back to my community. 

GFBJ: Of all your past experiences, which ones—professional or personal—prepared you most for this role?

SUAREZ: Planning events in Kuwait was more than just a turning point, it lit a fire in me. It showed me the power of bringing people together, of building connections that stretch across cultures, backgrounds and experiences. I feel so incredibly blessed to have had the chance to create moments where people from all walks of life could come together and celebrate what unites us. 

My husband and I have always been known for our get-togethers (his brisket is absolutely delicious), but beyond the good food and laughter, what matters most to us is the lesson we’re passing down to our girls. 

GFBJ: Is there an achievement or milestone in your career that you’re especially proud of?

SUAREZ: Truth be told, I have many things I am proud of and have received some pretty cool awards. But, the greatest achievement in life is being a mom. No award or achievement will ever top that. 

GFBJ: What are your main goals for the festival this year?

SUAREZ: My biggest goal for this year’s festival is simple but powerful: to bring the community together. I truly believe we’re at a point where people don’t just want to watch things happen... They want to take action, get involved and make a difference. 

Planning this festival in such a short time has been a whirlwind, but it has also been an incredibly eye-opening as well as a humbling experience. I’ve seen firsthand just how many people are out there ready to put in the work, looking for a way to contribute and eager to be part of something bigger than themselves.

GFBJ: How are you keeping the festival fresh and relevant for the community? 

SUAREZ: Easy! Talking to members of the community outside of my circle. Because everyone has an opinion and I want the community to know I am listening. I may not be able to do everything, but I will make an effort! And having such a strong board by my side has given me the ability to do so much in such a short amount of time.

GFBJ: Can you give us a sneak peek of any new events or activities this year?

SUAREZ: This year we are bringing back some past favorites of the community: Cork & Fork as well as the Car, Motorcycle, and Truck show! As for new, we are adding Cooking for a Cause: Wing Cook Off to highlight food and togetherness. It will allow us to give back to two more non-profits in the area. 

GFBJ: How do you personally define success when it comes to organizing a large-scale event like this?

SUAREZ: Some might measure success by awards or the amount of money raised, but for me, it’s about something much deeper. 

Success isn’t about numbers... It’s about the impact we make. It’s about the moments of joy, the connections formed and the way the festival brings our community together. If we can create an experience that leaves people smiling, brings families closer and makes someone’s day a little brighter, then we’ve done what we set out to do.

GFBJ: Lastly, is there anything you’d like to share with the business community?

SUAREZ: To the business community, the greatest advice I can give is this: never lose sight of your WHY. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, buried under to-do lists, challenges, and expectations. Over time, the weight of it all can get heavy and blur your purpose. But your WHY, the reason you started, the impact you want to make... that’s what should keep you going.

Your WHY will evolve as you and your business grow, and that’s a good thing. Embrace the change, but always stay connected to the purpose behind it all.