Ellie Aaro, Co-owner

Pete’s daughter, Ellie developed her passion for the event and catering industry while producing her sister’s wedding at Beacon Hill.  After graduating from the University of Washington in 2001, she excitedly returned to Beacon Hill to become its Event Director. In her first year, she managed over 100 special events.  Ellie soon realized the important role that catering plays in the success of each event.

Pete Rayner, Co-owner

In 1996, Pete Rayner made an important discovery. Local companies seeking meeting space were not finding suitable options in the existing event facilities.  As an attorney spending a fair share of time at continuing education meetings and conferences, Pete experienced first-hand that most conference and meeting sites in Spokane were entirely without charm, or even a window.  In 1997, Beacon Hill Events was created on 200 wooded acres in the Spokane foothills. 

Beacon Hill Catering and Events was Born

In 2003, Ellie and Pete became business partners and added catering to Beacon Hill’s repertoire of services.  They created a full-service catering company, Grace Catering, LLC.  Thus, began Ellie’s journey to become an Executive Chef. Starting her tutelage under a 40-year catering veteran, Ellie learned the tricks of the trade.  Through her continued work and experience, she developed her own culinary voice. In 2004, she traveled to Paris to train at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school.  Through travel, research, and education, Ellie continually looks for inspiration to bring back to Spokane to create original, and distinctive events and catering menus.

Beacon Hill Event & Catering Team

With overwhelming support from the greater Spokane community, Beacon Hill Catering and Events has been able to expand its event team.  Our executive team of chefs, managers, planners, and facilities crew is dedicated to bringing handcrafted catering, a distinctive venue, and personalized service to your event.  The Beacon Hill Catering and Events team comes from a range of food and hospitality backgrounds and experiences.  This diversity ensures that creativity and personalized service are front and center when planning your Spokane event.  

In addition to our full-time staff, we are happy to offer many part-time employment opportunities for the Spokane community.  To learn about current employment opportunities, please contact us at info@beaconhillevents.com.

If you are interested in planning a event with our experienced team, please click the button below to get in touch!