MEET THE ARAS TEAM
The people behind the high-quality service Aras provides our clients. We hire dedicated, motivated, and personable individuals to ensure our clients have the best experience. With service that always supports you with a smile, you’ll feel confident your business is in good hands.
Sara O’Driscoll - President
sara@araspromotions.com
After years in the liquor industry and doing promotional events, I noticed Wisconsin needed a quality agency. Now, almost 20 years later, Aras serves not just Wisconsin but also Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and South Dakota.
I've recently taken the leap to acquire another well-respected promotional staffing agency in the South East. We are officially now servicing North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Owning Aras has been a whirlwind adventure that I would never change! I have worked-hard, laughed-hard and met tons of unique ambassadors. I’ve made amazing connections/clients, and most importantly, enjoyed coming to work every single day. The intense work I have put into this company has been celebrated by becoming a Certified Women-Owned Business.
I'm also a wife and mom to 3 boys. We love to vacation, swim, and be outdoors. When I have any more time, I enjoy working out, shopping on-line, wine, and watching my husband cook. (I've always made a better bartender than cook)
Ashley Janz - Vice President
ashley@araspromotions.com
I started out as a brand ambassador for Sara in 2007. Fall of 2013 I was brought on full time and have been loving it ever since!
We have a solid team and the most thoughtful boss ever! Each person at Aras excels at something different which makes our office effective and efficient. We have the best customers who keep us going and motivated.
I love pool days in the summer with my family or having friends over for a cookout. The simple things.
Maddie Otto - Chief Operating Officer
maddie@araspromotions.com
Maddie brings 10+ years of industry experience. Her industry journey started at Aras as a recent college graduate, so this truly feels “full circle”. After working at Aras she transitioned to Badger Liquor as a Brand Manager and then embarked on a successful six-year career at Pernod Ricard USA. Maddie’s background in distribution & supplier ways of working is pivotal to our full-service offerings.
Outside of the busy work life, Maddie embraces the role of chaos coordinator to her energetic 6-year-old twin boys & two Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Tara Biever - Portfolio Manager
tara@araspromotions.com
My journey with Aras began in 2016 as a Brand Ambassador which led me to fall in love with the industry and never look back. I managed a territory for 5 years which gave me amazing learning tools and furthermore, opportunities. Intent on learning more I now enjoy working with Clients on another level with Programs and Portfolio Management.
The culture and fast pace are such rewarding aspects of being part of the Aras Team. It is absolutely important to say that you enjoy what you do, and this for me is so rewarding!
I'm a busy mom to 3 kids who are always keeping me on my toes. We are your typical small town Wisconsin outdoors-y family and wouldn't change it for the world, enjoying life to its fullest!
Cortney Franklin- Human Resources Manager
cortneyfranklin@araspromotions.com
I started as a brand ambassador within the liquor industry in 2015. I had the opportunity to serve as an ambassador for Celsius Energy Drink when I developed my passion for fitness after the birth of my first daughter. I transitioned over to management as the Director of Human Capital for a Southeast based staffing agency 4 years ago and now serve as the Human Resources Manager at Aras Promotions as of Jan 2025.
Outside of my professional life, I live in Charleston, SC with my husband and three daughters. Although we live at the beach, we enjoy ski trips and exploring new destinations together. I am well-versed in the investment real estate world, working alongside my husband who is a real estate developer. I also really enjoy working out, movie nights and laughing with my girls.
Jenna Lacy- Director of Operations, Southeast
jennalacy@araspromotions.com
Layne Heidemann - Senior Market Manager, Midwest
layne@araspromotions.com
I started my journey with Aras in August 2017 as a Brand Ambassador, then worked in our office as an intern for my last semester of college, and in June 2021 I was offered a full-time role as a Market Manager.
Working in a very strong woman environment has made me feel extremely empowered. We work hard to build each other up and strive for the ultimate goal; make the customer happy. Working in the spirits industry has its obvious perks, and my background in bartending makes deep-diving into liquor products exciting and enticing.
I am also a yoga and cycling instructor, with a passion for health and wellness. Most of my free time is spent in a fitness class with friends, or on a patio enjoying a cocktail with my family and sphynx cats.
Olivia Wall - Senior Market Manager, Midwest
olivia@araspromotions.com
I began my journey with Aras as a Brand Ambassador in February 2022 and was offered a full-time position as the office's Executive Assistant that following August. Quickly worked my way up to a Market Manager position and have been enjoying every step of the way!
I love working for Aras Promotions for many reasons, but my favorite is our motto, "Work Hard Play Hard!". We have such a dedicated and empowering group of women who strive to exceed our client's expectations while having fun along the way.
When not sampling our wide variety of products, you will see me exploring the city of Milwaukee! I love trying new restaurants, weightlifting, and the occasional reading & wine night.
Molly Dorley - Market Manager, Midwest molly@araspromotions.com
Joining the Aras team has been such a blessing. Being surrounded by hard-working, motivated, and passionate women has been an amazing environment to be a part of. As the Associate Market Manager, I aim to spread the Aras mission nationwide and continue exploring my passion for social media, content creation, and the food and beverage industry.
In my spare time, I am found checking out local restaurants in Milwaukee with family and friends, catching up on Bravo re-runs, and journaling!
Gwen Gannon - Market Manager, Midwest
gwen@araspromotions.com
I joined the team at Aras in May of 2024 as the Expansions Market Manager and it was one of the best decisions I've made yet.
This team of women is so strong in coming together to resolve tough situations and create amazing events. I've learned so much already, and it makes me so excited to think about what is still to come. I have loved building relationships with every new person I've had the chance to interact with.
Outside of work, I am a part-time music director, an avid piano player, and a plant waterer. I love being outdoors, staying active, and traveling!
Lexy Chatham - Market Manager, Midwest
alexa@araspromotions.com
After graduating from Madison in 2021, I found myself in the recruiting world. I acted as a recruiter until May of 2024, when I applied as the Fox Valley and North Central Wisconsin Market Manager. I had loved working as an ambassador with Aras, and love working as a market manager even more.
When I’m not working I’m either crafting, reading, or spending time with my friends and family. I adore fiction books, especially fantasy! I also love to crochet and make earrings (and I do accept requests!)
Stephanie Fitzpatrick- Market Manager, Southeast
stephaniefitzpatrick@araspromotions.com
Stephanie began her career in the marketing industry in 2018 as a Brand Ambassador for Excalibur Marketing in South Carolina. Her exceptional performance and dedication quickly led to her promotion to Area Manager, and eventually to State Manager for both the Carolinas following the merger with Trade Lions in early 2020. Known for her ability to foster strong relationships with clients, brand ambassadors, and colleagues alike, Stephanie thrives in collaborative environments and is always eager to provide on-site support wherever it’s needed.
During her non-working hours, Stephanie cherishes her time with her family, which includes both her loved ones and her beloved dogs. She enjoys staying active, whether it’s at the gym, grocery shopping, or engaging in arts and crafts with her daughter. Stephanie's passion for family and creativity shines through in all aspects of her life, making her a valued member of the team.
Nicole Bottom - Associate Market Manager, Midwest nicolebottom@araspromotions.com
I started my journey with Aras in the summer of 2023 as a brand ambassador. Working at any and every event I could, I fell in love with the industry and knew I wanted to stay with Aras long-term. I was given the role of summer marketing intern for the 2024 summer where I learned so much more about the company and industry while working on my degree in marketing! As my internship came to an end I was offered the role of Associate Market Manager. I have big shoes to fill but have learned from the ground up from the best team and can't wait to see what next year holds!
Outside of Aras I love baking, crafting, and spending time with family, friends, and my little dog
Racheal Hurst- Associate Market Manager, Southeast
rachealhurst@araspromotions.com
Samantha Fitzgerald- Associate Market Manager, Southeast
samfitzgerald@araspromotions.com
I launched my career in promotions as soon as I was old enough to hit the ground running! Thriving in fast-paced environments, I built my professional experience through networking across Memphis, which opened doors to work with the Memphis Redbirds, Memphis Grizzlies, and more. My passion for connecting with and learning from others led me to opportunities in South Florida, Nashville, and eventually back to my roots.
I'm thrilled to be part of a company surrounded by inspiring women who work as a team to finish strong while continuously learning and growing together. I have a deep passion for traveling, the beach, outdoor adventures, the Lord, and my dog:) A kid at heart, I find purpose in giving back to my community and helping others thrive.
In my downtime, I enjoy volunteering around the city, crafting, baking, drawing, and exploring new skills and experiences. I also love diving into a good book or seminar whenever I can find the time.