Kathleen’s journey in the arts began in her hometown of Rochester, NY, where she studied opera and violin at The Eastman School of Music. Her passion for performance led her to Boston, Chicago, and New York City, where she performed on a range of stages from Carnegie Hall to Broadway’s Circle in the Square Theatre.

While living in New York, Kathleen trained as a sommelier at the Sommelier School of America, honing her expertise while working for James Beard Award-winning chef Rita Sodi and Michelin-starred chef Michael White.

In 2019, she moved to Mystic with her husband, James Beard Award-winning chef David Standridge, to raise their young family and open The Shipwright’s Daughter. From 2021 to 2024, Kathleen served as the restaurant’s wine director, receiving critical acclaim, including three consecutive Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence, and earning notable features in The New York Times, Vogue, and Wine Enthusiast.

Now, as Creative Director for Heidenreich Hospitality Group, Kathleen blends her talents as an artist, designer, writer, performer, and sommelier with her deep love of hospitality. She thrives on collaborating with the incredible HHG team, engaging with the vibrant Mystic-Stonington communities, and crafting meaningful, immersive experiences for guests and locals alike.

She is currently co-authoring a cookbook with her husband, David Standridge, to be published by Rizzoli in Spring 2027.