Meet our Staff!
At Naturally McHenry County, our passionate team is dedicated to showcasing the best of the region—from scenic landscapes to vibrant local culture. With backgrounds in tourism, marketing, and community engagement, our staff is committed to helping you discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that make McHenry County special. Get to know the faces behind our efforts and let us guide you on your next adventure!
Jaki Berggren
President & CEO
jaki@naturallymchenrycounty.com
815-367-6372
Get to know Jaki:
- What is your favorite hidden gem in McHenry County?
- If you could eat only one meal from a McHenry County restaurant for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Togarashi Fries from Duke's Alehouse & Kitchen
- Share a fun fact that people might be surprised to learn about you.
I love to climb mountains and quilt ... but not at the same time!
- If you could describe McHenry County in three words, what would they be?
Room to breathe!
Kristine Austin
Marketing Manager
kristine@naturallymchenrycounty.com
815-367-6431
Get to know Kristine:
- What is your favorite hidden gem in McHenry County?
Rotary Park in Cary! It's so peaceful!
- If you could eat only one meal from a McHenry County restaurant for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Braciola from Da Baffone
- Share a fun fact that people might be surprised to learn about you.
I worked at Disney World when I was in college!
- If you could describe McHenry County in three words, what would they be?
Scenic, Welcoming, and Vibrant
Sarah Cain
Destination Engagement & Programs Manager
sarah@naturallymchenrycounty.com
815-655-7600
Get to know Sarah:
- What is your favorite hidden gem in McHenry County?
Thats tough, we have many. But most recently, The Market by D&A in Woodstock. I love the specialty items they carry.
- If you could eat only one meal from a McHenry County restaurant for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chop Suey Hut Egg Rolls with spicy mustard.
- Share a fun fact that people might be surprised to learn about you.
I hate cilantro.
- If you could describe McHenry County in three words, what would they be?
Diverse, welcoming, and fun!
Beth Mardones
Office Manager
beth@naturallymchenrycounty.com
815-655-7601
Get to know Beth:
- What is your favorite hidden gem in McHenry County?
I love Three Oaks Recreation Center. There is so much to do for all ages. It’s so beautiful and peaceful there.
- If you could eat only one meal from a McHenry County restaurant for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is a tough one…however, a meal consists of an appetizer, salad, entrée, and dessert. So my appetizer would be a pretzel from the Richmond Brat Haus, salad would be Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen's Beet Salad, entrée would be Chicken Francese with Angel Hair Pasta from Cucina Bella and Dessert would be Amaretto Cherry Custard from Julie Ann’s Frozen Custard.
- Share a fun fact that people might be surprised to learn about you.
I am a registered Therapy Dog Handler with our mini goldendoodle Charlie.
- If you could describe McHenry County in three words, what would they be?
Welcoming, Picturesque and Charming