WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association (WARA) announced Rachel Sears as its new Executive Director.
Sears has been in the food service industry for close to 20 years. Her first job, as a teenager, was as a dining room hostess. However, Sears’s career really began when she was hired by Chef David Everett, who opened the Blue Talon in 2004.
When Everett took over the Trellis Restaurant, Sears assisted with the transition.
In 2015, Sears began working under Chef Hans Schadler at Waypoint Seafood before moving to Alewerks Brewing Company in 2021 to manage their L.A.B. Taproom.
Sears started work with WARA in February 2024 and the board voted her in as Executive Director in May.
“My goal is the success of our members, which ultimately means continued success for WARA. I want to nurture the relationships we have with our members, as well as create new ones. I also hope to find ways that we can give back to our community,” stated Sears of her new role. “I am really excited.”
Established in 1999, WARA was created as a nonprofit to support the economic interests of local businesses in the area. Its mission is to cultivate a favorable business environment that not only supports the prosperity of our member establishments but also enhances the culinary landscape of our community.
WARA sells gift certificates that can be redeemed at any WARA member establishment. Allowing patrons to have the flexibility to choose from almost 100 Greater Williamsburg area restaurants.
“It is a passport to all of the very best restaurants and experiences that the area has to offer,” said Sears.
Gift certificates can currently be purchased from the newly-launched WARA webpage, at the Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce, Alewerk’s L.A.B (located in the Williamsburg Premium Outlets) and at all four Truist branch locations (cash or check only).
In September, WARA will be hosting its 23rd Annual Golf Tournament at Williamsburg National. Details of the event are to be released at a later date.
