Meet Our Team

On The Scene has established a reputation for earning our client’s trust through Chicago knowledge and expertise, consistent repeatable client satisfaction and a passion for what we do.

John Stachnik, DMCP, General Manager

As General Manager of On The Scene, John has the experience and expertise to make your next event a truly memorable experience. From large scale product launches to smaller, private special events, John has the behind the scenes knowledge and eye for detail that will help achieve your event goals & objectives. Whether it is overseeing complex multiday programs or loading motorcoaches, John is passionate about creating lasting memories for On The Scene’s diverse clients.

Jay Weidner, Director of Sales and Marketing

Jay is a 17-year travel industry veteran in Chicago and leads the sales and marketing efforts for On The Scene. Living in Chicago during this time has allowed Jay the opportunity to truly know the ins and outs of the city. He has vast experience in both corporate and association destination management planning and execution. From 20,000 convention shuttle programs to the most exotic private dining experiences, Jay is ready to help create your perfect event!


Patty Hayes, Rainmaker

Patty's passion is driven by her desire for a more powerful approach to event management, guided by 20 years in the hospitality and meetings industry.  Her credentials in managing logistics for high-profile and complex travel incentive programs include Super Bowls, Olympics and American Express’s board of directors and senior management meetings.  She is actively involved with the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association, Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau and many other industry organizations.

Sara Ruby, Event Manager

Sara brings her numerous years of experience in event planning in Chicago to On The Scene. She has planned and operated programs ranging from airport transportation, special events for 2,000 people to Chicago tours for 15,000 people. Sara’s events have been recognized by the prestigious ADME Achievement Award for “Best Overall Program.” She has a great enthusiasm for event management and will work hard to ensure your event is unique, creative, and memorable!

Jamie Orr, Event Manager

Jamie comes to On The Scene with an artistic background adding originality and detail to every program. Her creative ideas and boundless energy give her the ability to deliver world-class events including transforming the outdoors of a private residence into a glamorous oasis and awing guests with a breathtaking lightshow illuminating the 80 foot dome at Navy Pier. An event with Jamie’s signature touch will ensure creativity and leave your guests more than impressed.

Kesa Iskra, Event Coordinator

Kesa plays a key role in the development and execution of creative events produced by On The Scene. Her ability to blend fresh ideas with the clients’ vision comes from her wide range of experience in both the hospitality industry and event design community, most notably for her curatorial and event production work at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Expect nothing less than a seamless program under her direction.

Lola Fernandez, Accountant