Early Beginnings: Born in the creatively vibrant town of Dumont, NJ, Amanda Murray was deeply influenced by her mother's artistic flair, nurturing her own innate talent for design from a young age. After high school, driven by her passion for creativity, Amanda pursued a degree in Visual Arts at the State University of New York (SUNY). There, she not only honed her skills in graphic and digital design but also gained practical experience working with local businesses and the International School of Business, shaping her ability to translate complex visions into compelling visual narratives.

Professional Growth: Amanda's professional journey began at Blue Tulip, where she specialized in custom stationery and played a key role in redesigning the company's major invitation catalog. Her career trajectory took her to Massachusetts, where she elevated her design expertise at Ambit Creative Group, mastering the art of branding and client-centric design. Over the years, Amanda's role evolved across various companies, where she crafted eBooks, managed photoshoots, and developed complete branding solutions, consistently demonstrating her capacity to exceed client expectations under pressure.

Journey with the AMP Up1 Hospitality Team: Amanda’s path crossed with the leaders of AMP Up1 Hospitality in 2018 when she joined the team to infuse creativity into a brand focused on crafting memorable dining and entertainment experiences. Recognized for her exceptional talent and strategic mindset, Amanda was quickly appointed Visual Design Manager and later ascended to Executive Design & Innovation Manager. Her profound impact on the brand’s visual and strategic marketing initiatives, from digital signage to social media content, has been pivotal in defining the brand's aesthetic and narrative.

Current Role and Innovations: As AMP Up1 Hospitality continues to expand with a heightened focus on the “Your 3rd Spot” brand, Amanda is now instrumental in the design and development of new locations as well as brand communication. Her current focus encompasses overseeing the aesthetic and functional aspects of site selection and construction, ensuring that each new venue not only reflects AMP Up1’s high standards but also enhances its mission to connect and build communities through innovative dining experiences.

Unique Leadership Style: Amanda exemplifies AMP Up1's virtues of empathy, adaptability, and mastery. Her ability to listen and transform abstract ideas into vibrant, tangible realities makes her an invaluable leader within the company. Her approach not only uplifts her team but also encourages them to explore their own creativity, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Personal Life and Closing Thoughts: Outside of her professional life, Amanda enjoys spending time with her husband, Dan, and their dog Kona. Together, they volunteer for a local dog rescue, fostering dogs and helping them find forever homes. Amanda's love for home design, travel, comedy, baking, and culinary exploration mirrors her professional dedication to creating enriching, engaging experiences.

Amanda’s strategic vision and relentless pursuit of excellence ensure that each new location is not just a place to dine, but a vibrant community hub that brings people together through unique and engaging experiences. Her leadership profoundly embodies AMP Up1 Hospitality's commitment to innovation, quality, and community engagement, making every project a showcase of exceptional experiential dining.