At age 26, Natasha Sayles already has built a business from the ground up. Now she uses those skills learned so early at the helm of one of Greater Des Moines’ largest annual nonprofit events.

Sayles started her job as executive director of Winefest Des Moines in August, taking over for Nikki Syverson. Before that, she was a marketing account executive at LS2 Group. From 2010, while working as purchasing director of franchise development and marketing for Maid-Rite Corp., Sayles also worked as executive catering and event director for Occasions Made Right, a business started by her mother that Sayles eventually took over. She grew the business from a startup to a company that played a part in 150 events a year.

When did you first become involved with Winefest? Why was this job one you wanted to take?
For three years, Occasions Made Right was a vendor at Winefest. It gave me an opportunity to see the event from a different viewpoint, to see how it worked. When I saw the job posting on Facebook, I started thinking about it. I decided to make some phone calls and was encouraged to go for it by those I talked to. Winefest is one of those great events in Des Moines that’s received a lot of accolades. I love living in Des Moines. I’ve known how great it is for a long time, and I’m never going to leave. I love being a part of the community, and I wanted to be a part of this amazing and fun event, one that makes this community as great as it is.

What have you accomplished since taking over in August? 
It’s been an exciting and busy few months. We had our first few events, including an uncorking event at American Dream Machine. The buzz around this year’s event has been fantastic. We’ve been really successful with sponsorships and lining up chefs and wineries to be a part of this, so I’m really thrilled with what we’ve accomplished. Also, one of my goals is that Winefest not only be known as an eight-day festival. I would love for us to have a more year-round presence. 

What new things can we expect from this year’s Winefest?
This year’s Winefest is May 30 through June 6. We are going back to Cowles Commons for Sips in the City and for the grand tasting. We also will be in Capital Square. We have some amazing locations chosen for our dinners. We have lots of great things happening.

Our most exciting new thing for 2015 is the IronSomm competition. On Feb. 21, we’re hosting a sommelier competition at The Temple for Performing Arts. It will be a five-course culinary clash. We have chefs lined up to prepare all the courses. Sommeliers include Abbe Hendricks with Gateway Market and Ben Nelson of Splash. This event is really the brainchild of Dominic Iannerelli, director of restaurants at Splash Seafood and Jethro’s BBQ. At the end of the night, all guests will get to vote on who paired the wine best in Des Moines. The winner will be crowned the IronSomm. We have more ideas churning, too, so stay tuned.

Describe your leadership style.
I am someone who would not ask anyone to do something I wasn’t willing to do myself.  I always appreciate the effort of my team because I know this wouldn’t be possible without so many helping hands. I want to always think about what happens next and how we’re going to make things bigger and better. I always try to stay positive. Things can sometimes go wrong, and you have to find the best solution without panicking. 

Do you have any mentors who helped you get to where you are today?
Joyce Chapman, our board president, has been absolutely incredible to work with. She is so helpful, and we’ve learned so much together. She always lends a helping hand and has incredible ideas. I am so blessed that she is our board president. Chris Diebel is also a huge influence in what I do. He is so fun to work with, and I’m in awe of all the things he does.

What do you enjoy doing outside work?
I am definitely a family girl. I have an amazingly supportive husband. I also have six siblings, three of whom are my little brothers, all under age 13. I’m also passionate about the community, and I try to volunteer as much as possible. I’ve served on committees for the Salisbury House, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Iowa, and also on the design committee for the ChildServe Bubble Ball.