Who We Are
Bottega Exchange is more than a workspace-it’s a community. A place where entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators come together to connect, collaborate, and grow.
The History of Bottega Exchange: A Vision Brought to Life
Bottega Exchange was founded by Kelli Despain, a designer, and her best friend Megan Jones, a political consultant. Both saw the need for a place where women with vision could thrive and collaborate—a place where entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners could come together, support one another, and turn ideas into reality.
Drawing from her background in graphic design, branding, and event planning, Kelli envisioned something different-a space that was more than just an office, but a hub of creativity and connection.
With that vision in mind, Bottega Exchange was born.
Kelli’s impact was immeasurable.
She poured her heart into this space—hosting networking events, workshops, and community gatherings that supported business growth and fostered deep, lasting connections.
Her warmth, generosity, and drive made Bottega members feel at home.
A Legacy That Lives On
In
2022, Kelli was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.
Even in the face of unimaginable challenges, she remained dedicated to
Bottega, its community, and the people she had brought together.
She continued
to mentor, inspire, and create, ensuring that Bottega remained a thriving space
for collaboration and growth.
In
December 2024, we tragically lost Kelli, but her spirit
remains the heartbeat of Bottega Exchange.
"The perspective that terminal cancer gives is to realize how lucky I have been to call so many people family and friends... to have had the opportunity to live my life the way I chose. Cancer knocked me down, but it also gave me some much-needed time to reflect and use whatever time I have left to make the most out of every day."
— Kelli Despain
Moving Forward: The Future of Bottega Exchange
Today, Jared Despain, Kelli’s husband and biggest supporter, has stepped in as CEO to ensure that her vision and values continue to thrive.
Bottega Exchange remains a space for dreamers, builders, and changemakers.
Whether you need a workspace, a creative community, or a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, Bottega is here to support you, just as Kelli always intended.
