Elizabeth "Liz" Edwards founded the San Diego Spirits Festival (SDSF) in 2009 and has grown it into one of the top spirits festivals in the nation. San Diego has become an epicenter for spirits and mixology, and Edwards has been at the center of it all through a world-class event that showcases emerging trends and exciting brands. Excited by the growth of the spirits industry within her hometown of San Diego, Edwards created SDSF to bring that community together in an upscale event that represents the spirit of the city. She has dedicated herself to ensuring that the festival continues to evolve every year and is laser-focused on delivering a stellar experience that brings spirits brands and spirits lovers together in a fun, high-energy environment. In addition to consulting with thought leaders within the industry, Edwards travels the nation to attend other festivals, always looking for ways to keep SDSF at the top. Her hard work and dedication have been recognized through the numerous awards the SDSF has earned over the years. Highlights include being named a three-time “Must-Try Festival of the Year” by Premier Traveler and being named by Fodor’s Travel as “One of the Best Cocktail Festivals in America.” Local politicians have also shown support for the festival, with numerous mayors attending and presenting proclamations at the festival on five separate occasions. Those who have attended include Mayor Jerry Saunders, Mayor Kevin Faulkner and Mayor Todd Gloria. Before launching SDSF, Edwards and her husband, Alan Edwards, both native Australians, created one of the country’s largest software consulting firms, Aegis Software Inc., in 1991. After their success with the firm, Edwards founded Let’s Play Downtown, a media production company, where she interviewed international popular culture icons like Larry King and Drew Carey. This role seeded her passion for the spirits industry as she filmed and participated in spirits events, while forming key relationships with leaders in the industry. In her spare time, Edwards shares a passion for sailing with her husband, Alan, and exploring different parts of the world. She is passionate about health, exercising, and has been a competitive runner, having completed 16 marathons and countless 5Ks and 10Ks