“One of my favorite things at Missouri Magazine is celebrating the people and heart behind so many amazing businesses throughout the state of Missouri. It is my pleasure to introduce to you, Chelsey Cisar, the face behind The Exchange Venue.” -Cheri Cranford, Founder & CEO of Missouri Magazine.
Missouri Magazine: Tell us your role at The Exchange Venue
Chelsey Cisar: Owner/Operator
Missouri Magazine: What do you love most about living in Missouri?
Chelsey Cisar: Summertime adventures on the water and in the state parks.
Missouri Magazine: How long have you worked or lived in Missouri?
Chelsey Cisar: My husband and I were both born and raised at The Lake of the Ozarks. We met at Camdenton High School, then went to SLU together, and now live in St. Louis with our kids and dogs.
Missouri Magazine: What is your favorite restaurant?
Chelsey Cisar: There are so many to choose from! Anything Mexican will get me out of the house, but if I had to choose just one, I’ll give the nod to Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill in St. Louis. Their lasagna is enormous. Also… Nonie’s (of Angela’s Lake Catering) kitchen.
Missouri Magazine: What is something on your bucket list?
Chelsey Cisar: I want to visit every continent. So far, I have Europe, South America, and Asia. I have my sights set on Africa and Australia next.
Missouri Magazine: What are your family’s favorite activities?
Chelsey Cisar: We love spending time outside; riding horses, playing with our dogs, hiking trails, swimming, and playing at the park.
Missouri Magazine: Where can someone find you when you are not at work?
Chelsey Cisar: Your guess is as good as mine. We live a bit spontaneously, so if you want to find us, just call or text and invite yourself along for the fun.
Missouri Magazine: What do you consider your greatest professional achievement?
Chelsey Cisar: Navigating the very real tensions of becoming a full-time mom, part-time employee, and full-time business owner.
Missouri Magazine: Do you have a favorite local charity?
Chelsey Cisar: We don’t necessarily have a favorite charity, specifically, but there are several causes that we support with our time and money, including foster care and adoption, the fight against domestic violence, and the fight against human trafficking.
Missouri Magazine: What are some of your local favorite places?
Chelsey Cisar: Angela’s Lake Catering (our kids LOVE her lunch menu), Pappo’s Pizza (because it’s delicious), JJ Twigg’s (my husband’s family loves karaoke), JJ’s at the Copperpot (one of our go-to’s for our anniversary), and Big Surf and Ha Ha Tonk A (spent a lot of time at those spots as a kid). But really… we just like hanging out at Nonie’s house.
Missouri Magazine: What is your favorite quote?
Chelsey Cisar: “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller
Missouri Magazine: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Chelsey Cisar: I have a deep love for gymnastics and tumbling. My headstands are legit.
If you’d like to learn more about The Exchange Venue follow them on Facebook or visit their website here.