So much about Austin is award-worthy, and now that includes being home to the city's first destination management company.

Fifth Street DMC recently clinched the esteemed Silver award for the best DMC in the Southwest Region. The accolade, bestowed annually by the Northstar Meetings Group as part of the renowned Stella Awards, is a significant achievement, especially for an underdog like Fifth Street.

Underdog spirit
Although the name Fifth Street might be unfamiliar, the company has a rich, 25-year history. Originally established in 1999 as Kennedy Creative, it underwent a transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic when Kaitlyn Dineen, the longtime director-turned-owner, purchased the business in 2020. Despite the challenging circumstances — events were at a standstill, and Dineen was expecting her first child — she bet on the anticipated return and continued growth in Austin's event and hospitality industry.

Small but mighty
Fifth Street proudly embraces its more hands-on approach in an industry dominated by larger conglomerates.

Despite lacking the abundant resources, referrals, and marketing budgets enjoyed by competitors, the company stands firm in its belief that size is not a prerequisite for excellence. The mantra is simple yet powerful: "You don’t have to be big to be the best."

Despite facing resource constraints and the need to rebuild their production team in the post-pandemic era, Fifth Street did not falter.

In 2022 and 2023, the company successfully orchestrated some of the most amazing major events for local hotel partners and event organizations. The Tesla GigaFactory opening was one such notable bash, coordinating myriad production challenges while maintaining a commitment to excellence and supporting dozens of local businesses.

Acknowledging success
The Silver Stella Award is an acknowledgment of Fifth Street's unwavering commitment to saying "yes" to their clients and the local community.

“We have been blessed with so many opportunities and hope the same will be true for years to come," says Dineen

Is Gold in the cards for next year? If Fifth Street DMC continues to deliver exceptional experiences that represent and support Austin like it has been, then the odds appear very much in their favor.

  

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Austin

General Session design by Fifth Street DMC for this year’s annual meeting of The Associated Luxury Hotels International.