Anne Thurber grew up in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania before moving to Norfolk, Virginia, where she graduated from Old Dominion University with a degree in Health and Physical Education. Travel throughout Central and South America sparked an early appreciation for new places, shared experiences, and the way food and hospitality bring people together.

With more than 15 years of experience in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and operations, Anne co-founded The Stockpot in 2015, one of the first restaurants to open in Virginia Beach’s emerging ViBe Creative District.  She grew the concept to two locations before successfully selling the business ahead of a military relocation to Japan with her husband, a U.S. Navy pilot.

After returning to Central California, Anne joined Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch, a world-class surf and hospitality destination, where she advanced from Executive Chef to Director of Food & Beverage and ultimately Assistant General Manager.  Throughout her career, Anne has remained drawn to creating memorable experiences, building community, and bringing people together.

Now based in San Diego, Anne is pursuing her Executive MBA at the University of Colorado, Boulder.  Beyond work, she loves traveling, mountain biking, staying active, and exploring the outdoors with her husband and two dogs.  As a former concert band trumpet player, Anne brings exceptional music experience to Harmony Tours, along with plenty of curiosity, adventure, and enthusiasm for creating memorable, life-changing experiences.