The Whaling Adventures of Table Host CEO Kristy Kitzmiller

She's been a banker, an auditor, a realtor, and a consultant. And she's also a whale. Kristy Kitzmiller's passion for whaling and dining prompted her to start Table Host, a concierge service providing access to some big restaurants at in-demand times.

At the PAWS Fur Ball on November 9, Kitzmiller successfully bid $30,000 to win a VIP experience at Billy Corgan's Madame ZuZu's in Highland Park. All that cash got her tea, pastries, and a private concert with the Smashing Pumpkins frontman.

For New Year's Eve, she says she celebrated with her husband and friends with a fully customized menu with wine pairings at Embeya — for $1,600. The chef and sommelier seated them at their top table, which they call the "King's Table."

Her advice? "Restaurateurs often get into the business because they believe in hospitality. So, if you take the time to get to know them, they may invite you to special events or their own private parties, or even cook for you and your guests in your home. For a fee, of course."

A fee fit for a Whale.

· All Coverage of Whale Week 2013 [~ECHI~]