[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ew can say they come from a background in amusement park ownership.
For Kristin Williams and her husband Blake, taking the reins of Wonder World Park in San Marcos is a family affair.
Such is the goal for Williams, who on Oct. 27 left her job as human resources director at the city of Buda to take over a park billed as the first show cave in Texas when it opened more than 100 years ago.
While it’s a lifelong dream come true, Williams, who is a third-generation owner of Wonder World, envisions plans of expanding the park her family helped maintain.
Williams said the transition from city government to business ownership started this past year when she approached her parents about taking over the business once they decided to retire.
Williams said her parents originally wanted their three children to go out into the world and have their own experiences, rather than take on the responsibility of one day owning the park.
Williams’ family first bought into the amusement park in 1957 when her grandparents, Phyllis and T.J. Mostyn, invested in it.
Then in 1972, her parents, Buddy and Karen Mostyn, took it over and now it has been passed to Williams and her husband.
“I just remember always being here, I worked here all throughout high school and college,” Williams said.
Williams said when she discussed taking over the family business five years ago, her parents had a plan to sell it once they retired.
After Williams organized a few events for them last year, they decided to pass it on to their youngest child and keep it in the family.
Williams added that her older brother and sister, both living in the Houston area, would have been in line to inherit the business before her. However, it wasn’t feasible for them to operate the park with their schedules.
Williams said she believes her work experience in city government has provided her with the tools she needs in order to run a successful, sustainable business. She said she learned how to connect with people on a human level to help them reach their potential.
“I’ve learned how to connect with others on a human level, help them reach their professional potential and become productive team members who are dedicated to the overall success of the organization,” Williams said.
Expansion of the local business is the ultimate goal for Williams, who has plans to hold special events such as fundraiser events, corporate events and weddings at the park. She also envisions adding a café with a laid-back restaurant feel that serves beer and wine.
Williams said the San Marcos Planning and Zoning commission passed a motion on Oct. 10 that would award Wonder World Park a beer and wine license. However, a protest from a resident will go before the San Marcos City Council on Nov. 20 for a final decision.
She said the beer and wine permit is intended for current customers enjoying the park during a tour with their family, or at a special event. It is not intended for individuals looking for a place for a drink.
“Our vision is to bring in something that will bring in locals on a regular basis so the option to bring in a space with a restaurant-type feel for people to come in and relax while their kids play with some of the activities we have was a logical step,” Williams said.
Williams said her experience at Buda will also aid her in dealing with the city of San Marcos since she understands the importance of tourism.
Williams said she has already organized the park’s first annual event called the Holiday Wonder Express. The event will feature a lit up train ride through the wildlife park and cave tours by tour guides acting out their version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
“We are focused around bringing in families and children and hope to fill our park with fun and laughter,” Williams said.
