At Bright & Carpenter Consulting, we help organizations and businesses thrive through association management, public affairs, and advocacy services rooted in deep Kansas expertise. We know how to build relationships, foster dialogue, and connect your voice with decision-makers.
We believe effective representation begins with a hands-on partnership. Every client is unique—your industry, your culture, your challenges—so we deliver custom solutions designed to advance your goals. Working alongside you, we ensure your organization is heard, respected, and positioned for long-term success.
Since 2008, Bright & Carpenter Consulting has helped associations increase revenue, grow memberships, and deliver meaningful professional development opportunities. At the Kansas Statehouse, we’ve become a trusted voice for businesses and communities, working alongside legislators, regulators, and stakeholders to shape policies that matter.
Our mission is simple: we bridge the gap between business and government so you can stay focused on what you do best.
At Bright & Carpenter Consulting, leadership is personal. Founders Natalie Bright and Marlee Carpenter advocate for Kansas businesses, associations, and communities with dedication and impact. They provide clients with the insight, strategy, and relationships needed to influence policy and strengthen organizations.
Together, Natalie and Marlee deliver unmatched expertise, proven results, and a collaborative approach that keeps Kansas businesses and associations at the forefront of progress.
Natalie Bright brings over 30 years of experience advancing Kansas business interests across workforce development, economic growth, taxation, insurance, and judicial reform. A UC–Riverside and Washburn Law graduate, she began lobbying with the Kansas Chamber before moving into contract lobbying in 1999 and co-founding Bright and Carpenter Consulting in 2008. She has led major reforms, including Workers Compensation and Unemployment Insurance updates. Natalie helps manage three statewide associations and lives in Shawnee with her husband and four children. Click here for more information.
Marlee Carpenter has 25 years of experience lobbying state legislative issues in Kansas, specializing in business taxes, insurance, and legal reform with Bright and Carpenter Consulting. A Wichita State and Washburn Law graduate, she began at the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, eventually becoming lead lobbyist before forming her firm with Natalie Bright in 2008. Marlee helped advance major reforms, including mental health parity, autism coverage, and SALT parity. She is active statewide and lives in Topeka with her family. Click here for more information.
Advancing a new era of Kansas economic development
September 29-30, 2026
Dodge City, KS
Enjoy interacting with hotels, attractions, CVBs, and dining and retail establishments from across Kansas
October 20-21, 2026
Manhattan, KS
Legislative Day
Expanding Kansas’s economy through legislative advocacy
February 2026
Topeka, KS
Review employment law and employee benefits that impact HR today
February 2026
Topeka, KS
Share the many faces of tourism with the Kansas Legislature
February 2026
Topeka, KS
All Aboard the HR Soul Train!
September 16-18, 2026
Overland Park, KS
