Originally from Seattle, Kari Wicklund earned her law degree from Gonzaga University after competing as an NCAA Division I athlete in both soccer and tennis at the University of Washington. She went on to practice as a criminal trial attorney in Washington, Guam, and Michigan, where she developed the negotiation skills, attention to detail, and fierce client advocacy that continue to serve her clients today.

As the wife of a military officer, Kari's career and family took her across the United States and overseas, living in Washington, Michigan, North Carolina, Guam, Sicily, Italy, and ultimately Hawaiʻi. Along the way, she bought, sold, renovated, and transformed multiple homes, gaining firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities that come with relocation. Those experiences taught her that a home is much more than an investment—it's where families begin new chapters.

Inspired by her own experiences, Kari pursued her lifelong passion for real estate. She founded Gemelli Properties, a Hawaiʻi renovation and project management company specializing in preparing homes for the market and helping new homeowners transform recently purchased properties. Her expertise in renovation, design, and project management gives clients valuable insight into maximizing a home's potential and making informed investment decisions.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Kari also owned and operated a successful book publishing company for more than 15 years, further strengthening the creativity, business acumen, and organizational skills she brings to every client relationship.

Today, Kari is a licensed REALTOR® with the Rebecca K Collection at Compass, where she combines her legal background, renovation expertise, entrepreneurial mindset, and personal relocation experience to guide buyers and sellers through one of life's most significant decisions. Whether clients are moving across town or across an ocean, she understands the emotions and complexities involved and is committed to making every transaction as seamless and rewarding as possible.

Deeply rooted in the Big Island community, Kari serves as Head Coach of the Hilo High School girls' soccer team and boys' tennis team. She remains active in Hawaiʻi's tennis and pickleball communities and is also a coffee farmer who appreciates the unique lifestyle and beauty of the island. As the mother of twin sons in college, she understands that buying or selling a home often coincides with life's biggest milestones.

Known for her integrity, creativity, relentless work ethic, and eye for design, Kari is passionate about helping first-time buyers, growing families, investors, and those relocating to Hawaiʻi recognize the full potential of every home. She believes every home has a story—and every client deserves a trusted advocate to help write its next chapter.