Becoming a Casinos.com Ambassador and Playing the WSOP

_{I'm heading to the World Series of Poker — and I'm taking you with me. (Image: Casinos.com)}

If you told me a few years ago that I’d be preparing to play in the World Series of Poker as a Casinos.com ambassador, I probably would’ve laughed… and then immediately gone back to my favorite slot.

Yet, here we are. Even writing that sentence feels surreal.

The Moment I Found Out

When I got word I had been selected to become a Casinos.com ambassador and represent them at the upcoming World Series of Poker, I was speechless. Completely, genuinely speechless. Which, if you know me, doesn’t happen very often.

Me? The slot girl?

I’ve built my platform, my confidence, and my love for casino gaming around slot machines. Slots are where I feel at home -- where I understand the rhythm, the volatility, bankroll management, and the emotional discipline that many people underestimate.

But poker? The WSOP? That’s a different arena.

As the news sank in, the shock turned into gratitude. Then gratitude turned into excitement. And that excitement quickly transformed into determination.

Casinos.com saw something in me -- not just as a player, but as a personality, a representative, and someone who genuinely loves this industry. That belief means more to me than I can fully put into words.

My Journey to the World Series of Poker

Becoming an ambassador isn’t just about wearing a logo or posting updates. It’s about representing a brand that values transparency, responsible gaming, community, and education.

Throughout my short journey in gaming, I’ve always believed that knowledge is power. Learning how to walk away at the right time because informed players are empowered players.

Now, stepping into this ambassador role, I feel an even greater responsibility. I want to show that casino gaming isn’t just about luck or hype -- it’s about strategy, discipline, and mindset.

And yes… sometimes it’s about having the courage to step outside your comfort zone.

A New Poker Challenge

Let’s be honest, poker is intimidating.

Slots are largely a solo experience. It’s you, the machine, your strategy, and the math behind it. Poker, on the other hand, is psychological. It’s reading people. It’s patience. It’s timing. It’s knowing when to hold back and when to apply pressure.

As someone who plays slots, stepping into the world of tournament poker feels like being the new kid at school all over again.

 But here’s what I’ve realized: the basics aren’t as different as they seem.

Bankroll management? Essential in both. Emotional control? Critical. Understanding variance? Totally necessary.

The biggest difference is that now I’m not just managing a machine -- I’m managing myself in a room full of competitors who are doing the same. And honestly? That excites me. 

Since finding out about this opportunity, I’ve felt every emotion imaginable. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones.

Preparing for the WSOP

I’m diving into poker strategy -- hand ranges, position awareness and I’m watching seasoned players. But I’m also working on the mental side.

Poker tournaments are long and emotionally draining. 

My slot background has actually given me a unique advantage: I don’t panic during swings. I understand that you can play perfectly and still lose in the short term. 

What matters is consistency and decision quality over time. That mindset is coming with me to the WSOP. 

Even Casinos.com Founder Wants a Seat at My Table

Lee James Gwilliam Senior Vice-President

"I like Desiree's early confidence. Anyone who confidently spins high volatility slots for fun has to be.

"Poker tables have a funny way of humbling people. They also have a way of revealing who can really handle pressure. From what we've seen, Desiree looks like she can handle things just fine.

"I’ll be playing the WSOP myself this year. After repeatedly cleaning up in our Casinos.com company poker tournaments, it's time to find stiffer competition.

"With that said I feel obliged to say I’ll be giving Desiree absolutely no special treatment when we meet at the table. Brand ambassador or not, if she three-bets me light, I’m calling."

Read Full Bio

Gratitude, Pressure, and Purpose

I don’t take this opportunity lightly. There are so many talented players out there, many who specialize in poker exclusively, and I deeply respect that. To be chosen as someone transitioning from a slots-focused background into poker representation is not something I ever expected. That’s why I feel such a strong sense of responsibility.

I want to represent slot players with pride. And I want to represent women in gaming with confidence and authenticity. Most of all, I want to represent myself honestly.

I’m not going to pretend to be something I’m not. I’m not suddenly a poker expert. I’m a student of the game -- one who’s willing to learn publicly, grow publicly, and compete.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this process, it’s that you don’t have to stay in one lane forever.

This isn’t just about playing cards. It’s about growth. It’s about representation. It’s about embracing opportunity.

And I can’t wait to share every step of this journey with you.