Meet the Team
Dan Houdek
Founder & President
Dan brings 20 years of DMC experience and over 35 years in the hospitality industry. His experience spans all sides of the business, including over 15 years delivering on the exceptionally high standards of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. His knowledge, exclusive arrangements, and contacts offer many opportunities that other companies can’t offer. He guides the team with his years of knowledge and an unceasing desire to create unforgettable experiences.
Salina Lohacharoen
Vice President of Operations
Salina was born and raised in Southern California. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. She has been at Impact Events for eight years. Her expertise in creative thinking and multitasking has made her successful in every role she has been given. As VP of Operations, Salina is responsible for being the main contact throughout the operation phase.
Tess B Taylor
Senior Account Manager
Tess was born and raised in The Bay Area. She graduated from Chapman University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Marketing Management. Her experience spans from in-house corporate events to wedding management for a Napa Valley resort. Tess bridges the gap between sales and operations ensuring successful events which exceed our clients’ expectations.
Alexis Johnson
Client Services Manager
Alexis has lived in California for over 15 years and graduated from Sonoma State. She brings experience in management and advisory services, from her time connecting C-level executives and companies. When paired with her background in the hospitality industry, specifically hotels and wineries in Napa Valley, these skills enable Alexis to develop unique proposals for our clients. She is known for her attention to detail, making her a valuable asset to our Impact team.
Sofia Brandon
Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
Sofia was raised in Napa and has recently returned to Wine Country after receiving her BA in Communication from UC Santa Barbara. In college, she gained media and marketing experience while working in the events industry. She is now using her local connections to provide new opportunities for our clients. In her spare time, Sofia enjoys working in the equestrian world primarily with therapeutic horseback riding facilities.
Alexis Van Meeteren
Consultant
Alexis was born and raised in Palm Springs. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. With a career now spanning over a decade in the travel industry and event production, Alexis has found her passion in organizing events and activities that allow people to dive deeper into their connection with themselves, the land, and the local community.