Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Garcia. They and their team shared their story with us below:
In the realm of production experiences and sightseeing, few stories are as captivating as that of Steven “Stevie” Garcia, the ingenious founder and CEO of Empire Tours and Productions. From modest beginnings, he has embarked on an awe-inspiring journey, illustrating the profound impact that unwavering dedication, relentless determination, and unbridled passion can have on achieving greatness. Born and raised in New Orleans, Stevie’s foray into the world of hospitality commenced at the tender age of 14. Taking up odd jobs in the service industry, be it washing dishes, bussing tables, or shucking oysters for a meager $4 per hour in the late 1990s, he imbibed a strong work ethic. He kindled an unyielding love for the art of hospitality. After graduating college amidst the tumultuous 2008 financial crisis, Stevie and his wife Michelle embarked on a teaching opportunity in Taiwan, unbeknownst to them that fate had something extraordinary in store, ready to ignite the flames of their entrepreneurial spirit. During their time in Taiwan, Stevie’s path serendipitously crossed with that of a well-to-do Taiwanese American couple visiting from Hong Kong. Enamored by his extensive knowledge of the local area, they approached him with an enticing proposition – a request to lead a tour for their esteemed social group upon their return the following month.
“At first, I was taken aback. Growing up in New Orleans, I had always associated tour guides with costumed pirates, hardly an esteemed profession,” Stevie recounts. “But when she offered me a thousand dollars for a two-hour walking tour, I simply couldn’t resist.”
Given his background in history, Stevie’s passion for the subject fueled an impeccable tour that left an indelible impression on the couple’s circle of friends from the prestigious American Club in Hong Kong showered with accolades for his astute grasp of history and architectural expertise, Stevie’s true potential became abundantly clear. Although the wealthy couple who had enlisted his services for the tour remained a mystery to him, it was later revealed that they were none other than the CEO of one of the world’s largest corporations and his wife. This unexpected encounter thrust Stevie into elite tourism, opening doors to unprecedented opportunities and invaluable connections.
“That was the moment the seed was planted, the idea of becoming a tour operator in Asia. We formed partnerships with all the local operators and even started an eco-hostel nestled within a pristine, secluded beach, collaborating with a nearby indigenous village,” Stevie shares. “Ecotourism was just starting to take off, and people from all corners of the globe flocked to us. We made quite a splash in the Western tourist market, attracting significant attention. I have some wild tales from those early days, including a run-in with local gangsters, thankfully rescued by my influential Taiwanese friends.”
However, Stevie’s odyssey transformed when his son was diagnosed with low-functioning autism. This pivotal event prompted him to divest his Taiwanese ventures and return to New Orleans to pursue specialized medical care for his child. During this transition period, Stevie uncovered a niche market in high-end tourism, propelling him to establish a premium experience company that swiftly blossomed into a seven-figure success. Leveraging his expertise in luxury travel, Stevie swiftly solidified his position as a premier tour operator, captivating both sightseers, and aficionados of opulent experiences alike. Through strategic partnerships with renowned five-star hotels and exclusive travel groups, Stevie, at the tender age of 27, infiltrated the elusive Billionaire Circuit, securing illustrious clients such as Ariana Grande, the Bacardi Family, and The Red-Hot Chili Peppers, to name but a few. “We orchestrated numerous high-end, private events, including bespoke experience packages with illustrious celebrities and billionaires, and even ventured into location scouting for Hollywood productions,” Stevie reveals.
Stevie expanded his purview to encompass convention services and all-inclusive packages as New Orleans operations flourished. A notable milestone in his career was his collaboration with the Collision Tech Summit in New Orleans, where he showcased his unrivaled ability to orchestrate large-scale events. It was an unprecedented feat, as the summit’s four-night extravaganza set a record for the most extensive buyout in NOLA bar history, with nearly 70 establishments accommodating 20,000 attendees. The resounding success of his enterprise garnered international acclaim, prompting Stevie to personally address travel conventions in China, captivating audiences through his eloquent command of Mandarin Chinese and forging invaluable partnerships.
Ever the visionary, Stevie yearned to provide the best services for his autistic son and sought to conquer grander markets. Consequently, in 2017, he divested his New Orleans-based companies. He embarked on a new chapter, founding the Hospitality Conglomerate Empire Tours and Productions in the bustling metropolises of Chicago and New York City. “The bustling tourism industries of these metropolises were unlike anything I had ever witnessed. We had already surpassed eight figures within the first year of operations,” Stevie proudly shares.
What sets Empire Tours and Productions apart from its competitors is Stevie’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled client experiences. His keen attention to detail, profound understanding of historical sites, and innate ability to cater to each client’s unique preferences have propelled the company to unprecedented heights. Whether orchestrating customized touring experiences, curating awe-inspiring boat excursions, organizing exclusive private events, building unique lodging accommodations in nature settings, or scouting picturesque locations for Hollywood productions, Stevie’s dedication to ensuring utmost customer satisfaction has garnered repeated patronage and effusive word-of-mouth endorsements.
Stevie Garcia’s entrepreneurial saga, from humble beginnings as a small-scale tour operator to constructing an eight-figure enterprise, is a testament to his unwavering resilience, unquenchable passion, and unyielding commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences. By melding his profound love for history, unrivaled luxury tourism expertise, and talent for cultivating invaluable connections, Stevie has emerged as an esteemed figure, attracting A-list celebrities, burgeoning tech startups, and discerning billionaires. With operations currently spanning Chicago, New York City, and Charleston and offering unique, nature-focused overnight experiences at his unique properties in the Appalachian Mountains and the wilderness of Wisconsin, Stevie continuously pushes the boundaries and reshapes the very landscape of the hospitality industry. His meticulous attention to detail and enthralling storytelling have solidified his position as one of the most sought-after tour guides in the city. With plans to expand into sightseeing and luxury tourism across the Caribbean and the UK in the coming year, Stevie’s indelible legacy as a visionary within the field is poised to endure for generations.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As a seasoned entrepreneur and someone who has navigated the challenges of the hospitality industry, I can certainly shed light on the obstacles and lessons I’ve encountered along the way. The journey has been far from easy or smooth, but it has been incredibly enriching and transformative. One of the most significant challenges I faced was managing people within the hospitality realm. Whether dealing with clients, vendors, or employees, it is truly an art form. The hospitality industry brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, requiring a delicate balance of understanding and adaptability. Over the years, I have learned that effective management involves setting aside personal emotions and actively listening to others. By striving to comprehend different perspectives, I have cultivated relationships based on mutual respect and enjoyment. After all, people naturally prefer working and doing business with individuals they genuinely appreciate and connect with.
I embarked on this journey without formal management training, necessitating extensive self-education during my early twenties. I spent countless hours reading books on servant leadership, business psychology, and the art of winning friends and influencing people. These resources helped shape my understanding of effective leadership and provided valuable insights into building successful professional relationships. Additionally, I recognized the significance of having mentors in my network who could offer guidance and advice when confronted with new challenges and opportunities in the business world. Early in my career, this proactive approach equipped me with the tools to navigate major shifts, trials, and tribulations that have profoundly impacted the tourism industry over the past decade.
The transformation from traditional vendors, such as travel agents, concierges, and information centers, to the dominance of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) was a remarkable feat. Adapting to this new travel landscape required patience, flexibility, and the willingness to restructure operations and marketing strategies completely. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge for the entire industry. However, due to our company’s foresight in diversifying its offerings, we were able to weather the storm. We remained composed, swiftly adjusted to the new measures, and leveraged the products and services that could be safely conducted amidst the prevailing circumstances.
In retrospect, my commitment to learning, understanding others, and cultivating meaningful relationships has been instrumental in overcoming the hurdles I encountered in the hospitality industry. While it may not have been an easy or smooth road, the lessons learned, and the growth experienced have been immeasurable.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the CEO of a prominent hospitality conglomerate, my work revolves around curating extraordinary experiences for discerning travelers across various luxury segments. Our portfolio encompasses a range of distinctive offerings that redefine the concept of lodging and immerse guests in unparalleled luxury and comfort.
One of our flagship offerings is our collection of unique Glamping cabins. These cabins are architectural marvels featuring glass walls that offer breathtaking panoramic views of nature’s beauty. To further enhance the allure, these cabins are constructed using repurposed barn wood from the 1800s, imbuing them with a rustic charm that seamlessly blends with the surrounding environment. We take pride in providing our guests with an exceptional glamping experience that combines the tranquility of the outdoors with the amenities and services of a high-end resort.
In addition to our glamping cabins, we have also ventured into creating a magnificent luxury lodge. This lodge is built using logs reclaimed from forest fires in California, transforming adversity into a testament to resilience and sustainability. By repurposing these materials, we not only create a unique architectural masterpiece but also contribute to the preservation of our natural resources. The lodge offers an immersive retreat where guests can indulge in the lap of luxury while being enveloped by the captivating beauty of nature. Expanding our reach, we have also invested in luxury real estate in New Orleans. Our exquisite properties cater to the discerning tastes of those seeking refined elegance and unparalleled luxury. Whether it’s a grand mansion or a chic penthouse, our real estate offerings in New Orleans embody the spirit and charm of the city, providing a truly immersive experience for our esteemed clientele.
Beyond our lodging ventures, we operate high-end private tour and event companies in Chicago, NYC, New Orleans, and Charleston. We aim to curate exclusive and personalized experiences that showcase these iconic cities’ vibrant culture, history, and gastronomy. From private boat tours along the scenic waterways to captivating walking tours through the storied streets, we strive to create unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression on our guests.
My work revolves around crafting extraordinary experiences that transcend ordinary boundaries. By blending unique architectural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and meticulously curated tours and events, we aspire to create unparalleled joy, comfort, and awe for our esteemed guests. It is a privilege to be at the helm of this hospitality conglomerate, constantly pushing the boundaries of luxury and redefining what it means to indulge in the art of travel.
Furthermore, we also offer some of the most popular tours in the country to the general public. Our diverse tours include the thrilling Gangsters and Ghosts Tours, where participants delve into the fascinating underworld of notorious gangsters and the haunted history of the cities we operate in Pirate and Ghosts Tours and History & Architecture Tours. For food enthusiasts, our Food Tours provide an exquisite culinary journey, allowing guests to savor the flavors and specialties of the local cuisine.
For those seeking a leisurely and scenic experience, our River Cruises offer a serene exploration of picturesque waterways, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Lastly, our City Tours provide a comprehensive and immersive introduction to each city’s iconic landmarks, cultural heritage, and hidden gems, giving guests a deeper understanding of its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
By offering these popular tours alongside our extraordinary lodging experiences, we aim to provide our guests with a comprehensive and unforgettable journey that encompasses both the captivating beauty of the destinations and their immersive cultural experiences.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that truly captures the essence of Southern charm and hospitality. Its rich history, stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture make it an enchanting destination for visitors worldwide. As someone who has explored the city, there is much to love about Charleston.
One of the standout features of Charleston is its remarkable architecture. The city is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, charming antebellum homes, and picturesque cobblestone streets. Walking through the historic district feels like stepping back in time, with the graceful mansions and colorful row houses showcasing the city’s unique architectural style. The deep-rooted history of Charleston is also a significant draw. From its influential role in the American Revolution to its pivotal place in the Civil War, the city is a treasure trove of historical sites and landmarks. Exploring places like Fort Sumter, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and the Aiken-Rhett House provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Another aspect that makes Charleston so captivating is its culinary scene. The city is a food lover’s paradise, blending traditional Southern dishes and innovative culinary creations. From classic Lowcountry cuisine featuring fresh seafood and grits to mouthwatering barbecue and delectable desserts like the famous pecan pie, Charleston’s dining options delight the taste buds.
The city’s proximity to stunning beaches is another major attraction. With its pristine shores and warm Atlantic waters, Charleston’s beaches are ideal for relaxation, water sports, and family-friendly fun. Whether it’s lounging on the sandy shores of Folly Beach or exploring the natural beauty of Isle of Palms, the coastal charm of Charleston is truly captivating. However, it’s worth noting that the summer heat can be quite intense in Charleston, which can be a drawback for some. The combination of high temperatures and humidity during the summer can be challenging, particularly for those not accustomed to such conditions. It’s advisable to plan outdoor activities accordingly and stay hydrated during this time.
In summary, Charleston is a city that offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, cuisine, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From strolling through the historic streets to indulging in delicious Southern fare and relaxing on pristine beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. While the summer heat may be a downside, the overall experience of exploring Charleston is truly memorable and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.gangstersandghosts.Com
- Website: http://www.architecturetourchicago.com
- Website: http://www.tourofnyc.com
- Website: http://www.tourofcharleston.com
- Website: https://cabinrentalsohio.com
