Your Event. Our Expertise.
Founded in 2025, IMPACT Hospitality Partners, LLC is a strategic venue sourcing and event consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations execute seamless, results-driven meetings and conferences. With extensive experience in luxury hotels and major hospitality brands, IMPACT offers an insider’s perspective on venue operations, contract negotiations, and the creation of true value.
We collaborate with clients as an extension of their team, delivering transparent guidance, expert negotiation, and thoughtful event strategy that enhances conference management, protects interests, and elevates the attendee experience.
Meet The Team
Erika McGrath, Founder
Erika McGrath is a hospitality and events professional with over 15 years of experience in luxury hotels, resort operations, and conference management. Born and raised in Northern New Jersey, Erika began her career in hospitality right after high school at the front desk of a Marriott hotel—an experience that established her deep understanding of guest experience, operations, and service culture.
After several years in hotel operations, Erika discovered her true passion for event consulting. The majority of her career was spent with Marriott International, where she held progressive leadership roles, including serving as a full-time Travel Task Force Manager for Events at the corporate level. In this capacity, she supported hotels nationwide by building and training event teams from the ground up, implementing brand SOPs, developing menus, and driving strategic selling initiatives—all while ensuring consistency with brand standards and operational excellence.
In 2015, Erika relocated to St. Petersburg, continuing her career in luxury resorts throughout the Tampa Bay area, including iconic properties such as The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club and The Don CeSar. Her experience on both the hotel and client sides gives her a unique insider perspective that allows her to anticipate challenges, negotiate effectively, and deliver seamless, high-impact events, particularly in the realm of conference management.
Today, Erika is the Founder of IMPACT Hospitality Partners, LLC, where she specializes in venue sourcing, helping organizations find the perfect locations, negotiate contracts, and design events that are strategically aligned and results-driven.
Outside of work, Erika enjoys hosting gatherings at her home, spending time with her son, going to the beach, and traveling—experiences that continue to fuel her love for connection, hospitality, and bringing people together.
Dan Faiola, Director of Operations
Dan Faiola is the Director of Operations at IMPACT Hospitality Partners and a lifelong hospitality professional with more than three decades of experience in hotel and food & beverage operations. Born and educated in Romulus, New York, Dan graduated in 1990, where he was a multi-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball—discipline and teamwork that continue to shape his leadership style today.
Dan earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University, graduating in 1994, where he also played collegiate baseball all four years. Shortly after graduation, he relocated to Florida, launching a 31-year career in the hotel industry.
Throughout his career, Dan has held leadership roles across restaurant openings, beverage operations, and banquet management, with the majority of his experience as a Director of Banquets at multiple beachfront properties. He has worked with respected hospitality brands including Radisson Hotels, DoubleTree, Hilton, and Marriott — spending most of his career in Clearwater Beach, and currently resides in St. Petersburg.
Known for his hands-on leadership and ability to build and motivate high-performing teams, Dan has successfully led complex banquet operations and large-scale events in high-volume resort environments. His expertise in conference management and event consulting, combined with a people-first approach, makes him a trusted leader and mentor across every team he supports, particularly in venue sourcing for successful gatherings.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time with his family—including his daughter, two sons, and two grandchildren—watching sports, camping, RV-ing, and following NASCAR. A passionate local sports fan, he proudly roots for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Kim Watson, Event Manager
Kim Watson's passion for creating unforgettable experiences began as an Events Intern with USA Rugby in Colorado, where she discovered the power of bringing people together through well-executed events. That experience sparked a career dedicated to planning, organizing, and delivering memorable experiences that leave lasting impressions.
Prior to joining IMPACT Hospitality Partners, Kim served as the Director of Events for Phillies Phantasy Camp, where she reimagined the participant experience year after year. From themed evening events to unique entertainment and interactive experiences, she focused on ensuring every camp felt fresh, exciting, and unlike any previous year. Her ability to blend creativity with meticulous planning helped create unforgettable moments for campers, alumni, and staff alike.
Throughout her career, Kim has built expertise in event strategy, logistics, sponsorship activation, vendor management, and client relations. Known for her outgoing personality, positive attitude, and collaborative approach, she is always willing to step in wherever needed to support her team and ensure every client has the best possible experience. She believes the most successful events are the result of strong teamwork, open communication, and a shared commitment to excellence. Her attention to detail, adaptability, and passion for hospitality allow her to transform ideas into seamless experiences that guests remember long after the event ends.
As Event Manager at IMPACT Hospitality Partners, Kim is excited to help clients bring their visions to life while creating exceptional experiences that embody the company's commitment to excellence and genuine hospitality.
Outside of work, Kim enjoys traveling, exploring local breweries, playing rugby, and spending time with her wife, Lindsay, and their golden retriever, Kiwi. Whether on the field, with family and friends, or at an event, she believes building relationships, supporting others, and creating memorable experiences are what make every moment meaningful.
Catherine Vergara, Graphic Design
Catherine Vergara is a creative marketing and operations professional who believes great design goes beyond aesthetics. She helps businesses grow through thoughtful branding, streamlined systems, and creative problem solving. Her journey began in 2021 while completing her Bachelor’s in Tourism Management, balancing life as a working student and a mom. Since then, she’s worked with businesses in Australia, the UK, and the US, developing branding, websites, and marketing materials.
Joining IMPACT Hospitality Partners brought her back to the field that she studied. After collaborating with us on a few creative projects, she officially joined the team in 2026. She now supports the team through branding, website development, and communications that reflect Impact’s commitment to exceptional client experiences.
Outside of work, Catherine is a proud wife and mom of two who finds inspiration in creativity and adventure. She enjoys painting, exploring new places, discovering local food, scenic road trips, and beach time. She believes every new experience brings fresh perspective, and that great ideas come from staying curious and never stop learning.