Our Team
Meet the passionate individuals driving our mission forward.
Empire Hospitality Group
Steven “Stevie” Garcia
Founder & CEO
Empire Tour & Productions
University of New Orleans
Introducing Steven “Stevie” Garcia, the visionary Founder and CEO of Empire Tours and Productions. With a profound passion for history, architecture, and productions, Stevie has made a lasting impact on the industry through his remarkable ventures over the past 15 years.
Driven by his love for history and a keen eye for architectural beauty, Stevie has successfully launched and nurtured several renowned companies throughout his career. His dedication to creating exceptional experiences for clients and guests has been the driving force behind his ventures.
With Empire Tours and Productions, Stevie has brought his passion for history, architecture, and productions to the forefront. Through his leadership, the company has become a trailblazer in the industry, offering extraordinary tours and unforgettable experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels of various destinations.
Stevie’s creative vision and entrepreneurial spirit have propelled Empire Tours and Productions to new heights, establishing the company as a leader in the field. His ability to combine historical narratives with immersive productions has garnered widespread acclaim and captivated the hearts of countless travelers and enthusiasts.
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Stevie’s dedication to giving back to the community is evident. He actively supports initiatives that promote historical preservation, architectural restoration, and arts education, recognizing the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.
As the Founder and CEO of Empire Tours and Productions, Steven “Stevie” Garcia continues to inspire and innovate, shaping the industry with his unwavering passion for history, architecture, and productions. His commitment to excellence and his ability to create extraordinary experiences have solidified his reputation as a visionary leader in the field.
Connor Johnson
General Counsel
Chicago Office
DePaul University
Connor serves as the General Counsel at Empire Tours, bringing a unique blend of legal expertise and industry experience to the team.
Growing up in Chicago, Connor spent summers working on his family’s tour boat company, which specialized in architecture tours, fostering a lifelong appreciation for storytelling and the tourism industry. This foundation, paired with a commitment to community and global engagement, led Connor to serve two years in Madagascar with the Peace Corps before pursuing a legal career.
After earning his J.D. from DePaul University, Connor combined his knowledge of tourism, strategic planning, and legal acumen to help guide Empire’s growth and vision. Connor now focuses on expansion of Empire’s tour locations and compliance within the ever-changing industry.
Louise Petrie, MBA
Chief Operating Officer
United Kingdom
Louise is a highly accomplished professional with a strong foundation in business, IT, and hospitality. She studied in Liverpool, UK, where she earned a degree in Business and IT, followed by a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). Growing up in her parents’ Victorian hotel, Louise developed a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry from an early age, as well as the overall operations of the establishment.
Utilizing her IT expertise, Louise anticipated the shift towards digital bookings and successfully transformed the hotel’s booking system from paper-based to online. This innovation made the hotel one of the few in its area to effectively adapt to this change, ensuring its continued success in a rapidly evolving industry. From here, Louise found interest in software development and transitioned into a Project Manager role, successfully overseeing the end-end development of specialized software for care homes. This experience provided invaluable learning opportunities and served as an excellent foundation for her current role at Empire Tours.
Louise has always been passionate about travel. As part of the hotel’s operations, she organized frequent group tours to the United States, alongside her sister and colleague Jennifer, where they first met Stevie in 2012. Their professional relationship flourished over the years, and in 2023, Louise was appointed COO of Empire Tours and Productions. This role allowed her to combine her love for travel with her expertise in business and operations.
Having explored many places across Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, Louise brings a keen eye for creating memorable travel experiences. She has explored a number of destinations across the world, gaining insights into various cultures and has an understanding of the different travel markets.
Jennifer Petrie, MBA
Chief Marketing Officer
United Kingdom
Jennifer brings a strong background in marketing, account management, and hospitality to her role as Chief Marketing Officer at Empire Tours and Productions. With a degree in Business Management and an MBA, she has spent her career blending creativity with commercial insight to drive brand growth and customer engagement.
Jennifer’s early experience in her family’s hotel business sparked her interest in marketing, where she played a key role in repositioning the business during a time of change. She has since held roles in procurement, account management, and tourism, working across both UK and international markets.
Having collaborated with founder Stevie Garcia since 2012, Jennifer officially joined the company in 2024. As CMO, she now leads global marketing strategy, brand development, and performance reporting, with a sharp focus on growth across the UK, Europe, and North America.
Her passion for travel, eye for data-led strategy, and dedication to building impactful campaigns make her a driving force in the company’s continued expansion.
With her comprehensive background and passion for her work, Jennifer is excited about the future of Empire Tours and Productions. She believes in the potential for ongoing evolution and growth within the company and is dedicated to contributing to its bright and dynamic future. Jennifer’s commitment to excellence and drive for success make her an invaluable asset to the company.
Jackson Clemons
Operations Manager
Charleston, Austin
Meet Jackson, a proud South Carolina native who has discovered his passion in the dynamic world of hospitality. While attending the College of Charleston, Jackson immersed himself in the study of hospitality and tourism management. During this time, he also gained hands-on experience working as a bike taxi driver, which ignited his love for providing exceptional guest experiences.
Shortly after graduating, Jackson’s journey led him to the touring industry, where he found his true calling. With his extensive knowledge of hospitality combined with his genuine enthusiasm for showcasing the best of his beloved hometown, Jackson quickly became an invaluable asset to the team.
When he’s not diligently fulfilling his managerial duties, Jackson cherishes his free time by indulging in the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast. Whether relaxing on the beach or riding the waves on his surfboard, he finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil coastal environment.
With his deep-rooted local knowledge, passion for hospitality, and love for his coastal home, Jackson brings a unique perspective to his role. His commitment to creating memorable experiences for guests, coupled with his genuine warmth and enthusiasm, ensures that every interaction leaves a lasting impression.
Jackson’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life, make him an integral part of our team. We are delighted to have him as a valuable member of our hospitality family, as he continues to share his passion and bring the spirit of South Carolina to life for each and every guest.
Trevor Stokes
Regional Manager
Washington DC, Chicago, New York City
Originally hailing from Philadelphia, Trevor moved to Charleston in 2016 to attend the College of Charleston. His journey through college was marked by a diverse range of experiences in the hospitality and tourism industries. Starting out as a bike taxi driver, Trevor discovered a passion for entrepreneurship and friendly competition, which led to co-founding a bike taxi company in Nantucket, Massachusetts—a business that continues to thrive.
Recognizing a hot market and incredible demand, Trevor also launched a successful golf cart sales business in the Charleston area. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there; he played a significant role in the Bravo TV show “Southern Hospitality” for two seasons, gaining invaluable insights into the production and entertainment industry.
Now at Empire Tours and Productions, Trevor combines elements from all these diverse experiences to drive innovation and excellence. His background in hospitality, tourism, and entertainment uniquely positions him to create unforgettable experiences for clients and guests.
Yassine Achebarrou
Operations Manager
London, Amsterdam
Yassine Achebarrou’s journey is a testament to his passion for storytelling and bridging cultures through meaningful experiences. Born and raised in Morocco, Yassine developed a deep appreciation for languages and diverse cultures from a young age, inspired by the rich heritage and landscapes of his homeland. His career in tourism began humbly as an interpreter, where his fluency in Tamazight, Arabic, French, and English quickly made him a highly sought-after figure, guiding foreign organizations through the intricacies of Moroccan culture.
It was during one of these assignments in the vast Moroccan desert that Yassine discovered photography, which would become a turning point in his career. Captivated by the beauty of the Sahara, he realized the power of photography as a storytelling medium, allowing him to capture the essence of Morocco’s people, traditions, and landscapes. His work as a photographer deepened his connection to his culture and led to a desire to share these stories with a wider audience.
This natural evolution of his skills saw Yassine transition into the role of a tour guide, combining his extensive knowledge of Moroccan history with his gift for storytelling and photography. Leading immersive tours through Morocco, especially the desert, Yassine shared the hidden gems of his country with visitors, creating unforgettable experiences through his warmth and passion for his homeland.
Driven by ambition and a love for cultural exchange, Yassine pursued his dream of becoming a tour guide in London, one of the world’s most iconic cities. His dream came to life when he joined Empire Tours and Productions, not only as a tour guide but also as Operations Manager, overseeing daily operations while continuing to lead tours. In this role, Yassine blends his Moroccan heritage with London’s rich history, offering a unique and captivating perspective that resonates with tourists from all walks of life.
Today, Yassine continues to inspire others with his dedication to storytelling—whether through language, photography, or guiding—proving that with passion and perseverance, even the most ambitious dreams can come true.
Jesse Costolloe
Operations Manager
Washington, DC
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Jesse is a passionate world traveler with an affinity for people, history, and culture. Drawn to solo international travel from the age of 15, Jesse’s interest in exploration has led him across 15 countries and counting. Jesse was born on the East Coast and raised on the West before graduating from University of San Diego with a major in Psychology and minor in Business Administration. But it was Jesse’s profound love of our world’s oceans that inspired him to become a kayak and surf instructor in La Jolla Cove, California.
Jesse’s goal is to deliver a customer experience that draws people into the places they’ve come to learn about. In his capacity as Operations Manager for Empire Tours in Washington DC, Jesse has assembled a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides who likewise share a global perspective, passion for history and knack for storytelling. This is what sets Empire Tours apart – whether guiding visitors through historic landmarks or lesser-known parts of the city.
Prepare to have our Nation’s Capital, a distinctly walkable city brought to life in unexpected ways. Jesse and his Empire Tours team deliver a rich and vibrant experience.
Gregory L. Seibert Jr.
Head of Design, Construction & Maintenance
Serenity Lodges WI, Southern Ohio Cabin Rentals and 200 Union Street Historic New Orleans Rentals.
Ohio State Ag School.
Gregory L. Seibert Jr., affectionately known as Cousin Greg, is a highly skilled union carpenter with an impressive career spanning over 25 years. His expertise lies in architectural design, restoration, refurbishment, woodworking, saw milling, and construction, making him an invaluable asset to our team.
Greg’s passion for his craft is evident in the meticulous attention to detail he brings to every project. His deep understanding of architectural principles and techniques allows him to contribute significantly to the creation of our company’s unique and extraordinary lodging experiences. With his expertise, our accommodations are transformed into masterpieces that seamlessly blend timeless charm with modern comforts.
When he’s not busy crafting exceptional spaces, Greg finds solace and joy in raising and breeding horses at his home in the picturesque rural Appalachia of Kentucky. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, he shares his love for horse riding adventures with his two teenage daughters. Exploring the enchanting woods and hills on horseback, Greg finds inspiration and tranquility in the great outdoors.
With his wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and genuine passion for his work, Cousin Greg is an invaluable member of our team. His expertise and creativity continue to elevate our lodging experiences, leaving a lasting impression on our guests.
We are fortunate to have Gregory L. Seibert Jr. as part of our team, and his contributions play a significant role in our company’s success.
Tour guides
Zoe Kalos
Fordham University
New York City Guide
Meet Zoe, a passionate tour guide in the vibrant city of New York. Graduating from Fordham University, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep appreciation for history to her role. With her roots in Greece, Zoe’s affinity for showcasing the wonders of Athens has always been a part of her life. Currently pursuing studies in social work and law, she combines her love for guiding with a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Zoe finds joy in various activities. She cherishes the moments spent in the park, accompanied by her beloved canine companion, relishing the tranquility of nature. Additionally, baking and reading are cherished pastimes that allow her to indulge in creativity and expand her horizons.
With her expertise in history, dedication to social work, and a genuine love for her city, Zoe offers a unique and enriching experience to visitors exploring the captivating streets of New York City.
Samantha Casesa
Northwestern University
New York City Guide
Introducing Samantha, an accomplished tour guide who proudly calls New York City her home. With a background in acting and a degree from Northwestern University, Samantha’s vibrant personality and love for storytelling make her a natural fit for guiding enthusiastic visitors through the city’s captivating streets. Her genuine passion for her hometown shines through as she shares its rich history and fascinating tales.
One aspect of Samantha’s work that brings her immense joy is leading food tours. It is here that she seamlessly merges her deep interest in cuisine with her innate enthusiasm for guiding. By introducing locals and tourists alike to new and exciting culinary experiences across the city, Samantha creates a delightful journey where food becomes a gateway to exploring community and history. Connecting with people through these tours has been a source of great fulfillment for her, fostering meaningful connections and creating memorable moments for everyone involved.
With Samantha as their guide, visitors can expect a captivating and immersive experience, where the vibrant spirit of New York City comes to life through engaging storytelling and delectable culinary discoveries.
Seth Garret
AMDA Conservatory
New York City Guide
Seth, a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide who has an insatiable appetite for New York City’s rich history. His genuine enthusiasm for the subject is infectious, and he delights in sharing his wealth of knowledge with visitors. With a background as a working actor and comedian, Seth infuses his tours with a captivating blend of humor and storytelling, ensuring an engaging and entertaining experience for all.
Beyond his expertise as a tour guide, Seth’s talents extend to the stage as an actor and comedian. His involvement in the performing arts scene grants him a unique perspective on the city’s vibrant entertainment industry. Whether you’re in search of a hilarious comedy show or a captivating theatrical performance, Seth is more than happy to provide you with valuable recommendations and insights.
With Seth as your guide, you can expect an immersive journey through the storied streets of New York City, filled with fascinating anecdotes, comedic flair, and a genuine passion for sharing the city’s captivating history.
Adam S.
BFA in Theatre Performance; Minor in Psychology –
Chapman University (2015)
licensure in Secondary Education for Theatre & En-glish – Elmhurst University (2022)
Introducing Adam, a charismatic and knowledgeable tour guide specializing in the captivating Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tour. As a high school theatre teacher and actor, Adam’s passion for storytelling and performance shines through in his engaging tours. Born and raised in a northern suburb of Chicago, he has developed a deep connection with the city and has been a resident since 2017. Joining the esteemed “Gangsters and Ghosts” outfit in 2018, Adam found his true calling in showcasing the intriguing history of Chicago.
What Adam loves most about his job is the opportunity to meet, educate, and entertain people from all corners of the globe. As he guides you through the city’s dark past, he effortlessly weaves together captivating tales of notorious gangsters and eerie ghostly encounters, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every participant.
When Adam is not leading tours, he indulges in his love for movies, live theatre, comedy shows, exploring Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, and embarking on long bike rides when the weather permits. He is a firm believer that whether you’re visiting Chicago or you call it home, the city has a wealth of experiences to offer, and he hopes you thoroughly enjoy your exploration of its rich culture and history.
Join Adam on the Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tour for an immersive journey through the shadowy underbelly of the Windy City, where his passion for theatre, storytelling, and Chicago’s vibrant history intertwine to create an unforgettable adventure.
Page Meyer
University of South Carolina
Charleston Tours Guide
Meet Page, a true Charleston native with an unwavering love for her hometown. With a lifetime of local experience, Page is a treasure trove of knowledge and delights in sharing the wonders of Charleston with visitors from near and far. Her diverse career has led her into the realms of local art, preservation, education, and commerce, making her a well-rounded expert on the city’s intricacies.
Page’s deep connection to Charleston stems from her involvement in various artistic and cultural pursuits. From dance and theater to piano, writing, sailing, and horseback riding, she has immersed herself in the vibrant tapestry of Charleston’s history and culture. These rich experiences have ingrained in her a profound understanding of the city’s unique essence.
With Page as your guide, you can expect an authentic exploration of Charleston, filled with fascinating stories, hidden gems, and a deep appreciation for the city’s heritage. Her passion for her hometown shines through as she introduces visitors to the art, architecture, history, and charm that make Charleston a truly remarkable destination.
Allow Page to accompany you on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Charleston, where her intimate knowledge, genuine enthusiasm, and diverse background will create an enriching and memorable experience for all.
Declan Shannon
Monmouth University
Introducing Declan, an exceptional tour guide for the Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tour. Born and raised in the heart of Chicago, he has developed a deep appreciation for the city’s history and the captivating stories that shape its streets. With a passion for storytelling, Declan’s fascination with Chicago’s rich heritage led him to share its tales with visitors from around the world.
Beyond his role as a tour guide, Declan is a trained improviser and actor, bringing a dynamic and engaging presence to his tours. His creative pursuits extend to performing and writing, allowing him to immerse himself in the vibrant arts scene of his beloved city. When he’s not showcasing Chicago’s hidden secrets, you can find Declan enjoying leisurely walks along the beach, seeking inspiration from the scenic surroundings.
With Declan as your guide, prepare to be captivated by the intriguing narratives of Chicago’s gangsters and ghosts. His training in improvisation and acting ensures an entertaining and immersive experience, where the city’s history comes alive before your eyes. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the shadows of Chicago’s past, expertly guided by Declan’s passion for storytelling and his genuine love for sweet home Chicago.
Ty Cly
Conspiracy YouTube Channels
Introducing Ty Clay, an energetic and vibrant tour guide in the bustling city of Chicago. Despite being a transplant, Ty has fully embraced the spirit of the city and is in no way affiliated with the mob. Initially starting as an art tour guide on segways, they have since transitioned to providing thrilling and unforgettable experiences on foot, adding an extra touch of excitement to your family vacation.
Beyond their prowess as a tour guide, Ty is a dream-chaser in the realm of stand-up comedy. When not leading tours and sharing the fascinating stories of Chicago, you might find them on stage, crafting laughter and entertaining audiences with their wit and humor.
With Ty as your guide, get ready for an adventure that combines the rich history of Chicago with a touch of playful excitement. Their unique perspective and ability to engage audiences will leave you both educated and entertained. Whether it’s exploring iconic landmarks or delving into the city’s hidden gems, Ty is dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience for each and every visitor.
Join Ty Clay on a journey through the vibrant streets of Chicago, where history, laughter, and memorable moments await.
Alan Lanxton
BA Theatre Performance, Young Harris College
Meet Alan, a captivating tour guide in the vibrant city of Chicago. With a deep passion for storytelling and a profound understanding of the impact narratives can have on people, Alan has dedicated himself to sharing the rich tales of the city he now calls home. Since arriving in Chicago, he has immersed himself in the role of a tour guide, utilizing his storytelling skills to engage and captivate audiences.
Beyond his work as a guide, Alan is actively pursuing his dreams in the realms of comedy and acting. His comedic flair and talent for performance add an extra layer of entertainment to his tours, ensuring a delightful and engaging experience for visitors.
With Alan as your guide, you can expect to be enthralled by the stories that unfold throughout Chicago. His ability to weave narratives that resonate with people will leave you both informed and inspired. Whether it’s exploring iconic landmarks, uncovering hidden gems, or delving into the city’s vibrant cultural scene, Alan’s passion for storytelling will create an unforgettable experience.
Join Alan on a journey through the captivating streets of Chicago, where his dedication to sharing stories and his pursuit of comedy and acting converge to create a tour experience like no other.
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Jesse Costolloe
Operations Manager
Washington, DC
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Jesse is a passionate world traveler with an affinity for people, history, and culture. Drawn to solo international travel from the age of 15, Jesse’s interest in exploration has led him across 15 countries and counting. Jesse was born on the East Coast and ripped on the West before graduating from University of San Diego with a major in Psychology and minor in Business Administration. But it was Jesse’s profound love of our world’s oceans that inspired him to become a kayak and surf instructor in La Jolla Cove, California.
Jesse’s goal is to deliver a customer experience that draws people into the places they’ve come to learn about. In his capacity as Operations Manager for Empire Tours in Washington DC, Jesse has assembled a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides who likewise share a global perspective, passion for history and knack for storytelling. This is what sets Empire Tours apart – whether guiding visitors through historic landmarks or lesser-known parts of the city.
Prepare to have our Nation’s Capital, a distinctly walkable city brought to life in unexpected ways. Jesse and his Empire Tours team deliver a rich and vibrant experience.