By Ethan Sullivan By Ethan Sullivan | June 16, 2023 | Presented By,
Running a successful tourism business requires a unique set of skills, adaptability, and a keen understanding of the ever-evolving industry. Steven Garcia, the visionary founder and CEO of Empire Tours and Productions, has emerged as a leading figure in the tourism sector, gracefully navigating challenges and employing innovative strategies to stay ahead of the curve.
Garcia's passion for hospitality can be traced back to his upbringing in New Orleans. Growing up with limited financial means, he began working in the hospitality industry at a very young age.
"I have worked in hospitality since I was 14 years old,” he says. “I started shucking oysters while still under the legal working age for four dollars an hour under the table and bartended my way through college."
This early exposure to the industry fueled his desire to pursue a career in hospitality. He quickly developed a keen eye for spotting opportunities and identifying niche markets. Drawing inspiration from his experiences and observations, he recognized untapped potential in his hometown of New Orleans.
By leveraging his expertise in high-end luxury tourism, Steven established Empire Tours and Productions, catering to discerning clientele seeking unique and personalized experiences. Garcia's success can be attributed, in part, to his exceptional networking skills and the establishment of strong partnerships. By building connections with celebrities and high-profile clients, Empire Tours and Productions gained recognition as a premier provider of exclusive experiences.
Collaborating with industry leaders and forging alliances with prominent organizations, such as Airbnb, demonstrated Steven's ability to leverage partnerships for mutual growth and innovation. These networks and partnerships have been instrumental in keeping his business at the forefront of the industry.
“10 years ago, business came from hotel contracts, travel agents, and concierge services,” says Garcia. “Now 99% of business is from Google, Airbnb, TripAdvisor, and a slew of other online travel agencies.”
Steven was part of the first beta test for Airbnb experiences, where he played a pivotal role in its development in Chicago. As a pioneer in the Airbnb experience space, he was even given the privilege of participating in the IPO due to his instrumental involvement in its setup.
Success in business often comes with personal sacrifices. For Steven Garcia, his biggest sacrifice was driven by the love and commitment he holds for his son, who was diagnosed with autism. Steven's unwavering dedication to providing the best care for his son led him to make difficult choices.
With his son's well-being in mind, Steven recognized the need for financial stability. He sought a career that would not only support his family but also allow him to maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate his son's needs. This realization led him to entrepreneurship, where he saw the potential for financial success while creating a fulfilling life for his family.
Today, Steven Garcia continues to make strides in the hospitality industry with his company, Empire Tours and Productions. The company has expanded its operations in multiple locations, including Chicago, New York City, South Carolina, and properties in New Orleans, Wisconsin, and the Ohio River Valley. Empire Tours and Productions offers a range of exceptional services to cater to the needs of discerning clients. From high-end tourism experiences and private events to scouting locations for Hollywood productions, Steven's company has become synonymous with delivering unparalleled hospitality and curated experiences.
Steven takes immense pride in offering some of the top experiences available, evident from his impressive record as one of the most reviewed person on Airbnb, with over 2,000 five-star reviews. He’s also a preferred vendor for 5-star hotels in Chicago and NYC.
Running a successful tourism business requires a combination of strategic thinking, sacrifice, adaptability, and a deep understanding of customer needs. Steven Garcia exemplifies these qualities as he leads Empire Tours and Productions to new heights in the tourism industry.
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