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Meet Our Team

Work with thoughtful leaders with the knowledge and experience to get things done.

San Diego Meetings and Events full team group photo on the About Us page, showcasing expert event planners and onsite staff

Mission, Vision & Values

We believe in the value of connection and the power of networking. From our clients and their attendees to our communities and partners, we focus on creating innovative events that have a lasting impact.

We strive to be a trusted partner for all of our clients. By listening to your vision, determining the WHY of your event, and understanding your goals, we can ensure your next event engages your viewers and exceeds expectations.

Our vision is to create unique and authentic experiences for our clients that truly resonate with their attendees.

Our Story

Erin Scholes has been a leader in the meetings and events industry since 1999. After 15 years in hotel management, including serving as Director of Catering & Convention Services at a luxury downtown property, she founded SD Meetings and Events in 2013. With a deep understanding of the industry and a passion for creating seamless events, Erin has made a lasting impact on the San Diego event community.

Her dedication was recently recognized with a Legacy Award, honoring her contributions to the industry. In addition to leading SD Meetings and Events, Erin shares her expertise as an instructor in the Meetings and Events major at SDSU’s L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality Management, helping shape the future of the industry.

Our Team

As a team, we are an extension of your brand. From the moment we join forces, you will feel how invested we are in your success. We will be by your side throughout the entire event journey. You will be paired with a dedicated SDME team member who will assist you with everything from contract negotiation and registration to exhibit management, mobile apps, and full meeting logistics. We draw on our reliable relationships and our growing network of preferred partners to ensure you have access to high-quality catering, audiovisual, décor, transportation, graphic design, and marketing services.

Professional headshot of Erin Scholes, Owner and President of SD Meetings, expert in corporate event strategy

Erin Scholes, CMP, CSEP, CMM

Owner, President

Professional headshot of Kayla Taliaferro, Event Coordinator at SD Meetings, specializing in logistics and client experience

Kayla Taliaferro

Event Coordinator

Professional headshot of Whitney Matta, Operations Manager at SD Meetings, expert in event execution and planning systems

Whitney Matta

Operations Manager

Professional headshot of Michele Lambert, Event Manager at SD Meetings, specializing in full-service event production

Michele Lambert

Event Manager

Professional headshot of Suzie Nieto, Event Manager at SD Meetings, expert in managing high-impact events

Suzie Nieto

Event Manager

Professional headshot of Cindy McKinstry, Marketing Coordinator at SD Meetings, focusing on event branding and promotion

Cindy McKinstry

Marketing Coordinator

Professional headshot of Paige Carpenter, Operations Manager at SD Meetings, with expertise in event logistics and team coordination

Paige Carpenter

Operations Coordinator

Group photo of SD Meetings onsite event staffing team, experienced professionals providing event support and coordination services

Staffing Team

Our team is made up of fully trained, professional event staff with extensive onsite experience. From setup to service, we ensure smooth operations and exceptional guest experiences. Whether it’s a corporate gathering or private event, our staff is dedicated to making your event seamless and successful.

Learn More About Onsite Event Staffing