Pilina — rooted in Hawaii, global in reach
Calm, confident expertise
Warm hospitality
Island spirit

Pilina Global Events & Sourcing

The people behind
every perfect event.

We work with you directly — not through account managers. Every client gets a seasoned professional personally invested in your success.

25 years of connection

Our Story

25 Years of Connection.
Reborn as Pilina.

Pilina — the Hawaiian word for relationship, connection, and bonding. It's about bringing people together, honoring our past and committing to the future.

Founded in Hawaii in 2000 as Reliable Facility Placement, we've grown into a fully integrated global events firm. As we celebrate our 25th year, our new name Pilina reflects who we are today — offering high-touch, personalized event management, AV strategy, expert negotiations, and sourcing.

This rebranding is about more than a name change — it represents our commitment to deeper connections, broader global reach, and a more modern, client-centered approach.

Our Vision
Bringing people and ideas together — creating meaningful connections and lasting impact through expert sourcing and unforgettable events.
Our Mission
Sourcing the perfect venue, providing expert support in negotiations, AV strategy, production, and coordination — so clients can focus on creating meaningful connections.
Founded in Hawaii, 2000
Personalized service. Global expertise. Customized solutions that make every event seamless and successful.

The People Behind the Work

You work with us directly.

No account managers, no handoffs. Every client works directly with a seasoned expert who is personally invested in your success.

Ari Shapiro
Ari Shapiro
CEO / Founder

With over 30 years in hotel sourcing and event management, Ari founded Pilina on the belief that the best partnerships are built on trust, transparency, and genuine care. His leadership shapes everything we do.

Emi Baxter
Emi Baxter, MBA
CFO & Operations Strategist

Emi brings financial acumen and operational precision to the Pilina team, ensuring every project is executed with strategic insight and a commitment to client satisfaction.

Andi Hogan
Andi Hogan
Chief AV Strategist & Global Sourcing Consultant

30+ years in the meetings industry. Andi leads AV strategy with a unique fusion of creative and technical expertise — technology that enhances connection, never complicates it.

Young Weaver
Young Weaver
Director of Meetings and Events

25+ years crafting high-impact meetings, tradeshows, conferences, and incentive programs for global brands. Young translates client vision into beautifully orchestrated, emotionally resonant experiences.

CS
Cody Shor
Global Sourcing Consultant

Cody brings a sharp eye for value and strong hotel relationships to every sourcing engagement, helping clients find the right venue at the right terms anywhere in the world.

Mark Feldman
Mark Feldman
Senior Global Sourcing Consultant

Mark brings decades of industry relationships and deep sourcing expertise, delivering results for clients with complex, high-volume hotel programs worldwide.

Ellie Ursino
Ellie Ursino
Global Sourcing Consultant & Leisure Sports Specialist

A specialist in sports travel and group hotel logistics, Ellie brings deep expertise to competitive teams, athletic departments, and performance arts groups.

Demetra
Demetra
Senior Event Producer & Sourcing Consultant

Demetra combines meticulous attention to detail with an instinct for hospitality, helping clients navigate venue selection and event logistics with confidence.

CJ
Caroline Schweich
Senior Event Manager

Caroline's background in high-touch event management means clients receive seamless, stress-free execution from kickoff to final debrief, no matter the scale.

Brooke Short
Brooke Short
Account Manager

Brooke keeps client relationships running smoothly and proactively, ensuring every detail is tracked, every expectation is met, and every client feels genuinely supported.

Karen McConville
Karen McConville
Global Sourcing Consultant

Karen's deep hotel industry knowledge and relationship-driven approach make her an invaluable resource for clients seeking the ideal venue anywhere in the world.

Join Our Team

Find Your Freedom.
Build Your Future.

We offer flexible, commission-based roles for hospitality professionals who want to build their own book of business — with mentorship, no cold calling, and up to 70% commission. Work on your terms, backed by a team that treats you like family.

Explore Opportunities →
  • Freedom & Flexibility — Work when, where, and how you want. Keep your current job and build your book of business on the side.
  • Unlimited Income Potential — Earn up to 70% of the commissions we receive from hotels.
  • No Cold Calling — Leverage your industry connections, or let us guide you in building a network of high-value clients.
  • Mentorship & Support — Unlike corporate firms, we treat you like family and invest in your success.
  • Fun, Passionate Team — Non-corporate, casual, and committed to quality of life while fiercely serving our clients.

Ready to think more strategically about your next meeting?

Start with a complimentary discovery call. No commitment required — just a conversation about your goals and how we can help.

Schedule a Discovery Call