WE CREATE EXPERIENCES WORTH GATHERING FOR.

ABOUT SONA

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Who We Are

At SONA, we design global experiences that shift teams, elevate brands, and make people say, “Can we do that again?” From luxury off-sites to high-touch brand activations, we make sure the logistics disappear—what’s left is how it feels. The energy, the alignment, the ripple effect long after the flights home.

We work with fast-moving companies who don’t have time for clunky processes, endless options, or surface-level events. Our job? To understand your vision, anticipate the chaos, and make sure your people walk away saying: “That was exactly what we needed.”

Why We’re Different

SONA is a strategic partner—not just an event planner.

We don’t just find venues and coordinate run-of-show. We study your brand, read between the lines, and design with intention. Every detail—from the welcome gift to the final dinner—is built to support your company culture, your goals, and your people.

You can’t download chemistry. But you can hire it.

SO WHAT’s WITH

THE OCTOPUS?

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The octopus is our quiet mascot—an unexpected creature with extraordinary depth. It symbolizes intelligence, adaptability, and regeneration—all traits we bring to the table (plus a few extra arms when you need them most).

In the center of our logo? A subtle location pin—because wherever in the world your next event takes you, SONA shows up with clarity, creativity, and calm.

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DANIELLE SNELSON

Founder + Chief Experience Officer

My love of travel began at an early age, as I grew up in a military family and we lived around the world… my parents took us someplace new almost every weekend, and my sense of adventure only just began.

As I pursued my career in 2007, I developed yet another passion for creating experiences and planning corporate and nonprofit events. It’s at my deepest core to create… I never saw myself as an event planner but discovered my natural ability to create something from nothing… create moments, create experiences, and create connections.

In 2019, I began to blend my two passions… travel and events, and discovered my true calling (yes, I’m in love! ❤) for planning global retreats, offsites, and incentive experiences for teams worldwide.

I live in Boise, ID with my husband Jedidiah and our daughter Joie.  I love to be active, enjoy amazing weather outdoors with a glass of wine, and am a big fan of traveling the world!

Favorite Destinations: Capri, Italy | Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | Kenya, Africa | Jordan

Role at SONA: I create one-of-a-kind team experiences and oversee client retreats alongside our project managers.

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JOE OLIVER

I’ve spent more than 20 years in the event world—planning everything from intimate off-sites to large-scale conventions. What keeps me coming back? The magic of watching people connect in real life. I’ve always loved the behind-the-scenes hustle—where details matter, logistics come to life, and something unforgettable gets created from the chaos.

At my core, I’m a planner and a people person. I believe every event is a chance to spark connection, create momentum, and leave people with that “I’ll never forget this” kind of feeling.

When I’m not deep in a run-of-show or scouting a venue, you’ll usually find me poolside, traveling someplace new, or adventuring with my wife of 25 years, Jane.

Role at SONA: I lead the production side of our events and retreats, bringing seamless logistics and years of experience to every experience we build.

Favorite Destinations: Lake Como, Italy | Maui, Hawaii | Anywhere with great food and better company

Project Manager

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MARY BENNETT

Born in Spain and raised in a military family, my passion for travel developed during countless road trips across the United States—each one an adventure filled with family connections and exploration, often sans electronics. These experiences have shaped my belief that life is a grand adventure, where navigating its twists and turns is best done by investing in what brings us joy and choosing how we spend our time. 

Now calling Meridian, Idaho home, I value time with my family and dog all while exploring the stunning landscapes of Idaho. Whether I’m hiking all the trails, camping under starry skies, or challenging myself with CrossFit, I find joy in every moment. I also enjoy delving into historical fiction novels. 

Dream Destinations: The breathtaking Socotra Island in Yemen—where unique landscapes and rich biodiversity await.

Role at SONA: Executive Assistant and Event Planning Assistant

Trip Planner

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JAKE HIXON

Jake Hixon is the owner and creative force behind Crash Eleven, a multimedia production company based in Boise, ID, dedicated to bringing visionary projects to life. Freelance production has taken Jake around the world where you will usually find him eating at the closest street food vendor wherever he goes. Jake always has a camera in his hands, waiting to catch the little moments you won’t want to forget.

Favorite Destinations (so far): Philippines | Thailand | Mexico
Bucket List Destinations: Iceland | Norway

Role at SONA: Content Creator and onsite videographer and photographer

Content Creator + Videographer

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maricar pamplona

I was born and raised in the Philippines—a country full of warm smiles, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. My love for storytelling led me to a career in digital marketing, and for the past 5 years, I’ve been helping brands connect with people in meaningful ways. I’ve loved getting to grow creatively through content and social media strategy.

Some of my favorite memories come from traveling with my family—they’re my biggest source of joy. I’ve visited Sydney twice (and would go again in a heartbeat!)—there’s something about the fresh air, peaceful parks, and incredible food that stuck with me. When I travel, I gravitate toward quiet places with fresh air and a beautiful view. On the bucket list: Hawaii, the Maldives, and Italy… though there’s still so much of the Philippines I’m dying to explore.

I live for music-filled mornings, slow moments outdoors, and helping brands tell stories that stick.

Role at SONA: I bring our experiences to life online through storytelling, content, and creative strategy.

Favorite Destinations: Sydney, Australia | Cebu, Philippines | Anywhere with mountains and ocean views

Marketing Assistant

MEET OUR TEAM:

Real humans. Real strategy. Real fun.

We’re a tight-knit crew of producers, planners, creatives, and logistics lovers who believe great events start with great relationships. When you work with SONA, you’re not just hiring a team—you’re gaining partners who care as much as you do (and maybe even a little more).

let’s make something unforgettable

If you’re ready to create an experience that actually connects—one that feels effortless, on-brand, and anything but boring—let’s talk!