Meet the Founder: The Vision Behind Vashon Collective

A life in music, an understanding of hospitality

Shantel’s experience on stage sits alongside a background in hospitality and meeting sales. She understands an event from the performer’s perspective and from the perspective of the people responsible for welcoming guests. That combination inspired a company where musical excellence and attentive service belong together.

A meeting planner needs music that complements the program. A couple wants songs connected to their story. A private host hopes guests will feel delighted and at ease. Shantel considers those needs alongside the performance itself.

That care takes practical form in the conversations before an event: understanding the desired atmosphere, preparing thoughtfully, and agreeing how the performance fits the occasion.

A musical career with range and connection

Her repertoire spans R&B, soul, Motown, jazz, funk, reggae, gospel, and contemporary music. These styles offer different ways to connect with an audience, from the warmth of a familiar melody to the rhythmic energy of a shared favorite. The performance finds its direction in the people present and the character of the celebration.

Shantel has performed with the Sarasota Orchestra for its Pops concert series, sung the National Anthem for the Baltimore Orioles, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Bradenton Marauders, and appeared at the Apollo Theater’s Amateur Night. Her professional career includes events throughout Florida and performances for national audiences.

The recognition below reflects her own professional journey, including individual accomplishments and honors associated with her work in an award-winning band. These are part of Shantel’s history as an artist and hospitality professional, rather than awards earned by Vashon Collective as a company.

One signature voice, different ways to experience it

The Signature Vocal Experience features Shantel independently with professional backing tracks. Her live voice leads an intimate musical presentation suited to cocktail receptions, corporate dinners, wedding ceremonies, and private gatherings. The focus is connection, presence, and a repertoire thoughtfully chosen for the occasion.

The Collective Live Experience features Shantel as lead vocalist alongside professional musicians for weddings, corporate galas, awards celebrations, and upscale private events.

Band size, instrumentation, and performance arrangements are customized around the event’s requirements, venue, budget, and musician availability.

The Bespoke Entertainment Experience creates room for a client’s individual vision through themed entertainment, personalized repertoire, and tailored performance arrangements. From a favorite musical era to a celebration with its own distinct character, the conversation begins with what would make the experience meaningful.

The vision behind Vashon Collective

Vashon Collective is a luxury live entertainment company specializing in exceptional musical experiences for corporate events, weddings, galas, private celebrations, and exclusive occasions. From the elegance of an intimate solo vocalist performance to the dynamic energy of a full live band, every experience is thoughtfully tailored to the occasion.

As founder and signature lead vocalist, Shantel combines her musical identity with an entrepreneurial vision grounded in hospitality. The company’s tagline, Curating Extraordinary Experiences, speaks to that care: music, professionalism, and a sense of welcome considered together.

For clients exploring luxury live entertainment in Sarasota or planning a celebration across Florida, the conversation begins with two questions: What brings your guests together? Which songs feel like part of your story? The answers help shape an experience that feels personal.