Meet the Team
Meet the Team
Behind every unforgettable journey is a team of passionate storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and experience curators. At A Culinary Society, we believe travel is more than just a destination—it’s about the people who bring it to life.
Our team blends decades of expertise in hospitality, music, cigars, culinary arts, and cultural heritage to create immersive, meaningful experiences that connect guests to the heart of each place we explore. From Havana to your hometown, we’re here to make each moment rich with connection, flavor, and authenticity. Get to know the people who make it all happen!
Our team blends decades of expertise in hospitality, music, cigars, culinary arts, and cultural heritage to create immersive, meaningful experiences that connect guests to the heart of each place we explore. From Havana to your hometown, we’re here to make each moment rich with connection, flavor, and authenticity. Get to know the people who make it all happen!
Meet the Team
Meet the Team
Behind every unforgettable journey is a team of passionate storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and experience curators. At A Culinary Society, we believe travel is more than just a destination—it’s about the people who bring it to life.
Our team blends decades of expertise in hospitality, music, cigars, culinary arts, and cultural heritage to create immersive, meaningful experiences that connect guests to the heart of each place we explore. From Havana to your hometown, we’re here to make each moment rich with connection, flavor, and authenticity. Get to know the people who make it all happen!
Our team blends decades of expertise in hospitality, music, cigars, culinary arts, and cultural heritage to create immersive, meaningful experiences that connect guests to the heart of each place we explore. From Havana to your hometown, we’re here to make each moment rich with connection, flavor, and authenticity. Get to know the people who make it all happen!
Trish Ellington
Trish Ellington
CEO & Founder, A Culinary Society
With 30 years of experience in the hospitality and group travel industry, Trish brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences.
As the CEO of A Culinary Society, they lead with a love for hospitality and a commitment to connecting travelers with unique culinary and cultural adventures. Their journey is driven by a genuine love of travel and the joy of making new friends across the globe. Trish believes in the transformative power of travel, fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences, and always seeking new ways to bring people together.
As the CEO of A Culinary Society, they lead with a love for hospitality and a commitment to connecting travelers with unique culinary and cultural adventures. Their journey is driven by a genuine love of travel and the joy of making new friends across the globe. Trish believes in the transformative power of travel, fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences, and always seeking new ways to bring people together.
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Vivian C. Acosta Meléndez
Vivian C. Acosta Meléndez
Cigar Master & Sommelier
Vivian is a passionate entrepreneur, Cigar Master, and Sommelier with over two decades dedicated to the world of cigars. Born to parents from Pinar del Río—the heart of Cuba’s finest tobacco plantations—her love for cigars began at a young age, shaping a lifelong career in the industry.
Since 2004, she has managed LCH and the Cigar Lounge at the Meliá Cohiba Hotel in Havana, curating exceptional experiences for cigar aficionados from around the world. Her expertise has taken her across the globe, attending every Cuban Cigar Festival and connecting with fellow enthusiasts and business leaders who share her passion.
In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vivian founded Vihumos, a company that offers a luxurious and immersive experience celebrating Cuba’s greatest treasures—cigars, music, art, and history. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Cuba’s rich cultural heritage earned her a nomination for the prestigious Excelencias Award in 2025.
She is also the visionary behind Vihumos Sunset Events, where she brings together cigar lovers for unforgettable experiences, blending tradition, elegance, and the spirit of Cuba.
Since 2004, she has managed LCH and the Cigar Lounge at the Meliá Cohiba Hotel in Havana, curating exceptional experiences for cigar aficionados from around the world. Her expertise has taken her across the globe, attending every Cuban Cigar Festival and connecting with fellow enthusiasts and business leaders who share her passion.
In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vivian founded Vihumos, a company that offers a luxurious and immersive experience celebrating Cuba’s greatest treasures—cigars, music, art, and history. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Cuba’s rich cultural heritage earned her a nomination for the prestigious Excelencias Award in 2025.
She is also the visionary behind Vihumos Sunset Events, where she brings together cigar lovers for unforgettable experiences, blending tradition, elegance, and the spirit of Cuba.
Daniel Perez
Daniel Perez
Musician & Destination Manager
With over 25 years of experience in promoting and preserving Cuban culture, Daniel Perez is a passionate musician and dedicated tourism professional. For the past 3 years, he has served as the Destination Manager for A Culinary Society, where he creates authentic, cultural experiences for international guests.
Combining his love for both traditional and contemporary music with deep knowledge of Cuba’s rich history, Daniel ensures that each journey showcases the island's vibrant music, flavorful cuisine, and iconic cigars. Known for his creativity and historical insight, he has a unique ability to forge meaningful connections with guests, offering them an unforgettable experience in Cuba.
Combining his love for both traditional and contemporary music with deep knowledge of Cuba’s rich history, Daniel ensures that each journey showcases the island's vibrant music, flavorful cuisine, and iconic cigars. Known for his creativity and historical insight, he has a unique ability to forge meaningful connections with guests, offering them an unforgettable experience in Cuba.
Scott S. Clinton
Scott S. Clinton
Chief Pixel Pusher and Creative Director
An award winning filmmaker and still photographer, Scott brings his 20+ years of experience as a working creator to our team. He is a formally educated still photographer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography, from Washington University, in St Louis.
After matriculation, Scott moved to New York City where he honed visual style and sensibilities. After a decade, he relocated to Charlotte, NC, where he resides today with his wife Terry and their two rescue pups Avery and Bentley. In addition to his new role with A Culinary Society, Scott operates Scott Clinton Photography, Framed Films, and NotBad Productions™. Scott's passion for travel and documenting life makes him a perfect fit for our organization.
With his addition, A Culinary Society aims to level up our visual marketing efforts, solidify our visual brand identity, and enhance the guest experience. Scott and his team will travel with us on each trip, freeing our guests from the stress of immortalizing their travels and allowing them to live in the moment.
After matriculation, Scott moved to New York City where he honed visual style and sensibilities. After a decade, he relocated to Charlotte, NC, where he resides today with his wife Terry and their two rescue pups Avery and Bentley. In addition to his new role with A Culinary Society, Scott operates Scott Clinton Photography, Framed Films, and NotBad Productions™. Scott's passion for travel and documenting life makes him a perfect fit for our organization.
With his addition, A Culinary Society aims to level up our visual marketing efforts, solidify our visual brand identity, and enhance the guest experience. Scott and his team will travel with us on each trip, freeing our guests from the stress of immortalizing their travels and allowing them to live in the moment.
Chris Bell
Chris Bell
Master Craftsman of Knives & Leather Goods
Chris is a master craftsman of custom knives and leather goods, with a passion for creating extraordinary chef knives tailored for culinary artists. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida, Chris is a true outdoorsman and avid fisherman whose love for cooking sparked an unexpected journey into the world of knife making.
Since launching his craft in June 2021, Chris has meticulously hand-forged over 180 one-of-a-kind knives and custom sheaths, each piece built entirely to the customer's vision. Every blade is 100% handmade — no automated machinery, just pure skill, heart, and old-world craftsmanship.
Whether you're a professional chef or an adventurous home cook, Chris's work brings artistry and precision to your kitchen. Discover his latest creations on Instagram: @bell_blades!
Since launching his craft in June 2021, Chris has meticulously hand-forged over 180 one-of-a-kind knives and custom sheaths, each piece built entirely to the customer's vision. Every blade is 100% handmade — no automated machinery, just pure skill, heart, and old-world craftsmanship.
Whether you're a professional chef or an adventurous home cook, Chris's work brings artistry and precision to your kitchen. Discover his latest creations on Instagram: @bell_blades!
Vivian C. Acosta Meléndez
Vivian C. Acosta Meléndez
Cigar Master & Sommelier
Vivian is a passionate entrepreneur, Cigar Master, and Sommelier with over two decades dedicated to the world of cigars. Born to parents from Pinar del Río—the heart of Cuba’s finest tobacco plantations—her love for cigars began at a young age, shaping a lifelong career in the industry.
Since 2004, she has managed LCH and the Cigar Lounge at the Meliá Cohiba Hotel in Havana, curating exceptional experiences for cigar aficionados from around the world. Her expertise has taken her across the globe, attending every Cuban Cigar Festival and connecting with fellow enthusiasts and business leaders who share her passion.
In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vivian founded Vihumos, a company that offers a luxurious and immersive experience celebrating Cuba’s greatest treasures—cigars, music, art, and history. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Cuba’s rich cultural heritage earned her a nomination for the prestigious Excelencias Award in 2025.
She is also the visionary behind Vihumos Sunset Events, where she brings together cigar lovers for unforgettable experiences, blending tradition, elegance, and the spirit of Cuba.
Since 2004, she has managed LCH and the Cigar Lounge at the Meliá Cohiba Hotel in Havana, curating exceptional experiences for cigar aficionados from around the world. Her expertise has taken her across the globe, attending every Cuban Cigar Festival and connecting with fellow enthusiasts and business leaders who share her passion.
In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vivian founded Vihumos, a company that offers a luxurious and immersive experience celebrating Cuba’s greatest treasures—cigars, music, art, and history. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Cuba’s rich cultural heritage earned her a nomination for the prestigious Excelencias Award in 2025.
She is also the visionary behind Vihumos Sunset Events, where she brings together cigar lovers for unforgettable experiences, blending tradition, elegance, and the spirit of Cuba.
Daniel Perez
Daniel Perez
Musician & Destination Manager
With over 25 years of experience in promoting and preserving Cuban culture, Daniel Perez is a passionate musician and dedicated tourism professional. For the past 3 years, he has served as the Destination Manager for A Culinary Society, where he creates authentic, cultural experiences for international guests.
Combining his love for both traditional and contemporary music with deep knowledge of Cuba’s rich history, Daniel ensures that each journey showcases the island's vibrant music, flavorful cuisine, and iconic cigars. Known for his creativity and historical insight, he has a unique ability to forge meaningful connections with guests, offering them an unforgettable experience in Cuba.
Combining his love for both traditional and contemporary music with deep knowledge of Cuba’s rich history, Daniel ensures that each journey showcases the island's vibrant music, flavorful cuisine, and iconic cigars. Known for his creativity and historical insight, he has a unique ability to forge meaningful connections with guests, offering them an unforgettable experience in Cuba.
Scott S. Clinton
Scott S. Clinton
Chief Pixel Pusher and Creative Director
An award winning filmmaker and still photographer, Scott brings his 20+ years of experience as a working creator to our team. He is a formally educated still photographer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography, from Washington University, in St Louis. After matriculation, Scott moved to New York City where he honed visual style and sensibilities. After a decade, he relocated to Charlotte, NC, where he resides today with his wife Terry and their two rescue pups Avery and Bentley. In addition to his new role with A Culinary Society, Scott operates Scott Clinton Photography, Framed Films, and NotBad Productions™. Scott's passion for travel and documenting life makes him a perfect fit for our organization.
With his addition, A Culinary Society aims to level up our visual marketing efforts, solidify our visual brand identity, and enhance the guest experience. Scott and his team will travel with us on each trip, freeing our guests from the stress of immortalizing their travels and allowing them to live in the moment.
With his addition, A Culinary Society aims to level up our visual marketing efforts, solidify our visual brand identity, and enhance the guest experience. Scott and his team will travel with us on each trip, freeing our guests from the stress of immortalizing their travels and allowing them to live in the moment.
Chris Bell
Chris Bell
Master Craftsman of Knives & Leather Goods
Chris is a master craftsman of custom knives and leather goods, with a passion for creating extraordinary chef knives tailored for culinary artists. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida, Chris is a true outdoorsman and avid fisherman whose love for cooking sparked an unexpected journey into the world of knife making.
Since launching his craft in June 2021, Chris has meticulously hand-forged over 180 one-of-a-kind knives and custom sheaths, each piece built entirely to the customer's vision. Every blade is 100% handmade — no automated machinery, just pure skill, heart, and old-world craftsmanship.
Whether you're a professional chef or an adventurous home cook, Chris's work brings artistry and precision to your kitchen. Discover his latest creations on Instagram: @bell_blades!
Since launching his craft in June 2021, Chris has meticulously hand-forged over 180 one-of-a-kind knives and custom sheaths, each piece built entirely to the customer's vision. Every blade is 100% handmade — no automated machinery, just pure skill, heart, and old-world craftsmanship.
Whether you're a professional chef or an adventurous home cook, Chris's work brings artistry and precision to your kitchen. Discover his latest creations on Instagram: @bell_blades!
