NEW ORLEANS – Cypress Planning Group, an independent meeting services and hospitality group, has acquired Vicki Johnson & Associates, a national conference and event planning firm based in Washington, D.C.
The acquisition brings together two women-owned firms. Cypress is owned by Kathan Dearman, Ashley McCoy and Angele du Passage. And Vicki Johnson has 40 years of experience in the hotel, tourism, hospitality, and meetings industries.
Johnson has represented hotels, worked at a convention and visitors bureau, and planned meetings. She founded her own company 16 years ago.
“Each facet of my professional journey has provided invaluable insights into the diverse needs of clients from a business perspective,” she said in a press release announcing the sale. “It is truly a gift that I met Kathan, Ashley and Angele. I look forward to this next stage in my life, knowing that the level of care for our clients and team will be sustained.”
The Cypress team said it will maintain the high standards set by Johnson and her team.
“We recognize the trust that Vicki Johnson has built with her clients throughout the years, and it is our sincere pledge to nurture and build upon these relationships with the same level of care and dedication that has been the hallmark of Vicki Johnson and Associates,” said du Passage. “Joining forces with Vicki’s company presents an exciting opportunity for our team and clients. We believe that the combined expertise and resources will allow us to take our meeting planning capabilities to new heights.”
“As a woman-owned business, we’re honored that Vicki chose us to continue her legacy,” said Dearman. “So much of Vicki’s story is very much our story, so the blending of our two companies is really a match made in heaven.”
