The Story Behind the Strategy

Laia Sanghott is the Founder and National Director of Sales of Velora Hospitality, bringing over 15 years of hotel sales leadership experience across independent and branded properties nationwide.

Earlier in her career, Laia Sanghott served as an Area Sales Manager supporting three Hilton properties, building a strong foundation in multi property sales strategy and account development. She later progressed into Director of Sales and Marketing roles with Winegardner, Hammons, and Pyramid Hotel Group, where she led sales efforts for branded hotels and strengthened market performance through proactive, relationship driven sales execution. Laia Sanghott also joined Aparium Hotel Group at the Detroit Foundation Hotel, where she served as Director of Sales and Marketing, expanding her experience within lifestyle and luxury hotel environments.

Following this, Laia Sanghott transitioned into regional and remote leadership roles, including serving as a Regional Remote Sales Manager supporting Wyndham and multi brand portfolios. In this capacity, she partnered closely with ownership groups and on property teams to build sales pipelines, execute proactive prospecting strategies, and support consistent sales performance across multiple markets.

Laia Sanghott has supported a wide range of hotel brands including Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Hyatt, Choice, and Wyndham, with experience spanning full service, select service, extended stay, and lifestyle luxury hotels.

Velora Hospitality was founded to provide hotels with proactive, relationship driven sales support without the overhead of additional on property staffing. Laia’s hands on leadership and remote sales expertise guide Velora’s mission to help hotels grow visibility, strengthen partnerships, and drive long term results.

Shonda Yancey

Shonda Yancey brings over 30 years of hospitality experience, having worked with leading global brands including IHG, Marriott, and Hilton. Throughout her career, she has focused on building relationships, identifying growth opportunities, and expanding partnerships across diverse hospitality environments. Her background includes working closely with ownership groups, hotel leadership, and corporate clients to uncover new business, develop strategic partnerships, and support revenue growth initiatives. As Business Development Manager for Velora Hospitality, Shonda leverages her industry knowledge and extensive network to connect hotels with tailored sales solutions, strengthen client relationships, and drive new business opportunities aligned with each property’s goals.