GuildSomm International is a nonprofit membership organization for wine, spirits, and beverage professionals and aficionados. We create and deliver the most accurate, comprehensive, and accessible educational content in support of the global beverage community. GuildSomm connects its over 9,000 members with a range of content on GuildSomm.com and through classes, events, videos, and a popular podcast.
Feature articles, podcasts, and videos are publicly available and cover varied topics in the world of wine. For members, we have additional in-depth educational materials, forums for discussion, events, and much more.
You can also find us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Vimeo, and YouTube.
Jenny Hemmer
Executive Director
After beginning her wine career in retail sales, Jenny spent over 18 years with GALLO, working in a range of roles that included sales management, recruiting, public relations, and leading education programs for employees, distributors, and customers. She is a WSET Diploma graduate as well as a Certified Sommelier, Certified Wine Educator, and Certified Specialist of Spirits. Jenny lives in Kansas City.
Chris Tanghe, MS
Education Director
Chris began his career in the kitchen, but inspired by front-of-house hospitality, he transitioned into wine. After working in restaurants across the country, Chris passed the MS exam in 2013. Since 2017, he has spearheaded masterclasses and contributed content as GuildSomm's chief instructor. He now serves as education director.
Stacy Ladenburger
Editor & Communications Manager
Stacy is an editor, writer, and communications professional with over 15 years of experience in nonprofits and the food and wine sector. Since 2016, she has been the editor at GuildSomm, where she oversees the production of a wide range of educational content. Stacy also supports GuildSomm's operations, web development, and communications efforts. She lives in Chicago.
Jessica Affatato
Membership & Partnership Coordinator
Jessica’s passion is connecting people to what they need for success. She is a Certified Cheese Professional, holds a WSET Level II in Wine, and is pursuing a master’s degree in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Penn State. She joined GuildSomm in 2023 to coordinate membership and partnership operations. Jessica lives in New York.
Mackenzie Morgan
Communications & Events Specialist
Inspired by a stint of culinary school in Milan, Mackenzie began her wine career in 2017. Working in wine retail in North Carolina, she was able to combine her love of both wine and digital marketing. Mackenzie is a current WSET Diploma candidate. She coordinates GuildSomm events, member communication, and social media.
Kim Wood, Board Chair
Southern Division Vice President
Wilson Daniels
Kim is the southern division vice president for Wilson Daniels. Prior to working in distribution, Kim trained as a sommelier and was wine director for Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
Jason Caballero, Vice Chair
Wine Director
Wrigley Mansion
Jason is wine director for the Wrigley Mansion, a historic Arizona landmark, where he oversees a large, eclectic wine list and multiple restaurant and bar concepts.
Yvonne Cheung
Founder
YZ Consulting
Yvonne is the founder of YZ Consulting for fine wine merchants in Hong Kong. Previously she worked for Swire Hotels building the wine program for their flagship Hong Kong property, The Upper House.
Daniela Frison
Founder & Principal
Le Vin Nécessaire
Dani is the founder of Le Vin Nécessaire, a wine consulting business that offers its clients personalized shopping and cellaring services as well as education.
Lydia Harrison, MW
Head of Education & Events
WSET School London
Lydia is the head of education and events at WSET School London, where she oversees the Level 1–3 qualifications and a diverse program of events. She became a Master of Wine in 2019.
Steven Jones
VP of Food and Beverage Operations
GATE Hospitality Group
Steven has worked for the GATE Hospitality Group since 2013. He has over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, managing food and beverage operations around the world. Steven is a Certified Sommelier.
Trae Taylor
Controller of Heitz Cellars & Brendel
Lawrence Wine Estates
Trae is a certified public accountant and works for Lawrence Wine Estates as the controller of Napa Valley wineries Heitz Cellars and Brendel. He holds the WSET Level 2 certification.