Founder

Josh Governale has created some of the most recognizable and effective campaigns over his 19-year career in media, marketing, public and talent relations. Before launching The Governale Group, Josh was an executive at FOX where he marketed major network television programming. While always elevating the visibility of the brand and content, he provided an elite experience for the press, global corporate clients, and renowned talent. Josh has been entrusted by leaders across multiple verticals and diverse industries to communicate their stories, devise and implement precision marketing strategies for world-class brands.

Having worked in a 24/7 industry his entire career, Josh is consistently lauded for his leadership, taste, execution and cultivating elite, A-List industry relationships.

Following his formative years at FOX in Los Angeles, Josh continues to provide an authentic approach to media and marketing, generating brand affinity and optimal results. A native of Texas and graduate of TCU, Josh is married and the proud father of two children.

Founder

A Houston native, Sam Governale’s story is one of two decades of passion, dedication, and achievement. Sam is the Founder of Governale Hospitality Group, a full-service hospitality consulting firm. He is also the Executive Officer of DOCG Interests, a Houston restaurant group that he founded in 2016. He has honed a seasoned skill set as a veteran of the hospitality industry, having worked with elite restaurants including Babbo with Chef Mario Batali; 13 Barrow St with Chef John Tesar; Mirezi with Chef Anita Lo; and overseeing the development of numerous wine programs across the country as a top tier sommelier.

From concept to grand opening, Sam has been involved in many restaurants throughout Houston, most recently Turner’s, Café Annie, Trattoria Sofia and Emmaline. Prior to the launch of Emmaline, Sam was the Operating Partner of River Oaks location of Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for over seven years.

Previously, Governale spent seven years in New York City studying under renowned wine and spirits consultant Steve Olsen and Master Sommelier Andrea Immer, as well as working alongside James Beard-nominated Chef and Restaurateur Matthew Kenney. During this time Sam became Director of Openings for acclaimed restaurants Monzu, Matthew’s, Canteen, Commune New York, Commissary Maine, Commissary New York, and Commune in Atlanta.

Sam has been recognized as a “top notch sommelier” (ZAGAT Survey), quoted in InStyle Magazine and noted in Food & Wine Magazine. In addition, he assisted several wineries and winemakers in marketing and evolving their brand’s identity.

Katie brings over 15 years of experience in communications, digital marketing, design, and photography to The Governale Group. Prior to becoming a partner, she served as Communications and Marketing Director for luxury hospitality brands including Royal Oaks Country Club, The Inn at Dos Brisas, and The Clubs at Houston Oaks.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee with a BFA in Photography and Design, Katie has a keen eye for detail and a passion for capturing meaningful moments. Her work has been featured in Denver Life Magazine, @ExxonMobil, @TigerWoods, @SunDayRed, Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop, Texas Monthly, Equestrian Quarterly, PaperCity, Modern Luxury, and on the cover of Houstonia Magazine’s January 2016 Weekend Getaways issue.

Katie is deeply passionate about the underwater world and ocean conservation, ranking in the top 4% of scuba instructors globally. Outside of work, she loves cave diving—the challenge, beauty, and serenity offering a true sense of escape. She’s also a proud mom to a son who keeps her on her toes, and she especially enjoys sharing her love of the water with him—exploring, learning, and experiencing the world together from beneath the surface.

Creative Director

Joel Bryan is a brand specialist and strategist. Beyond his passion for graphic design, Joel has the vision to ensure that brands are consistently represented in any and every execution. While Joel has an eye for all things visual, his unwavering commitment to brand standards and strategic marketing has led to industry recognition and a rewarding career.

A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Joel also earned honors at the Art Institute of Dallas. He currently lives in The Woodlands, TX, with his wife, three boys, and their dog Bleu.