Our team

Patrick Vanden Heuvel

For over three decades, Patrick Vanden Heuvel’s mission has been simple: connect brands with people face-to-face. He believes there’s no digital substitute for hands-on experience — whether that means sampling a product, playing with tech, or experiencing a brand story in person.

Patrick kicked off his marketing career with the LPGA, honed his agency craft at GMR Marketing, and launched Marketing Connections in 2000. From national mobile tours and sponsorship activations to retail partnerships and PR campaigns, he has created memorable experiences for brands like PepsiCo, DIAGEO, Kellogg’s, AT&T, and American Family Insurance.

When he isn’t connecting brands with consumers where they live, work, and play, Patrick is navigating life with three teenage and college-aged kids, or trying his hand at a local Pot-Limit Omaha or Texas Hold ’Em table.

Nikki Bentley

With 15+ years in the experiential space, Nikki Bentley is a master at turning big ideas into seamless real-world campaigns. Whether managing complex production logistics, leading national tours, or navigating fast-paced activations, she approaches every project with strategic agility, confidence, and energy.

Nikki has brought major campaigns to life for brands like Nintendo, BUBBL’R, Cheez-It, and Lands’ End — with personal favorites including the nationwide Special Olympics Torch Relay Tour. An adventurer at heart, she has hiked Machu Picchu and Havasupai, and brings that same fearless curiosity to her work every day. Off the clock, you’ll find her planning her next trip, tackling a new challenge (like learning to ride a motorcycle), or keeping the team on their toes with her signature wit.

Kristen Geer

With 20+ years in the experiential world, Kristen has done it all — from her early days on the frontlines as a Brand Ambassador to directing large-scale event productions and tour operations. Today, she specializes in talent staffing and production management, ensuring every moving piece falls perfectly into place.

Kristen has brought campaigns to life for major brands like Nike, Google, United Airlines, and BUBBL’R. Known for keeping her cool under pressure and pivoting at a moment’s notice, she loves the creative challenge of taking an event from “what if?” to “WOW.” When she’s off the clock, Kristen is usually traveling, making memories, and chasing her next adventure with her family.

Mason Westfall

Mason brings over a decade of expertise in driving growth through strategic brand placements, product launches, and creative marketing partnerships. With a track record spanning major telecom product rollouts to scaling emerging startup brands, he excels at executing high-profile activations with partners like Netflix, Apple, Google, and Paramount. Today, Mason leads business development at Marketing Connections, bridging strategic vision with live experiential ROI.

When he isn’t building brand alliances, you’ll find him coaching his son on the diamond or cheering on the Diamondbacks.