At Gulf Coast Protection, our mission is simple — to provide professional, dependable, and white-glove event security services that deliver peace of mind for every client and every guest. Whether you’re hosting a small private gathering or a large community festival, our Event Security Guards in Lakewood Ranch ensure your event runs safely, smoothly, and successfully.
Founded in 2010 by Mario Vitali, Gulf Coast Protection brings a unique blend of entertainment industry insight and professional security expertise to every assignment.
Before launching the company, Mario spent 17 years as a promoter with the Clyde Beatty Cole Bros. Circus (1998–2015) — a career that shaped his understanding of crowd dynamics, live events, and the importance of guest experience.
Today, he also operates as a licensed talent agent through MV Entertainment Group, promoting tribute bands and live performances across the region. That hands-on event background gives Gulf Coast Protection a distinct advantage — we understand events from the inside out.
Our philosophy is captured in our company tagline:
“YOUR SECURITY IS OUR CONCERN.”
We’re proud members of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, serving the Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota County, and Southwest Florida communities with pride and professionalism.
Mission:
“To provide high-quality and professional security guard services to commercial and residential clients throughout the Sarasota area. We aim to offer the highest level of security services that our customers can rely on.”
Vision:
“To earn the trust of our clients by delivering unmatched security guard and firewatch services. Our goal is to create a service that caters to each client’s specific needs, ensuring their complete satisfaction.”
When you hire Gulf Coast Protection, you’re partnering with a team that goes beyond standard security.
We deliver a white-glove approach — combining professionalism, vigilance, and customer service excellence.
Here’s what sets us apart:
With decades of experience managing large-scale productions and concerts, we know how to balance security with guest enjoyment. Our guards understand the rhythm of events — from front gate to final act — and ensure safety without disrupting the experience.
Mario Vitali remains personally involved in operations. Clients consistently praise his professionalism and hands-on leadership. You’ll never feel like just another account — every event receives the same care, communication, and attention to detail.
Our security team includes handpicked male and female guards, all trained in:
We maintain a high retention rate and invest in ongoing education, workshops, and incentive programs to ensure every guard performs at the highest level.
We’re more than just guards. Our event staffing services include:
Whether you need Special Event Security for a music festival or a private corporate function, our team is equipped, flexible, and ready to protect your guests and property.
Need help fast? Gulf Coast Protection is known for mobilizing quickly — even replacing long-standing vendors on short notice.
As one client shared after we stepped in with less than a month’s notice for a major public festival:
“They went above and beyond to provide the security services we needed… professional, pleasant, and beyond proficient.”
We’re always on-call. Our event security guards are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that your event — day or night — is protected by professionals who are prepared for every situation.
Our clients consistently mention our reasonable pricing and flexible scheduling. We adjust staffing and hours as your event needs evolve, ensuring quality without unnecessary cost.
Our team understands the unique needs of Southwest Florida’s event landscape — from growing community festivals to exclusive corporate gatherings.
We’ve provided security and crowd management for major local events such as the 41st Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival — one of the region’s largest public gatherings.
That success led to long-term partnerships and glowing testimonials, including a commitment for repeat engagement at future festivals. Our consistent results and community relationships have helped us become a trusted name in Lakewood Ranch event security.
At Gulf Coast Protection, we’re changing the face of security. Our approach is rooted in integrity, respect, and service.
We believe that security guards shouldn’t simply “stand watch” — they should enhance the guest experience, maintain professionalism, and create an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and welcome.
Our white-glove approach means our team takes pride not only in their training but in how they represent your brand, your event, and your guests.
If you’re planning an event in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota County, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, trust the professionals who know how to keep your guests safe and your event running seamlessly.
Whether you’re coordinating a concert, festival, or private gathering, Gulf Coast Protection delivers peace of mind with a personal touch.
📞 Call us today at (941) 685-4001
📧 Email: info@gcprotection.com
Gulf Coast Protection
9040 Town Center Parkway
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Gulf Coast Protection — your local experts in professional, dependable, and customer-focused event security.