I just returned from a conference that was held at your Hotel. I love boutique hotels and I was very impressed with the level of service, accommodations, and food at The Grand Bohemian. With about 225 people all checking in at roughly the same time, Jose and the other fine valets were exceptional. The wait staff in the banquet rooms were attentive and prompt in serving the special requests. The rooms are luxurious in the bedding and size. We enjoyed the bar after sessions and the servers were so friendly and prompt. I'd recommend this hotel to any leisure, business or convention traveler. Thanks for a great stay! PS - the food in the restaurant and at the banquet was terrific!
Mary Lynn
Guest
I'm Kate's Dad, and please excuse the delay, but have been a bit busy since the wedding.
Both my wife, Nancy, and I wish to most gratefully extend our thanks to you and the Grand Bohemian staff that helped make Kate's wedding such a seamless success.
Certainly it was a truly memorable event for all attendees, and especially for Kate & Pablo. The set up of the rooms and tables (including the Grand buffet table and the side tables and rooms) for the event and the service was impeccable. Quite artistically creative (which is Kate's style anyway). As Nancy said: not posh at all, but simply and quietly elegant.
Without all the support, I don't think the event would have been such a Grand Evening at The Boh. From the rooftop ceremony (and before - including the valet staff, and the front desk staff) through the entire reception, all seemed to go off without a hitch.
Being the father of the bride, I dropped in on to the event floors early in the afternoon, only to find Debbie, Kate's coordinator, setting up the centerpieces and tables. The next time I saw her was in Kate's dressing room, then she and Roberto (hope this is his name) and our head waiter for the evening (?? need help here too) seemed to be everywhere, making sure everyone's needs were satisfied. Did you hear Kate and Pablo passed through part of the kitchen during the evening? Kate, with her Grand smile, just told all not to worry.
And, to see The Cake !!! I was speechless !! Have not seen such a live work of art. Truly, it belonged in the Grand Bohemian !! Bake Me A Cake hit 110% with this one.
I heard just about everyone working the hotel that day stopped in to see it. Whew!!
The photographer, Rhett and his wife were a pleasure to work with. His wife assisted in making sure all were relaxed for the big event. Did you hear about the minister, Bob Myers? He had to interupt Kate and Pablo, informing them that they had to stop being so happily crying because he may just start joining them and then he wouldn't be able to finish the ceremony. Then the true joy of the event spread to all attending as laughter and applause broke out. They finished with a sand ceremony. You can ask Kate about a sand ceremony.
Using the piano during cocktails displayed a truly relaxing atmosphere. Being one of two pianos in the world, please make sure you emphasize its needed use for events. It's like a one time shot.
The DJ Kate selected (Frank from Amazing Events) performed for the ceremony and then moved down into the main hall. Kate & Pablo enjoyed working with Frank. He listened well to their needs, and knows how to work a crowd. He knew how to set up the sound for the room and was not overbearingly loud or into himself ( as many DJ's can be).
People danced and danced and danced!!!! Did you hear about the cowboy boots? Kate always has talked of dancing at her wedding in cowboy boots !!!! (She has spent a lot of time in the West).
All the food and beverage displayed the high standards The Hotel holds for event preparation and serving. The focus of superb food preparation charmed the guests when presented and was served with such quality presentation. Only at The Gand Boh can one get such a presentation! I'm somewhat speechless here (I'm a foodie, love to cook, and have cooked for large groups myself 70-80+ and I'm fussy when it comes to this type of event food - you could say I enjoy seeing a food challenge and rising to meet the occasion). Both Nancy and I seek differing menu selection, such as yours. The appetizers, Sushi and Cappuccino bars were a hit !!
Also, we wish to thank Roberto?, (I was in such a parental daze as father of the bride). Can you please supply us his name and the head waiter and bartenders names. Please thank them all.
To any one who asks, you surely may use us as a reference, The Grand Bohemian is the highest quality wedding event location in Orlando - bar none !!!!! They pay attention every little detail. And, I was surprised to find out Debbie is a contract coordinator. She certainly fits your hotel to a T.
It appears your hotel motto is; Here, Memories are Priceless. If it isn't it should be.
I do have some photos and short video (which I had made playable on a TV) on CD's and would like to send them along for your files or marketing use. I'm sure you will be pleased with what you see.
Thanks again to you and your associates for all your personal efforts. As in the words of my late father Don't panic, adjust. Everyone made it happen.
And watch for the CD's. Show them to everyone! Keep up the little things that made for such a wonderful experience.
Paul and Nancy Malone
Father and Mother of the Bride
On April 5, 2008, my daughter Kelly Nicholson, and her new husband Mike Murray, celebrated their wedding reception at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. The effort, concern and service provided by the enire staff was extraordinary, and extended far beyond what occurred that night alone.
My first encounter 15 months ago with Senior Event Sales Manager Kimberly Martinez set the stage for what would be a top notch experience. After meeting with Kim to consider the Grand Bohemian as our wedding reception venue, my daughter cancelled any further appointments. Kim's professionalism, knowledge and warmth provided us the confidence and excitement we were seeking during the beginning of our wedding planning process. Throughout the year Kim responded to phone calls and e-mails so promptly it was as though she were her only client. No request was denied, and suggestions to further enchance the event were offered respectfully. Just one week before the wedding, with my emotions fragile, Kim sat with me patiently, counseling me in a sense, before proceeding with the business portion of our meeting. Her calm, reassuring nature wrapped around me like a tight security blanket and remained there throughout the reception. Kim Martinez, as you must already know, is a valuable asset to your team, and became our trusted partner, helping us to realize my daughter's wedding dreams.
Are there words to describe Simon Bouali, Director of Banquets? Proactive? Sincere? Professional? Charming? Reassuring? Talented? Yes, all of the above. My husband and I first met Simon during our tasting, an event in itself! He spent 1 1/2 hours with us, allowing us to know him as a person first, our banquet director second. He offered extras to enhance the celebration, and assured us the evening would be as promised. He said it, he meant it, and he did it. Before the reception began, I went into the ballroom. Simon and Kim patiently waited near the cake, an unfortunate creation resembling a junior high home economics project! Sensing my dissapointment, Simon sent me away, assuring me it would be taken care of. Somehow, twenty minutes later, the cake was transformed into a garden for the eye to behold. Still later that evening, when the cake began to slide long before the scheduled cutting, Simon alerted the band to rearrange their timetable so that the cake could still be rolled onto the dance floor, cut by the bride and groom, and the planned sing-a-long could still take place. Only the bride, her sister, and I were aware of the potential problem and solution. Simon is a skilled master and a gentleman.
Our banquet captains, Rob Wright and Chris Burke, and our Maitre d' Ruben must have cloned themselves for the evening. They were ever present resulting in the most outstanding service I have ever received at any large event of any kind.
Guests commented that they felft they were dining at a five star restaurant, rather that at a wedding banquet, in that the dinner was served hot, presented beautifully, and that the service was quick yet unrushed. Timing and attention to details were evident from the start to finish, and we felt proud to gift this experience to our special friends and family.
Our guests felt honored, not only at the reception, but long before. Stephanie Floriani had blocked rooms at a reasonable rate, and provided me with peridoic updates of registered guests' names. She made certain that the bride was offered early check-in, and that my room was nearby another, as requested. She simply responded to every need as it related to the comfort of my guests.
Our outstanding hotel experience was made complete by the special touch of Patricia Clifton, lead concierge. Over six months ago Patricia not only offered, but politely insisted that she personally oversee the coordination of all transportation for rehearsal dinner as well as the wedding day. She offered excellent suggestions so that our day would be as flawless as possible. Upon request, Patricia even personally contacted one of our honored guests in NY to arrange their transfers and to offer assistance in any way. She made salon appointments for the bride and her sister, and most important, kept me fully informed as our plans evolved. Patricia Clifton is a very gifted individual who has clearly found her calling in life!
Bell Captain Jose and all those ready to serve at the valet station apparently read the book on going above and beyond. As the bridesmaids arrived with endless luggage, Jose assisted with prompt polite service. On Friday night as 45 guests loaded a bus for rehearsal, I commented on how uncomfortable they appeared with Florida humidity. Instantly, two gentleman offered water bottles to each guest - a much needed, pleasant surprise. On Saturday afternoon, following the Bridal Brunch in the Composer Suite, Chris Burke and Kim, along with the bell staff, made certain that the room was clean and ready for the soon returning bridal party, and delivered the leftover food to our babysitters in an 11th floor suite.
Examples of outstanding service and teamwork overwhelmed me throughout the weekend, and if I have omitted anyone in this letter, it is a genuine oversight. Every single staff member treated us with utmost respect and concern. Every staff member demonstrated pride of a job well done.
I must have heard the expression My Pleasure 100 times during the wedding celebration. Now it's my turn...... it was OUR PLEASURE to do business with you. You have exceeded any expectation we held, and provided our family with an unforgettable lifetime memory. For that, I thank you.
Margie Norton
Mother of the Bride
Everyone enjoyed the event and we received many compliments on the food and the service…even our “vegetarian” commented on the fact that she enjoyed getting something besides a large plate of greens which is quite normal expectations for her. Please pass our compliments to your chef. We were all pleased.
Vicky D. Walker
Officer & Executive Assistant to the President and CEO
Colonial Bank, N.A. - Central FL/Region 31
As a regular of your fine hotel, I need to bring to your attention the fantastic service I have received from several of your outstanding staff. Starting with David and Alexander in Reservations, Pedro, Justin, Matt, and the ENTIRE Valet staff, Jose and the Bell staff, Michelle and the Front Desk Staff, Angel and Diane in the Concierge Lounge.
This past visit involved a rather traumatic personal issue, and even with Wrestlemania, and the several weddings that were taking place, each and everyone of the above mentioned individuals went above and beyond the call of duty.
I have been coming to your hotel since August of 2006, I have always felt welcomed and truly cared for. This past trip was no exception, in fact it felt like family taking care of me (and my daughter). Please extend to your staff how appreciative I am.
Looking forward to my next visit.
Kimberly Austin-Aronson
Guest
I want to share with you some comments from a potential client of ours that stayed in your hotel on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 11&12, 2008. The gentleman has never been to the United States before;he is from Dubai, UAE. It was a very big decision for him to come to the U.S. as he has heard conflicting stories on how Arabs are treated in the states. We had a very busy two day schedule, as our business meetings came to a close, he advised me that he could not believe the level of service he received while at the Grand Bohemian. He had always assumed that Dubai had the best of everything, including service. He said he would return to tell everyone he knew of the friendly Americans he met, and the service he received from your hotel.
A special note for Patricia Clifton, the Lead Concierge, I have know Patricia for over a year now. I can only imagine you are aware of her impeccable representation of your hotel. She is a one of a kind, and I am so thankful to have met her, and have had the pleasure to become acquainted.
Thank you for everything, and showing the world a first class operation.
John Sears
Ingenuity Engineers, Inc.
Every one of your service staff that I had contact with was excellent. By far, the service at the GB is the best of any hotel where I've stayed. The only complaint I have is that the rooms are too dark (even with all the lamps turned on) and I could not get the air conditioning adjusted to where I was comfortable. It was way too cold. I ended up turning the heat on to the middle setting before it felt good to me. Everyone from the maintenance guys to the room service employees to the folks who answered the phone for guest services was a superstar! I stay at the Ritz Carlton a lot and I think your staff even surpasses their service (and I'm extremely pleased with them!)
Tammy Livingston
Guest
You have a MAGNIFICENT hotel. When I learned I would not be staying at a Starwood property, I briefly considered changing hotels in order to get the reward points. I am SO glad I did not. Five minutes in the Grand Bohemian, and knew I would never stay anywhere else in Orlando, reward points or not. The service was best-in-class, the rooms, lobbies and hallways were magnificently appointed, and the food and drinks were everything I hoped for in a fine hotel. Congratulations on such brilliant service....... you have managed to inspire your staff to truly rise above expectations in every sense. I can't wait for my wife and I to return!
Justin Masterson
Guest
It's been a while since we met right before my wedding last year, but my husband and I just stayed at the hotel for our 1 Year anniversary and I received your auto-follow-up email. It was my intention to send you an email last year, but I am sorry to say that I can't remember if I contacted you after the honeymoon. Most importatantly, I want to thank you and your team for an amazing event that landmarked the beginning of our marital journey. Our reception on October 28, 2006 was absolutely incredible, our guests are still talking about it, we're still completely wowed by the success of it all, and it could not have happened without your incredible team. Kimberly Moffat was the glue that held it all together. There were a lot of pieces to our puzzle, which often creates many opportunities for disaster, but I can tell you our event was flawless! During our stay with you most recently on our anniversary (that Kimberly also helped coordinate) we reminisced, looked at pictures, and still marveled at the beauty that was created that night.
On another note, I have to tell you that I am the finance person in this relationship and originally encouraged my husband to do a simple, destination wedding since my father had just passed away and we were going to be the main sponsors of this event. During the planning of the event at the Grand Bohemian, I kept reminding Gregg of how expensive the event was going to be and that I didn't want him to be disappointed when it was all over in a blink of an eye and we spent a mini fortune. We were (and still are) in the process of building our dream home, so the event money could have put some serious upgrades in our master suite, etc. But his heart was set on the big affair (role reversal, I know) and we continued with the planning. I am happy to report that I was the one thanking him on the plane in route to Antigua for staying the course and insisting on the big wedding. It was a once in a lifetime memory and I wouldn't change it for the world. More than that, I feel like there was so much value in what we received from you and your team. The wedding truly presented as a high six-figure event (I overheard some guests throwing out numbers) and we did not come close to that number (thank God!).
The bottom line is, we made a permanent memory with you, the Grand Bohemian will forever be our romantic spot (we visit all the time, even just for nightcap) and we will absolutely look to you when planning future events. Thanks, again, for the postitively outrageous service in your beautiful hotel that compares to no other.
Gregg & Lisa Necrason
Necrason Wedding
We had our son's wedding at the Grand Bohemian this past weekend. Grand does not begin to describe how fabulous the entire Grand Bohemian experience was. From the parking valets to the bellmen to the front desk staff, to the catering manager and staff, it was world class. The Grand Bohemian team exceeded all of our high standards and expectations. We need to give a special mention to Kimberly Moffat Martinez, the Senior Event Sales Manager, and Ruben, our wedding party waiter, who were so professional and attentive to every detail. Our guests were so complimentary; many of them telling us it was the most beautiful, fabulous wedding they had ever attended. While we certainly appreciated the acknowledgment and praise, the real credit goes to the entire staff of the hotel. It is a beautiful hotel, and the service is impeccable. Everyone acknowledges your thank you with my pleasure. Well, we have to say it was our pleasure having our wedding experience at the Grand Bohemian. Thank you all so much for a fabulous experience.
Randy & Linda Scheff
Scheff Wedding
Thank you for having a wonderful staff and making our first visit to the Orlando area a memorable one. We would like to single out one person, Ms. Patricia Clifton, Chief Concierge, for special recognition. She made each day flow smoothly, and her knowledge of construction detours, correct freeways, and surface streets to traverse was outstanding. She always made my wife and me feel special, taking time to answer our questions in great detail. Thank you again for having professional, courteous staff members like Ms. Clifton to make our visit special.
David Toneck
Guest
I finally got a chance to stay at the lovely Grand Bohemian. It was well worth the wait. The hotel staff, every man and woman were professional, courteous, and well trained. The rooms were immaculate, roomy, and refreshingly decorated. The highlight of our stay was spending a few hours in the Bösendorfer Lounge. Sunny Paxton and her band played beautifully, and the lounge atmosphere was perfect. The art gallery is very nice, and the hotel is a masterpiece of eclectic art and decor. I cannot wait to return for another weekend.
Michael Kaiser
Guest
We would like to say thank you for the high quality of service the Grand Bohemian staff provided us during our dinner program on Januray 10, 2007. In particularly, we sincerely appreciate the responsiveness and the professionalism Mr. Chris Giannone and his team displayed throughout the duration of the event. We understand the attention to detail and the hard work it takes to plan a first class event, and Ms. Kimberly Moffat accomplished this task with an open mind and sense of ease. Ms. Moffat showed us the attention to detail our group desired, and most importantly are customers are extremely happy with the outcome. We look forward to returning to the Grand Bohemian Hotel for our next dinner event in the Orlando area.
Holly Murray
Prime Inc.
To be direct, the Grand Bohemian is my favorite hotel and a breath of fresh air to the business traveler! Everything is perfectly orchestrated. I know this because I have visited many times, often when the hotel was full, and there was no difference in the level of service or accommodations I received. The staff, to a person, is the best I have encountered. They genuinely care and can't seem to do enough to make my stay comfortable. As an occasional guest they remember me, my needs, my name, and make me feel very much at home while on the road. You would also be pleased to know the treatment I receive is not exclusive to me. I observe the staff extending the same attitude and high service level to others.
