Sonesta Resorts

Created and supervised public relations department for opening and on-going work for new 240-room luxury hotel (SSHR&S) and condo tower tennis and spa resort. Developed and maintained local, state, national, and worldwide media contacts through grand opening promotion and simultaneous international Davis Cup tennis championships. Generated yearly PR plan and budget. Initiated and aired numerous resort feature stories on national news media stations including ESPN, CNN and USA-Today TV. Several hundred thousand dollars worth of news coverage was generated for both the opening and the consecutive year.

Because of successes, the marketing role was expanded to also oversee the PR responsibilities for Sonesta Villa Resort, Orlando, as a reward for advancing Sanibel’s local, national, and international image in all markets. Coordinated national/international travel writer FAM trips. Drafted and distributed all press releases, photo-releases, and fact sheets on resort packages, amenities, and events for trade and consumer publications.

Produced traditional chef’s round table culinary showcase to F&B media, and designed golf packages for the resort, in conjunction with area golf clubs. Established photographic library and developed postcards for multi-department use.

Originated and produced the quarterly “Resort Report” newsletter to Sanibel’s leisure travel/membership contacts. Supplied 95% of all copy and photography for “Harbourviews,” Sonesta International Corporation’s bi-monthly travel industry newsletter. Additional highlights: Developed the “Great Escape” resort package. Created the Lee County-based American Cancer Society’s most profitable yearly fund-raiser, the “Sunset At Sonesta” jazz festival. Served as part-time tour & travel sales representative to Atlanta-based travel agencies. Coordinated the “adoption” of a local children’s home as Sanibel’s seasonal charity focus.