Residence Inn By Marriott
Leslie Forbert Miller from the Residence Inn by Marriott - Saratoga Springs sits down with Saratoga.com for a 10 Questions interview. This welcoming hotel in Saratoga Springs offers a home-like, community atmosphere with extended-stay options and many pampering amenities. The Residence Inn is also just minutes away from the best restaurants, shops and venues in downtown Saratoga Springs!
1. Are you native to the Saratoga area?
Not to Saratoga Springs... I am native to NY though! I grew up in White Plains and have met so many people who've expatriated from Westchester. My last stop before Saratoga was Virginia where I stayed for a few decades...
2. What's the best part about living in Saratoga Springs?
There is so much that is just amazing about this town. Aside from all the world class entertainment in the summer, it is a vibrant inviting town that let's you be a part of the activities with open arms. It's been almost four years since I arrived and the community has been so welcoming ~ I was even asked to Chair Saratoga's All-American Celebration, the local July 4th weekend extravaganza for 2009.
3. What magazines do you read?
Future World, Lodging, Real Simple, Health, USTA's Tennis. Better Homes & Gardens and anything I find on the rack at the Wilton YMCA when I'm working out.
4. What is your favorite sport?
Tennis, tennis, and then tennis. I got into the sport in the last 3 years, and have had so much fun. It is a great work out and a wonderful way to meet so many interesting, nice people!
5. Is it difficult to sell rooms in a hotel?
This is the best job in the world, at least for someone like me. I have to believe in what I am selling, and Residence Inn makes that very easy. The hotel itself has so much to offer since the suites are a combination of apartment and hotel. They have a kitchen with everything you need to cook a meal, a living room area with a sofa bed, chairs and a desk, and a sleeping area as well. We provide a complimentary hot breakfast buffet every day, and Monday through Thursday, we treat our guests to snacks or dinner here at the hotel. When you add in the pool, whirlpool, Sports Court, complimentary van service to downtown, and a really friendly staff, the hotel sells itself.
6. How long have you been in the business?
My standard joke is I've been selling since the Girl Scouts put an order sheet in my hand in the 4th grade. I've been in hospitality for 14 years and keep learning more about sales every day.
7. What is your favorite local hangout?
Probably my sister's house. In the summer and fall though it's Saratoga National Golf Course's patio. This winter it has been Gray Gelding, 9 Maple and the Wine Bar.
8. Do you have kids?
Not only do I HAVE kids, I have THE BEST kids! My daughter, Victoria is getting married over Labor Day weekend and my son, Taylor, is graduating from Saratoga High School this June. There isn't nearly enough room here to tell you how happy they have made me and how much I have learned from them.
9. Do you have pets?
Not in Saratoga but I have certainly had them over the years: 4 dogs, 4 cats, 2 ferrets, 4 guinea pigs, 1 gerbil, 1 horse , 17 Siberian Hamsters and an outbreak of mice after someone sold me a "loaded" mouse.
10. Who is your ideal client?
Someone who needs to feels at home even when they are not in their own house. Residence Inn is perfect for relocations, waiting for home repairs to conclude, people in town for extended projects like installing new equipment, or building chip manufacturing plants. That being said, we've helped hundreds of team members, bridal parties, and people who just like the amenities at the hotel.