Press & Testimonials

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP "CROWNES" WASHINGTON DC - AREA EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER "BEST OF THE BEST"

Press Releases

Arlington, VA (April 20, 2009) -

Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) has awarded top honor of 2008 "Best of the Best" Executive Housekeeper to Joyce Garnett of the Crowne Plaza National Airport at Crystal City.  Garnett was recognized at IHG's Annual Conference in Los Angeles for "her ability to exceed the hotel's performance goals and successfully lead her team," says Jim Weadbrock, General Manager of the hotel.  Weadbrock states, "Joyce's dedication and perseverance enabled the hotel to perform at an exceptional level this year."  Mark Carrier, Senior Vice President of the BF Saul Company - Hotel Division adds, "I'm proud to have Joyce as a part of our team in Crystal City, and congratulates her on a job well done."  The "Best of the Best" Awards are presented annually to individuals based on specific criteria, as well as individual performance that goes above and beyond normal responsibilities, outstanding and unique service to the property, to the guests, and for the community.  Weadbrock adds, "Joyce continues to demonstrate her leadership skill.  Winning this award is a testament to her ability to rise above the rest."
The hotel serves business, government and leisure travelers visiting our National Capital Region; is located near Washington Reagan National Airport, Washington, DC-Metro, the Pentagon, and many attractions, museums and shopping venues.  Accommodating meetings and events of all types for up to 250 guests, the hotel boasts three restaurants including a full-service Starbuck's Coffee House, the Potomac Bar & Grille and the Veranda Cafe.
To book your next meeting, event or overnight accommodations visit, www.cpnationalairport.com, email info@cpnationalairport.com or call 703-416-1600.
 

---

 INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP "CROWNES" WASHINTON DC - AREA DIRECTOR OF SALES "BEST OF THE BEST"

Arlington, VA (April 20, 2009)

Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) has awarded top honor of 2008 "Best of the Best" Director of Sales to Phil Saims of the Crowne Plaza National Airport at Crystal City.  Saims was recognized at IHG's Annual Conference in Los Angeles for "his ability to exceed the hotel's performance goals and successfully lead his team," says Jim Weadbrock, General Manager of the hotel.
Weadbrock states, "Phil's dedication and perserverance enabled the hotel to perform at an exceptional level this year."  Mark Carrier, Senior Vice President of the BF Saul Company - Hotel Division adds, "I'm proud to have Phil as a part of our team in Crystal City, and congratulate him on a job well done." The "Best of the Best" Awards are presented annually to individuals based on specific criteria, as well as individual performance that goes above and beyond normal responsibilities, outstanding and unique service to the property, to the guests, and for the community.  Weadbrock adds, "Phil continues to demonstrate his leadership skills.  Winning this award is a testament to his ability to rise above the rest."
The hotel serves business, government and leisure travelers visiting our National Capital Region; is located near Washington Reagan National Airport, Washington, DC-Metro, the Pentagon, and many attractions, museums and shopping venues.  Accommodating meetings and events of all types for up to 250 guests, the hotel boasts three restaurants including a full-service Starbuck's Coffee House, the Potomac Bar & Grille and the Veranda Cafe.
To book your next meeting, event or overnight accommodations visit, www.cpnationalairport.com, e-mail info@cpnationalairport.com or call 703-416-1600.
 

---

 INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP "CROWNES" WASHINGTON DC - AREA FRONT OFFICE MANAGER "BEST OF THE BEST"

Arlington, VA (April 20, 2009) -

Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) has awarded top honor of 2008 "Best of the Best" Front Office Manager to Mario Soriano of the Crowne Plaza National Airport at Crystal City.  Soriano was recognized at IHG's Annual COnference in Los Angeles for "his ability to exceed the hotel's performance goals and successfully lead his team," says Jim Weadbrock, General Manager of the hotel.
Weadbrock states, "Mario's dedication and perseverance enabled the hotel to perform at an exceptional level this year."  Mark Carrier, Senior Vice President of the BF Saul Company - Hotel Division adds, "I'm proud to have Mario as a part of our team in Crystal City, and congratulates him on a job well done."  The "Best of the Best" Awards are presented annually to individuals based on specific criteria, as well as individual performance that goes above and beyond normal responsibilities, outstanding and unique service to the property, to the guests, and for the community.  Weadbrock adds, "Mario continues to demonstrate his leadership skills.  Winning this award is a testament to his ability to rise above the rest."
The hotel serves business, government and leisure travelers visiting our National Capital Region; is located near Washington Reagan National Airport, Washington, DC - Metro, the Pentagon, and many attractions, museums and shopping venues.  Accommodating meetings and events of all types for up to 250 guests, the hotel boasts three restaurants including a full-service Starbuck's Coffee House, the Potomac Bar & Grille and the Veranda Cafe.
To book your next meeting, event or overnight accommodations visit, www.cpnationalairport.com, e-mail info@cpnationalairport.com or call 703-416-1600.
 

Testimonials

 

March 27,2012

Ladies,

Thank you for all the help you have given me with my State's event last week.  I have heard nothing but rave reviews from everyone on my end about the accommodations, your staff and the dinner.  Everyone on your staff was very helpful, friendly and energetic!  It was a very great and memorable experience.  A very special tip of the hat to your chef staff for our dinner.  The food was exquisite for the price constraints we had, and I appreciate how your staff customized a menu for us to meet our budgetary needs.

I especially appreciate the hard work and communication the three of you had provided me. Your assistance was an invaluable asset to me during this process.  Simple words cannot express how much I appreciate your work on this matter and I am looking forward to working with all of you again when I put this event on next year.  Also as promised, I have put out through word of mouth that anyone visiting from Illinois needs to come to the Crowne first for accommodations.

Again, thank you so much. I greatly appreciate all of your hard work.  It was a pleasure to work with each of you.

Best Regards,
Keith D.

___________________________________________________________________

November 18, 2010

Dear Ashley:

We really appreciate all of the hard work you did to help us have a wonderful Fall Fellows Conference.  The whole process from our initial meetings through the event itself has been seamless, and we are very glad we chose the Crowne Plaza!

The Fellows thoroughly enjoyed their accommodations and meals and have told us that they are excited to return again in the spring.

Every Crowne Plaza staff member Alex and I spoke to was friendly and very helpful.  We also hope you can pass on our special thanks to Mauricio, Chiranjibi, and Jason.  Everything ran very smoothly, and they were such a big help!

It is a pleasure and privilege working with you, Matt and the rest of the Crowne Plaza staff on these events, and we are looking forward to being there agin in the spring!

Warmest Regards,
Alex and Parry

 

---

Good Morning Mr. Weadbrock,

Longtime....I hope your morning is going well.  I finally made it back to your facility last month for our meeting Sept. 8-10, 2010.  My experience was once again 100% satisfactory.  Your staff remains loyal and committed to making an event a smooth and comfortable atmosphere.  I'd like to acknowledge your shining stars.

Jonathan Bowie - knows our programs from A to Z.  I didn't have any issues with the proposal or the contract.  It was as if he did my job for me.  Everything was very well communicated that there was very little for me to do on the set-up day.

Ashley Chinnici - I'm glad I had the opportunity to finally work with her.  We'd met at previous functions and she displays a spirit to serve and satisfy. 

Nathalie Feimster - On the spot support.  I must have had a million requests for her and she promptly handled them all.

Banquets - Chiranjibi Sapkota, David, Aroun and Mauricio - These gentlemen embrace service.  They do not lack for a moment.  Every interaction with a client is 100% and above.  I appreciate them so much and look forward to being served by them.

Front Desk - I want to thank EVERYONE at the desk for their support in receiving my attendees.  During my presentation, I asked if any had experienced any problems at check-in and not one complaint was given.   

I had previously worked with Mauricio, Matt Evans and Phil Saims in the past and it's just great to see they are still around and moving forward.  They are great in their dealings with customers and make it personable.  I didn't feel like I was at a hotel, but rather visiting them at home.

I can't thank you enough for selecting a wonderful group of people that render customer service in the best way possible.  I look forward to returning once again.

Yours In Service,
Renee
Senior Meeting Planner

---

Greetings,

I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the staff of the Crowne Plaza National Airport for their exceptional service and contribution to the overall success of our meetings held there in late September. Each and every member of staff was responsive, friendly and extremely professional – no matter what type of request was sent their way.
 
There are two individuals that I worked with closely that I would like to bring attention to, the first being Ashley Chinnici. She was an exceptional help from my initial space inquiry almost a year ago to the conclusion of the meeting. She was a great resource throughout the entire planning process and always offered creative solutions to work out any issues along the way. I had several last minute changes and additions to our meeting space requirements, which she took care of immediately and always with a smile on her face.
 
Mauricio Cortez once again went above and beyond for our group!  I started calling him the “genie” because on several occasions he provided me with an item or answer to a request or question I was just about to ask of him… talk about anticipating my needs! He responded to many on-site changes rapidly and was always there for our group; Mauricio delivered on anything and everything we asked for! He took such good care of us and certainly helped make my job as a meeting coordinator much easier… everything went very smoothly with our meetings and I attribute much of it to Mauricio's efforts and expertise.
 
Based on my latest experience with the Crowne Plaza National Airport, I would return again and again to this property for future meetings and events, and will certainly recommend the hotel to my fellow colleagues. 
 
 
All the best,
Steph

---

Good Afternoon Jonathan,
  
I want to send a note of special thanks for the outstanding support received for our meeting held Sept. 9-10, 2010.  From the start of the contract phase to the very end, everything was handled flawlessly.  The contract was clear, concise and detailed all the concessions as stated in the proposal (CMP, Gov't per diem, & cost effective/high quality internet service).  That being said...you delivered.  These are the golden keys to making our events a success and having proficient Hotel staff support is the cherry on top.  I will go into detail in a separate email to the GM about their services rendered.  I will consider your facility in the very near future for many more upcoming events.  Thank you again and again, for 100% satisfactory customer service.  Until my return, all the best to you. 
 
Yours in Service,
Renee
 

---

Dear Mr. Saims,

I would like to inform you of how pleased I am to work with your hotel.  Prior to my contact with you all, I had been using other hotels for the many military reunions I place in the DC area, but since my first dealings with Leslie, your hotel is now my top choice when placing a program in DC.

I have worked as a planner for over 1 year now, and since my reunions tend to be a bit more demanding than the average corporate booking, it is extremely important that I partner with a hotel sales manager that can be flexible, creative and responsive to the special needs of my reunion clients.  My manager offers me the type of salesmanship and service oriented mentality I require.  In addition, she is always timely and quick to respond to my requests.  She is a good listener, as well a friendly, warm and pleasant professional.

Due to her consistent professionalism and apparent enthusiasm for her job and her clients, I will continue to make every attempt to work with her and place my groups at the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport Hotel.  She is a jewel and should be considered a precious asset to your sales team.

Sincerely,

Codi

 

---

 

September 18, 2009

---

August 5, 2009

I cannot say enough good things about the Crowne Plaza.  Working with Lauren Fritz and Mauricio Cortez was the best thing that happened to me in my wedding planning.  When I first went to see the Crowne Plaza Lauren welcomed me and gave me a tour around.  She was very sweet and answered all my questions.  She also asked me questions and made sure she knows what I'm looking for.  The hotel sitself is very elegant.  It has one big ballroom so they host one wedding at a time.  
In the planning process Lauren was absolutely AMAZING!!!  She was very responsive, I never had trouble getting answers from her about anything.  She always tried to find a way to make us happy, never gave me attitude about any of my requests or questions.  We had a hotel block with a reasonable rate and she sent me all the information I needed in time for me to send it to my guests.  She also asked the sales manager to update me with a list of guests.  She was always on time sending me any documents we agreed on.  She was really accommodating, we often met on weekends because my husband lives in NY and is here only on weekends.  We had people change their RSVP just days before the wedding, and my mom brought a movie clip she wanted to play last minute, Lauren was great with it all.  She let us know beforehand that she will not be there on the day-of, but assured us that she'll make sure everything is organized.  We met with Ashley, who was there instead and it seemed that she knew everything she needs to know, and she did a good job as well. 
When we met with Lauren to discuss wedding details we also met with Mauricio Cortez, he's the Meetings Director there.  He's another person who made sure the wedding was top notch.  Mauricio was very sweet and did not hesitate to give ideas - which were always great - during the planning process.  But he REALLY shined on the day of. 
I sneaked into the hall a few hours before the wedding just to take a look and make sure everything was okay.  I almost cried.  The hall looked beautiful.  The set-up was exactly the way I asked, he paid attention to every single detail.  There were fresh flowers on the food display table that went perfectly with our colors.  Everything was in place and looked absolutely beautiful.  I had two members of my family designated to help during the reception so everything goes well.  They told me that they didn't need to do anything because Mauricio was on top of everything at all times.  He treated us like royalty.  My niece has allergies from eggs, milk, soy and peanuts.  We weren't sure if the food had any of this and asked Mauricio to ask the chef.  He not only asked, he requested an allergy free meal, and my niece ate salmon and potatoes like all of us.  We got tons of completments from the guests on how beautiful and organized everything was.  
Lauren and Mauricio I can't say thank you enough for making our wedding day so great.  

~Bride - July 25, 2009

 

---

 

Len:

The show was fantastic!  We had no idea what to expect, but it was a perfect way to end a stressful week, and we are most appreciative to you for making it possible.

I am just returning to the office today.  Mahrae had to take another trip this weekend with her reserve unit, so she will not be back in the office until next week. 

I know I speak for Mahrae when I say you and the entire hotel staff are to be commended for a job well done.  The service provided was absolutely wonderful.  The staff was very accommodating and supportive and we appreciate all you did to ensure our conference was successful.

Again, thank you!

J. Williams

---

Crowne Plaza National Airport,

Lauren Fritz was my only contact and she was excellent.  Lauren really understood what we wanted - a place to gather and reminisce.  The Friday evening champagne reception was set up beautifully and "Peter" was the server and he was excellent.  On Saturday, everything was set up perfectly for the luncheon.  Your staff did an outstanding job, but did not interrupt at all - we were served our food and wine - and just continued to talk long into the evening!  Another nicety was that we were able to give the attendeeas a choice of entree.  Everyone was most pleased - not one complaint! 

Thank you for everything!
Rita

---

Matt:

I want to take the opportunity to express our pleasure over our recent stay.  I am a tour director.  We stayed at the hotel and our 50 passengers thoroughly enjoyed their stay.  They loved their rooms, which were kept spotlessly clean by your housekeeping staff.  The breakfast buffet on the Mezzanine level was plentiful, with a good variety and very tasty.
All of your staff, from the desk managers and clerks, to the lounge bartenders, to the restaurant wait staff, to the porters, were all friendly and attentive. 
I look forward to our next stay at your beautiful hotel.

Sincerely,
Richard

---

Mr. Jim Weadbrock, General Manager
Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport
1480 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202
December 9, 2009

Dear Mr. Weadbrock,

I have been a guest in your hotel for the past eight days/nights.  I am writing to share with you my experience both as a group faculty member and as an ordinaray citizen.

Upon entereing the hotel for the first time on December 1, I was warmly greeted by Mr. Mario and Ms. Hanna.  The reception they gave me had me feel like a long-time cherished guest.  Imagine my surprise!  Hanna was kind enough to listen to me explain the kind of room I needed - corner, out of the way, king preferably - and went out of her way to accommodate my request even though it meant I was on the executive floor.  As the lead faculty member for my group, I had many questions; Mario listened intently and understood my needs.  Later in the evening, I requested hotel stationery so I could write welcome notes to my faculty colleagues; Mario went out of his way to obtain exactly what I wanted (not an inferior substitute).  Every request I made received a "Yes!"  Your front desk staff, including Ms. Sandy and Ms. Crystal, are tops!

As the week went forward, your staff made my stay of others from the University a five star experience.  Mr. Lewis cheerily drove our shuttle, respectfully engaging with us and making us smile.  The team that provided the delicious food at the campus was friendly, helpful and attentive to everyone's needs.  Ms. Elena, Ms. Lolita and Mr. Jake in the Potomac Bar and Grille gave the exceptional, engaging service we needed after a long day's work.  When an issue arose with another faculty member, Mr. Jared went out of his way to rectify the situation.  His actions demonstrated he truly cared about guest satisfaction.

My final two days here I have been "on my own."  I stayed these extra days because your property has the ambience and service level that I need to decompress and relax.  I finally had time to eat breakfast in the Veranda Cafe.  The attention and great service that Ping Pong, Yodit, and especiallyMebrantu had me feel like a celebrity!  Tuesday morning I stayed in the restaurant several hours correcting papers; they welcomed my presence instead of hurrying me out when the buffet closed.  Later in the day, because I did not have to rush to campus, I met Delsi who had taken immaculate care of my room.  She, too, was delightful!

Mr. Weadbrock, I could write pages more about my stay here and the high caliber of your people and their service.  Let me end by saying this: I have stayed in hundreds of hotels in my career; this one tops them all!

My thanks and gratitude to all!
Dr. Nancy

---

Mr. Len Gauger
Crowne Plaza National Airport
1480 Crystal Drive
Arlington, Virginia 22202
November 2, 2009

Dear Mr. Len Gauger:

A heartfelt thank you is extended to you for your support to our Symposium in October.  Your professionalism and ability to work well under pressure were instrumental to the success of the Symposium.

As a result of your expertise and can-do attitude, all logistical issues were resolved quickly and effortlessly.  Your efforts contributed to the well-being of Soldiers and their Family members.  Thanks again for a job well done!

Warmest Regards,

Ellen

---

April 28, 2010

Lauren Fritz was amazing during the planning of my wedding!  She anticipated any need a bride could have and supplied various suggestions for making my day perfect.  She was flexible with budgets, vendors, technological needs, menu choices and ballroom layout, and also helped secure guest rooms.  Her attentiveness and professionalism exceeded my expectations.  With the help of Lauren, we planned my wedding in about one month.  This shows how she can perform under pressure and get things done perfectly, quickly and correctly.  I would definitely recommend Lauren Fritz and the Crowne Plaza to others!

---