REFLECTIONS WITH DANIEL HOSTETTLER, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE BOCA RATON

The past year has seen monumental movements within The Boca Raton, including multiple renovations and key openings on the property. As we celebrate the milestones, President and CEO Daniel Hostettler discusses some highlights.

What would you consider key accomplishments that The Boca Raton achieved for members and guests in 2022?

“Our ultimate goal has been to return The Boca Raton to an iconic, independent, legendary, service-oriented property. That has been accomplished with the opening of three new restaurants, Principessa Ristorante, Flybridge, and Japanese Bocce Club. In addition, Spa Palmera was completely renovated and reopened in 2022. We also introduced FlowRider and The Break, two unique, high-quality family-friendly amenities at Harborside Pool Club. And this past fall, we reopened a newly reimagined Tower, bringing the historic hotel back to life.

“In terms of event programming, our team did a phenomenal job elevating the quality and quantity, creating 10 times the number of events as was previously offered. We have a really robust schedule of events that are designed to engage every member and guest.

“At the end of the day, we want our members and guests to feel valued because they are. We’re seeing evidence that our efforts are making a difference, with new members joining, including young families who enjoy our dedicated programming. That coincides with our resort guests, who are now more leisure-oriented (as opposed to business-related travelers).

In addition to Tower’s reopening, tell us about the achievements of the four other hotels?

“We’re excited about the Phase 1 renovation of Beach Club, which includes nourishing the beach itself, as well as adding 1,000 new chairs and umbrellas. Next year, we’re looking toward important additions at Beach Club with a new kitchen, and service bar and kiosk, designed to make service even faster for those relaxing on our private golden beach. We’ve also introduced cabana transformations, collaborating with fashion brand Vilebrequin to showcase vibrant, stylish cabanas.

“The other hotels have made outstanding additions. At Yacht Club, we launched Flybridge, a restaurant that’s exclusive to Yacht Club guests, though we’re happy to hold a handful of tables for members, too. With Bungalows, we’ve built upon the idea that it’s a resort within a resort by adding a nine-hole putting course and a sitting area with a fire pit. Cloister is completing its nearly 15,000 square feet of retail space, which will add so much energy and life to the main building. And with Tower, we couldn’t be more thrilled with its opening. It’s such an iconic building and property, and to bring it a new vibrant, sophisticated glow is a commendable achievement for our team.”

What’s the general reaction to how 2022 has shaped up?

“I think it was a great first year. We opened literally a week before our holiday festivities. With a year under our belt, we are receiving excellent feedback from our members. I feel our newly implemented notipping policy was extremely well received. Guests are already repeating visits, and comment scores are really positive.”

Elizabeth Bennett, PRINCIPAL AND CEO

“Women need to be involved in their financial plans and have an understanding of where all of their assets are, and what they are used for,” says Certified Financial Planner™ Elizabeth Bennett.

As a woman who has reared a child, been through a divorce and is working toward her own financial future, she forges a relationship with her clients from her own personal experiences.

“You need be in control of your finances and not leave that responsibility to someone else,” she cautions. “Knowing the types of investments that you have, the log-ins for your accounts, and sharing that information with your spouse is very important. Being involved in reviews with your financial advisor and understanding how to access those assets is imperative,” Bennett says.

“Taking responsibility for your financial wellbeing, starting at a young age, is probably one of the best things you can do for yourself. You should take advantage of your employer’s retirement plan, understand what your short-term savings need to look like and what your assets’ tax implications are. Be aware of your spending habits and where all of your money is going, whether you are single or married. As women, we know the value of delegating. My advice is to take one thing off of your plate and reach out to an advisor to get your financial house in order with someone you can trust. I am here for you,” she says.