LUNCHEON SPONSOR
Continuing the Legacy
“We love working with historic hotels and we fell in love with this hotel,” James Gould, owner of the Elms Hotel & Spa, said. “We want to continue the legacy of the hotel and the community.”
The Elms Hotel is a family owned business and as such, Jim stressed the importance of connectivity to the community. Since the hotel purchase in 2018, renovation has been ongoing with over $10 million in investment having taken place and another $5 million planned over the next three to five years.
Jim announced that the new management company overseeing The Elms Hotel and Spa will be Pyramid Global Hospitality, an independent hotel asset management and consulting company specializing in the renovation, repositioning, and rebranding of hotels and resorts.
“We feel very positive about this change,” said Jim. “This partnership brings a wealth of experience in managing exceptional resorts and aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing a personalized, high-quality experience for our guests. The new management team understands and aligns more closely with the version of a family-owned property, allowing us to provide a more personalized and tailored experience.”
Jim extended a personal thank you to City Manager Molly McGovern and Economic Development Director Melinda Mehaffy for their support in the Elms Hotel redevelopment.
Jim introduced new general manager Duke Christopher, highlighting that Duke comes from 18 years with the Princess Cruise line where he was Executive Head Chef, Cruise/Entertainment Director and Hotel General Manager. He and his wife, Cassie and their three-year-old daughter, Kit, live in Kansas City, where his wife is originally from. Duke is originally from Aberystwyth, Wales.
“After 18 years on a cruise ship and now landlocked is a leap of faith,” said Duke. “I am grateful to be here. There is so much potential in growth for the tourism industry.”
Duke said that their desire is to make the Elms Hotel and Spa the number 1 destination for relaxation, rejuvenation and attracting people. He reminded those attending that the local community receives 20% off purchase at the hotel restaurants and 10% off guest rooms and spa facilities.
