Host Hub: Creating an Elevated Guest Experience
At Viv Élevé, we believe that creating exceptional experiences begins with extraordinary hosts. You've been selected because of your unique expertise, exclusive access, and impeccable sense of hospitality. We trust you to know how to craft unforgettable moments, but even the best can benefit from a few tips and best practices. This guide captures just the tip of the iceberg in hosting mastery to help refine your already elevated approach.
Before the Experience
Preparation is key to creating seamless experiences. Here's how to get started:
Know Your Guests
Review their profiles and take note of names (practice pronunciation if necessary) and interests. Identify a few details about the experience that might resonate with them personally.
Dress the Part
Check the weather and choose an outfit that reflects the tone of the experience while aligning with your guests' energy. Think elevated yet approachable.
Scout the Location
Walk through the space in advance if it's unfamiliar. Familiarize yourself with exits, rest areas, and high-quality restrooms to ensure no surprises interrupt the flow.
Ask for Content Permission
Confirm with guests if they're comfortable being in photos or videos during the experience.
At the Start
First impressions set the tone. Welcome your guests with warmth and professionalism:
Greet with Enthusiasm
Use your guest's name and express how happy you are to share this experience with them. Ask what inspired their interest and why they chose your specific experience.
Create a Connection
Highlight your personal connection to the experience, emphasizing the special elements you bring as a host. Align these with what your guests have shared to create a more personalized environment.
Address Unique Needs
Ask guests if there are any considerations (e.g., dietary restrictions, physical discomforts, or specific obligations) that could impact the experience and plan around them.
Set Expectations
Share how long the experience will last and outline the flow in a casual but confident tone. Encourage guests to take photos and videos, and show enthusiasm for capturing memories together. Then, begin on time with energy and intention.
During the Experience
Stay focused on delivering an elevated, enjoyable flow for your guests:
Time Management
Strike a balance between feeling rushed and having awkward downtime. Keep the experience purposeful and engaging from start to finish.
Monitor Atmosphere
Pay attention to your guests' energy levels. If serving alcohol, manage your own intake while ensuring guests remain carefree and engaged.
Capture the Moment
Take pictures and encourage guests to document their favorite parts. Always ask for consent before including guests in your photos, ensuring the process feels natural and integrated into the experience.
After the Experience
End strong by making your guests feel valued:
Answer Questions
Be ready to help with directions, provide names of ingredients or artists, or offer other relevant details to round out the experience.
Gather Feedback
Ask guests directly what they enjoyed most and if there's anything they wish had been different. For example, "What was your favorite part today?" or "Is there something we could add to make your experience even better next time?"
Share More Opportunities
Introduce other unique experiences you host that align with their newly discovered interests. Whether it's opera night or a hiking adventure, highlight what's next for their Viv Élevé journey.
Encourage Reviews
Invite guests to write an online review, emphasizing how much it helps you as a host and inspires others to explore similar experiences.
Troubleshooting Tips
What if my guests are late?
Flexibility and preparation are essential. Build in a buffer time or communicate in your experience profile whether late arrivals will miss portions of the experience. If it's feasible, offer grace and continue as planned while maintaining your original end time. Otherwise, continue without disruption, adapting where needed to match the flow.
What if guests seem disengaged?
Remember, people express enjoyment differently. A reserved demeanour doesn't always mean they're not having fun. Subtle check-ins like a smile or a quick "How's everything going?" can provide clarity. If someone appears genuinely uncomfortable, pull them aside privately to address their concerns. If needed, the Viv Concierge Team is always available to assist.
What if guests linger after the experience?
It's a great sign! Show your appreciation for their enthusiasm and remind them about other experiences you offer. Share your Viv Élevé profile and social media to stay connected. While 15 extra minutes to chat is gracious, avoid extending beyond 30 minutes to maintain boundaries.
Hosting Elevated Experiences Starts Here
Mastering the art of incredible hosting means staying attentive, flexible, and inspired. Each experience is an opportunity to create something unique and memorable. With these tips in your back pocket, you're set up to deliver the elevated service Viv Élevé stands for. Here's to crafting unforgettable moments!