Celebrating Excellence: Recognizing Lucinda on National Hospitality Appreciation Day

In the spirit of National Hospitality Appreciation Day, we are taking a moment to shine a spotlight on one of our outstanding leaders, Lucinda Gaudio., Director of Sales at Blue Water’s Comfort Inn & Suites Daytona Beach. Lucinda's dedication, resilience, and passion have significantly contributed to the success and efficiency of her team and the broader hospitality community.

After back-to-back hurricanes in 2022, Lucinda faced a daunting challenge when tasked with rebuilding our group and business base after a seven-month closure. Her unwavering commitment and innovative approach resulted in a remarkable 228% increase in group sales year-over-year.

In addition, during the storms, Lucinda remained onsite the entire time, and coordinated with the National Guard, FEMA, Army Core of Engineers, and more to make sure every guest was safe, even helping a guest couple move their wedding!

Lucinda embodies Blue Water's commitment to excellence. Her exceptional customer service has been recognized with an Award of Excellence, and she consistently goes above and beyond to create memorable guest experiences. Lucinda's personal touch, seen in her interactions with guests and community members, reflects a genuine commitment to fostering relationships that go beyond transactions.

What impressed us most was Lucinda's ability to forge strong relationships within the community, exemplifying leadership that extends beyond the walls of our hotels. Her efforts not only revitalized our business but also reinforced Blue Water’s commitment to being a positive force in our local communities. For example, her recent gestures towards the Daytona Police Department and thoughtful Christmas gifts to team members highlight her dedication to creating a positive work environment. Lucinda’s story doesn't stop there. Lucinda's desire for professional development is evident in her proactive approach to staying updated on industry trends. Regular engagements with the Chamber of Commerce and CVB, coupled with continuous education from Choice University and Blue Water University, showcase her dedication to expanding her skills and knowledge. Lucinda's certification from Candlewood Suites Can-Do Sales University further underscores her pursuit of excellence in the hospitality industry.

Employees like Lucinda are the heartbeat of the hospitality industry, embodying the essence of exceptional service and dedication. Her passion for creating memorable guest experiences, coupled with a relentless commitment to professionalism, sets the standard for excellence. Lucinda's remarkable contributions, from rebuilding the group business after a hurricane-induced closure to fostering strong community relationships, showcase the pivotal role employees play in defining the industry's success. It's their unwavering positive attitude, adaptability, and genuine care for guests that elevate the hospitality experience. As the face of the industry, employees like Lucinda not only drive revenue and operational efficiency but also contribute to the industry's reputation for warmth, authenticity, and unparalleled customer service, making them indispensable assets to any hospitality establishment.

Lucinda's contributions and those of her peers are crucial to the success of our hotels, campgrounds, RV resorts, and attractions. As we celebrate National Hospitality Appreciation Day, let us collectively express gratitude to professionals like Lucinda, whose unwavering commitment continues to elevate the standards of excellence within our community and industry at large.