The Franklin Hotel – warm, personalized, welcoming wedding boutique hotel

I must admit, I try to stay on the cutting-edge of trends and am happy to say that I was right about this one. Boutique Hotels are HOT in 2009. They are hot for several reasons but what keeps coming up is the personalization of the staff and the European quality and attention that you won’t get in a larger hotel.

The Franklin Hotel which is a Willow Hotel property is not like any of the other properties. From the moment before the moment you enter, you are transported from the Upper East Side, to a villa in the South of France. This gem of a hotel has all the modern services: wireless Internet, 24-hr cappuccino/espresso, European Buffet Breakfast, Wine & Artisanal Cheese Reception and they are Pet Friendly. I know…what more can you ask for right?

I met with manager Jason Mancuso, the general manager of the hotel. He along with his charming staff, made me feel welcomed, but it was as if I was at an intimate bed and breakfast a world away. A friendly staff and attentive manager are an absolute bonus especially in the middle of a busy city.

The Franklin bride is a carefree, woman who enjoys Europe, fine wine, simplicity and romance. With 50 rooms, each uniquely designed, you will be able to relax either before or after your wedding here. Just block away from shopping and museum row, your guests will have something to see and do should they come before or stay after your wedding.

Making sure that attention to the smallest detail is attended to, you don’t have to worry. Jason explained to me “Putting ourselves in the minds of our guests, we want to make their experience memorable. I believe this attention to detail is why we have numerous repeat guests. For example, we realize that after a long day of shopping or touring they may want a ‘snack’, so we offer a complimentary wine and cheese selection in the afternoon so they can relax. We want our guests to feel as if they are at home.”

I will say that as I was speaking with Jason, a guest overheard our conversation and said that it was their 4th time in NY and they have been back to the Franklin hotel 3 times because of the care and family-feeling they received each and every time.

The Franklin is so popular yet ‘hidden’, don’t be surprised if you are riding the elevator and see a celebrity or two. Compared to some of the other hotels where you can have your actual ceremony and reception, this is not available at this hotel. However, if you wanted to have a pre or post wedding cocktail reception for your bridal party, bridal shower or tea, this is perfect. In addition, if you are looking for a hotel for your guests (and have 50 rooms being booked) you can rent the entire hotel. How Cool is THAT?! Yes, your own private hotel on the Upper East Side.

The three words that can be associated with this hotel are: personalized, warm and welcoming. After spending time with Jason and his staff, I know I didn’t want to leave.

(Willow Properties also own the Shoreham and The Mansfield Hotels)

For more information: FRANKLIN HOTEL
164 EAST 87TH STREET NEW YORK NY 10128
212.369.1000 | FAX 212.369.5067

WWW.FRANKLINHOTEL.COM