CONCIERGEāINSIDER (CI): How does a Chicagoan know how to deliver the best this city has to offer to out-of-towners?
Schon: Iām basically in love with Los Angeles. Yes, Iām born and bred in Chicagoāyou canāt take that out of meābut moving to Los Angeles twelve years ago was the best thing I ever did. This city has everything I want. Where do I begin? Itās just such an incredible city on every level. From the food to the nightlife to the actual stunning geography. From the beaches in Santa Monica to the hills of Hollywood overlooking the basin to the snow-capped mountains and desert. You can visit Santa Barbara, Palm Springs or even San Diego in a day. I train myself to be a student of this city, itās not just a part of the job, itās my passion. Iām a meticulous reader because itās an ever evolving city and I love that about L.A.
(CI): What do you love about being a concierge?
Schon: This job perfectly fits my skills and personality. Everyday is different and itās constantly challenging. Itās always an ever rotating group of new guests, but you also get the loyal returning guests. I get so many different requests that the scope of my work is so varied and keeps things fresh. I finally found what I was meant to do. I just love assisting guests and helping them have the best time possible during their stay.
(CI): What does the Thompson Beverly Hills offer that other properties canāt deliver?
Schon: Thompson Hotels have recurring themes in all our properties and each hotel is stylish and chic. There are stylistic design details that make each property unique. One of the key fun features here is the homage to film in our corridors with artistic micro film strips from different movies lining the walls and artwork throughout the rooms and halls by fashion photographer Steven Klein. Our signature feature is our beautiful rooftop lounge, ABH, with 360-degree views of Beverly Hills. Itās one of the top destinations for people to see and be seen. Our Caulfieldās Bar and Dining Room has just been reimagined with new dĆ©cor and menu by Executive Chef Stephen Kalt who came from the Wynn Las Vegas. His menu is delectable. And beneath the chic exteriors is our warm and genuine staff that focuses on guest service.
(CI): What are some of your favorite dining spots?
Schon: One of my favorites is Taste on Melrose for its casual California cuisine. The Phoenix on La Cienega is the coolest bar in L.A. right now, they have this amazing cherry cider that is so delicious. Itās truly to die for! Rustic Canyon Kitchen in Santa Monica is a newer restaurant with great healthy farm fresh cuisine. Iām a brunch guy and one of my latest finds is Blu Jam on Melrose. They literally make the best breakfast sandwich that youāll ever taste.
(CI): Anyone inspire you in this industry?
Schon: James Little of The Peninsula has taken on a mentoring role for me as Iāve taken on the Treasurer position for the Los Angeles Concierge Association this year.
(CI): What made you want to serve on this yearās LACA Board?
Schon: Itās an amazing organization and a great source of information and networking. Iāve made great partnerships and relationships that I wouldnāt necessarily have access to. Itās a great social outlet and I wanted to get involved more in a leadership capacity and Iād like to pursue earning my Les Clefs dāOr keys.
(CI): What could we find you doing when youāre not at the hotel?
Schon: Iām probably hiking one of the many L.A. canyons or playing basketball. Iām also a huge movie buff. I also enjoy the Santa Monica and Malibu beaches.
(CI): Why do you think people flock to this city?
Schon: Itās just an amazing city on every level. You have the vibrant energy of the Hollywood industry of film, music, studios and stars. We have the best food, nightlife, shopping, weather and sunsets. You pretty much have every spectrum on earth hereā all in one place. I just canāt stop appreciating what a beautiful place L.A. is and how lucky I am that my job is to keep on discovering all it has to offer.