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Hotel Heron, An Aparium Group Hotel, Joins Curio Collection by Hilton

Hotel Heron, an Aparium hotel known for its thoughtful design and connection to the local community, has announced its transition to Curio Collection by Hilton, a global portfolio of individually remarkable hotels hand-picked to immerse guests in the world's most sought-after destinations. The 134-room property will retain its distinct character as it continues to be managed by Aparium.

Heather Rodgers has been appointed as Director of Sales at Hotel Heron

Heather Rodgers assumes the role of Director of Sales at Hotel Heron, bringing her impressive 25-year career in the hospitality industry to cultivate a distinctive hub for Alexandria. Her extensive experience spans global hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, IHG, and independently branded hotels. Previously, she served as the regional Director of Sales and Marketing for the Mid-Atlantic region at TPG Hotels, formerly known as Marshall Hotels. Most recently, Rodgers held the esteemed position of Director of Sales and Marketing at the Lorien Hotel. Her deep affection for Alexandria and its vibrant community enables her to forge meaningful connections with local vendors, residents, and businesses, further fueling her passion for the city.

Harry Francis has been appointed as Director of Lifestyle at Hotel Heron

Harry Francis is Hotel Heron's Director of Lifestyle. A Virginia native, Francis is a vibrant and passionate hospitality and entertainment professional with more than 10 years of experience. With a rich tapestry of experiences, including leadership roles at Pangea Music Group and The Line Hotel DC, Francis infuses his passion for music into every aspect of his work. His artistic touch extends to curating hyper-local music playlists that add a special touch to the property. During his tenure at Riggs Hotel in Washington, D.C., as the brand and experience manager, he excelled at amplifying the brand's essence through captivating experiences and strategic partnerships. In his most recent role at Riggs, as Guest Engagement Manager, Francis' finesse in hospitality shone brightly as he orchestrated personalized encounters that captivated guests, earning him accolades for his leadership.

Phillip Blane has been appointed as General Manager at Hotel Heron

Leading the team is Phillip Blane, who joins as General Manager of the property. After establishing himself in culinary roles at the notable Charlotte Hotel and Restaurant and Equinox Restaurant, Blane became the chef and owner of Washington, D.C. neighborhood restaurant Unum for nearly seven years. Seeking new challenges, he transitioned to hotel management, serving as general manager at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in Washington, D.C., and the Lorien Hotel & Spa in Alexandria, Virginia, starting in 2022. During his tenure at Lorien Hotel, Blane developed a fondness for the burgeoning and community-centric city of Alexandria, leading him to join Aparium Hotel Group to open the new 134-room Hotel Heron.

Global Hospitality Brand AKA Opens in Alexandria, VA

AKA, a global leader in luxury hospitality and the creator of the World's Most Livable Hotels® today announces the opening of Hotel AKA Alexandria. The 180-room property in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, is the newest luxury hotel in the area and represents a milestone for the city's hospitality landscape, offering an elegant and tranquil urban retreat. The hotel is within steps of waterfront restaurants, art galleries and museums, boutique shopping experiences, and just 20 minutes from the Nation's Capital - an ideal destination for guests who are in town for business or pleasure.

Aparium Hotel Group to open Hotel Heron, Alexandria VA

A first-time partnership between Aparium, May Reigler Properties, and Potomac Investment Properties, Hotel Heron represents the transformation of the 1926 George Mason hotel building in Old Town of Alexandria, Virginia. Spearheaded by Washington D.C.-based architect, Antonovich Associates, and design firm, Street Sense, the hotel will include 134 rooms, 30,000 square feet of amenities, meeting space, ground floor flagship restaurant, and a rooftop bar. Project construction is underway, and the top-of-market hotel is slated for completion by late 2023.

Kelly Catherine has joined Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria as Director of Sales & Marketing

Following over 11 years in various hotel sales roles, Kelly Catherine joins Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria as Director of Sales and Marketing. Beginning her hospitality career as a Front Desk Agent for Hospitality Partners, Catherine quickly moved her way up to a manager role, and continued working in hotels where she gained hands-on experience working at prestigious companies such as Hilton, Marriott, Legacy Starwood, Choice, Hyatt, and Independently branded projects (both limited & full service).  Catherine will oversee all components of sales, marketing, and revenue in her role while simultaneously cultivating relationships with clients and customers.

Tomas Chavarria has been appointed as Executive Chef at The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection

King & Rye, known for seasonal slow food, genuine southern hospitality and fine whiskeys, announces today the appointment of Tomas Chavarria as Executive Chef. Located on King Street just steps from the waterfront in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, King & Rye is the reflection of the longstanding culinary heritage and bounty of the mid-Atlantic and Southern regions of the U.S.

Hyatt Centric Brand opens in Old Town Alexandria

Hyatt announced the opening of Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria. Centrally located in the heart of Alexandria, Va., on historic King Street, the 124-room boutique hotel joins Hyatt Centric Arlington to mark the Hyatt Centric lifestyle brand's second hotel in Virginia. The new hotel features a contemporary design, standout guestroom and hotel amenities - like Drybar Buttercup salon-quality blow-dryers in each room, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a French- and American-inspired lobby bar and restaurant. Located just four miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and under 10 miles from Washington D.C.'s city center, Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria puts guests within a short distance of popular attractions like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House, and Georgetown.