CIO Bulletin

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa – A Timeless Saga of Hospitality Excellence, Personalized Service, and Unparalleled Luxury in the Heart of Vancouver

At the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, the core of hospitality lies in personalized experiences. The hotel understands that guests seek to immerse themselves in local flavors, interact with locals, and absorb the city's culture, valuing authenticity and individuality more than ever.

Being a second-generation, female-owned and operated establishment, the Wedgewood Hotel offers a unique perspective on hospitality, treating guests like cherished family members and the team like a closely-knit family. It is their utmost privilege to extend a warm family welcome to guests, creating unforgettable memories through customized service, and unwavering dedication to excellence in culinary, design, and hospitality domains.

A History of Hospitality

In the early days of the Wedgewood Hotel, founder Eleni Skalbania's journey from her roots in Santorini, Greece, to Canada in the 1950s laid the foundation for a remarkable story of hospitality.

In 1977, Eleni took on the management of the Devonshire Hotel, orchestrating an impressive economic transformation with her hands-on approach and European sensibilities. Her success continued as a co-owner of the Hotel Georgia, marking another significant achievement.

After the sale of the Hotel Georgia, Eleni embarked on her dream of establishing her own independent luxury boutique property in downtown Vancouver. In 1984, she found the perfect venue, the former Mayfair Apartment Hotel, which she meticulously transformed. Serving as her own designer and project manager, Eleni infused the hotel with the ambiance of a European country house, showcasing her personal collection of art and antiques. Custom-designed furniture crafted by skilled artisans further enhanced the space.

The result was the birth of the 83-room Wedgewood Hotel in the summer of 1984. Notably, the opening of this first female-owned boutique property in Canada was graced by the presence of the 4th Baron of Wedgwood and a Greek Orthodox Priest. Eleni's charisma, unwavering dedication, and visionary spirit quickly propelled the Wedgewood to international acclaim, making it a preferred destination for celebrities and dignitaries. Eleni's meticulous attention to detail and her relentless commitment to her guests earned her national recognition, including the prestigious Independent Hotelier of the Year Award.

A Home Away from Home

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Vancouver, the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa stands as a beacon of luxury and sophistication. What sets this hotel apart is not just its central location, but the fact that it is a family-owned and operated boutique establishment, endowing it with a unique charm and a personal touch that discerning travelers truly appreciate.

With 83 meticulously designed luxury rooms and suites, each adorned with balconies, the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa offers an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The boutique setting of the hotel allows for a level of refinement and attention to detail that is simply unparalleled. Every corner of this elegant space reflects the dedication of the family behind it, ensuring that guests experience the epitome of comfort, style, and hospitality.

The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa isn't just a place to stay; it's an experience crafted with care. From the moment guests’ step into the lobby, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication and warmth. The tastefully appointed rooms and suites offer not just a place to rest, but a sanctuary where every need is anticipated and met with a smile.

What truly distinguishes this boutique hotel is its unwavering dedication to service. Every member of the staff, from the concierge to the housekeeping, is committed to ensuring that guests have a memorable and delightful stay. Whether it's recommending the best local eateries, arranging personalized spa treatments, or organizing exclusive city tours, the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa goes above and beyond to cater to the unique preferences and desires of each guest.

In addition to its exquisite accommodations, the hotel boasts a luxurious spa where guests can indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments. The spa, much like the rest of the hotel, is designed to provide a serene escape from the bustling city life, allowing guests to relax and unwind in a tranquil environment.

The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa isn't just a temporary residence; it's a home away from home, where guests are treated like cherished family members. For travelers seeking more than just a place to stay, this boutique hotel offers an unforgettable experiences—a seamless blend of opulence, personalized service, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa| Leadership

Elpie Marinakis is a Co-Owner and the Managing Director of Wedgewood Hotel & Spa. In 1994, Elpie Marinakis, Eleni’s younger daughter, followed in her mother’s footsteps and joined her full-time at the Wedgewood Hotel after years of working in various areas of the business. Elpie spent years learning from her mother, and the two shared a common vision and values for their family business.

Elpie received a Bachelor of Arts (Hist.) from UBC and then completed an LLB from University of Reading in the UK. She then returned home and completed her Canadian Legal accreditation from Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC.

Now, as co-owner and managing director of the Hotel, Elpie continues her Mother’s legacy. She has undoubtedly inherited her mother’s passion, flair and dedication for the business. With over 30 years of experience in the hotel industry, Elpie has grown the business and established herself as a leader in the hospitality community. Her goal is to ensure that the Wedgewood Hotel continues to be the pinnacle of excellence, luxury, comfort, and above all, service.

Marousa Dumaresq is a Co-Owner and the Director of Wedgewood Hotel & Spa. Marousa is Eleni’s first daughter. Together with her sister Elpie, she has been an owner and director of the Wedgewood Hotel since 2013. She is proud to be a part of the family legacy created by her visionary mother and continued by her sister.

Marousa has a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts and Economics and a Master’s Degree in Architecture from UBC. She brings a passion for luxury travel, and a background in design, fashion and art. With a sophisticated and discerning eye, she plays a key role in the evolution of the Wedgewood brand.