Thursday, July 24, 2008

The answer is "no"...until you ask.

I must tell you, part of being absolutely amazing stems from having absolutely amazing contacts. You won't ever learn how to do this unless you start to practice. I happily offer assistance.

1. When traveling to a new place (or a place you haven't visited very frequently), your first stop should be to the most expensive, luxurious hotel you can find. Kindly introduce yourself to the concierge. They are your friend. Tell them you're visiting the city on business (or pleasure), and have heard great things about the city, especially the concierge. Tell them you'd like to eat at one of his/her favorite restaurants, and then go to a fantastic bar/museum/point of interest. More than likely, they will make reservations for you, or at least give you the name of someone who will take care of you. Now tip the concierge. Take their business card, and send a thank you note. Be sure to include your business card. And tip them well. When you return again, call the concierge before you arrive. Remind them of the fantastic assistance they provided. They will remember you, and will be happy to go out of their way to make your experience even more memorable than the last.

2. The easiest way to find the best dry cleaner, whether or not you are at home, is by calling the most expensive, recognizable, fashion-forward store you know. For example, on a business trip in Los Angeles last winter, I inadvertently stained one of my favorite Dior Homme shirts. Knowing that there was a Dior Homme boutique nearby in Beverly Hills, I phoned the store, explained my predicament, and was invited to bring the shirt to the boutique, where they promptly sent it to their "secret" dry cleaners, whom they entrust the duties of cleaning all their delicate and most trusted items. After 6 hours and $25, my shirt looked brand new.

3. No matter where you are in the country, there will be times that require you to send flowers. Your Mother's birthday. Your wife's anniversary. Your mistress' divorce officially settled. No matter the occasion, B. Brooks is your answer. Hands down, the most beautiful, artfully designed, fragrant arrangements you have ever imagined. Works every time.

No matter where you are in the world, some things are always "in fashion". Smile. Be polite. Thank people who go out of their way to help you. Be on time. And if there's something you want, or a place you'd like to go, the answer is "no"...until you ask.