Latest news with #KimptonGrayHotel
Hospitality Net
14-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Amy Leahy has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing at Kimpton Gray Hotel in Chicago
Kimpton Gray Hotel is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Leahy as Director of Sales and Marketing, bringing over a decade of hospitality experience and a people-first leadership style to the landmark Loop property. Born and raised in Chicago, Leahy has spent her entire career working in the local market. She began her hospitality journey as a catering coordinator, learning the ropes of the industry and gradually working her way up through various roles. This deep connection to the city and her comprehensive understanding of its hospitality landscape have been instrumental in shaping her leadership style and approach to sales and marketing. Leahy joins The Gray from Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago, where she spent the last several years overseeing sales initiatives in one of the city's most competitive micro-markets. During her tenure, she successfully led the team through the hotel's brand repositioning, transitioning the property to an independent concept while strengthening its market presence and guest appeal. This experience further sharpened her skills in strategic development, brand storytelling, and team cohesion—expertise she now brings to her new role at Kimpton Gray Hotel. In her new role, Leahy will oversee all sales and marketing efforts for the 293-room hotel, including brand partnerships, group and corporate sales strategy, and long-term positioning. She is especially focused on team growth and development, noting that investing in people is key to long-term success. Leahy is passionate about the sense of purpose behind each guest's stay. Whether it's a business trip, a family getaway, or a couple celebrating a special occasion, she believes the goal remains the same: to anticipate needs, provide a genuine welcome, and tailor each experience to the individual, ensuring it's a memorable one. When she's not at the hotel, Leahy is busy raising three young children but enjoys exploring Chicago. One of her favorite pastimes is grabbing coffee from her go-to local spot, Dollop, while taking in the sights of her neighborhood. She also has a deep appreciation for hotel lobbies, and The Gray's "Living Room" lobby is one of her favorites. Its cozy, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying the aesthetic. For more information about Kimpton Gray Hotel, visit or follow along on Instagram and Facebook.
NBC News
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC News
The best mint julep cups to celebrate the Kentucky Derby in style
When you think of the Kentucky Derby, a few things gallop to mind: thoroughbreds flying down the track, wide-brimmed hats — and, of course, the mint julep. If you're not familiar, the julep is the Derby's drink of choice: a bracing blend of bourbon, mint, sugar and bitters, traditionally served in a frosty silver cup that's as much about style as it is about temperature control. In honor of the most stylish two minutes in sports, we've rounded up the best mint julep cups to help you serve cocktails with panache. Whether you're throwing a full-blown Derby bash or just mixing drinks for one on a breezy spring evening, these cups make it feel like a celebration. What is a mint julep? 'The mint julep is one of the original classic cocktails,' says Charlotte Voisey, executive director at Tales of The Cocktail, which aims to empower the hospitality industry and advance spirits education. 'Perfected and made famous by Black bartenders in the south in the early 1800s.' The mint julep has been the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby since 1939, according to Louisville Tourism. So, what is in this classic cocktail? 'A mint julep is made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice,' says Michael Vollmer, assistant director of food and beverage at the Kimpton Gray Hotel in Chicago. 'It's simple and refreshing.' According to our experts, the other defining characteristic of a julep is that it is traditionally served in a silver cup — which not only looks fancy but also helps keep the drink cold. How we picked the best mint julep cups When it comes to picking the best mint julep cups, here's what our expert said to look out for: Silver: 'Traditionally a sterling silver or stainless steel Julep cup is used, which frosts up visibly as the ice is churned through the drink before it's served,' says Voisey. The silver is also a nod to the trophy at the Kentucky Derby, says Vollmer. All of the cups below are made from either stainless or sterling silver. Wide opening: The top of a mint julep cup should have a wide opening. 'This can enhance the mint's aromatics and the bourbon's flavor, creating a more immersive sensory experience,' says Vollmer. Price: Because they're made with silver, mint julep cups can get expensive. We focused on finding cups at different price points to suit various budgets. The best mint julep cups Mark & Graham Silver Mint Julep Cup This stainless steel mint julep cup comes in two sizes — 10.5 ounces or 18.5 ounces. The cup features braided detailing at the top and bottom and can be used as a cocktail glass or as a vase. This cup can also be personalized with your initials for an additional $15. Barfly Julep Cup Another stainless steel option, this cup holds 12 ounces. It also has a reinforced lip to keep the opening perfectly round and a footed base for stability, according to the brand. This cup should be hand-washed only. Twine Mint Julep Cup This cup has a slightly matte look that makes it appear vintage. It's made from sterling silver pleated brass and has a 12-ounce capacity. The silver beating around the top and bottom adds visual interest. Flavourd Mint Julep Cups This set comes with four sterling silver mint julep cups and straws. The cups have a mirror finish for shine and a rolled rim. These cups are also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Prince of Scots Hammered Mint Julep Cups If you're willing to splurge, consider these cups. They are made from sterling silver-plated copper and have a hammered texture. The set comes with four cups, each holding 12 ounces. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Charlotte Voisey is the executive director at Tales of The Cocktail, an organization that aims to elevate the hospitality industry and advance spirits education. Michael Vollmer is the assistant director of food and beverage at the Kimpton Gray Hotel in Chicago. Why trust NBC Select? Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle.
