Back in the Spring, we received a phone call about planning a special Ogunquit getaway – A surprise birthday getaway complete with party, surprise guests, gifts and more. Requests such as these as incredibly important to us at the Meadowmere – because they are incredibly important to you, our guests.  The gentleman, Lewis, had stayed with us and wanted something spectacular and something Maine for his wife, Linda’s birthday. A tall order – but one that sounded like a lot of fun to plan – especially with Lewis.

For a little over three months, we worked on space, rooms, menus and gifts. His attention to detail was wonderful and we had a great plan – Lobster Dinner at our Resort’s outside BBQ Pits behind our East Meadow building. The BBQ Pits are a large outside grassy area with three grills, patio seating and lovely shade from tall pine trees. For groups visiting our Ogunquit resort, the space feels like a private park.

Linda has the good fortune (in addition to Lewis!) of her birthday falling in August. Great summer weather for a Maine lobster dinner and a wonderful time to enjoy Ogunquit – with the Playhouse, beach, Marginal Way and Perkins Cove all open and hopping with activity. In the end though, Lewis decided to move indoors to Jonathan’s Restaurant (who catered the event – a great job!) to added dancing and music to the day. We simply had a Plan B  – if requested to go inside at any point – even last minute – Jonathan’s and the Meadowmere teams were ready to make it happen. And for Lewis and Linda, the adjustment would be seamless and easy. After all – they were on vacation!

However, the biggest plus was that many of Lewis and Linda’s family made the journey to surprise her. As an innkeeper, it is an honor to be part of family memories – and these were really quite wonderful. From the gifts of embroidered towels to the special candles for the cake to the life long smiles caught on camera by the photographer, it was a joy for the staff to be a part and help.  We even blew up extra balloons to hang with the birthday banners!

Even though this surprise Ogunquit vacation was in the works for three months, there was one concern -our event planner would not be onsite during the event from plans made prior to last Spring. The Meadowmere as a team made this a success. Every hotel department  – from the desk and housekeeping for reservations and rooms to maintenance and the pub for grounds keeping and menus – contributed. Every person on staff made a point to help Lewis’s party be a success.

Lewis and his wonderful idea for a birthday getaway to Maine are the best stories about our Ogunquit hotel – full of fun and treasured. At the Meadowmere Resort, we are lucky to have such great guests. A heartfelt thanks goes out to Lewis and his family. And to Linda, a belated Happy Birthday – and here’s to many more!