Minneapolis (Aug. 10, 2021) – Blaine Larson, Sales Coordinator at The Marquette Hotel, has been named the Hospitality Hero award winner for second quarter 2021 by Meet Minneapolis, Convention and Visitors Association. The award is given to a member of the Minneapolis tourism and hospitality community who has been nominated by their colleagues for their valuable contributions to the image and culture of Minneapolis through outstanding service.

Kathryn Laulainen, Associate Director of Sales at The Marquette Hotel, nominated Larson based on his passion for customer service that shines through to the hotel’s guests each day. Larson took the opportunity during the pandemic to work at the front desk, learn new skills and enhance his knowledge of different departments while his sales position was paused.

“Blaine has a desire to please with a charming ‘Spirit of Conrad’ (meaning Conrad Hilton, as The Marquette is a Hilton hotel) in putting others first,” said Laulainen. She pointed out positive guest feedback and said, “We are very fortunate to have Blaine on our team and creating happiness for our guests at The Marquette Hotel!”

Larson has lived and worked in Minneapolis for more than 20 years, often participating in and supporting community events and organizations. As a Minneapolis resident, Larson shares photos of the beauty of the city and helps people on his walks to and from work.

“I am honored to work with such a dedicated individual that truly cares for others,” added Laulainen. “He wants guests to have an enjoyable experience by offering recommendations to see the city from a local’s viewpoint. He is a staple to this hotel and city.”

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PHOTO ATTACHED, CUTLINE
Blaine Larson (center, holding award) is pictured with the team from the The Marquette Hotel.

(Pictured, left to right)

• Sarah Fenlason, Director of Human Resources
• Syndey Crawford, Wedding and Event Manager
• Scott Eckerle, Sales Manager
• James Garlinghouse, General Manager
• Blaine Larson, Sales Coordinator
• Kathryn Laulainen, Associate Director of Sales
• Kayla Hodne, Front Office Manager

ABOUT MEET MINNEAPOLIS
Meet Minneapolis is a private, not-for-profit, member-based association. It actively promotes and sells the Minneapolis area as a destination for conventions and meetings, works to maximize the visitor experience and markets the city as a desirable tourist destination to maximize the economic benefit to the greater Minneapolis area.

Meet Minneapolis is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International.

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