Pulse Legacy Archive August 2012 | Page 18

member profile THE FAIRMONT SONOMA MISSION INN – WILLOW STREAM SPA Embracing the Willow Stream Brand B Y K E I T H LO R I A I n June 2011, The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa officially rolled out its rebranding initiative, renaming its spa into Willow Stream Spa, the signature spa brand of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. “The decision to take on the philosophy, values and standards of the Willow Stream brand was slowly implemented and integrated over several years but made official [in] June 2011,” says Anne McCall Wilson, vice president of spas for Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. “This decision was strategic in globally positioning our spa as Fairmont Hotels and Resorts continue to expand with Willow Stream [as the] signature spa brand.” The rebranding effort has given the 85-year-old Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn located in Sonoma, California, considered as the wine capital of the region, a fresh dose of energy. “Willow Stream Spas are renowned for their energy. It’s our slogan and our mission: Find your energy,” she says. Rebranding Process Most of the changes in rebranding were to ensure the spa met brand commitments and was poised to deliver services consistently. This initiative was accomplished via comprehensive educational 16 PULSE ■ August 2012