Turks and Caicos Islander Christelle Demosthene-Heron Honored for 22 Years of Service at Beaches Resort

Turks & Caicos Islands: Top of Form Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa is proud to celebrate a successful 22-year career journey with star team member Christelle Demosthene-Heron. Christelle, who currently serves as weddings manager, joined the Beaches family in 2002, and has worked in various capacities within the leading family resort.

Christelle’s introduction into the hospitality industry started in the food and beverage department, where she started as a server. Over the years, she demonstrated exceptional skills and commitment, earning promotions to the positions of hostess and later supervisor. In 2012, after returning from maternity leave, Christelle craved more. She sought a new challenge and expressed her interest in transitioning to the weddings department. With no prior experience in that area, she was determined to make a mark in this new realm.

After having discussions with her manager, Dudley Noble, with his blessing, Christelle embarked on her journey as a wedding planner in 2012. Within two years, she assumed the role of banqueting supervisor, showcasing her ability to adapt and excel in her chosen field. By 2017, she received a further promotion to assistant manager, and since April 2022, she has been at the helm as the dedicated manager of the weddings department.

She credits her success to her managers who believed in her, coached her and provided the necessary support.  Dudley Noble, former restaurant manager, was one such person who encouraged her to follow her dreams. “When I was in food and beverage, Dudley told me, ‘always do your best. When you know you have done your best you have nothing to worry about.’ I continue to be guided by these words.”

“I also appreciate Patricia Mullings. She was the former weddings manager. When I initially expressed an interest in joining the department, I had no experience in that area, but Patricia was willing to give me a chance.” As Christelle reminisced about the training and guidance she received from Patricia she added, “sometimes people just need a chance. They may lack experience but with a leader who is willing to mentor them, that person can grow within the industry just like I have.”

In addition to highlighting the value of mentorship, Christelle also noted that she appreciates the opportunities offered by the Sandals Corporate University (SCU). “I enjoy learning and there is nothing to me like a good refresher course. Thanks to the SCU I am a certified hospitality supervisor, certified in leadership development, teamwork and team building communication, and customer service, to name a few.”

Christelle delights in knowing that in creating romantic experiences, she can bring joy to many. She compares herself to two powerful animals; an eagle and a cheetah. “I set a high standard and like an eagle, I like to soar. I like the freedom to work and explore different creative elements. This is how I work best.” She further added, “I admire the agility and the finesse of the cheetah.  Within this department speed is required but we also must ensure that we have that gentle, caring touch and that eye for detail that assures the guests that we have their best interest at heart.”

When guests dream for all their lives about how they want their wedding, vow renewal, anniversary or proposal to be, it takes someone like Christelle who is level-headed to make the reality exceed the wildest dreams of the guests. Her calm and collected disposition are her defining qualities, setting her apart in the bustling world of wedding planning. In a recent interview, she shared insights into her approach, stating, “I empathize with some of our guests. They are filled with anxiety because they travel all the way here to entrust a total stranger with their wedding that they have been dreaming of since childhood. But through it all, I remain calm but firm. I reassure them that I have their best interest at heart, and I have all the notes of the things they desire that will help their dreams come true. I am very meticulous, so along with my very dedicated, creative and resourceful team, we get the job done. We make magic.”

Christelle emphasized the lasting impact of creating magical and momentous occasions for her clients, “when we plan and execute their special event, it creates a lifelong bond between us and the guests who become family,” she shared. Christelle pointed out that some guests rebook each year because they are drawn back by the priceless moments that were created by the weddings department.

Christelle’s 22 years of dedicated service stands as a testament to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in the hospitality industry. Her story continues to inspire colleagues and aspiring professionals in the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond, to take a bold step into the unknown.