Front Row Seat: Mel Ishage, Founder & CEO of Bespoke Opulence
Photo: Mel Ishage
In the heart of the vibrant Queen City, where innovation meets southern charm, we've reserved a front-row seat for you to Charlotte's most intriguing stories. Welcome to the debut edition of 'Front Row Seat,' your exclusive pass to the lives and aspirations of the movers and shakers who breathe life into this enchanting metropolis.
For our inaugural feature, we’ll be chatting with the founder and CEO of Bespoke Opulence, Mel Ishage. I met Mel a few weeks ago at Sixty Vines for drinks to learn all about Bespoke Opulence and the world of luxury travel. As I savored my Aperol spritz, Mel dove headfirst into the amazing brand she has built and why you should reach out to her for your next vacation!
What inspired the creation of Bespoken Opulence?
Starting Bespoke Opulence was a natural step for me, inspired by my time as an executive assistant. I've always found joy in helping others navigate their daily lives, and my love for travel only deepens that passion. Seeing one of my former bosses benefit from a concierge service highlighted a real need in the market. The aspiration to become my own boss has long been a personal passion, patiently awaiting the discovery of my true calling and the right path to pursue. Though it's been a learning curve, I wouldn't trade this journey for anything.
Could you provide us with an overview of the services your concierge company offers?
Bespoke Opulence offers virtual luxury concierge services, specializing in lifestyle management and travel. We cover personal assistance, travel planning, dining reservations, entertainment recommendations, and more. Our services also extend to health, wellness, home management, and sourcing luxury goods. Additionally, we provide professional support such as VIP recruitment, employee recognition, and team-building activities. Through our meticulously crafted services, Bespoke Opulence aims to enhance and simplify every facet of our clients' lives, providing them with unparalleled convenience and giving them back the luxury of time.
Bespoke Opulence operates on a membership-based model. Could you please provide more details about what the membership encompasses and highlight what sets your company apart from others in the luxury travel market?
Bespoke Opulence offers a variety of membership options to cater to a range of needs. We have an Annual Membership that grants members 24/7 access to our services and members are billed monthly at a reduced hourly rate. An expense account option allows for convenient purchases on their behalf. For those seeking a shorter commitment, the Short Term Membership (3-month minimum) allows for advance hour purchases, available from 7am-9pm, with excess hours billed at month-end. Additionally, a la carte requests come with a separate hourly rate and are invoiced at project completion. What truly distinguishes us is our meticulous research and personalization process. We start by requesting members to fill out an extensive questionnaire, enabling us to tailor their membership to their unique needs and desires. Our approach is marked by a personal touch and empathetic understanding of our members' requirements. We understand the value of your time and strive to free it up, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
Being the owner of a luxury concierge company, you must have traveled extensively. Can you share the most captivating destination you've explored?
After visiting 14 countries, I would say Thailand and Indonesia have been my favorites thus far. But Bali, specifically my stay at the Renaissance Bali Resort & Spa followed by the Bulgari Resort, stands out as the most captivating destination I've experienced. While both resorts were exceptional, the Bulgari epitomized true luxury. Its villa, exquisite cuisine, and private beach provided everything I desired, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
What trends have you observed in the luxury travel industry, and is there a new must-visit destination that stands out?
Lately, in my research and discussions with friends and connections, Spain has emerged as an incredibly popular destination. It seems to be the go-to place to visit at the moment, and I've personally included it in my list of must-see locations for future travel.
When embarking on a luxury vacation, what travel essentials would you recommend everyone pack?
For a luxury vacation, consider designer luggage, a curated wardrobe, and some fine jewelry to add a touch of elegance to any ensemble. Bring premium toiletries, high-end footwear, and arrange private transportation for seamless travel. Prioritize exclusive experiences and top-tier accommodations for ultimate comfort. Don't forget specialized insurance and security services for peace of mind. These essentials ensure a refined and memorable vacation.
If our readers are interested in booking their next vacation with Bespoke Opulence, what is the recommended way to get in touch with you and your team?
I would like to express my gratitude for this interview opportunity. It is a privilege to share information about Bespoke's services with your esteemed readers. For those looking to reclaim valuable time in managing their lifestyle and travel requirements, please visit our website at www.bespokeopulence.com or feel free to contact me directly at mel@bespokeopulence.com. Thank you once again.
