In this article we hear from Emma at Dimpsey Shepherd’s Hut, who has carefully created the ultimate occasion stay. We asked her questions on how she has created the best experience for her guests and what has inspired her.

"We’ve always aspired to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Chairman’s definition of luxury – 'luxury is achieved when service is intuitive and goes beyond obligation'. We try and pre-empt anything that guests might want and ensure that it’s there”. Dimpsey is known as one of our most luxurious shepherd’s huts; visible from the plush velvet furnishings to the superb comfort of the bed, the old record player and even the styling of the light switches. The hut is perfectly sized for two people and its extra additions, like the long recliner hot tub, means it’s often fully booked with couples celebrating an occasion.

Emma’s top tip is always to be prepared as guests don’t often tell you about an occasion until they arrive. Or, you’ll even get a text saying “she said yes!”. So, “you’ve always got to have a stock of bubbly to give to guests to say congrats”. Emma also advises that if guests do let you know in advance, try and get their names so that you can personalise decorations.

Seasonality is also important when it comes to offering the best service you can. In winter, there’s the log burner and the hot-tub, but it’s also nice to leave out a game of dominoes or some magazines. Emma also leaves Christmas decorations and a tree so that guests can decorate the hut themselves and get into the festive spirit!

Helping with celebrations is nothing out of the ordinary for Emma. Back in 2017 she even managed to find a ring shop open on a Sunday so that her guests could go and choose the ring together after the proposal! “Dimpsey is all about kicking back, relaxing and recharging”, she says, so taking the edge off her guest’s stay is a big part of their business. The experience has been such a success that they now have three shepherd's huts with us. As well as a “ginema” experience in the newly converted cinema room, which guests can book privately for themselves and enjoy gin & tonic with their favourite film.

If you would like some more information about how you can offer the ultimate occasion experience, please contact your Account Manager or read our top tips here.