Press
BLLA In The News
Hospitality Net
Say Yes to Travel
Giving a Voice to Boutique Hotels
If you are in the world of boutique hotels, you know Frances and Ariela Kiradjian, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind the Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA) and Stay Boutique. Frances, with over 25 years of hospitality and travel experience, created BLLA to help give a voice to independent, upscale hotel properties and offer them resources to be able to level the playing field with larger hotel chains.
Travel Weekly
Focus on Hotels: Brand New World
While it may seem as though it’s more challenging than ever to remain a completely unaffiliated, independent property in a post-Covid-19 world, the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA), which counts approximately 300 independent hotels among its membership, is hoping to buck that assumption.
Skift
Boutique Hotels Push Back on Major Chain Brand Conversion Tactics
The world’s largest hotel companies expect independent hoteliers to flock to flag affiliations and their accompanying global reach during the coronavirus recovery to rebuild business. Don’t hold your breath, says an organization representing boutique hotels. The Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association and partner organization StayBoutique launched this week the #BoutiqueStrong campaign and council to provide boutique hotels and businesses with resources to rebuild and succeed during the coronavirus economic recovery.
Magazine
How hotels are keeping travelers, employees safe
Frances and her co-founder and partner Ariela Kiradjian added everyone is “implementing social distancing, a mask and temperature check requirement for employees, hand sanitizer stations, more frequent cleaning of high-touch areas, employee training, and generally only having takeout/grab’n’go at restaurants for now.”
Fodor's
8 Ways Your Hotel Stay Will Be Different Post-Pandemic
The new coronavirus is changing everything about how we live in the short-term, and maybe forever too. Travel won’t end, thank goodness—as Ariela Kiradjian, co-founder and COO of the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association, says “Travel is what brings our world together, it is how we learn about other cultures and is an important part in people’s lives.” But even though travel will resume, we should not plan for it to look the same. Here’s what to expect in the hotel world.
Magazine
How to minimize your Covid-19 risk in Mexico
"Boutique isn't for the masses," said Ariela Kiradjian, co-founder and COO of the Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association. "It's for someone who wants a specialized experience that no one else is getting." Boutique hotels are traditionally smaller properties, as well, with a smaller staff and far less daily foot traffic.
The Ringer
Room & Pod: The Hot New Hotel Amenity Is a Podcast Studio
Hosting a studio also emphasizes the boutique hotel’s position as a creativity hub. “Boutique hotels are so much more than a place to sleep,” says Ariela Kiradjian, co-founder of Stay Boutique and COO of the Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association. “They capitalize off of the reality that travelers will invest in unique immersive experiences.” The Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association says it doesn’t currently have hard numbers on the growth of the hotel podcast studio market, but that it’s working on compiling numbers during the next few years. Kiradjian expects the trend to grow, but notes that at least for the immediate future, they’re most likely to turn up only in metro areas and upscale boutique hotels, as their target demographic are more likely to be “creatives.”
LODGING Magazine
Broadening Boutique: Ariela Kiradjian of BLLA and Stay Boutique on the Future of Boutique
The mother-daughter duo of Ariela and Frances Kiradjian is most definitely a dynamic one. Together, they run both the Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA) and its publication, Stay Boutique, as well as a several boutique-focused events all over the world. Ariela, who holds the position of COO, connected with LODGING to discuss this week’s Boutique Hotel Investment Conference, the progress of the association’s rebranding initiative, which began one year ago, and how boutique is becoming an industry unto itself.
Northwest Prime Time
'There is a little bit of boutique in all of us!'
The Boutique Lifestyle Leaders Association (BLLA), which was originally The Boutique & Lifestyle Lodging Association, is the official organization for the world’s boutique lifestyle leaders. Frances Kiradjian and Ariela Kiradjian, founders of BLLA, started the association and corresponding stay-boutique.com website back in 2009.
How to Share Podcast
Ep. 05: How to market your hotel now, with Frances & Ariela Kiradjian.
Frances and Ariela Kiradjian, the mother-daughter duo behind the Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders Association, and Stay Boutique, are here today to help me answer some of the many questions we face as hotel marketers, owners, and travelers.Episode 4: Boutique & Independent Hotels with Ariela Kiradjian
JustLuxe
Why Boutique Hotels Will Hit the Sweet Spot for a Staycation This Summer
Featured In
BLLA Mission Statement
The BLLA was created to unify, empower, educate and advocate for a growing community of creators within the dynamic realm of boutique lifestyle—not only establishing and maintaining industry standards, but boldly advancing its cultural impact and category innovation.
We are your voice and your megaphone. We are your home and your launching pad. A catalyst for trends and unapologetic pioneer, the BLLA is where the best in boutique gathers to become better—from hoteliers and hospitality entrepreneurs to visionaries in retail, fashion, beauty, fitness, and beyond.
Boutique is powerful. Boutique is captivating. And above all, boutique is a global movement that we are proud to lead. Our mission? To counteract corporate monotony and champion creativity. To forget the forgettable and forge the once-in-a-lifetime. To break down doors and link the most brilliant minds in the industry. To build on our now 10-year legacy of reimagining the multifaceted future of boutique—together.
The association was founded in response to a demand for a collective voice for this fragmented industry. Today the association has members around the world. As the lifestyle industry sees an ever-increasing demand from discerning boutique-seeking clients, BLLA is primarily dedicated to creating greater economic success for independent business owners by helping them level the playing field against larger brands and chains.
We have verified over 10,000 authentic boutique hotels around the world (following guidelines and categories listed here) and we are working with nearly 200 hotels closely with the BLLA-intensive program.
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Leadership
Frances Kiradijan
Founder & CEO
BLLA, StayBoutique
Ariela Kiradjian
Partner & COO
BLLA, StayBoutique
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Latest Press Releases
Though Leadership
Lark Hotels’ Flagship Greater Boston Property, Cambridge Common House, Now Open in Harvard Square
Cambridge, Massachusetts — Lark, the premium New England-based development and management company encompassing multiple boutique hospitality brands, has opened their flagship Greater Boston property, Cambridge Common House. A 16-room gem located on Garden Street on the edge of iconic Harvard Square, Cambridge Common House boasts a sophisticated, timeless design with unexpected nods to the area’s academia. Image courtesy of James Reed Photography “As a lifelong New Englander, I have always had my sights set on opening a Greater Boston property, but we didn’t want to debut in the city with just anything,” said Lark Founder and Chairman, Rob Blood. “With a rich history, prime location, and an identity that feels innately Cambridge, Cambridge Common House fits firmly in Lark’s ethos to create independent properties with a deep sense of place. It’s the perfect entry point into Greater Boston for Lark and we are so proud to welcome guests starting this spring.” Once the home of the influential Howe family, the building has long been a gathering place for students, artists, and intellectuals. Over nearly two centuries, it has witnessed Cambridge’s transformation from a post-Colonial village to a hub of commerce, activism, and innovation. Today, many of Cambridge Common House’s rooms overlook the historic Cambridge Common, a sprawling public park that once served as a military training ground and barracks, and now boasts several memorial statues, gardens, walking paths, and a large playground. Image courtesy of James Reed Photography Designed by Newburyport’s Elder & Ash, Cambridge Common House’s interior decor is rooted in traditional elements with museum-quality finishes and fixtures. Textured wallpaper in classic stripe patterns and flora and fauna motifs line the walls, and a color palette of deep greens and blues, neutrals, and gem tones create a worldly, polished environment without pretension. Rich woodwork and mouldings elevate each guest room’s original architectural charm, and working fireplaces give rooms warmth even in Boston’s chilliest months. Furniture at Cambridge Common House echoes this refined atmosphere, with vintage tufted Chesterfield chairs, mahogany canopy beds in some rooms, and built-in, deep crimson wraparound beds in the smallest accommodations. While most of the building’s design elements are anchored in tradition, striking abstract artwork provides playful contrast throughout the property. The doorway to each guest room is lined with floor-to-ceiling striped drapery, creating the feel of a grand entrance to guests’ own private pied-à-terres. Guests at the lodging house are welcomed to enjoy a curated housemade breakfast spread in the lounge space each morning, where there is plenty of space to gather, read, or work. Coffee, water, and sweet afternoon treats are also available daily for guests. Image courtesy of James Reed Photography Opening room rates at Cambridge Common House range from $299 to $599 for double occupancy, depending on room type. Two ADA rooms are located on the property’s lowest level, each featuring a private sunken patio. While parking is not available onsite, guests are welcomed to pull into the property’s driveway upon arrival to unlead luggage and begin the check-in process prior to parking in one of the area’s several nearby lots and garages. For more information about Cambridge Common House or to download high resolution images, please visit cambridgecommonhouse.com. About Lark: Lark is a leading operator of boutique hotels under 150 keys in North America. Lark combines a tech-forward ethos, hands-on development expertise, and people-first culture to maximize profitability for small to mid-sized hotels. Their portfolio of approximately 75 independent spirited properties delivers compelling guest experiences through distinctive branding, local storytelling, and thoughtful, place-based design. Lark’s branded hotel collections include its signature Lark Hotels, Bluebird by Lark, Blind Tiger Guest Houses, and AWOL. The group also manages independent hotels across a diverse range of markets. For additional information about Lark, visit larkhospitality.com. About Lark Hotels: Lark Hotels weave together striking design, local culture, and playful touches to create one-of-a-kind escapes that feel both timeless and unexpected. Each Lark Hotel tells a unique story, brought to life through thoughtfully curated design, rich local connections, and a touch of playful charm. Conveniently located in the heart of iconic destinations, each Lark Hotel promises a unique and immersive boutique experience where guests are welcomed with warm hospitality and personal touches throughout their stay. Lark Hotels also participates in the On a Lark loyalty program, which rewards guests with welcome gifts, options for upgrades, and early access to promotions and events. For additional information about Lark Hotels, visit larkhotels.com.
Though Leadership
Lark to Open The Penny Lane in Hampton Bays, New York, This Spring
Hampton Bays, New York — Lark, the premium development and management company encompassing multiple boutique hospitality brands, will open its first Hamptons property, The Penny Lane, in Hampton Bays, New York, this month. Overlooking a peaceful canal off Shinnecock Bay, just two miles from the Atlantic Ocean, The Penny Lane reflects the water that surrounds it, with polished coastal design and thoughtful, modern amenities. In addition to its 18 rooms and suites, a private outdoor pool, and waterfront lawn, The Penny Lane boasts ample dock space for guest use. “The Penny Lane marks our first foothold in the Hamptons, and it’s an exciting debut,” said Lark CEO, Peter Twachtman. “Hampton Bays is a hidden gem in the Hamptons, perfect for travelers who seek authenticity, with upscale accommodations and experiences. We love the fact that the property honors its roots as a classic American motor inn, while intentionally upgrading for sophisticated travelers. We are excited to introduce guests to another side of the Hamptons – one we have fallen head over heels for.” Just two hours from New York City, The Penny Lane is a waterfront hotel in Hampton Bays, a hamlet in the town of Southampton, well-known for its expansive, uncrowded beaches and bodies of water that make it ideal for surfers, kiteboarders and sport fishing. Tucked away in a waterside residential neighborhood, the hotel is biking distance to several local restaurants, ranging from a local institution, The Station Bar, to the lively scene, sunsets and Mediterranean fare at Amalfi and other popular spots like Cowfish and Rumba. The Penny Lane echoes the feel of its location in being stylish without pretension, and modern while still embracing its past. Designed by the award-winning team at KKAD Design & Architecture Studio and Laura Partica Studio, The Penny Lane embraces the same relaxed charm of its origins as a classic Hamptons motor inn. Custom wallpaper behind each bed pays homage to the location with bespoke Hampton Bays images. A breezy palette of white and cream is accented by pops of olive and sage green and warm wooden furniture. The property’s 18 guest rooms are spread among several buildings on the property — The Cottages, The Main House, Poolside, and Waterside. The three Cottages feature six king rooms, complete with private, covered porches. The Main House features three rooms, which share a living area with comfortable seating and may be booked individually or as a full buyout. Three guest rooms, one of them a two-bedroom suite, are located in the Poolside building. And the Waterside building offers six guest rooms, including one two-bedroom suite, and three one-bedroom suites, whose living areas feature sleeper sofas, which may accommodate more guests, if desired. The lounge and breakfast area at The Penny Lane is a light-filled gathering space on the first level of the main house with expansive greenhouse-style windows looking toward the pool. There, guests can relax in soft seating, browse a small retail selection, or enjoy the bar. Room rates at The Penny Lane begin at $349 per night for double occupancy, and vary depending on room type and date of stay. Pets are welcome at The Penny Lane for an additional $50 per night cleaning fee. In addition to high speed internet, filtered water throughout the property, luxe bedding and bath amenities and an outdoor pool, the hotel offers complimentary bikes for guests to explore the neighborhood or ride to the ocean beaches. A daily spread of homemade breakfast items is available to all guests, and changes seasonally but always features an artisanal bagel bar. Guests who plan to keep a boat at the onsite dock can call the hotel in advance of their stay to confirm availability and request assistance with docking. The Penny Lane is open seasonally each year from April through October. For more information about the hotel or to download high resolution photography, visit thepennylane.com. About LarkLark is a leading operator of boutique hotels under 150 keys in North America. Lark combines a tech forward ethos, hands-on development expertise, and people-first culture to maximize profitability for small to mid-sized hotels. Their portfolio of approximately 75 independent spirited properties delivers compelling guest experiences through distinctive branding, local storytelling, and thoughtful, place based design. Lark’s branded hotel collections include its signature Lark Hotels, Bluebird by Lark, Blind Tiger Guest Houses, and AWOL. The group also manages independent hotels across a diverse range of markets. For additional information about Lark, visit larkhospitality.com. About Lark HotelsLark Hotels weave together striking design, local culture, and playful touches to create one-of-a-kind escapes that feel both timeless and unexpected. Each Lark Hotel tells a unique story, brought to life through thoughtfully curated design, rich local connections, and a touch of playful charm. Conveniently located in the heart of iconic destinations, each Lark Hotel promises a unique and immersive boutique experience where guests are welcomed with warm hospitality and personal touches throughout their stay. Lark Hotels also participates in the On a Lark loyalty program, which rewards guests with welcome gifts, options for upgrades, and early access to promotions and events. For additional information about Lark Hotels, visit larkhotels.com.
Though Leadership
RBS Acquires Zeko to Accelerate AI Innovation Across Hospitality
ST. LOUIS, MO — RBS, a global provider of operator-first hospitality technology, today announced the acquisition of Zeko, an AI-powered guest engagement platform purpose-built for the hotel industry. The acquisition strengthens RBS’s guest experience capabilities as the company continues building an intelligent, unified platform designed to simplify operations and drive revenue across hospitality environments. Zeko’s platform automates the guest journey from pre-arrival through checkout, combining AI-powered upselling, WhatsApp automation, digital check-in, and real-time concierge features into a single, easy-to-deploy layer that works alongside existing property management systems. Zeko is trusted by leading brands and hotels that have reported revenue increases of up to 20% through smarter guest engagement and ancillary sales. By integrating Zeko’s capabilities, RBS expands its ability to deliver intelligent, guest-facing tools that drive ancillary revenue, reduce staff workload, and create more consistent, personalized experiences across hotels, resorts, ranches, lodges, outfitters, restaurants, food and beverage operations, and retail environments. “The guest experience is where hospitality businesses win or lose,” said Glenn Turner, CEO of RBS. “Zeko gives operators a proven, intelligent layer that engages guests at every touchpoint, from the moment they book to the moment they check out. Adding that capability to the RBS platform is a meaningful step forward for the operators we serve.” The acquisition reflects RBS’s continued investment in AI innovation, not as a standalone feature, but as a foundational capability integrated across its products and services. “Joining forces with RBS enables us to scale our guest engagement platform across thousands of properties globally,” said Manit Deep Prashar, Founder & CEO of Zeko. “Zeko was built to close the gap between rising guest expectations and operational complexity in hotels. Together, we are extending that capability worldwide — enabling operators to automate routine workflows, unlock new revenue streams, and deliver seamless guest experiences that keeps them coming back.” About RBS RBS (Romeo Bravo Software) builds operator-first technology for the global hospitality industry. Trusted by more than 4,800 properties in over 35 countries, RBS serves hotels, resorts, ranches, lodges, outfitters, restaurants, food and beverage operations, and retail businesses. Its portfolio includes YellowStone, an all-in-one system for ranches, lodges, and outfitters; WinCloud, a modern cloud-based hotel management solution; and Hashmato, an end-to-end platform supporting restaurant, foodservice, and retail operations. Together, RBS solutions are designed to replace fragmented systems with unified, AI-enabled technology that helps operations deliver exceptional guest experiences and grow more profitable. About Zeko Zeko is an AI-powered guest engagement platform that helps hotels effectively engage with guests from pre-arrival through checkout via tailored concierge features, Whatsapp automation & real time upselling. Built by hospitality operators with a deep understanding of operational challenges and the demands of modern travelers. Zeko operates under the leadership of CEO Manit Deep Prashar and VP of Growth Umesh Sharma. The platform integrates seamlessly with existing property management systems and serves hotels, resorts, and vacation properties worldwide. The terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
Though Leadership
Registration opens for Hotel & Resort Design South 2026
Hotel & Resort Design South (HRDS) 2026 has opened visitor registration, inviting the global hospitality design industry to the Miami Beach Convention Center on 9 – 10 June. The free-to-attend exhibition and conference is dedicated to the design of hotels, resorts, and private island destinations in the Southern States, Caribbean, and Latin America, offering focused opportunities for product discovery, knowledge-building, and meaningful connections. The hotel and resort development pipeline across the Southern States and CALA regions continue to expand at pace. According to Lodging Econometrics’ Q2 2025 Hotel Construction Pipeline Trend Report, Latin America recorded 22% year-on-year growth, with 748 projects in progress and 360 developments forecast to open or be underway through 2027. With major growth across Mexico, Brazil and the Dominican Republic, the demand for design expertise, professional services, and innovative products has never been greater. Leading developers, hotel operators, design and architect studios, and procurement firms will meet at HRDS to strategically source for the demand ahead, steering project success. Where hotel interior innovation comes to life HRDS taps into the very real need for high-quality products and specific professional services that will make this forecast for exponential growth become reality. With more than 250 exhibitors, specifiers can condense extensive product research into two efficient days, streamlining procurement processes and fast-tracking project timelines. Attendees can explore the vibrant show floor of design studios, interior suppliers, and manufacturers specialising in hotel and resort interiors, outdoor spaces, wellness, guest experience, hotel operations, and more. Amongst these will be 40 Product Showcase suppliers who will highlight their hero products, materials and solutions in a gallery-style display. The exhibits will reflect the diverse influences shaping hospitality design across the Southern States and CALA regions, from the creative styles, climatic conditions to regional regulations and cultural preferences that give each state and country its distinct, vibrant personality.Confirmed exhibitors include Molteni&C, Williams-Sonoma, Ikonni, Gabriella White Contract, Polywood, Elite Stone, Sherwood Bedding, Shademaker, Corston, and many more. Accredited content designed to inspire and inform The HRDS content program, sponsored by NEWH and accredited by the International Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC), stands as a platform empowering professionals to be at the forefront of hospitality design, spark new ideas, and develop in their careers. Speakers from top hotel brands, developer and procurement firms, and design studios will share their expertise through engaging debates, focused talks, Lunch & Learns, Meet the Brand Q&As covering the latest in hotel and resort design and guest experience. Topics will explore how branding informs projects from development to design, a spotlight on private island destinations, how regional identity shapes design in the Southern States, as well as insights into lifestyle and luxury, local influences and the latest industry developments. Networking at the heart of the event Dedicated to connection and collaboration, HRDS brings together all those involved in the development and design of hotels, resorts, and private island destinations – facilitating the space for attendees to create new partnerships across the industry. A variety of free-to-attend networking experiences can be enjoyed including the Opening Party, Happy Hour, association-led lunches, Speed Networking, off-site wellness activities, as well the dedicated HRDS lounge to hold meetings. Representatives from the likes of Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Accor, Marriott International, Hyatt, Wyndham, Six Senses, Kerzner International, The Parker Company, Beyer Brown, and JOI-Design will all be in attendance. Cross-sector connections HRDS attendees also gain access to the co-located Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Americas (CSI Americas), the world’s only event dedicated exclusively to cruise ship interior design. With 250 cross-sector exhibitors, content sessions, and networking opportunities, visitors can draw inspiration from both hospitality and cruise markets while meeting professionals working on newbuild and refurbishment cruise projects. Attend for free Hotel & Resort Design South takes place 9 – 10 June 2026 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Register today to secure your complimentary pass and join the hotel and resort design community in Miami. About Hotel & Resort Design SouthHotel & Resort Design South is the world’s only event dedicated exclusively to the design of hotels, resorts, and private island destinations across the Southern States, Caribbean and Latin America. For more information on Hotel & Resort Design South, please contact Senior Marketing Manager, Olivia Irving at olivia.Irving@elite-exhibitions.com.
Though Leadership