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.
Read More
Leadership
Frances Kiradijan
Founder & CEO
BLLA, StayBoutique
Ariela Kiradjian
Partner & COO
BLLA, StayBoutique
Get in Touch
Inquire About Our Media Kit
Thank you for your interest. Please fill out the form to show your interest in advertising or partnering with BLLA. A team member will get back to you within 48 hours.
Latest Press Releases
Though Leadership
Lark Appoints Lynsey Kreitzer as Executive Vice President of Commercial Strategy
Portsmouth, New Hampshire — Lark, the premium development and management company encompassing multiple boutique hospitality brands, announces the appointment of longtime industry leader, Lynsey Kreitzer, as Executive Vice President of Commercial Strategy. In this new role for Lark, Kreitzer will collaborate with the company’s marketing, revenue, creative, and sales teams to pilot the brand through strategic growth, transformation, and market disruption. Lynsey Kreitzer | Lark Hotels Kreitzer brings more than 20 years of experience in hospitality commercial leadership to her role at Lark. Most recently, she served as Executive Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Sales at GF Hotels & Resorts, where she played a pivotal role in building and scaling integrated commercial teams, and overseeing strategy for a diverse portfolio that included branded, independent, and lifestyle assets. She is known for aligning sales, revenue management, marketing, and e-commerce under a unified strategy that delivers measurable results. Throughout her career, Kreitzer has led high-performing teams with a strong focus on data-driven decision-making, owner relationships, and long-term value creation. Her approach balances strategic rigor with a people-first leadership style, grounded in collaboration, accountability, and execution. Kreitzer is an active industry participant and is passionate about mentorship, talent development, and advancing the future of hospitality. “Lynsey joins our leadership team at a pivotal point in Lark’s trajectory,” said Lark CEO, Peter Twachtman. “After nearly doubling our management portfolio in 2025, and with ten openings on the horizon in 2026 across our branded and independent portfolios, her strategic guidance will help us to navigate the next chapter of expansion and transformation, and to drive visibility and profitability during this critical time.” Founded in 2012, Lark’s branded hotel collections include its signature Lark Hotels, Bluebird by Lark, Blind Tiger Guest House, and AWOL. The group also manages independent hotels throughout the country and across a diverse range of markets. Lark combines a tech-forward ethos, hands-on development expertise, and people-first culture to maximize profitability for small to mid-sized hotels. In 2025, seven Lark properties were awarded prestigious Michelin Keys from Michelin Guide, a coveted honor that recognizes the country’s most outstanding hotels. Lark’s most recent openings were The Bow Hotel, a reimagined hotel tucked within a historic warehouse in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and AWOL Stowe, the third location of its emerging AWOL brand in the heart of Stowe, Vermont, complete with an outdoor Nordic spa deck and free-standing A-frame cabins. The brand’s growth accelerated rapidly in late 2024 upon forming a joint venture with contextual hotel brand and operator, Life House. In 2026, Lark will welcome four properties to its signature Lark Hotels collection: Cambridge Common House (Cambridge, Massachusetts), The Penny Lane (Hampton Bays, New York), The Drew Hotel (Plymouth, Massachusetts), and Shore Haven (Falmouth, Massachusetts). 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, AWOL, and Life House. The group also manages independent hotels across a diverse range of markets. For additional information about Lark, visit larkhospitality.com.
Though Leadership
Four Lark Hotels Properties will Debut in 2026
New Additions to Lark’s Signature Brand Collection Include Spots in Cambridge, Falmouth, and Plymouth, Mass., and The Hamptons Portsmouth, New Hampshire — Lark, the premium New England-based development and management company encompassing multiple boutique hospitality brands, announces their premier lifestyle brand will grow exponentially in 2026 with the openings of four Lark Hotels properties: Cambridge Common House (Cambridge, Mass.), The Drew Hotel (Plymouth, Mass.), Shore Haven (Falmouth, Mass.) and The Penny Lane (Hampton Bays, New York). These debuts come on the heels of several additions to Lark’s portfolio of independent hotels under management, including The Vietta Hotel (Kissimmee, Florida), and The Painted Lady (Birmingham, Alabama). Slated to open in early spring 2026, Cambridge Common House will be a boutique lodging house just outside of Cambridge’s Harvard Square at 2 Garden Street. The property will have 16 rooms, all uniquely designed by Elder & Ash, as well as a lower level lounge space for guests to enjoy breakfast, refreshments, and coffee throughout the day. Set in a fully renovated historic building in Plymouth, Massachusetts, The Drew Hotel will showcase 25 beautifully appointed guestrooms in the town’s central downtown area, just steps from the harbor. The name Drew is deeply rooted in the early history of Plymouth, dating back to John Drew Sr., an English settler who arrived around 1660. The Drew Hotel is expected to open in spring 2026. Formerly The Drake Inn in Hampton Bays, New York, The Penny Lane will open its doors in the spring of 2026 after a full renovation. The 18-room property is environmentally conscious with no single-use plastics, and solar energy. The Penny Lane will feature amenities like a pool, waterfront location with boat slips, and pet-friendly accommodations. Cambridge Common House Shore Haven, formerly known as the Beach Breeze Inn in Falmouth, Massachusetts, will debut after an extensive redesign and rebrand in spring of 2026. This 21-room boutique hotel is set in the former home of the Falmouth Glass Factory. It’s walking distance to the beach and features an outdoor pool and multiple lounge spaces. “2026 will be a banner year for Lark,” said Lark Founder and Chairman, Rob Blood. “Each of these four properties will bring something really special to the hospitality landscape. From a historic lodging house in Cambridge to a sustainable, oceanfront hotel in the Hamptons, these openings speak to the ethos of our company. They’re character-rich properties, each with an independent spirit, and the warm, customized service Lark is known for.” Lark’s most recent acquisition was 907 Main in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Previously operated by Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy, Lark’s industry expertise allowed 907 Main to reopen in a matter of weeks following Sonder’s filing for bankruptcy. In 2025, seven Lark properties were awarded prestigious Michelin Keys from Michelin Guide, a coveted honor that recognizes the country’s most outstanding accommodations. Lark’s most recent openings were The Bow Hotel, a reimagined hotel tucked within a historic warehouse in Portsmouth, and AWOL Stowe, the third location of its emerging AWOL brand in the heart of Stowe, Vermont, complete with an outdoor Nordic spa deck and free-standing A-frame cabins. In late 2024, the brand’s growth accelerated rapidly upon forming a joint venture with contextual brand and operator, Life House. Cambridge Common House 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, AWOL, and Life House. 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, points for stays, options for upgrades, and early access to promotions and events. For additional information about Lark Hotels, visit larkhotels.com.
Though Leadership
hotelkit Wins Prestigious Hotel Tech Awards in 4 Categories
Recognized for the sixth consecutive year for excellence in Staff Collaboration, Housekeeping, Employee Engagement & Maintenance Software. hotelkit, the global hotel operations platform based in Salzburg, Austria, has once again achieved top honors at the 2026 Hotel Tech Awards, taking home #1 rankings in four key categories and securing its sixth consecutive year of recognition for excellence in hotel technology. Awarded #1 in: Staff Collaboration Software Housekeeping Software Employee Engagement Software Hotel Maintenance Software The Hotel Tech Awards, powered by Hotel Tech Report, are widely regarded as the most trusted awards program in the hospitality technology sector. Each year 2.5 million hotel industry professionals use HotelTechReport.com to make informed technology purchasing decisions. This year, more than 2,600 hotel software companies from around the world competed for recognition. The evaluation is not based on jury decisions or popularity votes, but on a transparent, data-driven methodology. Rankings are determined by verified reviews from hoteliers across more than 120 countries, ensuring an objective and reliable benchmark of excellence. “Being recognized for the sixth year in a row shows that our focus on simplifying hotel operations continues to make a real impact,” says Marius Donhauser, Co-Founder & CEO of hotelkit. “Hoteliers around the world – from independent boutique properties to global hotel chains – are facing the same challenges. The fact that hotelkit is trusted across different markets and cultures confirms the global relevance of our solution and motivates us to keep building smarter workflows, stronger communication, and more efficient hotel operations.” With more than 4,000 hotels in over 85 countries, hotelkit’s cloud-based solution centralizes communication and task management across all departments - from housekeeping and maintenance to the front desk and management. By connecting teams and digitizing operational workflows, hotelkit enables hotels to reduce manual errors, improve staff productivity, and deliver a more consistent guest experience. U.S. hoteliers, in particular, are turning to platforms like hotelkit to: Streamline team communication across shifts and departments Automate workflows and tasks and ensure accountability Enhance maintenance response times to protect guest satisfaction Reduce operational costs without compromising service quality Scale efficiently across single properties or entire portfolios About hotelkitFounded in Salzburg, Austria, hotelkit is a global SaaS platform designed to simplify and optimize daily hotel operations. The all-in-one solution connects teams across departments, supports housekeeping, maintenance, and service coordination, and fosters collaboration throughout the property. Trusted by more than 4,000 hotels in 85+ countries, hotelkit helps hospitality teams work smarter and deliver exceptional guest experiences. Learn more at www.hotelkit.net.
Though Leadership
CIIC PR Selected as Agency of Record for Sushi by Boū
NEW YORK, NY — CIIC PR is proud to announce its selection as the Agency of Record for Sushi by Boū, the flagship brand of national hospitality group Simplevenue, led by Erika London and Michael Sinensky. The partnership brings together two teams aligned in creativity, innovation, and a shared vision for elevating experiential hospitality nationwide. With more than 23+ locations across major U.S. markets, Sushi by Boū has redefined modern omakase by transforming intimate spaces into vibrant, high-energy tasting experiences. Guests step through discreet entrances into energetic and captivating spaces where chef craftsmanship, curated cocktails, and imported sakes create the brand’s signature atmosphere. As one of the fastest-growing omakase concepts in the U.S., Sushi by Boū is expanding rapidly, building on its presence in New York, Florida, and Puerto Rico while breaking ground in new markets across the country. Sushi by Boū is also making its mark in the hotel world, teaming up with major hotel brands to turn underused spaces into vibrant, experience-driven dining destinations nationwide. Current hotel partners include the Sanctuary Hotel (Times Square), W Hoboken, Dream Nashville, Hotel Lincoln in Chicago, and the PGA National Resort (Palm Beach Gardens), just to name a few. “Sushi by Boū is a true trailblazer in the omakase space, redefining the dining experience with creativity, precision, and personality,” said Carolyn Izzo, Founder & CEO of CIIC PR. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Erika London, CEO and Co-Founder of Simplevenue, to bring more recognition to the brand within the hospitality industry. Together, we look forward to building bold storytelling moments, amplifying media exposure, and supporting the continued growth of this dynamic hospitality concept.” As part of the campaign objectives, CIIC PR will develop and execute a strategic communications program that strengthens Simplevenue’s brand presence across the U.S., with a strong focus on positioning Sushi by Boū as a leader in experiential hospitality. To drive visibility in key markets, the agency will implement targeted media relations, influencer engagement, and brand storytelling efforts that highlight the concept’s unique blend of culinary artistry and immersive dining. In addition, CIIC will support the brand’s marketing strategy as Sushi by Boū opens new locations and expands within existing markets nationwide. About Sushi By BoūSushi by Boū is redefining the sushi experience across the country with its high-end omakase served in an eclectic, speakeasy-style setting. Omakase, meaning “I’ll leave it up to you,” invites guests to surrender to the chef’s mastery as they’re guided through a tasting of meticulously selected, sustainable seafood. Each bite is a sensory experience - thoughtfully balanced in flavor, texture, and presentation. Guests can enjoy a timed omakase at intimate 4- to 12-seat counters, featuring the freshest fish sourced both locally and globally. Expert sushi chefs guide each guest through the meal, making every visit feel personal and exclusive. Complement your dining experience with handmade cocktails, premium sake, and rare Japanese whiskeys. For more information, visit sushibybou.com or email info@sushibybou.com. Follow @sushibybou_ on Instagram. About SimplevenueSimplevenue is an NYC-based hospitality group led by restaurateurs and Founders Erika London and Michael Sinensky, specializing in curating underutilized spaces with unique food & beverage concepts. With over 15 years of experience, Simplevenue brings an elegant and new-age touch to a classic take on the old-school Sushi Counter. Simplevenue's flagship brand, Sushi by Boū, and sister brand Sushi Suite currently have locations across the U.S., including the Sanctuary Hotel (Times Square), Hotel 32|32 (NoMad) and Super Nice Coffee (Chelsea) in New York City; Westchester Place (New Rochelle), City Beer Hall (Albany), and Sydney’s “Taylor” Made Cuisine (Westhampton Beach) in New York; Hotel Lincoln (Lincoln Park), Claridge House (Gold Coast), The Emily (West Loop), Prosecco (River North) in Chicago; Boca Raton, Benny’s on the Beach (Lake Worth) and PGA National Resort in South Florida; W Hoboken (Hoboken) and Ani Ramen (Jersey City) in New Jersey; Dream Nashville in Tennessee; Citizen M in Washington, DC; and inside the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel in Puerto Rico. Also, under the Simplevenue umbrella are Fins and Scales, which offers a timed Kosher omakase experience; and Omakaseed, which offers a timed plant-based experience. More venues nationwide are in the pipeline. Simplevenue connects experiential food and beverage concepts with world-class venues to transform underutilized real estate into revenue-generating spaces. For more information, email info@simplevenue.com. About CIIC PRCIIC PR is an award-winning, full-service public relations and marketing agency with over 29 years of experience delivering impactful campaigns across the travel & hospitality, food & beverage, and lifestyle sectors. Our integrated services include media and influencer relations, strategic marketing, social media, branded partnerships, and event management. Headquartered in New York with offices in Miami and Los Angeles, CIIC also maintains affiliate partnerships in Canada and Mexico, and is a proud member of latamPR and Tribe Global—expanding our global reach throughout Latin America, Europe, and Asia. CIIC is a certified woman-owned business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, please visit www.ciicpr.com, email us at connect@ciicpr.com, or call (845) 358-3920 x11.
Though Leadership