What sets Candlewood Suites apart from other hotels in Augusta? According to Betty Carter, the General Manager of the property, excellent Customer Service is top priority. “If you love to serve people, and much of our staff do, then nothing is too hard to do for a guest. We treat every guest like they have entered our home, smile, ask them in, give them something to drink and try and make sure they have everything they need,” said Betty Carter. Betty, who has an extensive background in hotel, restaurant, and sales management, has been working for Candlewood Suites since doors opened in August of 2007. 

Exceptional customer service is expected in a hotel, which constantly hosts medical and business professionals, devoted sports fans, military, and government officials. Betty is especially grateful for the Augusta Sports Council, stating, “It’s unbelievable what they bring in: The Ironman, The Masters Golf Tournament, Nike Peach Jam, just to name a few.”

Candlewood Suites is conveniently located near major centers of business such as Comcast, Costco, Club Car, John Deere, Serta, International Paper, DSM Chemical, ADP training center, Fort Gordon, Georgia Regents University, and University Hospital. Under the supervision of the General Manager, Betty’s team of ten works tirelessly to make those traveling on business feel right at home. 

The caliber of such service does not go unnoticed. Four out of five years in a row, Candlewood Suites has won the “Masters of Hospitality” award, which is handed out annually by the Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau (the award winning hotel received honorable mention on the year they did not win). “This is big stuff for us as we are up against larger hotels who have at least one hundred employees and I manage ten,” said Betty.

The General Manager attributes much of the hotels success to the support and longstanding relationship with the local Chambers of Commerce. “Being a member gives you the opportunity to meet the decision makers who are ultimately influencing those who book rooms,” said Betty. 

As an extended stay hotel, Candlewood Suites is built to accommodate and cater to business travelers. Each spacious suite is designed to provide a home base for comfort and productivity. Guests will find a kitchen equipped for in-room dining, in addition to a recliner and a large desk. With an on-site business center, Candlewood Suites provides ample working space with the benefits of office amenities such as free printing, high-speed internet access, faxes, copies, and computer stations. 

In an effort to facilitate relaxation, guests can take advantage of the free movie and music library offered by the concierge, along with an innovative service known as the “lending locker.” This system allows equipment such as crock pots, George Forman grills, juicers, and more to be rented free of charge. Although there is an on-site fitness center, if guests prefer a change of scenery, Candlewood Suites provides complimentary passes to three Gold’s Gym locations. Why not rest easy at a hotel where so many amenities are complimentary? 

Betty is proud that Augusta’s economy is not solely dependent on one great attraction, like so many other cities. Although favorable, Betty’s opinions about her city are not without reservations. Despite booming business and tourism, the growing inventory of hotel rooms may be overpowering the actual demand for travelers. As General Manager, Betty has every intention to “remain innovative and keep building strong relationships with guests. The people who know we will continue to take care of them will keep coming back. That’s how I stay above the water and maintain a high occupancy.” 

Stay tuned for a Candlewood Suites app that will allow guests to check in using their smartphones. According to Betty, Augusta is a “sleeping giant,” that will continue to bring in business, generate revenue, and impress tourists, all factors which motivate the team at Candlewood Suites to strive for the highest level of customer service.