Treating Your Customers Like Royalty

My husband and I recently celebrated at Bistro Bella Vita in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was absolutely divine and here’s why.

Yes, making online reservations was super convenient. And yes, the venue was interesting and the made-from-scratch, sustainably sourced food was, oh, so good. What was most memorable, however, and why we’ll certainly come back, was the way we were treated.

So, it was our 44th wedding anniversary and every staff in house must have received the memo. From the moment we entered they made us feel special—not that staff-singing, all-eyes-on-you, embarrassing modus—rather a genuine warmth that brought smiles to our hearts. Many of the staff individually came to our table and congratulated us. They asked how long we’ve been married and marveled at our years. Our server offered complimentary desserts (I chose tiramisu, gastro-swoon!). When we were leaving, she wished us many more years to come.

Treating us like royalty has made us loyal customers indeed. Next time we’re in western Michigan, you’ll find us dining at Bistro Bella Vita.

CX is King/Queen in 2023

Those in the know say customer experience, or CX, has become a top priority for consumers. Royal treatment may sound highfalutin, but it’s the name of the game for small business marketing.

What experience do your customers have when they patronize your business? Are they coming back for more? What can you do to make them feel like royalty?

Not sure? Ask them!

What I’m Tuned In To This Month

• Aldo Leopold Week, March 3-12: A digital lineup of awesome authors and interesting conversation.
• Guinness Chocolate Cake for St. Patty’s: Moist, rich, chocolate yumminess. I’m curious as to what flavor the Guinness brings to the cake.
• Black Ranchers Face Terrorism: Seriously, why do people treat one another with such cruelty? We need to ramp our level of humanity.
• Show love. Bake bread. And take time to develop the dough: I’ve become mesmerized by this artisan’s videos.

Wisconsin Outdoors is Calling.