Our Team
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Rishi Thakrar, F&B Manager
Meet Rishi, our incredible Food & Beverage Manager at the heart of our wedding magic. Joining the hotel family in March 2022, Rishi brings a decade of hospitality expertise to the table. Fluent in Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, and English, he effortlessly bridges cultural connections. Turning wedding dreams into reality is Rishi's forte, a skill he brought to life in his own Ontario celebration before jetting off to Mumbai for an unforgettable Indian wedding. Passionate about tailoring each event to perfection, he dives deep into discussions with couples and families, ensuring every detail aligns with their vision. From initial talks to the grand day, Rishi's dedication shines through, making dreams come true with his knack for saying 'yes' to even the most unique requests. With a warm smile and a commitment to personalization, Rishi transforms weddings into unforgettable, bespoke experiences.
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Alex Hancock, Executive Chef
Embark on a culinary journey with Alex, our seasoned Executive Chef, who has been crafting unforgettable experiences at our hotel for over a decade. With nearly 20 years of experience in hotels and culinary artistry, Alex has orchestrated weddings of all sizes, from intimate restaurant affairs to grand ballroom galas with 500+ guests. Whether couples have a specific vision in mind or choose to rely on the ingenuity of Alex and his team, magical moments unfold. He is the creative force behind translating wedding dreams into reality, adding a touch of sophistication to every plate.
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Shaunella Saldanha, Wedding Specialist
Introducing Shaunella, our new Wedding Specialist at the Hilton Vancouver Airport! Joining us in May 2024, Shaunella brings with her an impressive 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Much of her career was spent in Dubai, most recently heading up the events department at the luxurious Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. Shaunella has orchestrated hundreds of weddings, from intimate ceremonies of 2 to grand celebrations of 800. Her passion for seeing happy couples and families, and making their wedding visions come to life, is unmatched. Known for her quick thinking, meticulous planning, and ability to handle last-minute changes with ease, Shaunella ensures that every wedding goes off without a hitch. We're thrilled to have her expertise and enthusiasm on our team!