Meet Rebecca Garwood, our Head Receptionist, who’s always on hand to ensure the Matfen Hall experience is nothing short of excellent. In this special edition of Tales From Our Estate, Rebecca speaks to us about her career progression at Matfen Hall, what her role entails, her favourite dishes on the menu and more!
How long have you worked in the hospitality industry, and how did you get started?
“I have worked in the hospitality industry for 8 years now, starting as most people do, working as a waitress in a rugby club. I then went on to supervising match day food stands, before working as a Head Receptionist for Matfen Hall.”
How long have you worked at Matfen Hall and has your role changed since you began?
“I will have been at Matfen Hall for 4 years this July, I have worked my way up from being a Receptionist to Reception Team Leader, now Head Receptionist.”
What does a typical day at the hotel look like for you?
“There are never two days the same on reception. Typically, it’s a mixture of welcoming guests, ensuring their needs are met and they’re settling in comfortably, being on hand to fulfil any requests and working through our daily admin tasks e.g. activity reports, detailed arrivals etc.”
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
“I enjoy greeting guests and being a part of the special experience Matfen Mall offers! I also enjoy working with my team and seeing them grow in confidence to love and appreciate their role in the experience like I do.”
What’s one special memory you have of your time at Matfen Hall?
“A few years ago, we helped a guest who was looking to propose to his partner, while they were at dinner, I went up to turn their room down and ‘set the mood’, covering their bed in rose petals, delivering some chocolates and a bottle of Prosecco so that when returned it felt very romantic. It was a lovely feeling to be a part of someone’s special day.
The couple still comes back to Matfen regularly, they are a special part of the Matfen Family.”
Where’s your favourite spot within Matfen Hall?
“My favourite spot is 100% the Great Hall – it is stunning, even more so when the sun is shining through the stained-glass window!”
What would you recommend that’s currently on the menu?
“I love the Chorizo Salad from the Bistro Menu and the Cannon of Lamb that’s served in the Emerald Restaurant is the best I’ve had.”
What do you enjoy outside of work?
“Typically, you’ll find me enjoying bottomless brunch, or on a walk making the most of Whitley Bay’s stunning coastline!
I enjoy seeing my family, going on walks, and going out to eat.”
If you could switch roles for the day, what would you do?
“I would love to be able to give amazing massages and facials so probably a Spa Therapist at The Retreat.”