Member Spotlight: Mary Brandt of Hotel Escalante
Welcome to another Exclusive Yachts Member Spotlight, where we celebrate the inspiring journeys of our distinguished members. Today, we shine the spotlight on Mary Brandt, the visionary proprietor behind the enchanting Hotel Escalante and the exquisite restaurant Veranda E, located in the heart of downtown Naples.
A Journey from Healthcare to Hospitality
Mary Brandt’s remarkable journey is a testament to her resilience and passion for excellence. Before entering the hospitality industry, Mary was the President of CIGNA Healthcare in Indiana, overseeing a $900 million business. Her career in healthcare, backed by degrees in Nursing and Health Sciences, took her across the globe. During a business trip to Naples, she discovered the beauty of the area and decided to make it her home.
The Heart of Hotel Escalante
In 2004, Mary took a bold leap from corporate healthcare to become a hands-on entrepreneur, purchasing Hotel Escalante. Under her stewardship, the hotel has become a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility, featuring 11 uniquely designed bungalows, lush botanical gardens, a lap pool, and private patios. Mary’s dedication to sustainability is evident in the hotel’s extensive organic gardens, supplying fresh produce to Veranda E.
Veranda E: A Culinary Oasis
Veranda E, nestled within Hotel Escalante, is a culinary gem offering a blend of Asian-inspired and French-influenced dishes prepared with garden-fresh ingredients. The al fresco dining experience, set against tropical foliage and an ornate fountain, transports guests to an exotic oasis. Under the expert guidance of Chef and General Manager Marco Garcia, Veranda E delivers an intimate and extraordinary dining experience.
A Legacy of Passion, Resilience, and Yachting Excellence
Mary’s journey from a corporate executive to a hospitality entrepreneur is marked by her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to balance personal and professional life seamlessly. As a mother of two daughters, Emry and Allie, Mary hopes to inspire them and other young women to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams with inner joy and peace.
Her experience with Exclusive Yachts has been a highlight of her journey. Reflecting on her time as a member, Mary shared, “I had the most amazing time on the water with Exclusive Yachts celebrating my birthday.
It was truly magical… My closest friends on a gorgeous catamaran, a captain and crew with attention to every detail, and the grand finale of a perfect sunset! Such a memorable time, it’s an experience that you just want to repeat — and once a year is not enough!”
This sentiment was echoed during the “Seas the Day” event in May, hosted at her beautiful Hotel Escalante.
A Night to Remember: “Seas the Day” Event
Not only is Mary an Exclusive Yachts Member, but she was also recently a co-host of an Exclusive Yachts event. Co-sponsored by EY, BSWANKY and Naples Illustrated Magazine, the “Seas the Day” cocktail party at Hotel Escalante was nothing short of spectacular. Exclusive Yachts members, industry partners, and special invitees gathered poolside in the lush, tropical setting of the hotel to celebrate nautical chic and bespoke luxury. The event showcased the best of what both Exclusive Yachts and Hotel Escalante have to offer.
At Exclusive Yachts, we pride ourselves on offering unparalleled yachting experiences that embody luxury, elegance, and exclusivity. Our community of members, including remarkable individuals like Mary Brandt, enjoy access to the finest yachts and personalized services, ensuring every voyage is extraordinary.
Mary Brandt’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of passion and resilience. We are proud to have her as a member and to celebrate her incredible journey. Her involvement with Exclusive Yachts not only adds to her remarkable story but also exemplifies the exceptional experiences we offer.
For more about Mary Brandt and to experience the magic of Hotel Escalante and Veranda E, visit Hotel Escalante. To learn more about the unparalleled experiences an Exclusive Yachts Membership provides, click here.