For over the past 20 years, we’ve celebrated the Valley’s best. From the top businesses and professionals to the people who make it all happen, Arizona Foothills Magazine’s annual Best of Our Valley contest recognizes Arizona’s crème de la crème across more than 400 categories. From the best doctors and best resort down to the best cup of coffee you can find around town, each Best of titleholder is chosen by those who know the city best – our readers.
Each week, we’ll be highlighting individual winners from Best of Our Valley 2018, who share their advice, insights and thoughts on what it means to be a part of this exclusive list.
The Best of spotlight is on The Wigwam, which snagged Best Resort, Most Luxe Accommodations & Best Relaxing Resort Pool. Congrats, The Wigwam!
AFM: In a brief 2-3 sentences, please tell us a little bit about The Wigwam —
“Celebrating the 100th anniversary of its Organization House in this year, and the 90th anniversary of its official resort opening in 2019, The Wigwam is an iconic Arizona landmark resort with a rich history. What was once a gathering place for Ohio-based executives of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, today The Wigwam is situated on 440 acres of lush landscaping and luxurious Southwestern-style accommodations. The resort is a cornerstone of the West Valley that offers abundant and accessible opportunities to enjoy first-class dining, entertainment, shopping, recreation and adventure. Amenities include three pools with adult and family areas, three varying dining outlets, 54 holes of championship golf, nine lighted tennis courts, the 26,000-square-foot LeMonds – Aveda Salon and Spa and so much more.” – Martin Greenwood, Vice President Managing Director and General Manager, The Wigwam
AFM: What does it mean to you to be a Best of Our Valley winner?
“Being named Best in Our Valley is a true testament to our continued commitment to providing an oasis for West Valley locals and travelers alike. We strive to create enriching experiences that pay homage to our Southwestern history while ensuring that we meet the needs of today’s travelers. It is humbling to know that our guests from near and far consider The Wigwam the best retreat in the Valley.” – Martin Greenwood
AFM: In your opinion, what is the best part about being the winner for Best Resort, Most Luxe Accommodations & Best Relaxing Resort Pool?
“The best part of this recognition is to know that our guests view The Wigwam as a relaxing retreat for all where they can be pampered and feel at home. As we celebrate 90 years next year, we love that both local and out of towners can visit the resort and make a little history of their own. We have always been and continue to be devoted to providing the best hospitality in West Valley and are thrilled to see that we have delivered with excellence.” – Martin Greenwood
AFM: Have you seen any benefits as a result of being a BOOV winner?
“Consistently being recognized as a Best Of Our Valley winner has given The Wigwam the kind of local exposure that draws Arizona guests to experience our resort year-round. Being named Best Resort, Most Luxe Accommodations and Best Relaxing Resort Pool allows us to share our longstanding history of Southwestern hospitality with more guests whose own experiences and memories become a part of our storied resort’s narrative.” – Sarah Boyd, Social Media and Marketing Manager, The Wigwam
AFM: How does the team at The Wigwam put its “best” foot forward every day?
“The Wigwam’s secret to success is our dedicated employees who put their passion and excitement for the resort into everything they do. The entire team – from our dedicated housekeeping staff to the concierge department embodies the resort’s rich history and Southwestern hospitality. It’s committed employees like our longest standing employee, Red’s Bar & Grill host Jesse Davis who has been on staff for 48 years, whose warmth and enthusiasm charms guests and leaves them eager to return. Jesse’s unwavering devotion to The Wigwam and our guests has earned him a street on property named after him as well as Red’s Bar & Grill’s bestselling burger, The Jesse Burger.” – Martin Greenwood
Interested in participating or want to recommend a business, professional or individual for Best of Our Valley? Best of Our Valley 2019 is now accepting nominations. Click here to find out more!
