Sonesta Hotels recently announced several notable developments: the reinvention of The James, the launch of Sonesta Essential, and a new marketing effort called Famous Yet Nameless.
The James
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has added The James to its U.S. and Latin America franchise portfolio, positioning it as a high-end lifestyle brand for premier urban and resort destinations. The James Nomad in New York serves as the prototype for future properties. Later this year, two Royal Sonesta hotels—The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North and The Royal Sonesta Washington DC Dupont Circle—will reflag under The James brand.
© Sonesta Hotels
“The James is a lifestyle brand that provides guests with a unique hospitality experience based on high quality services and amenities supported by a timeless design,” said Elizabeth Harlow, chief marketing and brand officer at Sonesta. She explained that The James creates locally inspired environments that reflect each hotel’s community, aiming to build an emotional connection with guests through thoughtful design and service.
Sonesta Essential
Sonesta Essential embraces the company’s belief that the essence of travel is the thrill of being somewhere new, even for a single night. The brand focuses on delivering the core needs travelers expect: a comfortable bed, a clean room, and practical amenities that let guests concentrate on their journey rather than hotel frills.
“The James speaks to the modernist lifestyle traveler, while Sonesta Essential appeals to guests who want the essentials done right,” said Vera Manoukian, chief operating officer and executive vice president at Sonesta. She added that both brands respond directly to guest feedback and that launching them this year signals Sonesta’s commitment to offering distinct, high-quality experiences while maintaining the consistently excellent service guests expect across its hotels.
© Sonesta Hotels
Famous Yet Nameless
Sonesta’s new marketing campaign, Famous Yet Nameless, will roll out in four phases. Actress Judy Greer stars in the campaign’s first phase, helping introduce the concept to audiences. Subsequent phases will include travel and lifestyle influencers such as Hannah Ann Sluss, Mada Graviet, Luann Diez, Dayna Bolden, and Mary Ralph Lawson.
Reflecting on her involvement, Greer said she was grateful to be the leading face of Sonesta’s new campaign and praised the brand’s attention to detail and service across properties she visited. Her remarks highlight Sonesta’s goal of blending recognizable talent with authentic guest experiences as it expands its brand offerings and marketing reach.