Case Study
Driftwood Lodge

When Derek and his team took over marketing for the lodge, they saw right away that their entire online presence needed a facelift. They were using out-of-date photos on their own website, which was hosted on an outdated domain. Derek had experience updating hotel websites, but he knew that they needed a powerhouse content management system that was built specifically for hotels to generate more bookings.  

“We needed a website that would hold your attention,” explains Derek. “We’re all inundated with websites and social media. You only have a few seconds to grab visitors’ attention and get the booking. Hotel websites must be well-designed and put the photos upfront, while also being functional and easy to navigate.”   

In addition to updating the website, the property needed an OTA refresh. Information was inconsistent and incomplete, which was losing them bookings. Manually auditing and updating dozens of indirect channels is time intensive.  They needed a partner with the expertise and technology to revamp their direct and indirect channels while taking the majority of the work off their shoulders. 

Derek and the MBE Hospitality team manage a portfolio of high-performing hotel properties. They rely on well-researched partners to provide their expertise. While Derek had experience managing hotel websites, he knew they needed seasoned experts for a full revamp. Revamping a website to generate new traffic and change the URL requires a complete redesign, including search engine optimization and off-page strategies to get the website seen by more potential guests. 

Leonardo offers a unique blend of technology and services. Our websites are built on our proprietary content management platform, Live CMS, by a team of experts who craft a custom SEO strategy, create the content, and manage the deployment process. We also offer hotels a content auditing tool, PropertyVIEW, that audits third-party channels for accuracy and facilitates updates. Along with our social media management services, this gives hotels like Driftwood Lodge a one-stop shop to completely revamp their online presence.  

“For an independent property without a flag behind them, accuracy on OTAs is key,” explains Derek. “Travelers research on multiple channels before they book. Wrong information on one channel can be the difference between getting a room booked and having it sit empty.”  

To launch a new website for Driftwood Lodge, the Leonardo team got to know the hotel, their expectations, and what message they wanted the website to convey.  

“The Leonardo team was extremely responsive,” says Derek. “There was consistent follow-through on every question or request to make changes. The whole process didn’t take a long time, because the team was very on it.”  

Leonardo takes a consultative approach, working with hotels to understand their priorities and needs, and then doing the behind-the-scenes work to make that vision a reality. For Driftwood Lodge, the website recently went live, showcasing the stunning view right from the property and their welcoming accommodations.