I recently had the pleasure of shooting the Just Sultan Holiday Gift Guide at the Omni King Edward Hotel. The hotel graciously offered me a mini staycation as it was going to be a very long day. It ended up taking my team 12 hours of shooting time alone. Luckily, I had a beautiful suite to myself at the end of the day.
Suitcase by Rimowa. Jacket by Permanent Vacation Brand.
Built in 1903, the Omni King Edward is Toronto’s very first luxury hotel. It has long been the first choice of Toronto’s elite, as well as political figures and business travelers. You can just feel the history when you travel through the hotel – if only the walls could talk! The hotel recently underwent a $40 million dollar renovation but still maintains it’s old-world charm. What I love most about the Omni King Edward are the historical design details and the attentive staff. Once you step through the doors, you forget the bustle of the city as the palatial lobby welcomes you.
Having stayed in so many hotels, the simple details are what stand out and keep the Omni King Edward Hotel at the top of my list. I must say that the staff are extremely welcoming and helpful. From the moment that I was ready to check in to the moment I checked out, the staff were friendly and ready to go out of their way to assist me. I was provided with a shoot assistant that helped guide us through the various areas of the Hotel and assisted with moving around our props from space to space. He knew the property well and took us through private elevators to ensure we maximized our time. I felt that the staff were so good at their jobs that they were able to anticipate every need. This is the type of service that separates luxury hotels from the rest.
The hotel consists of 301 luxury guest rooms and suites. There is an adjoining tower of residences so you could really call the King Edward home if you wanted. Highlights include fine dining at Victoria’s Restaurant and the Consort Bar. Victoria’s Restaurant also offers a killer brunch buffet on Sundays. The King Edward takes Afternoon Tea very seriously so that’s another option for you to consider as you plan your visit. You will find a full service salon and spa as well as tailor and café on site. If you’re planning a business trip, you will be pleased to know that the hotel boasts over 22,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.
The hotel is conveniently located in the financial, entertainment and shopping districts, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Sony Centre, The Distillery District, and the St. Lawrence Farmers Market. The hotel is very transit friendly as the King Subway Station is simply across the street. It is steps away from all major shopping such as Queen West, Eaton Centre, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Sleep mask from Aura by Julien & Emily.
The interior design of the hotel is extremely elegant. I absolutely love how they have managed to restore so many of the classic design details from the crown molding to the beautiful bronze ballroom doors that now have a stunning patina from years of wear. I would suggest walking through the lobby and looking up at all the details.
The suite I stayed in had a traditional yet relaxing feel. It was extremely spacious with a separate living room and sitting area. There was a full walk in closet that made me never want to leave. The red velvet sofa with gold stripes brought together the entire suite and was my favourite design detail. The suite was extremely cozy and I felt at home.
I have to mention the Crystal Ballroom, which is the crown jewel on the 17th floor of the King Edward Hotel. This ballroom is where high society events used to take place in a bygone era. The Crystal Ballroom first opened in 1922 but had been closed for events for several years. Recently, the King Edward spent 6.2 million dollars to restore the Ballroom. The views are breathtaking and the windows give the room so much light. It’s one of my favourite ballrooms in the city and I’m so happy that they kept the traditional design details of the space. If you’re looking for one of the most glamorous event venues in the city, this is it. Please keep scrolling down to see a photo the talented Brendan Mariani shot of our model wearing a Narces dress in the crystal ballroom.
The hotel surprised me with a lovely in room breakfast that was fit for a king. If you’re in the mood to stay in, definitely order yourself some room service breakfast. This was one of the best room service breakfasts that I’ve ever had. The presentation was very well thought out. Rolled into the room on an in-room dining table, the elaborate breakfast consisted of everything a breakfast lover would dream of. I was so happy to see the eggs benedict accompanied by assorted fresh fruit. The little thoughtful touches were what really stood out. For example, the bottle of Evian and individual glasses of orange juice were served on ice so that the water and juice stayed chilled. To top it all off, there was a plate of beautiful chocolate covered strawberries with meringue. The next morning I opted for a lighter room service option that was equally as delicious and well presented.
Whether it’s a staycation, work or a vacation to Toronto – you will not be disappointed with a stay at the King Edward Hotel To book your next stay, visit www.omnihotels.com/toronto.
