From tracking down an F1 helmet signed by Lewis Hamilton to bagging a coveted Patek Philippe timepiece, no demand is too big for these concierges
You can have anything you want at the click of a button. But one old school industry has advanced with the times. Welcome to the world of luxury concierges.
Whether you’re curious or thinking about getting a membership, check out these four luxury concierges. From the new kid on the block to household names, we’ve got the inside story.
Canvas
Canvas, which launched in early 2019, suits open-minded creatives and young entrepreneurs. It has carved out a niche by creating experiences that bring members together with like-minded individuals.
What it offers: Canvas Place, which offers individual suites, private residences and villas in Hua Hin, Bali and Bangkok; and Canvas Belong, a membership service that offers curated experiences.
What you can experience: Citizens can enjoy experiences with tastemakers across Asia. In Hong Kong members can choose a wine appreciation dinner with Wilson Kwok, the first Chinese wine chevalier, or have lunch with renowned jeweller Andrea Buccellati.
Got an eye for design? Members can also bring their own diamonds and create their own bespoke piece through a one-on-one with Buccellati.
We love that the resorts in Hua Hin and Bali have partnered with local farmers, fishermen and artists to source food and artisanal products. This allows members to get closer to the communities.
What it will cost you: To become a Canvas Citizen, you pay US$9,000 up front and another US$9,000 in two years.
Our thoughts: Canvas appears to be about understated luxury and we like that they’re fuelled by a sense of purpose and community. We also like that they specialise in Asia, but if you’re looking for global coverage you may need to consider other options.
Ten Lifestyle Group
Ten has its members covered across travel and lifestyle needs. They focus dining services, live entertainment and events, sports and retail.
What they offer: Members can expect top service when it comes to booking hotels and flights for an ideal getaway.
Also expect expert restaurant recommendations and reservations for a special dining experience at some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants, and much more when it comes to private shopping suites and tickets for a big night out.
Ten’s dedicated membership, Ten Private, is like a personal butler who offers you access to exclusive events, manages your requests and sends you reminders.
What you can experience: Ten shared some examples of their dedication to supporting clients’ requests.
They tracked down a F1 helmet signed by racing star Lewis Hamilton – and surprised their client with the signatures from the remaining 21 members of the Mercedes AMG Team.
They also helped another member buy a coveted Patek Philippe Nautilus Brown Dial 18-carat rose gold 5711/1R-001.
What it will cost you: Ten offers a subscription-based membership with its members consisting of both private members and members from corporate contracts.
Most members use their services at no extra cost through their financial service provider, and private members can subscribe starting from £330 (US$406) a month.
Our Thoughts: As globetrotters that love a luxe travel experience, we think Ten offers a lot in the travel space with a curated network of 2,100 luxury and boutique hotels all over the world.
John Paul
More than a decade ago John Paul introduced itself as the first premium concierge service, targeting the most valuable customers of their corporate clients, to enhance their customer loyalty programmes and customer relationships.
John Paul caters to everything from day-to-day needs to creating magical moments. Most of their requests cover travel, dining and ticketing.
What they offer: John Paul pride themselves on having their roots in hospitality and acting as an extension of a concierge.
They are committed to providing services with no extra costs, but instead giving their members discounts or benefits from 10,000 exclusive partnerships all over the globe.
What you can experience: In a spirit of hospitality John Paul takes note of clients’ preferences.
Citing an evening cruise on the Huangpu River for a client making their first family visit to Shanghai, they arranged a private chauffeur service, catered to specific needs around allergies, preferred temperature, and had the couple’s favourite drink, the Aperol Spritz, available.
What it will cost you: John Paul’s services are paid for by their corporate clients.
Our thoughts: John Paul is available across five continents, but they pay attention to local customs and traditions and strive to share that with their clients. We also love that they invest heavily in tech and look to the future by seeking to integrate AI into their services.
This is clear as we can reach them online for a live chat, via apps and WeChat, and we can appreciate personalised luxury at the tap of our screen.
Quintessentially
Known for its premier services, Quintessentially caters to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. For years they catered to celebrities, c-suite executives and heads of state through their private membership. They now offer the same top rate service to corporate clients.
What they offer: From its 60 offices around the world, Quintessentially offers a dedicated 24/7 service 365 days a year and in 35 languages.
Like many luxury concierges they offer rare dining experiences, tailor-made travel options, personal shopping, tickets and more. They also offer health and wellness recommendations and exclusive invitation-only events for their members.
What you can experience: With more than 19 years of experience, Quintessentially has a profound network of luxury partners.
Members are accustomed to special access to exclusive events in world cities. Some past event exclusives included, Louis Vuitton Objets Nomades, a Four Seasons Pop Down party and Art Basel Hong Kong, to name a few.
What it will cost you: Quintessentially’s private membership price structure is designed based on clients’ needs and corporate pricing is based on the business’ objectives.
Our thoughts: When Quintessentially says 24/7 it means it. The company shared a story of a family who were stranded in Southern China who were able to reach out to Quintessentially – which came to the rescue and enabled the family to enjoy their holiday. Sometimes peace of mind doesn’t have a price tag.
Note – This story was originally published on SCMP and has been republished on this website.