2008 Trip to las vegas - Wynn Las Vegas
August 18, 2008
Author: Matt Quirey
Photographer: Jackie Bergquist
Monday morning marked the beginning of our tour of public horticulture institutions for the North American Experience. Our first visit was to the Wynn Las Vegas located in the heart of the famous “Vegas Strip.” We were welcomed by Mr. Jim Gibbons (executive director of horticulture), Mr. J. Zambo (exterior horticulture manager), Ms. Angela Johnson (interior horticulture manager), and Mr. Kevin Potts (horticulture training manager), and we were eager to learn more about their respective roles at a 5 star, 5 diamond, 5 red pavilion resort.
Jim Gibbons started by sharing his working experience with Mr. Wynn for over twenty years at eight different hotels. As for many organizations, the success of the Wynn Las Vegas starts with the vision of its owner, Mr. Steve Wynn. The mantra of “Do it better and make it the best” is at the core of each of Mr. Wynn’s projects and you don’t have to look very hard to see the results on Las Vegas Boulevard. The Bellagio and Mirage are two of his previous business ventures that Jim had been a part of creating. At these resorts, an enormous fountain display and volcano on the front of the property are the major attractions. At the Wynn, a different approach is used. While the 100 foot, man-made mountain with almost 2,400 mature pine trees and large waterfalls seems like more of the same, it stops at the assumption. To truly experience the Wynn, however, you have to go inside. Once there, the mountain reveals the true water feature: a three-story water wall with computerized light show, which is out of view for the person walking on the street. Unlike the display conservatory at the Bellagio that is a destination to visit, the Wynn approach is to create an environment for the guest with secluded garden spaces throughout the property.
As we toured the poolside gardens, atriums, and other display areas, J. and Angela explained how the Wynn aims to lead the way in hotel horticulture. Now in its fourth year, the Wynn is experiencing growth even in a time of national economic decline. This is all achieved by Mr. Wynn’s commitment to the well being of his employees and the staff’s innovative problem solving abilities. J. shared how the Wynn Las Vegas is the first resort on the “Strip” to use evapo-transpiration technology throughout the exterior irrigation systems. By using complex modeling software of the environmental conditions, water is used as efficiently as possible to provide the 5-star “environment” on a daily basis; just one of many “green” practices underway. Angela oversees the purchasing and care of thousands of potted foliage and color plants. Providing an outstanding, lush and colorful display, while staying at the forefront of design trends is no small task, but she has mastered it well. Kevin concluded our tour with a review of his training manager responsibilities as he toured us through the large cut flower workroom. The Wynn’s florists provide arrangements for all suites, villas, and display areas throughout the casino floor, as well as events and weddings at the resort. On August 8, 2008 there were 129 weddings alone!
We want to thank Jim Gibbons and his entire staff who welcomed us with a “5 star tour” and gave a rare inside look into the Wynn Las Vegas’ approach to hotel horticulture. We were all amazed at the scope and quality of work they do each and everyday. This was a tour and organization we will not forget.
