The “Moments” program dates back to the early 2000’s within Starwood Preferred Guest’s Moments program. Run by Brandi Reiser, they always had a phenomenal mix of experiences, many that were one of a kind, for example, a hockey game in a special SPG Suite or meeting a celebrity in person. I participated in several Moments, such as the Food and Wine Festival in NYC as well as incredible seats at the US Open.
The program morphed into Marriott Bonvoy Moments post-merger, but of course much of that time has been during COVID.
Today, Marriott Bonvoy announced the return of truly unique experiences.
I’ll quote from the Press Release here:
“Using Marriott Bonvoy points accumulated from travel, everyday activities and purchases on Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards, members now have access to two new categories on the platform:
- “Throwbacks”: Ever wanted to cruise in the Batmobile or re-live your favorite 00s cult classic movie? With more than half of consumers seeking comfort in familiar, nostalgic content[1], this first new category speaks to this desire for experiences that evoke the memories of simpler times.
- “Tailor Made”: We all know there’s nothing like a one-of-a-kind piece, and this second new category appeals to today’s discerning travelers who appreciate this craftsmanship and personalization, giving members a special, made-to-order item to serve as a memory of their experience forever.
The packages that will be available at launch are below, with more Moments under these themes dropping throughout 2022:
FROM 00s CULT MOVIE CLASSICS TO RIDING IN A BATMOBILE REPLICA, THROWBACK MOMENTS PROVIDE A DOSE OF NOSTALGIA
Give Your Pooch The Ultimate Puppy Pampering Day Alongside Actress Jennifer Coolidge:
Travelers who love to spoil their fur babies can join award-winning actress and cult classic film star Jennifer Coolidge (Best in Show, White Lotus), at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Orange County, CA, for the ultimate day of puppy pampering. The experience will be complete with a photoshoot directed by Coolidge herself and shot by renowned photographer Shayan Asgharnia. Marriott Bonvoy is also extending the experience to a few lucky pups from rescue dog non-profit Wags and Walks, who will get their glam shots taken alongside Jennifer for their official adoption photos to help them find their forever home. Opens for bidding 75,000 points.
Members can touch down at The Memphian, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Memphis and revel in nostalgic music history with a contemporary twist. Attendees will enjoy a private, stripped-down performance by one of 2022’s buzziest artists, Grammy-nominated musician, singer and songwriter Yola, who also plays “Sister Rosetta Tharpe” in this summer’s “Elvis” biopic. Yola will play her own music, including songs from her critically acclaimed album “Stand For Myself”, and share behind-the-scenes stories from her work, as well as insights into the significance of the “Godmother of Rock and Roll,” Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.
Satisfy Your Childhood Sweet Tooth with Milk Bar’s Founder, Christina Tosi:
Members can relive their youth by savoring childhood treats with two-time James Beard award-winning chef, best-selling author, baker and founder of the bakery empire Milk Bar, Christina Tosi, at a Marriott Bonvoy exclusive culinary Moment in New York City. Participants will learn trade secrets as they create cookies, cakes and more — that will not only bring back memories, but also provide nostalgic recipes with a twist that can be shared with future generations. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.
Go For a Ride in Steve McQueen’s 1956 Jaguar or a 1966 Batmobile Replica:
Car enthusiasts can take a trip down memory lane with a ride-along experience in Steve McQueen’s 1956 Jaguar XKSS or in a replica of the iconic 1966 Batmobile from the Petersen Automotive Museum’s private collection. Members will get to cruise through Los Angeles and enjoy a lunch with the Petersen Museum Executive Director and Museum Conservator, as well as take a private tour of the Petersen Museum Vault that features over 250 historical and renowned vehicles from around the world. Opens for bidding 30,000 points.
WITH TAILOR MADE MOMENTS, MEMBERS GET BESPOKE BRAG-WORTHY ITEMS
Create a Custom Look with Jonathan Simkhai & Sit Front Row at NYFW:
Fashion lovers can enjoy a private collaboration session with American fashion designer Jonathan Simkhai. Participants will visit his flagship store in West Hollywood, CA in July and co-create a made-to-measure evening wear look. In September, participants can show off their custom ensemble while sitting front row at the designer’s Spring-Summer 2023 New York Fashion Week show. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.
Elevate Your Bond with Bespoke Wedding Bands from The Clear Cut:
Couples tying the knot can make their “I dos” even more memorable with custom wedding bands from The Clear Cut. Participants will get to meet The Clear Cut’s Founder & CEO, Olivia Landau, tour the New York City showroom and collaborate creatively with a jewelry expert to help design made-to-order, bespoke wedding bands. Opens for bidding 30,000 points.
Don a Custom Suit by Celebrity Tailor Richfresh:
Members can design a bespoke suit or luxury athleisure ensemble alongside celebrity tailor and fashion designer to the stars, Richfresh, whose client rolodex includes A-List celebrities from the world of sports, music and movies. Members will creatively collaborate on a one-of-a-kind look with Richfresh at a location in Los Angeles, CA. Opens for bidding 50,000 points.
Bottom Line
I absolutely love the Moments program, but even more-so with the return of these custom made experiences. We in the miles and points world spend a ton of time figuring out the “cents per point” we receive on a redemption.
But one of a kind experiences using Bonvoy points are experiences that money literally can’t buy. They can be a great way to just do something really fun with your points. And they are great for Marriott as well, as these experiences are sure to engender more loyalty among those that redeem for them.
Thoughts?
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New to all of this? My “introduction to miles and points” book, MilesTalk: Live Your Wildest Travel Dreams Using Miles and Points is available on Amazon and at major booksellers.
