Michael Gartenlaub

Spearheading day-to-day management and top-level strategy for several of the agency’s luxury hospitality clientele, ranging from powerhouse brands to luxury icons to domestic havens, Michael’s attentive, dedicated, and detailed approach to PR makes him a trusted resource among the agency’s clientele and longstanding media contacts.  Michael relies on over 10 years of experience in the industry, having previously worked in the food & beverage and restaurant PR sphere before making the jump into travel.

Working with some of the world’s most prestigious hospitality names and jet setting to more far flung destinations than ever before is a dream come true for Michael. At Brandman, he has tackled campaigns large and small – everything from arranging broadcast coverage for a kids’ dining etiquette lesson at the historic Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel in Chicago, to coordinating a very special pup influencer trip to the luxurious Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, to spearheading the restoration and reopening strategy for the iconic Raffles Singapore, and countless projects in between.

“For me, travel has always been about exploration. As a kid, our family trips revolved around exploring new cultures, both domestic and international. I remember fondly navigating the California coastline, exploring the Alaskan wilderness, discovering Italy’s most treasured cities and being immersed in the cultures of Europe’s Baltic capitals, among other trips. This passion for exploration has guided me toward a career in travel, where I continue to explore the world through new and exciting lenses.”

“Everything happens for a reason” has guided me throughout my entire life. I don’t necessarily believe in fate in the traditional sense, but I believe that whatever happens is meant to happen and meant to guide the path ahead, and you cannot dwell on what could have been. I am a firm believer that my past experiences and career path have meant for me to end up exactly where I am today, doing what I love with Brandman. I wouldn’t change a second of it.”

“This may be random, but I cannot stand when people linger. Ever since I was little, I particularly hated lingering at restaurants after finishing the meal and paying the bill. Despite how much it drives my mother crazy, I like to think this pet peeve has served me well in my career and has taught me to work at a fast pace, be highly efficient and timely, and make swift decisions (all musts in PR!).”