ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwired - Jan 24, 2014) -  When The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead opened its doors on January 8, 1984, it was embraced by tastemakers and trendsetters throughout the Southeast. The hotel marks its 30th anniversary in 2014 as an icon of luxury in the region, renowned for preserving longstanding traditions and introducing new experiences destined to become traditions for couples and families.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of our longevity in the city is that we now welcome generations of loyal guests," said Erwin Schinnerl, general manager. "Guests who attended our teas as children now bring their own children to experience these traditions, and a new generation of bridal couples celebrates their weddings with us."

Afternoon Tea is one of the hotel's great rituals. It was served on opening day in 1984, with loose tea steeped in Wedgwood teapots and poured through sterling silver strainers into teacups. Earl Grey, the most popular tea at the time, continues to be the most requested today, although the tea menu now includes red and green teas as well as tisanes. A commemorative 30th Anniversary Afternoon Tea -- served on the original Wedgwood china -- is added to the hotel's Afternoon Tea offerings in 2014.

The lively scene and evening entertainment in The Lobby Lounge is another enduring feature at the hotel. Guests will enjoy an expanded roster of artists in 2014.

Recently launched, Spa Level is an innovative concept featuring overnight guestrooms and suites on the same floor as the spa, with a relaxation lounge and Spa concierge. Throughout 2014, guests may indulge in "Timeless and New," a rejuvenating facial therapy created in recognition of the 30th anniversary.

In 2012 the hotel underwent a visually dramatic transformation of interior spaces, adding new design elements to traditional décor to reflect the collections of cherished heirlooms and contemporary objet d'art in fine private homes.

Throughout the 30 year history of the hotel, the emphasis on providing uncompromising personal service has remained constant.

"We strive for excellence," said Mr. Schinnerl. "We are dedicated to offering unparalleled service, while delivering a sophisticated, gracious experience desired by our guests. We look forward to the future with great excitement. Cheers to the next 30 years!"

Guests who visited The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead on January 8, 2014 were welcomed with a Mimosa or Champagne cocktail while a pianist performed on a grand piano in The Lobby.

Guests may reserve the Celebration Overnight Package, with deluxe accommodations, Any Time Check Out, Champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries and more at www.ritzcarlton.com/Buckhead.

For an even more luxurious overnight retreat, guests may reserve the Celebration of a Lifetime Package which includes a multi course dinner for two with wine pairings, prepared in-room by a private chef. Other amenities include a spa treatment for two, champagne breakfast, a bouquet of 30 long stem ivory roses and more.

For reservations and information about overnight celebration packages, and special events commemorating the hotel's 30th anniversary, please visit our 30th Anniversary website.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead
The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead is located in fashionable uptown Atlanta, the city's most prestigious residential neighborhood and adjacent to the Southeast's celebrated shopping destinations, Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza. The hotel is home to the luxurious Spa Level at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Buckhead offering overnight guestrooms and suites on the same floor as the Spa. For information or room reservations, please call 800-241-3333, the hotel at 404-237-2700, a travel professional or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/Buckhead. Connect with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheRitzCarltonBuckhead, and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RCBuckhead.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 85 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, an award that originated in 1987. Its purpose is to promote the awareness of quality excellence, recognize quality achievements of companies and publicize successful quality strategies. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company won the award in 1992 and 1999. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR).