This is the first job, and the first season, where Ciara Murillo has had to put on a bathing suit and serve people poolside. And she’s loving it. “It’s been fun,” said the M Resort model cocktail server. “This is my first cocktailing job. It’s been quite the experience, and it’s something that I’ve really enjoyed.”
Murillo takes care of guests at both the resort’s 21-and-over pool club DayDream and the main pool. Inside the club, Murillo can handle up to as many as three cabanas filled with guests.
“As far as personalities of each cabana, it’s easy for me to adjust,” said the Des Moines, Iowa native. “I pretend like we’re old friends, crack jokes so everyone feels welcome. I’ve had parties from different countries and they just want to talk and then I’ve had wilder cabanas so I can be playful and dance around. I can feel my guests out and adjust. It comes natural.”
Murillo said talking to strangers has always come easy for her—and it’s that personality trait that has aided in her career in the hospitality industry. She’s also pursuing a degree in the industry, too, and eventually wants to own an events management company, putting together private events for large corporations.
But for now, she is progressing toward her degree—and she happily continues her work poolside. “I love working here. I’m happy coming to work. I’m saving my money that I make here so I can help pay for college and eventually start my own business.”
Mango Passion
Hang with the locals at hot spot DayDream. The intimate, upscale pool paradise has a welcoming, relaxed vibe. Here you’ll find cool blue waters surrounded by daybeds, cabanas and lounge chairs. You’ll also find some tasty poolside specialty cocktails like the popular Mango Passion. Shaken and served over ice, it mixes together Belvedere Mango Passion vodka, fresh peach purée and fresh-squeezed lime juice. Then it’s topped off with your choice of champagne.
