Her full name does not appear in my address book. For the first couple of years after we met, in fact, I had no idea she even had a family name. When she comes up in conversation in my circles, which happens with alarming regularity, people tend to know immediately who Anna is. Now that is what I call a brand.

So when came the time to update my address book setting, I didn’t know her full name but in many ways it didn’t matter. She is, quite simply, Anna “Concierge”. Say that to almost anyone in this city, and they know. They just know.

When I was offered the chance to sit down and chat about her line of work, I jumped at the chance. I mean, who doesn’t want to know one of Montreal’s most influential connectors? And on top of all that, she’s a lovely little bundle of energy, fun, and discretion of course.

What’s the key?

It’s all based on the human relationship. I’ve worked very hard to cultivate close and trusting relationships, and that’s why I’m able to get what I get. It’s why people are so accommodating to me when I ask them for something: mutual respect.

What is the benefit of working with you?

These are my streets. this is my community, my city. For the past two decades, they’ve taken care of me, so my relationships across the city ensure that my clients get a little of that special extra touch. It’s a two-way street: I send my awesome clients to the best places I know, and the people there treat my crowd like they’re royalty. It’s a win-win.

Is there a specific Montreal flavour that comes with those people that they can’t get anywhere else?

When you visit Montreal, you’ve got to know the right people and places so that you are not just following a guidebook. you want to connect with real local people who are authentic and who know the real Montreal. People who know the right time to go to schwartz’s and where to go for a proper coffee, foie gras or champagne, and how to get tickets to a sold out show. My goal is to make every single person visiting Montreal feel like, become, a Montrealer. I want them to live an experience so strong in our city, so authentic that they understand what it is to be a Montrealer.

What make a good concierge?

Treat everyone like they are family. If you are my guest for one day, you’re my guest for the rest of your life.

Why did you become a concierge?

One day I saw the Concierge desk in a hotel and realized right then and there what I wanted to do. this is my calling.I like taking care of people and making sure they have a good time and I love making the impossible come true. when someone wants to make a dream come true or experience the craziest request, I will find a way to make it happen.

What’s your success rate on impossible requests?

I’d say I’m at about 98%, and I promise you I can’t reveal what the 2% wanted… lol!

Are you limited to Montreal?

Luckily, I have my own little black book of international concierges. I consider these folks my international family, members of the Clefs d’or international concierge association. we scratch each other’s backs all the time, you know.