The snapshot of Palm Beach is changing. Since 2016, the population between the ages of 25 and 45 has steadily increased, and the projection for the county is to reach over 1.5 million by 2022. Tourism, technology, manufacturing and agriculture are just a few of the businesses making their homes in Palm Beach County, and if you add in endless sunny days, 150 miles of beaches, outstanding universities and high schools, professional sports teams nearby and 0% state income tax, Palm Beach quickly tops the charts as the place to live. This month we catch up with a varied group of young people making Palm Beach their home. They are working here, raising their families, and wouldn’t think of living anywhere else. Next up, Patrick LeTourneau
PATRICK LETOURNEAU
Guest Relations, Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
Why did you choose to live in Palm Beach? Did your family have a history here or did you have a business connection here? Palm Beach represents long-standing traditions and many charming memories for me. Everything I have always loved most is here. My family has considered Palm Beach County a seasonal residence for decades, and it was in Palm Beach where my family was able to find balance. Some of my best memories are taking long walks with my grandfather.
What are the positive business aspects about living here? I love that old-school manners still apply, dress codes are still in place. People say ‘good morning’ on their walks, and a tremendous sense of community exists here. In terms of business, Palm Beach has such a small-town feel but with a broad reach to other areas. I have met some of the most interesting people from other cities who all have a connection to the island, and that definitely helps in the hospitality business.
How has the business community here contributed to your business? Your life? Many of the business owners and people that work here are some of the nicest people I’ve met. I consider them friends and admire their work ethic, creativity and business savvy. In the hospitality business, there is an important role between locals and the visitors, and I love that many of the multigenerational businesses coexist alongside the new businesses.
Is your business connected to NYC, the Hamptons, Aspen, Boston? While in college, I spent my summers working for the Kennebunkport Resort Collection. I knew then I would pursue a career in hospitality, and now that I am at the Four Seasons Palm Beach, I realize how small the world is between Palm Beach and the rest of our properties. Everything is interconnected.
If you had the opportunity to live somewhere else, would you? Although I am completely open to where life takes me, I choose to live here. However, if an opportunity arises, I know I will always have roots here in Palm Beach.
Photography by: Nick Mele
