UPDATE: A couple’s engagement celebration took a shocking turn when they were abruptly kicked out of their hotel in Montreal the morning after the proposal. Ethan Werchniak, 26, and his girlfriend faced an unexpected eviction from a Marriott-licensed Sonder hotel on October 15, 2023, leaving them scrambling for alternative accommodations.
Wrenching their joy, a Sonder employee knocked on their door at 10 a.m., demanding they vacate their room within an hour. “Your reservation is canceled,” the worker stated, leaving the couple stunned on what should have been one of their happiest days.
Wolchniak and his girlfriend had traveled to Montreal for a five-day stay, specifically seeking a new experience for their engagement. They had created memorable moments, including a proposal at the picturesque Westmount Conservatory and Greenhouses, followed by a day of exploring the city. “We window-shopped, visited a fine art museum, and truly enjoyed each other’s company,” said Werchniak.
However, the celebration quickly turned sour. Upon hearing the eviction notice, Werchniak attempted to reason with the employee, who explained, “I’m losing my job right now. My last task is to tell people that they need to leave.” Understanding the unfortunate circumstances, he decided to drop his complaints.
Determined to salvage their day, Werchniak called Marriott in hopes of rebooking. The hotel chain managed to secure them a new room a mile away, but it came at a cost of an additional 30 Canadian dollars (about $21), which felt like a financial slap in the face. Marriott offered 500 points as compensation, but Werchniak expressed his reluctance to book with them again.
The scene in the hotel lobby was chaotic, with multiple guests voicing their frustrations over the unexpected cancellation. Many expressed they would never book with Marriott again after this experience. “It felt like a scam,” said Werchniak, reflecting on the abrupt change in their plans.
Despite the disruption, the couple managed to keep their spirits high. “We are pretty adaptable people,” Werchniak shared. “We had a great dinner and enjoyed good drinks, so I’m in a good mood now.”
While they found ways to enjoy their day, the Marriott-Sonder debacle has left them with a bitter taste. “I want to blame Marriott for ruining our last day,” he added, but ultimately decided to focus on the positive moments they shared.
Representatives from Marriott and Sonder did not respond to inquiries regarding the incident. However, Marriott confirmed that guests who booked through their channels would receive a full refund, later advising customers to contact their credit card companies instead.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly plans can change and the impact of corporate decisions on personal milestones. As couples plan their special moments, it raises questions about the reliability of accommodations and customer service in the hospitality industry.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
