James May-June 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 44
BOWLING TEES OFF
and group side, people are looking
for an experience beyond the typical boardroom. They’re looking for
something to do after the meeting
or some sort of team building—
something that’s different.”
Indeed, there are many amenities that are favorites for guests.
One can have a fun time whether
it’s exploring the lake, golfing,
lounging around an expansive
saltwater heated pool or playing at
the water park. There’s also a great
fitness center. And, of course, the
resort has always been a popular
wedding venue. Furthermore, its
website declares it is “the most
pet-friendly resort in Georgia.”
PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE
Beyond his duties, Bowling
is a passionate golfer and family
man— values that resonate through
his personal and professional life.
Those who know him say his leadership is a blend of ambition and
humility, always aiming to enhance
the guest experience so that each
visit is unique and memorable.
By the way, he and his wife
Lindsey live in Roswell with their
two dogs— including Max the official office mascot.
As Lanier Islands continue to
grow, Bowling believes this year
holds great promise for Georgia’s
44
JAMES MARCH //A PR I L 2 02 5
lakeside resort and the ever-growing number of individuals, couples,
families and companies it serves
throughout the Southeast. As for
long-term goals for Lanier Islands,
Bowling says the main priority
would be to continue to be rated
as a premiere resort destination in
the Southeast.
“A second priority would be
to continue developing the 1,200
acres that are here,” said Bowling.
“There’s a lot of a lot of room for
additional hotels, additional conference centers, additional golf, and
MARGARITAVILLE AT LANIER ISLANDS
maybe a water park. We’ve just
gotten started. That’s probably the
most exciting thing about Lanier
Islands— there’s just so much room
for opportunity.”
“Whether here for business or
pleasure, we are always examining
ways to enhance the guest experience,” said Bowling. “From renovations and menu changes to the
introduction of new events and the
addition of a beautiful new event
venue, my team and I can’t wait to
watch 2025 unfold.”
In every aspect, Matthew
Bowling is not just running a
resort. He is making every decision with a profound respect for
the past and an enthusiastic eye
toward the future.
“The hotel is called Legacy
Lodge, and the golf course is
called Legacy at Lanier, and that
wasn’t by accident,” he says. “We
are really proud of the fact that
we’re a family-owned business and
so just continuing that legacy that
was started by my grandfather
and continued by my uncle is a
great honor for me.”
Cindy Morley is a staff writer for James and
James Magazine Online.