Venue of Employment: Tao Night Club
Job Title: VIP Host
Instagram Handle: @KenJones_TaoLV
If not originally from Las Vegas, where did you move here from?
Kansas City, Missouri
How did you start working in the nightlife or hospitality industry? Give a brief work history / background.
My career started in Diamonds. I sold diamonds in New York and Chicago. When I made my way to Las Vegas I decided to put the skills I learned in the diamond business into nightlife.
Now that you are working in the industry, what is different about your lifestyle?
I have the chance to meet amazing people from diverse backgrounds and provide them with a level of service and expertise they can’t find outside of Las Vegas.
What does a typical day at work look like for you and what is your “normal” schedule?
A ‘normal” schedule doesn’t exist for a Host. Hosting is more than a job, it’s a lifestyle. My day consists of meeting new people and cultivating relationships. You might say I’m never really “off” work. I am a Brand Ambassador for Tao in the way I present myself and treat others all day every day.
How long does it take you to get ready for work?
No time at all, I go into host mode quicker than Bruce Wayne becomes Batman!
How many nights a week do you go out (to a club)?
Whenever I’m not at my club, I usually go to another club, no days off!
Who is your favorite DJ/performer in the Las Vegas market right now?
DJ Mustard! I think he has the best energy and most versatile musical style on the strip.
What is your drink (alcoholic) of choice?
Perrier Jouet
What is your secret cure to a hangover?
Gingerale and rescue water.
What was the longest timeframe you have stayed awake? When and why?
I stayed awake for 20 straight hours working Tao Night Club for memorial day weekend. Gucci Mayne was performing, it was one of our busiest weekends at Tao. I was totally exhausted, but, the experience was amazing.
What do you enjoy most about working in the nightlife or hospitality industry in Las Vegas?
I enjoy the challenge, every week I try to outperform the previous week. My team at Tao is very supportive and motivates me to keep going, that’s what I love about the organization.
What is your least favorite part about working in the nightlife or hospitality industry in Las Vegas?
The simple fact that champagne is not hangover proof is the only downside.
If you were not working in nightlife or hospitality, what would you be doing?
I would most likely be a sommelier, either that or the CIA.
Do you have a mentor in the industry? If so, who? If not, who would you like to be mentored by?
Yes, Robert Chiti. He’s a nightlife guru! Chiti is an amazing coach and always willing to help.
Craziest or most memorable experience working in the nightlife or hospitality industry in Las Vegas?
My most memorable experience working in nightlife was Kolton’s birthday party! That’s all I have to say about that.