Meet the Butleress: How Deidre Dukes Is Sabering Stereotypes at The St. Regis Chicago

When you think of a traditional butler, you probably don’t picture someone like Deidre Dukes. And that’s exactly the point. With over 15 years in hospitality and a deep passion for service sparked by her parents’ love of hosting, Deidre is breaking stereotypes and bringing what she proudly calls “a woman’s touch” to one of the most elite roles in the industry.

As one of the esteemed St. Regis Butlers in Chicago, Deidre is known for creating exquisite, personal moments for guests—from tailoring her service with warm intuition to leading the hotel’s signature Sabrage ceremony each evening at 5:00 PM. Her uniquely tailored uniform isn’t just elegant—it symbolizes her role as a giver of hospitality, a professional devoted to anticipating needs before they’re even voiced.

The St. Regis Chicago officially opened its doors in May 19, 2023, marking the brand's debut in the Midwest. The hotel occupies the first 11 floors of a new 101-story skyscraper, the third-tallest building in Chicago and the tallest in the world designed by a woman.

We caught up with Deidre to learn more about her path to becoming a butler, what a typical day looks like behind the scenes, and how she’s helping redefine what luxury service looks like today.

Nice to meet you Deidre, where are you from, and what first sparked your interest in hospitality?

I'm from Chicago. My inspiration to become a butler came from my parents. They always opened their home to entertain family and close friends, and I was drawn to how lovingly and attentively they served others—whether it was Thanksgiving, game night, or a birthday. That warmth stuck with me.

What led you to become a butler—and how did you know it was the right fit?

Chicago is my home, and when The St. Regis Chicago was set to open, I knew it was the perfect place to share my talents. From the start, it felt like the right place to grow and thrive.

You’ve called yourself a “Butleress”—we love that term! What does it mean to you?

When I was studying for my Butler course, I came across a passage that said the qualities of a butler are not the sole preserve of men. That really stayed with me. “Butleress” challenges convention—it celebrates the gender diversity that’s reshaping our industry. I bring what I call a "woman’s touch"—intuition, attention to detail, and heartfelt care that enriches the guest experience.

Walk us through your typical day at the St. Regis Chicago...

It starts with putting on my uniquely tailored uniform—it symbolizes my role as a giver of hospitality. I meet guests in the lobby, escort them to their rooms, and offer services like unpacking, pressing, shoeshines, laundry, coffee and tea, and E-Butler communications. I help them plan for the next day, anticipate their needs, and handle everything with precision and care.

What’s one of your most memorable guest moments?

A family with three small kids was so excited to swim. I made sure each child had their own robe and tiny slippers, and we bonded over high fives. At bedtime, I surprised them with milk and cookies and told stories about Navy Pier fireworks. I even got to deliver treats to their poodle, Leo, who was just as excited to see me!

You lead the hotel’s nightly Sabrage ceremony—how did that come about?

I first helped a fellow butler with the ceremony, then learned the art of sabering myself. Now I lead it nightly. Sabrage is more than tradition—it’s a joyful, shared moment that bubbles up every evening at sunset. It’s my favorite way to connect with guests.

Hospitality is all about anticipating needs. What’s your secret?

I rely on a mix of Butler training and deep intuition. When you’re really tuned in, you notice small cues and know how to act on them. That’s where the magic happens.

What makes a great butler stand out from a good one?

Perceptiveness. Recognizing who your guest is, what they need, and how to deliver it without being asked. It’s about striving for excellence—what the ancient Greeks called Arete. To me, that means being your best self in every moment and offering that to your guests.

The hospitality world is changing. What excites you most, especially for women?

I’m inspired by the increasing opportunities for women in leadership roles. There’s more space now for women to thrive professionally and personally. It’s amazing to see barriers being broken and new paths opening up.

What’s next for you?I

’d love to become an Etiquette Consultant and continue empowering others through the art of service and refinement.

Any advice for aspiring women in luxury hospitality?

Get certified through a private service institution and find a mentor—especially a seasoned butler. Keep working on yourself—refine, polish, grow. Excellence takes intention.

arrival at the St. Regis Chicago

Quickfire with Deidre

Morning routine? Breakfast, prayer, news, and dropping my daughter off at school.

Relaxing ritual?

Sitting by the lakefront with a bonfire.

Best advice you’ve ever received?

Everything is possible for those who believe.

Worst advice you’ve ever taken?

Listening to too many people at once.

What are you reading or listening to now?

The Source, Unreasonable Hospitality, The Unstoppable Mindset, The Power of the Spoken Word, and the King James Bible.

Coffee order?

No coffee for me—Earl Grey tea is my favorite.

Signature scent or lipstick?

Fenty makeup and red lipstick.

Most-used app?

YouTube.

Suggested Pull Quotes:

"I call it a woman's touch—and it's what drives me to be a female butler today."

"Sabrage represents joy—it bubbles in my soul every evening at sunset."

"Perceptiveness is the true mark of a great butler."

"Excellence takes intention. Keep refining. Keep growing."