When you think of success in the short-term rental industry, most people focus on maximum occupancy. But Helen’s story shows there’s another way – one that prioritises sustainable growth and work-life balance while maintaining strong revenue. Working with Sarah since 2018 and joining THE FULLY BOOKED BUSINESS CLUB™ in December 2021, Helen has built a thriving glamping business that achieves an impressive 94% direct bookings while maintaining healthy revenue, even with reduction in her occupancy rates.
“Sarah’s guidance keeps things ticking along nicely. She’s relatable and understands the industry from the inside out. What really stands out is how she helps you maintain control of your own marketing while providing the support you need.”
Helen’s journey into glamping began as a family venture on her brother’s farm. With its stunning views and perfect location, the site had enormous potential. However, like many hosts, Helen started without any marketing background. “We just sort of picked up and watched the industry really, followed the trends of what was going on,” she recalls.
From the beginning, Helen knew she wanted to focus on direct bookings but needed help refining her approach. After meeting Sarah at The Glamping Show in September 2018, everything changed. Initially, Sarah helped Helen set up her Google Analytics before she booked a 1:1 marketing consultation to help with email campaigns and some questions about Facebook. Then, in 2021, Helen became a founding member of THE FULLY BOOKED BUSINESS CLUB™ before Sarah supported her with a complete website revamp in 2022.
“The way Sarah works is different. You’ve still got control of your own marketing, and like she always says, ‘you know your own business best.’ Her guidance has helped to keep things ticking along, especially through challenging times like COVID and recovery.”
And the results speak for themselves. While many businesses chase 100% occupancy at any cost, Helen has built a sustainable model that maintains strong revenue even with more selective booking patterns. This approach allows the family team to focus on maintenance during quieter periods and ensure that every guest gets the best experience.
“We’ve been able to keep our prices constant and even increase them slightly over the last year. Sarah’s marketing support has given us the confidence to maintain our pricing strategy rather than dropping prices to chase occupancy.”
One of the most significant transformations has been in guest quality. With 94% of bookings coming directly, Helen has complete control over who stays at their glamping site. “We’re getting the actual target audience with our own marketing,” she explains. “Previously, with platforms like Airbnb, you’re always on edge because they’re just a different clientele with different expectations.”
Helen particularly values the ongoing support from THE FULLY BOOKED BUSINESS CLUB™ and has attended Sarah’s Get Geared Up in-person marketing conference. She makes the most of the weekly Marketing Helpdesk sessions, often using them as dedicated marketing time. “I’ll set aside that specific time to log on and work on my own marketing, but listening to others brings up different aspects and jogs my memory about different areas. It works well for me,” she says.
What makes Helen’s experience with Sarah unique is the focus on sustainable business practices that work for the whole family. “We’re a small, family-run site, and this approach allows each of us to be involved in other businesses too. It just works perfectly,” Helen reflects.
For those considering similar support, Helen emphasises the value of being part of a like-minded community…
“Sarah’s brought everybody together, and the training is all very specific for the short-term rental and glamping industry. You know what you’re getting from Sarah, and if she can’t help you, she’ll guide you to where you need to be.”
If you’d like to build a sustainable holiday business with strong direct bookings like Helen has, book a free consultation call with Sarah today or check out THE FULLY BOOKED BUSINESS CLUB™.