In this episode, I'm chatting to Charlotte Hughes, the imaginative brain behind Yorkshire's Scarlet Hen, a unique rental for hen parties and wellness retreats. Charlotte opens up about her unexpected journey into the world of short-term rentals, which began out of necessity when her family home wasn't selling.

She's transformed her massive mansion into a party pad that's not only stylish but also caters to the needs of her guests, creating an unforgettable experience. The episode dives deep into the challenges of managing a property that's also your home, the logistics of moving out every weekend, and how to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

Charlotte shares her marketing wisdom and how she's managed to ditch reliance on online booking agents, instead focusing on building her brand and direct bookings. This chat is filled with real life practical tips for anyone looking to navigate the world of short-term rentals while keeping their sanity intact.

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Key Takeaways:

• Ditch the online agents and focus on building your own brand for direct bookings
• Necessity really can spark innovation - Charlotte's weekend rental prove it works!
• Creating memorable experiences for specific groups (like hen parties) leads to incredible reviews and repeat business
• Organisation and routine are absolutely crucial when you're living this double life
• Direct bookings put significantly more profit in your pocket - find creative ways to encourage them
• Building genuine connections with guests makes them more respectful and likely to return

About this week's guest:

The Scarlet Hen, Norfolk House

Follow Scarlet Hen on Instagram

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