Get Fully Booked

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...

Today, I'd like to talk about blogging for a minute. Because I see so many businesses, including short-term rental holiday businesses, that think it's dead and buried!

Look, I get it. You're busy doing changeovers, replying to guest enquiries, and trying to figure out Instagram reels (don't even get me started on that!). But here's the truth - blogging is still one of the absolute best ways to get Google to actually notice your holiday cottage or glamping site.

Think of each blog post as a brand new doorway for your ideal guests to find...

This week, I'm diving into SEO and marketing while you sleep - because who doesn't want their business working hard while they're catching some well-deserved shut-eye?

I'm chatting about the reality of getting your holiday business found online without losing your sanity in the process. No fancy jargon or complicated tricks here - just straight-talking advice that actually works for real people running real businesses.

Now, I know SEO can feel like trying to crack some mysterious code that Google keeps changing (because, let's face it, they do!). But here's the thing - it doesn't...

This week, I'm chatting with Ed Maughan and Sarah Pursey, two brilliant hosts who've cracked the code on marketing to groups. And trust me, this isn't just about squeezing more beds into your property - it's about understanding what makes group guests tick.

Because group bookings are a completely different beast from your standard couple's getaway. We're talking hen dos, family reunions, milestone birthdays, corporate retreats and more. Each one needs a different approach, and frankly, most hosts are missing a trick here.

Ed's been banging the drum about direct bookings (music to my ears...

Right, let's talk about the elephant in the room - AI and marketing. Everyone's either singing its praises or running scared from it, but where's the middle ground?

AI can absolutely be your marketing mate, but only if you don't hand over the room keys completely. I've seen too many businesses churn out content that sounds like it came straight from a robot factory. And trust me, guests can spot that bland, cookie-cutter stuff a mile off!

So, what's the reality check on AI?

It's brilliant for speeding up your content creation (thank...

This week, I'm chatting with the fabulous Charlotte Taylor, who runs some absolutely gorgeous self-catering properties - and let me tell you, her story is going to resonate with so many of you!

We're getting into the real nitty-gritty of what it's like when you're staring at an empty calendar, feeling that horrible pit in your stomach, and thinking "Right, back to Airbnb it is then!" Sound familiar?

Charlotte's been there, done that, and bought the (very expensive commission-paying) t-shirt! She'll tell you exactly how she went from being booked solid to facing a booking...

This week, I'm getting fired up about why playing it safe is actually the riskiest thing you can do for your holiday business. Because when your property looks like every other rental out there, you're basically invisible to potential guests scrolling through endless options. For example, if I see one more listing with grey cushions and "live, laugh, love" signs, I might scream!

So, I'm talking about ditching the boring and embracing what makes YOUR place special. Whether that's bold colours, quirky themes, or those little touches that make people go "wow!" - it's time to stop...

Let's have a proper chat about something I see all the time - and it's driving me absolutely bonkers!

I'm talking about the "throw everything at the wall and see what sticks" approach to marketing. You know the one - posting more on social media, sending more emails, running more ads, thinking that MORE automatically equals BETTER results. Well, I'm here to tell you it doesn't work like that.

I'm getting straight to the point about why ramping up your marketing efforts without a proper strategy is like trying to fill a bucket with a...

This week, I'm chatting with the brilliant Vicki Jones from 'Tractors and Cream' - and trust me, you'll love her story!

Vicki's taking me through their whole journey - from that lightbulb moment when they decided to give glamping a go, right through to the challenges they faced getting everything up and running.

But the real goldmine in this episode? How Vicki's using AI to make her marketing life so much easier. We're talking about streamlining social media, sorting out email marketing, and creating content without spending hours staring at a blank screen (we've all...

In this episode, I'm diving into why your emails might be getting the cold shoulder and how to fix it.

Firstly, your subject line is make-or-break time. I'm not being dramatic here - it literally determines whether your email gets opened or deleted faster than you can say "direct booking." Those generic, snooze-fest subject lines? They're doing you absolutely no favours.

I'll share my tried-and-tested tricks for writing subject lines that actually get people curious enough to click. We're talking about tapping into emotions, creating a bit of urgency (the good kind, not the pushy...

This week, I chat with the brilliant Ali Tait - a powerhouse business strategist who totally gets what we're going through as hospitality owners.

If you've ever felt like you're running around like a headless chicken answering guest queries instead of driving your business forward (um, guilty as charged🙋‍♀️), then this episode is YOUR wake-up call.

Ali and I dive into that tricky juggling act we all know too well - trying to be a fantastic host while also being the CEO your business desperately needs you to be. And let's be honest, when you throw fam...

Is your social media performance getting you down? It is easy to start getting obsessed with the vanity metrics (likes and follows) and stressing that your social media is not working. Likes and follows do not automatically equate to actual bookings.

In this episode, I delve into the misconception that achieving virality on social media guarantees an immediate influx of direct bookings, revealing that genuine engagement with our target audience really is the key. I explore the distinction between the quantity of followers and the quality of interactions, emphasising the need to develop relationships that can ultimately...

Do you struggle to understand if you should write for Google or your ideal guest for your short term rental or glampsite? It's a tricky balancing act and often feels like a never-ending tug of war! In this solo episode, Sarah explores how to strike the balance just right.

The detrimental effects of writing solely for Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) are huge - often resulting in lifeless and robotic copy. The pitfalls of neglecting essential keywords that facilitate discoverability online can have a negative impact too.

Often leaving you feeling like you are stuck between...

In today's episode I'm joined by PR expert Fiona Reece from Travel Tonic.

This one is a bit of a short term rental PR 101 from identifying what media to approach, and how to find your WOW to stand out through storytelling, as you look to get media coverage.

We delve deep into pitching to the media with really honest Do's and Dont's to get noticed with practical tips if you do it yourself rather than using a PR agency..

And that all important question, should you show towels on the bed! Tune in...

Does this sound familiar? You've spent all your money and much blood, sweat and many tears to get your glamping or short term rental business finished and ready to launch. You pop it on Airbnb and tumbleweed. No bookings. Cash is running low. What next?

In this episode, Sarah dives deep into why the "build it and they'll come" approach is the fastest route to empty bank accounts and sleepless nights. Plus, she'll share her tried-and-tested strategies to get those commission-free direct bookings rolling in from day one.

You'll discover why starting your marketing BEFORE...

Jo Lewis from Alexander House Scotland joins Sarah Orchard to discuss the intricacies of expanding a short-term rental business, highlighting the importance of diversification in enhancing revenue streams.

With Jo's successful transition from a luxury large group holiday house to offering glamping and wedding services, Jo shares her journey of creating unique guest experiences that cater to different audiences.

She emphasises the symbiotic relationship between her various offerings, where guests often transition from one type of accommodation to another, driven by word-of-mouth referrals and repeat visits.

Jo also candidly shares her insights on...

In this frank and open episode, your Get Fully Booked host Sarah Orchard reflects on her own long journey of establishing The Hudnalls Hideout, a luxury treehouse short-term rental, while navigating the challenges that arise from being both a business owner and a host.

Sarah provides valuable insights on the importance of choosing a location that resonates with personal values and lifestyle aspirations. She emphasises that hospitality is not just a 9-5 job but a commitment that requires genuine passion for people and a high level of service, as guests can often have high expectations and demands. <...

Are you ready to transform your one-time guests into loyal repeat visitors?

In this solo episode of Get Fully Booked with Sarah Orchard dives into effective marketing strategies that will help you achieve just that, all without spending a penny.

Sarah emphasises the importance of creating unforgettable experiences and maintaining connections after guests leave. By utilising personalised touches, attentive service, and thoughtful post-stay follow-ups, hosts can significantly increase the likelihood of return visits. Tune in to discover actionable marketing tips that can turn your guests into your ultimate fan club, boosting your direct bookings and...

In this week's episode, your host Sarah Orchard is joined by a guest, Nina Jervis-Green from Host Unusual, a unique directory that showcases extraordinary holiday accommodations around the globe. We chat about the key differences between online advertising/directory sites and online travel agents like Airbnb. There are distinct differences between a paid listing site Vs the commission-based online agents - we explore the pros and cons.

Nina shares insights about how Host Unusual not only promotes unique stays but also tells the compelling stories behind each property, creating a deeper connection with your potential guests.

Ready to transform your website into a powerful marketing machine? In this episode of Get Fully Booked, Sarah Orchard dives deep into the essential strategies you need to grow your direct bookings and reduce reliance on online agents. She emphasises that your website should not merely be an online brochure but a dynamic tool that converts visitors into guests. From creating a strong first impression with engaging visuals to building trust through testimonials and clear calls to action, Sarah shares actionable tips that can significantly enhance your short-term rental website's effectiveness. Whether it's optimising for mobile or crafting compelling...

Join Sarah Orchard as she dives into a frank and open conversation with Emma Warren, a self professed glamping industry pioneer and owner behind Dimpsy Glamping. Dimpsey Glamping is celebrating nearly a decade and Emma shares her journey from a memorable birthday getaway to creating luxurious glamping experiences, that prioritise guest comfort and unique offerings. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding customer expectations, especially in a post-COVID hospitality world where guests demand more from their stays.

Emma emphasises the value of word-of-mouth marketing and building a strong brand identity, while also addressing the challenges of expanding...

Are you ready to take control of your vacation rental business and grow your direct bookings? This episode of Get Fully Booked with Sarah Orchard delves into the 3 key benefits of prioritising direct bookings over relying on online travel agents like Airbnb.

Sarah stresses the importance of maintaining control over your brand, pricing, and guest relationships, which often gets lost when using third-party booking platforms. She outlines three key advantages: regaining control of your marketing, maximising your brand visibility, and ultimately increasing your profitability. With insightful tips and sharing personal experiences, Sarah encourages listeners to embrace direct...

Are you struggling to connect with your ideal guests and boost your direct bookings? This podcast episode dives deep into the essential elements of effective marketing messaging for short-term rental and glamping business owners.

Your host, Sarah Orchard, looks at the importance of narrowing your focus to speak directly to your ideal guest, addressing their pain points, needs, and desires. She also highlights the common mistake of making marketing all about your business rather than the guest and the experience they seek

By understanding your audience and crafting targeted messaging, you can significantly improve your...

Welcome to another episode of the Get Fully Booked podcast, where Sarah Orchard speaks with fellow host, Kyra Fingleton from Glamping under the Stars Ireland.

In this light-hearted episode, they dive into the unique challenge of catering to two very different ideal guest types—families and hen parties—at Kyra's glamping site in Ireland. Kyra shares her personal insights on how to effectively market to these distinct and extremely different audiences while maintaining a harmonious atmosphere at the site. With a focus on creating a communal experience that appeals to both families and hen parties, Kyra emphasizes the...

Are you struggling to grow your direct bookings and feeling completely lost in the marketing maze?

Sarah Orchard emphasises the importance of having a clear marketing strategy as the essential link between your business goals and your marketing activities. Without a defined strategy, many business owners find themselves engaging in random marketing efforts that fail to yield the desired direct booking results.

In this episode, Sarah breaks down the difference between a marketing strategy and a marketing action plan, providing insights on how to align your marketing efforts with your overall business objectives.

...

Do you know the difference between your business brand and your branding?

In this podcast episode, Claire Robinson from Weekend Candy joins host Sarah Orchard to discuss the often misunderstood concept of a branded guest experience.

We explore how many hospitality businesses fall into the easy trap of using clichéd messaging that fails to resonate with their ideal guests, showing why it is so important to know your audience and what truly sets your guest experience apart.

Claire shares insights on using storytelling as a framework to clarify your brand identity to a...

Are you struggling with marketing your STR hospitality business? This episode of the Get Fully Booked podcast explores the common discomfort many STR hosts and property owners feel towards marketing their business and offers insights on how to embrace it.

Sarah shares her extensive experience in marketing and hospitality, emphasising that promoting your business is essential for growth and success. She encourages listeners to reframe their perception of marketing, viewing it as a way to connect with potential guests rather than something pushy or braggy. By sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice, Sarah aims to empower hosts...

Consistency in marketing is the cornerstone of achieving success and increasing direct bookings for your STR holiday business.

Sarah Orchard emphasises that the key to standing out isn't necessarily having a flashy website or a large social media following, but rather committing to regular marketing efforts. Drawing from her extensive experience in both corporate and small business settings, she shares insights on overcoming common challenges such as procrastination and the tendency to prioritise immediate operational tasks over your marketing.

Sarah shares tips to overcome this - from implementing time-blocking strategies and dedicating specific periods for...

This podcast episode features guest host Lorraine Robinson from The Roost Luxury Cabins, who shares her journey through various hospitality businesses, from running a busy campsite and traditional holiday cottages (STRs), to establishing award-winning luxury glamping cabins in the Forest of Dean, UK.

Lorraine discusses the significant differences in marketing strategies across these different STR hospitality businesses, and emphasises the importance of adapting to changing market dynamics, especially with the rise of social media.

A key marketing takeaway is her insight on leveraging direct bookings, where she has successfully achieved a remarkable 96% direct booking rate...

Are you ready to take back control of your business and increase your direct bookings?

Join Sarah Orchard in this solo episode, where she looks at the importance of understanding your ideal guest as the foundational step in an effective marketing strategy. She argues that without this knowledge, your marketing efforts will likely miss the target, leading to wasted resources - time and money! This step is so often skipped over, resulting in your marketing to miss the mark.

Sarah also shares insights from her own experience, highlighting the critical role of a search engine...

Lindsey Holland, owner of Cleve Hill Hotel, shares her journey from working in hotel group hospitality to owning her very own independent hotel, near Cheltenham on the Cotswold Way, and the unique challenges she faces in attracting a diverse range of guests.

With eight distinct ideal guest profiles, Lindsey emphasises the importance of understanding her clientele to refine both her marketing strategies and guest experiences.

The conversation dives into how guest expectations have evolved, particularly in light of recent trends and post Covid, and how Lindsey has adapted her offering to meet these needs. She...

Are you struggling to capture guest emails as the OTA (online booking agents) that you use keeps a firm hold on this! They do this to stop you from growing your direct bookings.

Sarah dives into effective email marketing strategies to help STR and hospitality businesses move away from reliance on online travel agents, like Airbnb and Booking.com.

With over 20 years of experience in email marketing, Sarah emphasises the importance of building your own email list, as it offers a significantly better return on investment compared to social media. She shares actionable techniques to...

Are you eager to boost your direct bookings and reduce your dependency on online agents? This episode delves into the crucial differences between Google and Meta (Facebook) Ads, helping you determine which paid advertising option is best for your short term rental (STR) hospitality business.

Sarah shares insights on how each platform operates, highlighting that while Google Ads targets users who are ready to purchase, Meta ads can help you reach potential guests in a more engaging manner.

With practical advertising budget recommendations, Sarah explains that you can start with as little as £50 for Meta a...

In this episode, host Sarah Orchard dives into the often-misunderstood world of marketing, particularly within the short term rental (STR) and hospitality business sector.

She explores the negative reputation marketing has garnered over time, emphasising the importance of permission-based and relevant marketing strategies that respect the audience's needs.

Sarah highlights how effective marketing is not just about pushing your services but about bridging the gap between what businesses offer and what potential customers are seeking.

By reframing marketing as a tool for visibility and connection, Sarah encourages listeners to recognize that good marketing...

In this episode, host Sarah is joined by guest host Wendy Bates to share her inspiring story as a holiday cottage owner in the Peak District in the UK. Initially an accidental host, Wendy recounts how her journey began with a desire to have a getaway in the scenic area, leading to the realisation that they could actually earn income by renting out their dream cottage.

They discuss Wendy's challenges in managing direct bookings and her eventual pivot from relying heavily on platforms like Airbnb to embracing a more hands-on approach to marketing. This shift not only...

Get Fully Booked is the brand new podcast launching on Monday 21st October.

If you're an Airbnb host, holiday cottage or glampsite owner who are ready to master your marketing so you can ditch your reliance on online agents and grow direct bookings, then Get Fully Booked is your go-to podcast.

Your host Sarah Orchard, an award-winning marketing strategist, #1 Amazon best-selling author, and fellow host; will share with you exactly what it takes to grow your direct bookings and the simple marketing steps to get more profit in your pocket!

Throughout this podcast...

Get Fully Booked is the brand new podcast launching on Monday 21st October.

If you're an Airbnb host, holiday cottage or glampsite owner who are ready to master your marketing so you can ditch your reliance on online agents and grow direct bookings, then Get Fully Booked is your go-to podcast.

Your host Sarah Orchard, an award-winning marketing strategist, #1 Amazon best-selling author, and fellow host; will share with you exactly what it takes to grow your direct bookings and the simple marketing steps to get more profit in your pocket!

Throughout this podcast...