As Told By Us

This week on Branded and Booked, I'm sharing how Cabins on the Cumberland (our micro-resort) brought in 50% direct bookings in May—and the exact strategy behind it. Even while the property is still under construction, we created a marketing plan powered by storytelling, strategy, and a whole lot of intention. In this episode, you'll learn: Why content is just one part of a bigger marketing picture How pairing SEO with storytelling builds long-term visibility The 3 C's of marketing you need to revisit ASAP What to offer instead of a basic newsletter to grow your list Why collecting phone numbers matters (even if you're not texting yet) How to prep during the slow season so you're fully booked in the busy one What to keep in mind about partnering with local businesses ✨ If you're trying to grow a direct booking strategy that actually works, this one's for you. DM me the word “INFO” at @theweberco on Instagram to learn more about how I can help you build a brand that books and a marketing strategy that converts.  Love this episode? Join my free →  Facebook Group to keep the conversation going!

Airbnb's latest updates aren't just platform tweaks—they're a strategic move to keep hosts (and their guests) locked into Airbnb. From limiting outside links in communication to discouraging direct bookings, these changes could seriously impact how you grow YOUR business, build guest relationships, and maintain control over your brand. In this episode, I'm breaking down what the changes mean, why they're a potential threat to independent hosts, and most importantly, how to stay in control of your brand, your business, and your bookings. Whether you're new to hosting or own multiple properties, this episode will help you take ownership of your short-term rental brand, so you're not just building someone else's platform. What You'll Learn: ✅ What's changing on the Airbnb platform ✅ Why relying solely on the platform is riskier than ever ✅ How to capture your guests' information while they're at your property ✅ How to build a guest pipeline you actually own (hello, email list + direct booking!) ✅ The key marketing assets every STR host needs to future-proof their business Resources Mentioned:

In today's episode of Branded & Booked, I'm handing the mic to three incredible short-term rental business owners who went through my last round of STR Marketing Bootcamp—April, Cathleen, and Jess. Each of them has a different business model, different challenges, and different results, and you'll hear firsthand how this 12-week live coaching program helped them build a powerful brand and marketing system that leads to more direct bookings and increased guest loyalty. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why relying only on OTAs (Airbnb, Vrbo) limits your business growth ✔️ How these STR pros built a renowned brand and systemized their marketing ✔️ The behind-the-scenes of an STR lifestyle photoshoot (and why it matters!) ✔️ Real results from real business owners who made the shift to direct bookings Meet Today's Guests & Connect With Them ✨ April – Modern Mountain Vacations

Be honest: Have you ever said “Oh, I own an Airbnb,” when asked what you do? Now imagine the difference between that and saying something like “I run a short-term destination for young couples.”. The difference? Branding. In this episode, we dive into what makes an Airbnb (or any business) go from just another option to a must-experience destination. Because let's be real—every industry is saturated, and standing out isn't about being the best; it's about creating a feeling that guests fall in love with. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✨ How to turn your Airbnb into a raving guest magnet ✨ Why a brand is more than a logo—it's an emotion ✨ What branding is NOT (and why most hosts get it wrong) ✨ The key to making guests feel transported—not just accommodated ✨ The ultimate way to differentiate in a crowded market This episode will change how you think about standing out in a competitive space. Because when you build a brand people connect with, they won't just stay once—they'll keep coming back. Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers. And don't forget: Join our Free Community >>HERE.  

Some short-term rentals offer a place to stay, but some create an unforgettable experience… The Asheville Affair offers a trip guests will never forget. In this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes of how we designed, branded, and launched a short-term rental built for bachelor and bachelorette groups—and how you can apply these strategies to make your own rental stand out. You'll learn: ✔️ The strategy behind designing a space that stays booked (it's more than just good decor) ✔️ How we crafted an experience-first brand that attracts high-value guests ✔️ Key lessons from launching a rental that commands premium pricing If you want to move beyond generic listings and create a rental that's the only choice for your ideal guests, this episode is packed with insights you can use.

Are you relying on your amenities to book your short-term rental?  Saying “We have a hot tub” or “We have a sauna” is fine—but it won't set you apart in a crowded market. (Trust me, there's a better way!) In this episode, we're talking about how to move beyond a basic amenities list and: ✔️ Create a branded guest experience that makes your rental unforgettable ✔️ Sell the story of your stay so guests feel emotionally connected before they even book ✔️ Use simple, strategic tweaks to increase demand and justify premium pricing The goal? To make your rental the only choice for your ideal guests—because they're not just booking a place to stay… they're booking an experience.

If you own a short-term rental (STR), you've probably wondered: Do I need an Instagram account for my property? Is social media even worth it? In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to approach social media marketing for your STR—without wasting time or energy. Here's what I cover: Why choosing one platform first is key (and which one to start with) The surprising reason email marketing is actually more important than social media How to increase direct bookings (and rely less on Airbnb/VRBO) Whether or not your STR needs its own Instagram account If you've been struggling to market your STR or aren't sure where to focus your efforts, this episode is for you! I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from this episode—tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers. And don't forget: Join our Free Community >> HERE.

Branding. Marketing. Direct bookings. If you've ever wanted to rely less on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO and take full control of your short-term rental business, this episode is for you. We're diving into practical, no-fluff strategies to help you stand out, attract more direct bookings, and create a guest experience that leaves people raving (and returning). From branding tips that position you as the go-to host to marketing secrets that feel authentic and effective, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you: Create an epic guest experience. Handle less-than-stellar guest experiences. Encourage repeat bookings without relying on third-party platforms. I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway from this episode—tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers. And don't forget: Join our Free Community >> HERE

Whether it's seasonal, economical, or due to shifts in the market, slow seasons will happen. But this doesn't have to mean slashing your prices to get bookings... In this episode, we're talking about practical, no-fluff strategies to bring in guests, even when business feels quiet. From smart marketing moves to creative ways to reconnect with past clients, I'll show you how to attract more customers without discounting your value. If you're ready to make slow months work for your business (instead of against it), hit play now! Make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers And don't forget:  Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

Welcome to the very first episode of Branded & Booked! In case you're new here: I'm your host Steph Weber, branding and marketing expert helping short-term rental and boutique hotel owners create unforgettable guest experiences. In this episode, you'll hear what's in store for Branded & Booked—from actionable branding and marketing strategies to stories that will inspire you to elevate your property and keep it consistently booked. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this is your go-to podcast for standing out in a crowded market and turning your short-term rental into a brand guests can't wait to book.  Hit play and get ready to create rave-worthy experiences! Thank you for being part of this journey. Enjoy this FIRST episode of 2025, and make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers And don't forget:  Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

As the year comes to a close, I'm reflecting on 2024—the good, the hard, and everything in between. This year, I can truly say I've leaned into messy, uncomfortablt action and just let things flow. It wasn't perfect (far from it!), but through the chaos, I gained something monumental: a level of freedom I've never felt before. In this episode, I'm sharing what it really looked like to step into this freedom, how I learned to operate my business in alignment with my life, and what it means to me to be a more present mom while still serving my audience in the best way possible. I've also grown even deeper into my role as your trusted go-to for branding and marketing in the short-term rental world, and I'm so grateful for the connections we've built here on the podcast. And while we're wrapping up the year, I'm also looking ahead—because something BIG is coming next year. We're making an exciting pivot with the podcast, and I can't wait to share more soon. Thank you for being part of this journey. Enjoy this final episode of 2024, and make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect one more time before the new year! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers And don't forget: Join our Free Community: >>HERE.  

In this episode, I'm diving into my biggest STR predictions for 2025 and sharing practical ways to apply them to your business right now. You'll learn about the 3 C's of marketing and why they're more important than ever in building trust, engaging your audience, and driving results. And finally, I'll explain how reducing your reliance on third-party platforms can increase profits, deepen customer relationships, and set you up for long-term success. Enjoy the episode, and don't forget to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers And don't forget: Join our Free Community: >>HERE.  

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Rominger, the owner of Intrigue Property Management.  Ryan shares his journey from California to Indianapolis and explains why the City of Indy has become such an attractive market for real estate investors.  With over 400 properties under management, he breaks down the benefits of long-term rental investments and the stability they offer, especially in comparison to pricier markets like California. Ryan also gives an honest look at the challenges of property management, from managing tenant expectations to dealing with legal issues. And the best part? Ryan's super creative approach to social media has played a big role in his success. His “Why Indianapolis is Cooler” video series has helped him build strong local connections, attract clients, and create partnerships with Indianapolis businesses.  Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: @theweberco and @hostedbythewebers Ryan on Instagram: @Realtor.Ryan And don't forget: Join our Free Community: >>HERE. Intrigue Property Management Website  

Building wealth with real estate often starts with a small idea and grows into something much bigger. Harshad and Ishita's journey began with renting out their basement, which led to renting out a room in their home—and before they knew it, they were covering their mortgage with rental income. But when it comes to short-term rentals, it's about more than just a place to stay—it's about creating unforgettable experiences. That's why I'm so excited to have Harshad and Ishita on the show. These two entrepreneurs are shaking things up in the short-term rental space by putting design and guest experience at the forefront. In today's episode, we're diving into their incredible journey, how they rapidly scaled their portfolio, and their approach to creating spaces that guests rave about. Plus, we'll talk about their experience navigating Hurricane Helene and what's next for their business.  Tune in for a conversation that shows how thoughtful design and a guest-first mentality can transform a rental property into a thriving business. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen at @hostedbythewebers, @Ishita.interiors, @Harshad.interiors, and so we can connect. Join my Facebook Group: >>HERE.  

If you're a host wanting to gain control over your bookings, this episode is a must! Gil Chan, founder of Crafted Stays, shares how he helps hosts build high-converting direct booking sites in minutes—without all the tech headaches..  After his own struggles with WordPress, Gil designed Crafted Stays to be user-friendly, with awesome templates that integrate directly with PMS tools (like Hospitable and Reshostaway). Click play to learn how you can create a direct booking site that performs well in search engines, so you can reduce dependency on OTAs! Listen in, and we'd love for you to tag us @hostedbythewebers and @craftedstays. Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

I've said it once and I'll say it again: branding is more than the visuals. It's the story you tell. It's the way you make people feel. It's what people say about you when you're not in the room. That is exactly why, in this episode, I dive deep into the branding process for Cabins on the Cumberland, sharing how we crafted a compelling brand strategy that resonates with our (Ideal Client) Avatar. Join me as I unpack the essential elements that make up a strong brand, and end with an action step that you can take immediately. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

If you love having an inside look at what successful short-term rental hosts are doing to remain profitable during markets like this, you're in luck. Hanan Kim is about to spill the tea on how she successfully transitioned from short-term rental owner to boutique hotel operator and the many, MANY lessons she learned along the way. Because here's the truth: you can have the best property in the world, but without a solid strategy and understanding of the market, you're just hoping for the best. In this episode, you'll learn how Hanan identifies the right properties, leverages her travel experiences, and grows her hospitality business. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @hanankiminvests so we can connect! Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

In this episode, I'm giving it ALL away—our exact marketing strategy that boosted our direct bookings by 15% in just two months. Because here's the truth: you can try all the marketing tactics in the world, but without a solid strategy, you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall. I'll walk you through the step-by-step approach we used to drive more direct bookings without relying on third-party platforms.  Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Free Community: >>HERE. 

I don't know about you, but getting my properties rented out as soon as possible is a top priority. (We became hosts to make a profit, am I right?) In this episode, I'm joined by Kim Fitzpatrick, an expert in short-term rental (STR) setups who's going to break down exactly how you can get your Airbnb up and running in just 7 days.  Trust me when I say, this episode will help you ensure your property is guest-ready and profitable much quicker. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Free Community: >>HERE.  Check out STRSource website: >>HERE.

Influencer Marketing is a $21 billion industry…   As a past Fashion, Beauty, and Travel Influencer I've seen really great partnerships that've made both parties a lot of money and I've also witnessed deals that fell flat because they lacked alignment or clear goals.   So, trust me when I say this: When done correctly, influencer marketing works.    So, let's talk about it. In this episode, you'll hear practical tips on maintaining an active social media presence and leveraging influencer partnerships to boost brand visibility and ultimately… your bookings.   Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: >> HERE.

Being a business owner of multiple six-figure companies has been…well, challenging (to say the least). And while I've had several mindset shifts and breakthrough moments from both mentors and personal experiences, there's ONE in particular that has guided me through countless pivots. Let me tell you, it has been the biggest game-changer in how I approach every challenge and opportunity. Curious? Click play now to hear as I share this shift and how it can transform your entrepreneurial journey too. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: >> HERE. 

When done right, influencer marketing works. (I mean haven't you bought something from an ad on TikTok shop or IG stories?)  This is exactly why I was so excited to bring on Jordan Kahana, CEO and founder of Stayamo, a platform connecting short-term rental owners with content creators and influencers.  In this episode, you'll learn what type of analytics and proof to ask a content creator for, tips for driving engagement and bookings through social media, and what to expect from influencer partnerships. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: >>HERE. Check out Stayamo's website: >>HERE.

You've heard me say it before… You don't own your social media accounts, airbnb, or Vrbo. But you DO own your website and your email list. And thankfully there are ways to strategically capture your guests email addresses without bluntly asking for it.  In this episode, you'll learn re-engagement email campaign strategies for past guests, how to retarget guests to encourage email sign-ups, and my recommendations to maintain guest relationships. Connect with us on Instagram at @hostedbythewebers. For STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE. Listen to the episode with StayFi Founder, Arthur Colker >>HERE.

When Emily told me she gained 6,000 followers from ONE post… I was floored.   Not that virality is the goal, but more eyeballs on your content is hardly ever a bad thing. (Especially when you're creating content for a property!)   And I'm going to go out on a limb here and say this: you want more people seeing your content as well. Am I right?   In this episode, you'll learn how to effectively create content, the impact of storytelling, and how to attract potential guests to your properties. I hope it serves you well.    Connect with Emily on Instagram at @emilylethgo.   Connect with us on Instagram at @hostedbythewebers. For STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE.

Real talk: if you're in the short-term rental industry, you're also in the hospitality industry (point blank.) And to be profitable, you need to prioritize guest experiences. This means going beyond just offering a place to stay. It's about creating memorable moments, ensuring seamless communication, maintaining cleanliness, and adding thoughtful touches that make guests feel special.  Your ability to deliver on these fronts will set you apart from the competition and keep your rental booked and busy.  The bottom line is we must keep hospitality at the forefront and when resolving guest issues. When we fail to make a guest feel heard and appreciated, we make them feel shame and uneasy. This episode was inspired by Will Guiarda's new book, Unreasonable Hospitality. (I highly recommend you checking it out!) For STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE.

Ready for some real talk around STR? It's easy to get caught up in the overly idealized and glamourized portrayal of the business but that's just not always the case. What this industry often looks like is dealing with difficult clients, maintenance issues, guest complaints...shall I go on? I love this industry and I care about YOU, which is exactly why I'm dealing it to you straight.  In this episode, I'm sharing some of the very real and candid stories we've experienced and the lessons we've learned along the way.  For STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE.  

Real talk: there are so many factors at play when it comes to choosing profitable properties.    This is exactly why I brought Tamer Assaad and Matt Sanderson, founders of STRIQ, on the show to share their own personal insights and experiences when it comes to evaluating deals using data and cash on cash return.   So, pull up a chair because you're about to get an inside look into investment strategies, what to look for in properties for high revenue potential, and how to streamline property analysis and decision-making.  Make sure to follow Tamer Assaad, Matt Sanderson, and STRIQ on Instagram after this episode and for STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE.

They started their business during the pandemic and went ALL IN.   Sarah & Emily, better known as The KarWells, are best friends & business partners who have a mission to build the life of their dreams through short-term rental investments & educate others along the way.    Over the past 5 years, they've dabbled in all different avenues in this industry (design, arbitrage, invested, etc.) and have made plenty of mistakes that they want to help others avoid.    Their desire for community has been the key driver behind their social media presence & they continue to prioritize that as an emphasis of their business. They are two small-town girls who didn't have a blueprint of how to build a business and are determined to show others that if they can build their dream life, they can too.   In this episode, you'll learn the mistakes they wish they knew sooner and ways to get into the short-term rental industry without purchasing. For STR branding and marketing LIVE trainings, join my free Facebook Group >>HERE.

Holy Buckets: It's been ONE whole year since we purchased our first STR property (the same month we had our son, nonetheless.) And I'm so grateful that we've been profitable throughout this journey, but that wasn't by happenstance. It took a lot of hard work and late nights in order to get the business to where it is today. And if it wasn't for the shared vision we (my husband and business partner) have for our children, it would've been much more challenging. So, in this episode I'm pulling back the curtain and taking you behind-the-scenes into the business of owning a short-term rental. I'm even breaking down the numbers from the initial investments down to repairing appliances. (Got your favorite pen handy?) And if there's one thing I hope you get from this episode, it's this: Don't underestimate how much you can change your life in just one year. Enjoy this episode; for more STR branding and marketing live training, join my Facebook Group >>HERE.

What if there was a way for you to collect data while enhancing your guests' experience at your STR?  Well, thanks to Arthur Colker (the founder of StayFi) you totally can… In this episode of Hosted By The Webers, you'll hear why I believe it's a marketing must to incorporate this feature into your short-term rental and how it can be a total game changer even if you manage one property. You'll also learn email and text marketing strategies, potential upsell ideas, and content ideas that'll keep you booked. Enjoy this episode; for more STR branding and marketing live training, join my Facebook Group >>HERE.

Let me preface by saying this: Yes, I know, the numbers are super important, but they just don't tell the whole story.    Think about it this way, If we only considered the numbers, we wouldn't be able to know if the STR would stand out in an increasingly saturated market, create a rave-worthy experience, or be a place guests can't wait to return to year after year.    In short: numbers alone won't tell you your expected ROI.   That's exactly why in this episode I'm diving into the three key factors (from experience) that should 100% be considered when you're in the market for a short-term rental property. Enjoy this episode; for more STR branding and marketing live training, join my Facebook Group >>HERE.

Can I be real with you for a sec? If you scroll through STR platforms on social media, you'll most-likely notice that they're flooded with picture-perfect families, extravagant trips, and homes that look like they belong in a magazine.  While there's nothing wrong with showing the good parts of being a co-host, don't we have an obligation to be really (REALLY!) real with our audiences? Because the short-term rental business is not for the faint of heart and let's be real… it's not for everyone.  That's exactly why in this episode I'm giving you the deets on what I personally wish I knew before getting knees deep into the business.  Enjoy this episode; for more STR branding and marketing live training, join my Facebook Group >>HERE

Let's be real, we all want to increase bookings and sales. But how do you do this when you feel completely maxed out on your marketing efforts?  Well, you take a step back and revisit the foundation (aka your brand and the way it makes people feel). In this episode, you'll learn the branding strategies that'll support your marketing efforts and ultimately... increase your bottom line. For more STR branding and marketing live trainings, join my Facebook Group >>HEREEnjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect.

Real talk: social media marketing can be highly effective for your short-term rental for several reasons: visibility, engagement, connecting, etc.   But I know it can feel overwhelming when starting, especially when your to-do list is the length of a CVS receipt.   Trust me, as a STR owner myself, I totally get it.   In this episode, you'll learn how social media marketing can work for your short-term rental business and my top five things to consider when getting started with your social media marketing strategy. Join my Facebook Group >>HERE

It all started because I shared my vision... A major brand component that helps you get to where you want to go. And in my case, led to relationships that connected me with my new partners for Cabins on the Cumberland. If you have a big vision (like us), finding partnerships can allow you to do things you probably wouldn't do otherwise. As for us, by leveraging each other's strengths and resources, we're truly able to enhance the guest experience, expand our offers, and increase revenue.  Click play to hear how I found the best partners (out of 50ish info requests!) and my thoughts on finding the right ones. Join my Facebook Group to learn more: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF

Alight, cue the confetti, because I'm SO excited to introduce you to today's guest... Paige Hayes is an interior designer who has taken on a nomadic lifestyle with her family while managing her STR design business.  On this episode, Paige so graciously shares how she's able to travel across the US in a fifth wheel with her husband and two kiddos, as well as spending winters abroad. Click play to learn how to create unique guest experiences through design and amenities, make your property stand out, and Paige's best advice for someone wanting to get into the industry. Join Steph's Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF Join Paige's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312695317484928/?ref=share_group_link  More about Paige: Paige is an interior designer, a mom, and a full time traveler.  She has been in the design industry for over a decade and has always loved designing short term rentals because of the unique challenges they pose, and because of the creativity involved.  With a background in anthropology, Paige loves telling the stories of places through design. Paige is the founder of Hayes & Co. Interiors, and the creator of the SSUFF Method for short term rental design.  She is also the creator of the STR Design for Hosts complete design program, and the Virtual Designers Inner Circle community.   Paige loves building communities, sharing knowledge, creating beautiful spaces, traveling the world, quilting, eating, and hanging out with her family.

Before you jump into (re)designing your property, you'll want to listen to this episode... If you didn't already know this about me, my career started in the fashion industry. Curating pieces and just knowing what works well (and what doesn't) is something that actually comes pretty naturally to me. I mean, let's get real - design is fun, and it has a pretty good R.O.I So, I totally understand the eagerness of wanting to get into designing your rental... but you've got to get clear on the foundations FIRST. Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF 

Our co-hosting journey has been incredibly wild and filled with unexpected moments of good and... not so good. Like any business, there have been many many curves and LESSONS along the way... So, in this episode, I'm spillin' the tea on how we've gotten several clients since starting our business in May, the tech we use, and the hurdle Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF

One thing to know when it comes to unique stays is that you probably won't be everyone's cup of tea.   But that's ok…   Because, with tons of options out there, people want a stay that has a unique touch…    In this episode, Zoey Berghoff (multi-six-figure superhost) and I chat about all things land hacking, profitability, and creating a unique rave-worthy stay.   Zoey also (so graciously) gives us an inside to her operations as a remote host and everything that goes into the backend.    Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @zoeyberghoff, @hostedbythewebers, and @theweberco so we can connect.   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF  

The best way to increase your short-term rental (direct) bookings? … Build trust with your ideal guest. Ok, Steph, but how? By building a compelling and recognizable brand. Don't know where to start? I got you, friend. In this episode of HBTW, I'm diving into what branding looks like for a hosting company and properties and why it's essential. I'm also teaching you the core components of branding and the impact it has on the potential guest perception. Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF

Let me tell you, friend… Your dreams and goals can become a reality if you just take inspired action. It doesn't matter how big or specific your dreams are; YOU are capable. In 2022 I had a very specific vision. (I share about it in this episode.) I had NO idea HOW it would happen, but I let go of the how and just did what I knew.  And today… This vision is a reality.  In this episode, I'm sharing our HUGE next adventure and the steps we took to make this milestone possible. Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF  

2023 will always be a pivotal year at the Weber household.  Collin and I did the unimaginable and started a business together. We gave birth to our second son, Noah.  I pivoted the business that had earned nearly a million dollars. It's been bananas... And 2024 is already off to a crazy start (big announcement to come!). In this episode, I'm sharing a little about what I've learned in 2023 and what I'm ready to achieve in 2024. Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF

Believe me when I say…    Collin and I (Steph) never thought we would be running a company together.    Even though Collin has been the BEST supporter, he had no desire to be a part of the business… until we started our short-term rental journey.   Since starting this business and purchasing our new property, we've had several other couples reach out asking questions.    In this episode of HBTW, we're sharing the stories and lessons we've experienced from the last seven months of being life AND business partners.   Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect.   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF  

2023 has been an insanely transformative year for my business…  I mean if you told me a year ago that I would be managing 13 short-term rental properties with my husband, I would have flipped.  And as glad that I am to be on this new journey, it meant closing a chapter that I worked so hard on. But here's the thing, as we evolve, so do our businesses. So, in this episode of Hosted By The Webers, I'm sharing my journey from the last five years. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF   

If you aren't sure where to get started with influencer marketing or UGC (User Generated Content) for your short-term rental, friend, this episode is for you.   Believe me when I say, there are several reasons why this could be SO beneficial in your content strategy…    But just to name a few 1.) Leveraging audiences where your ideal guest is hanging out, 2.) Saving you time and energy on content efforts, and 3.) Having a variety of quality content to use at any time for ads, posts, etc.   One thing I want you to remember is that there is a difference between marketing and sales, but they do have to go hand and hand. And even though no influencer can guarantee you bookings, the likelihood of you being profitable from their stay is still pretty high (plus the visibility and exposure to accounts you wouldn't have reached otherwise!)   As an ex-influencer myself in the travel space, I have a lot more to share on this, so stay tuned inside my free Facebook group with the link below!   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF     Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect.  

We've learned several lessons since starting our STR journey…   And to be honest, most of our clients have come from not-so-stellar previous experiences with management companies and we've seen firsthand what NOT to do.   But out of all of the lessons since starting this journey, one has been monumental for my clients…   Have ownership of your listing.   3 out of 4 of our co-hosting clients have been burned by not having control over their listings and it's so unacceptable.    Whether you're wanting to get into co-hosting or property ownership, this episode is for you.   I'll continue to share the lessons and the journey with you inside my free Facebook group with the link below!   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF    Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect.  

Do you need social media for your short-term rental?    Short answer, YES.    But this doesn't mean you need to have a separate account for every single short-term rental you have… (Wowza, that would be a lot of content!)   Personally, we've decided to create one account for Hosted By The Webers as an umbrella brand where we can market all of our short-term rentals together, and this is working so well for us.    And this doesn't need to be complicated… in fact, it shouldn't be complicated.    You can learn more about the social media strategies I've used to help market hundreds of powerful brands inside my free Facebook group with link below!   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF   Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect.  

In my 10+ years of being in the branding and marketing space, there is one crucial component that has been proven to nurture leads and increase sales.    Email marketing. (If this feels like a lot to implement right now, just think start by capturing email addresses to market to at another time!)    I've set up hundreds of email funnels at this point and the efforts pay off for a number of reasons. 1.) You can easily see who is watching, clicking, and where they are dropping off. 2.) It's your (somewhat only) chance to re-engage and market to past and potential guests.   So how do you do this and where do you start? 1.) Listen to this podcast and DM me your questions so I can give you the resources and 2.) Set up your platform email platform. (We recommend using StayFi to capture email addresses!)   Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF

Niki is a travel agent who has been a client of The Weber Co. (and we've been clients of hers as well!)   In this episode, Niki and her husband Nick (also high-school sweethearts) share how they got started in the short-term rental space and how Podcasts were their best friends while getting started.   Something that they mentioned that stood out to me is having “Instant buyer remorse” which is almost always expected when making a HUGE investment like a 12-person home out-of-state.   Within 24 hours, they had their first booking which definitely calmed some nerves - and they so graciously shared lessons that can help you in your short-term rental journey too!   Enjoy this episode and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @travelsbyniki so we can connect.   Join our Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/strbrandingdesignmarketing/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF  

SO MANY QUESTIONS...  And I get it! The business that earned nearly a million dollars in revenue took a major pivot.  And here's the thing, I've spent 10+ years in the branding and marketing space.  In April, Collin (my husband and business partner) and I started our short-term rental journey and it didn't take me long to realize that a solid combination of branding, marketing, and a stellar guest eperience was what this industry was really lacking. The idea of short-term rental isn't exactly new to me, this has been part of my vision for years and years. But now, I can align my expertise with this space and help hosts get a crazy ROI. The questions I'm answering today on the podcast are pretty vulnerable as I'm still facing some of the fears and challenges that come with rebranding.  Tune in to hear my re-brand strategy and some of the behind-the-scenes work that has gone behind The Weber Co. 2.0 Make sure to tag us when you listen @hostedbythewebers so we can connect.

Welcome to Hosted By The Webers! From the HBTW podcast you can expect: adivce from guest experts, branding and marketing guidance in the short-term rental space, and the lessons we are learning as we continue our journey as a married couple and business partners. I (hi, it's Steph) will be sharing my knowledge in design, branding, and marketing to help you bring your dream guest experience to life whether it be short-term rentals, property management, or other forms of entrepreneurship. In this specific episode, we are diving into how we got into this space and the vision we have created for this business and our family. We hope that this episode inspires you to take action to create and pursue a vision for your family as well. Make sure to tag us when you listen @hostedbythewebers so we can connect.