Are you dreaming of creating a stunning and successful short-term rental business? Look no further than Cassidy and Lily, the talented co-founders and interior designers behind Savvy Design & Co. With a passion for crafting unique spaces and a drive for freedom and flexibility, Cassidy and Lily embarked on their journey into the vacation rental industry. Join us as we delve into their inspiring story, and learn how HostGPO has played a role in their quest to create high-end vacation rentals that guests will adore.

How many years have you been in the short-term rental industry and how did you get started?

We have been in the STR industry for about 2 years now and in 2020 we both felt the pull of something more than what the corporate world had to offer. It took us about a year to realize we wanted to niche down into vacation rentals. As entrepreneurs, we envisioned flexibility for family, rest, creativity building, and freedom of our time. 

What do you find most rewarding about your career?

Savvy Design & Co was born out of wanting to build freedom for ourselves both in how we run our business and how we live outside of work but ultimately to lead by example in helping others create that same freedom through their short-term rental businesses. It is so rewarding to see others find their pathway to success. 

What is your favorite rental property you have and why do you love it?

I think Lighthouse Bluff will forever and always be our favorite property to design – it was a dream come true to work on this project. From its gorgeous architecture, and unmatchable location, to our client trusting us with the organic modern vision – this house is going to have so many memories built here and that is another reason we love it! 

What’s the craziest story you have from hosting?

I think one of the craziest stories we have is actually a few weeks ago – After a last-minute booking that was under our normal minimum night stay to fill a gap, our cleaner walked into something we’ve never quite seen yet. From marijuana smell everywhere in a full log home, I might add, to ripped sheets, cigarette burn holes in our leather dining chairs, a melted pan, stolen Bluetooth speaker it was an absolute mess, not to mention it was a same-day turnover. I guess it just goes to show you that not everyone respects a property no matter how nice it is or how much it goes for per night. Thankfully the guest paid for the damage and additional cleaning fee. That was an all-hands-on-deck situation though to prep for the guest checking in 6 hours later!

What’s one “pro-tip” you’d be willing to pass on to the community?

Our biggest piece of advice is to always use hospitality-grade furniture for big-ticket items as well as accommodate amenities and furnishing for the number of guests that you sleep.

What’s the most recent item that you can remember that you’ve ordered from HostGPO?

Something we’ve ordered recently through HostGPO is the Urban 3 Piece Sectional from West Elm

What would you tell others about whether to join HostGPO?

We would HIGHLY recommend HostGPO it makes quality furniture more attainable for hosts to create a high end vacation rental.