Why I started Solstice Property Management (and why i love what i do)
a perfectly timed picture of a rainbow over manson, wa
There’s something about living in the Chelan Valley that sticks with you. Maybe it’s the way the lake sparkles in the summer sun, how the hills have a golden glow in the fall, or the quiet hush of the valley at sunrise. Or maybe it’s the way locals always wave as you pass by, and how the buzz of tourist season brings the town to life.
No matter what it is, this place has a way of feeling like home - whether you’ve been here a lifetime or you’re just arriving for the weekend.
If you’re new here, I’m Sam, a 4th-gen local who never planned to run a property management business… until one day, I realized I couldn’t not do it.
A Life In Hospitality
My story starts the way a lot of small-town stories do - bouncing between different jobs, trying to figure out what felt right.
My first “real job” was helping out at a family friend’s daycare. From there, I moved into the hospitality world, working everywhere from hotel front desks to restaurants and coffee shops. I fell in love with baking, spent over 12 years making coffee, and even dreamed of becoming the next Cake Boss at one point!
But no matter where I worked, one thing stayed the same: I love taking care of people.
Whether it was handing someone their perfect americano or helping a stressed-out traveler find their way, I’ve always believed hospitality is about making people feel seen and valued.
Enter: The World of Vacation Rentals
After my hubby and I had kids, working in hospitality got tricky. Juggling shifts, childcare, and family time didn’t seem sustainable. So I took a remote job with a corporate vacation rental company.
I started in customer service, but quickly moved up to Local Operations Manager. That’s where I discovered the world of short-term rentals - and how much I loved with connecting guests with the hidden gems of Chelan.
If you’re planning a trip, here’s my local’s guide to summer in Chelan.
But I also saw the flip side. In big corporations, homeowners and guests sometimes felt like numbers in a spreadsheet. I kept thinking… there had to be a better way.
The Push I Needed
During my time as a Local Operations Manager, homeowners would often say "When are you going to start your own business? Because we’d follow you in a heartbeat!”
At first, I laughed it off. I never thought I’d have my own rental management company. But the idea stuck in my mind. And one day, I realized the only thing stopping me was fear.
So I took the leap. I wanted to build a business rooted in real relationships, local knowledge, and true hospitality.
Here’s how I bring that vision to life through the small touches guests love.
Why “Solstice”?
I chose the name Solstice because it represents change, light, and new beginnings. That’s what I want hosting to feel like for my clients - a fresh, exciting chapter where they feel supported and confident.
Whether I’m helping homeowners maximize their rental’s potential or greeting guests for a weekend getaway, my mission stays the same:
Treat people like people - not dollar signs
Communicate openly and honestly
Create memorable experiences
Support the community I love
Looking Ahead
These days, I manage beautiful properties around the Chelan Valley, help guests fall in love with this place the way I have, and dream about sharing what I’ve learned with other hosts through coaching and resources someday.
Running Solstice has been one of the most challenging - and rewarding - things I’ve ever done. And I’m just getting started.
Curious about avoiding headaches in property management? Check out my post on the top red flags to watch for!
Related Posts You’ll Love:
Small Touches Guests Love in Any Vacation Rental
A Local’s Guide to Chelan in the Summer
Top Red Flags to Watch Out for in STR Management