MC Fireside Chats - August 14th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In the August 14th, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a dynamic discussion unfolded around the outdoor hospitality industry, focusing on the glamping sector. The episode featured a panel of industry experts including Chris Jeub, Angele Miller, Derry Green, Miguel Huerta, and Zach Stoltenberg, each bringing unique perspectives and insights on how to succeed in this rapidly growing market. Angele Miller, co-founder of Creekside RNR Glamping, spoke about her award-winning resort in Atlantic Canada and its expansion across Canada and the United States. She highlighted the importance of branding and creating distinctive guest experiences that set her glamping sites apart from others. Angele discussed the strategies her company employs to attract a diverse clientele and how they plan to scale their brand while maintaining the quality and uniqueness of each location. Zach Stoltenberg, Director of Outdoor Hospitality at Clockwork, an architecture firm, provided insights into the architectural side of glamping. He discussed the importance of design in creating memorable experiences for guests, emphasizing that the physical environment plays a crucial role in guest satisfaction. Zach also shared how his firm has adapted to the unique demands of glamping projects, which often require innovative and sustainable design solutions to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. Chris Jeub, who operates Monument Glamping in Colorado, talked about his journey into the glamping industry and how he has built his brand by connecting with other operators. Chris emphasized the importance of being adaptable and open to learning from others in the industry. He shared how his brand evolved over time, from a simple backyard setup to a recognized glamping destination, highlighting the value of hands-on experience and continuous improvement. Miguel Huerta, President of the Mexican Glamping Association, offered a perspective from Latin America, discussing the growth of the glamping industry in Mexico. He spoke about how the region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes provide a unique opportunity for glamping operators. Miguel emphasized the role of social media in marketing these experiences, noting that effective use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok can significantly boost visibility and bookings for glamping sites. Derry Green, owner of The Secret Garden Glamping in the UK, shared his inspiring story of how he turned a simple lockdown project into one of the most successful glamping businesses in the country. Derry highlighted the importance of authenticity in social media marketing, explaining that content reflecting the genuine guest experience resonates more with audiences than polished promotional materials. He also discussed his innovative approach to using TikTok as a testing ground for content, which he then amplifies on other platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach a broader audience. The conversation delved into the challenges of attracting guests during off-peak times, with Derry explaining how he targets specific demographics, such as women between the ages of 35 and 45, to fill midweek bookings. He discussed the importance of designing glamping units that can accommodate groups, as this flexibility helps to attract a wider range of guests, including families and multigenerational groups. Miguel added to the discussion by talking about the importance of setting and meeting guest expectations. He explained that in the glamping industry, providing an exceptional experience is key to success, as guests are looking for more than just accommodation—they are seeking unique and memorable experiences. Miguel also shared his vision for the future of glamping in Latin America, where he sees significant potential for growth as more travelers seek out alternative forms of accommodation. Throughout the discussion, the panelists agreed on the necessity of continuous innovation in the glamping industry. They emphasized that staying ahead of trends and being responsive to guest feedback are essential for long-term success. The importance of social media as a tool for building brand awareness and driving bookings was a recurring theme, with all the speakers acknowledging that platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are indispensable in today’s marketing landscape. In his closing remarks, Brian Searl reiterated the value of collaboration within the industry, encouraging glamping operators to share knowledge and support each other. He highlighted that by working together, the industry can continue to grow and provide exceptional experiences for guests. Each speaker echoed this sentiment, expressing their willingness to help others in the industry and to continue learning from their peers. The episode concluded with a strong sense of optimism about the future of glamping. The panelists expressed their excitement about the possibilities ahead and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what outdoor hospitality can offer. They all agreed that the industry’s focus on unique, personalized experiences will continue to attract a growing number of travelers seeking something different from traditional accommodation options.