Leading executives from a host of major short-term rental (STR) brands recently attended an exclusive, invite-only dinner organised by Holiday Cottage Handbook and yhangry – the largest self-catering private chef partner in the industry. Held on the sidelines of several industry events, it was an evening filled with delicious food, hilarious stories, and invaluable networking, set against a backdrop of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Leading platforms, including One Fine Stay, SnapTrip, Kate & Toms, Your AirHost, PriceLabs, and Key Data, plus associations such as PASC UK, the ASSC, and STAA, were represented at the event, which was covered by Hannah Gravett, a journalist from The Times. Attendees shared stories of their journeys, discussed the latest trends shaping the industry, and explored predictions for the future. From the rise of AI to regulation, and the growth of digital nomads, no topic was left untouched. Guests left inspired, their networks strengthened, and their minds buzzing with fresh ideas.
A winning combination: food and conversation
The dinner featured a specially-curated Diwali-inspired menu prepared by Masterchef finalist Abhilasha Chandak. Each course was a testament to the power of thoughtfully prepared food to spark meaningful connections. As the plates were cleared, the conversations deepened, with attendees sharing strategies, challenges, and successes from their hosting experiences. The conversation touched on a number of hilarious topics about people's hosting journeys – everything from crazy parties to turf wars and even guests who had mistaken two ducks in the garden for a delicious welcome gift..!
The value of such events extends beyond the meal itself, as many of the guests testified on social media. The dinner proved an exceptional networking opportunity and a business opportunity which provides the chance to reach key clients in a relaxed but effective manner.
Boostly Founder, Mark Simpson, said: "Holiday Cottage Handbook nailed it. Teaming up with yhangry was a genius move. When you go to conferences I've always said it's the fringe events that make it memorable. For those lucky few who were invited, I and they won't be forgetting this one for a while."
"A phenomenal and illuminating evening, in so many ways! Thank you for your exquisite hospitality," said Fiona Campbell, CEO, Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers.
Andy Fenner, CEO, Short Term Accommodation Association, said: "Wonderful evening. Thank you Holiday Cottage Handbook and yhangry for the invite and amazing food. Thank you also to the other guests from our fantastic industry for making the evening complete."
Daniela Derin, Holiday Rentals Managers, Skol Apartments Marbella, said: "What a night! It was yet more proof that relationships are forged around the table. Thank you for inviting us. I would love to export this format to Marbella."
"What a fantastic evening we had – amazing food made with love and family connections and wonderful company," said Lisa Roads from The Holiday Property Coach. "I loved the round table questions hearing how other people found themselves in the STR sector and what disasters and challenges other people have experienced. Thank you for taking such great care of us all, I had the best time."
The ultimate STR networking events
Building on this success, HCH and yhangry are excited to announce a series of sponsored dinners in 2025. Yet again, these events will be invite-only, with the lucky few guests receiving a sought-after golden ticket! These gatherings – involving the world's biggest property managers, leading industry brands, and key influencers – will coincide with major industry events, including:
Short Stay Summit, London, April 2025
Vacation Rental World Summit (VRWS), Rome, October 2025
Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA), Las Vegas, October 2025
These dinners will offer an unparalleled opportunity for sponsors and attendees alike to connect in a relaxed, exclusive setting while diving into the topics that matter most.
We currently have a waiting list for sponsorship – however we are working with brands to organise bespoke dinners in order to reach target customers and significantly cut the cost of acquisition. If your business is interested in sponsoring a dinner, please fill in the below form.
HCH Founder, James Varley, said: "We believe that the best ideas and connections come from genuine conversations. These dinners are about more than networking; they’re about building a community of like-minded professionals who are shaping the future of the STR industry.
“The 2025 events are designed to bring unparalleled value to sponsors by connecting them directly with a highly engaged audience of short-term rental professionals. These gatherings offer an intimate setting for meaningful conversations, brand visibility across multiple channels, and the chance to position your business as a key player in this rapidly evolving industry.”
Siddhi Mittal, Co-Founder of yhangry, added: "Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and at yhangry, we’re proud to play a part in facilitating these meaningful connections. Partnering with HCH allows us to take this to the next level, creating unforgettable experiences for the STR community. We’re incredibly excited for 2025 and the opportunities ahead – this is the perfect chance for STR brands to align with us and engage directly with the industry’s top professionals in a truly impactful way."
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