Lisa McKernan from @bylisamckernan & @revelandhide

I’m writing this on New Year’s Day of 2022, reflecting on some pretty big ‘pinch me’ moments during such a rollercoaster last twelve months. A year ago, I never could have anticipated I would be in the position I am now - working for myself, supporting the most incredible clients, and moments away from launching my own hosted home.

I can’t remember the exact moment I discovered Sarah's classes, but I went on to become a dedicated stalker of Sarah’s Instagram and website, trying to learn all I possibly could before signing up. Eventually I took the plunge to invest in myself, something I had never really done before. Savings were held onto for holidays or beautiful meals with loved ones, and until then I had found it hard to justify spending on myself. 

I’m so thankful I did. I have never felt so inspired or capable of finally making my dream of owning a hosted home become a reality - I realised I didn’t have to afford a country or beach cottage to be a success, but my little apartment in my favourite suburb of Melbourne would be the perfect way to start my hosting journey. 

As my apartment plans started to take shape, the world suddenly turned on its head and so did my career as an event manager. I knew it was time for change in my day to day, and I found myself being drawn further and further into the supportive community of The Hosting Masterclass. Instagram has been equal parts terrifying and life changing - by slowing interacting with other grads, following their journeys, and reaching out to say hello via a DM, I found myself starting a brand new, VERY unexpected journey. The @readandhall sisters were looking for help with their property & being reassured by our shared connection through The Hosting Masterclass, they asked me to join their team. Fast forward twelve months, with such support from Sarah & Emma and their word of mouth referrals, I have now left my day job, honed in on my passion by helping to manage seven hosted homes, and support a number of other clients as a Virtual Assistant. The biggest pinch me moment? Being asked by Sarah Andrews herself, to join her team. 

My words for you? Take in all that Sarah teaches, and hold onto it forever. You’ll find yourself applying your learnings to all parts of your life - you’ll benefit not just for the project you have in mind right at this moment, but for such a long time to come. 

Be open to opportunities and reach out to those you are drawn to in the community of this school - Instagram can be a daunting world, but if you take your time and find a way to be yourself online, I promise you will make the most incredible connections. I no longer sit around boardroom tables with companies and individuals I can’t relate to - I spend my days chatting, laughing and feeling so appreciated by creative women forging their own paths, who I now not only call my clients, but also my friends. 

If you let it, this school truly can change your life.

Lisa XX.