Meet Laura Klein, Founder & CEO, Co-Hosts Vacation Rentals Specialists Inc. – startGBC January 2025 #WhyNotMe GBC Entrepreneur Spotlight
We had the joy of catching up with Laura Klein, a serial entrepreneur, with years of wisdom to learn more about her entrepreneurial journey and top tips she wanted to share.
About Laura
Laura’s path as an entrepreneur has been one of constant evolution, driven by a fascination with human behaviour and market opportunities. Initially studying Anthropology at the University of Victoria, Laura pivoted to the Fashion Business Industry program, recognizing her desire to create tangible products that connect with people's daily lives.
This decision catalyzed Laura’s first entrepreneurial venture immediately after graduation, where she became a founding member of Titika Active alongside fellow George Brown graduates Eileen Zhang and Courtney Barr. Simultaneously, she launched ELLED, a jewelry line that she marketed through MySpace – a venture that not only taught her the foundations of e-commerce but pushed Laura to develop her first website from scratch.
Laura’s entrepreneurial journey then led her into real estate sales, where she gained invaluable experience in property transactions and client relations. When Airbnb emerged globally in 2008, Laura recognized another opportunity and began hosting travellers during the Toronto International Film Festival from her own residence. This side hustle proved to be transformative, eventually leading Laura to British Columbia where she established a property management company that grew to oversee 70 properties within 4 years.
Each business transition is built upon the skills and insights gained from previous ventures, demonstrating that entrepreneurship isn't about sticking to one path, but rather about recognizing and adapting to new opportunities as they arise.
About Co-Hosts Vacation Rental Specialists
Co-Hosts Vacation Rental Specialists is a short-term rental management company specializing in the care and operation of vacation properties.
Academic Background
George Brown College Fashion Business Industry/Image Consulting Certificate, 2010
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
The path to entrepreneurship emerged naturally from my desire for personal and professional freedom. I recognized early on that my spirit craved not just autonomy in decision-making, but the ability to create meaningful impact in people's lives.
Traditional career paths felt constraining; I wanted the freedom to bring my ideas to life while serving others in ways that aligned with my values and dreams. Entrepreneurship wasn't just a career choice – it was an answer to my fundamental desire to craft my own destiny while building something larger than myself.
Why did you create your business?
The short-term rental management business became a natural extension of my entrepreneurial spirit. This aligned with my core desires for freedom, autonomy, and service to others. I saw an opportunity to create a business model that would not only give me the flexibility to design my own systems and work structure but also allowed me to genuinely help both property owners and travellers.
By bridging the gap between these two groups, I could build something meaningful and beautiful. The business model enabled me to craft unique guest experiences and discover innovative management solutions, and most of all, it satisfied my creative drive as I brought my personal vision to life by fully staging and designing many of the properties with distinctive decor and branded elements.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
I have helped women in my company become Canadian Citizens by joining an employment work program in Canada.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Your initial business idea is likely not your final destination and you may try several business ideas before you find your true calling/breakthrough. Follow your heart and intuition and the right people/partners will gravitate towards you. You will fail at some aspects, but they are opportunities to learn and become better. Don't give up-it's a bumpy ride so wear your seatbelt!
Any books or podcasts you would recommend?
'You're a Badass' by Jen Sincero
The Next Big Idea
The Nomad Capitalist
Anthropod
Marie Forleo,
Brene Brown
Ted Talks Daily
Anything else you would like to share?
In a world driven by conformity, your unique vision and independent spirit aren't just assets - they're your responsibility to share, as every creative idea you bring to life has the power to serve and inspire others.
Remember that true entrepreneurship is an act of service; we're all interconnected in this journey, and by keeping our authentic ideas alive and bringing them into reality, we not only maintain our individuality but contribute to the tapestry of innovation that moves society forward.
Website and Socials
Website: www.cohosts.ca
Instagram: cohostsluxuryproperties
Facebook: cohostsvacation
