Owner Stories Behind the Stay – She Sells Sanctuary

Overlooking the harbour in St Ives, She Sells Sanctuary is a  beautifully curated retreat that perfectly captures the charm and character of Cornwall’s most iconic town.

In this first edition of our ‘Owner Stories Behind the Stay’ series, we chat with the owners about what makes this beautiful home stand out. From its thoughtful design and guest-loved touches to the care that goes into creating a warm, memorable stay. They also share their top tips for anyone dreaming of turning their own property into a holiday escape. Ready to peek behind the front door and hear their story? Read on.

As a holiday homeowner, what were your reasons to begin holiday letting in Cornwall? 

“We wanted to create a space that felt like a true escape—calm, comfortable, and close to the sea. Letting the cottage out was a way to share that with others who are looking for a peaceful break in a beautiful spot. Holiday letting also gave us the chance to combine creativity with practicality and offer something we’d love to stay in ourselves.”

Since purchasing the cottage, we can see that you have carried out extensive renovations prior to entering the market. What top tip would you like to share with anyone who is planning to carry out a similar project to prepare for letting?

“We wanted She Sells Sanctuary to feel warm, welcoming and practical, not just stylish  prioritise comfort, storage and good lighting – the views help too.”

Can you share some insights into your experience of researching and choosing a holiday let agency for your holiday home in St Ives, Cornwall?

“We were really keen to work with a smaller agency—somewhere we wouldn’t get lost in the mix. We wanted a team that was approachable, collaborative, and easy to communicate with. It was important to feel like we were working with someone, not just handing over the keys. That personal connection made a big difference, and it’s been a great fit so far.”