La Grange Graduate Built Her Business From the Ground Up

In this monthly series, local realtor Andrea Schutter Riebeling does a Q & A with local business people about what inspires them. This month’s interview is with La Grange High School graduate Lindsey Pleasant.

1.) What is your business?

I own HOSTIE Vacation Rentals, a rental management company focused on high-end properties in Texas. We manage second homes and turn them into incomeproducing short-term rentals, with properties in places like Fayette and Washington Counties and Wimberley. I also own HOSTIE Transportation, offering luxury rides for up to nine people, and I’m a licensed real estate agent with Martha Turner Sotheby’s specializing in identifying and creating income-producing properties for clients. Everything I do ties back to helping people find, enjoy, or invest in beautiful spaces.

2.) How did you get started?

Right after graduating from TexasA&M, I was in between jobs and trying to figure out my next step. The opportunity was initially introduced to my mom, but I quickly saw a real need in the market for quality short-term rental management— especially in this area. I jumped in headfirst, studied the industry inside and out, and built HOSTIE from the ground up.

3.) How long have you been in business?

We launched inApril 2021, so just over four years now.

4.) Is this a family or oneperson business?

It started with just me, wearing all the hats. But now my mom works with me full time, and we’ve built a small but mighty team. It feels like family.

5.) What kind of services do you provide?

We handle everything you could need when it comes to managing a vacation rental including guest communication, bookings, cleaning, maintenance, strategic pricing, and concierge services. Every property is styled to provide a high-end, memorable guest experience. On the transportation side, our luxury sprinter van helps guests and locals get to weddings, events, or just enjoy a wine tour for the day. And through real estate, I help clients invest in short-term rental properties that perform well in the market.

6.) Tell me something unique about your business.

We’re here. We’re local. We’re hands-on. We’re truly boots on the ground. Unlike many remote management companies, we’re personally involved in every detail ranging from curating guest experiences to maintaining properties. We know the homes and we know the community. Every detail matters to us, from fresh flowers on the table to having the AC just right when guests arrive. That personal touch makes all the difference. Hospitality isn’t just our busi- ness; it’s our mindset.

7.) What is your background?

I grew up in La Grange and graduated from La Grange High School. After that, I went to Texas A&M, where I really developed my passion for entrepreneurship and real estate. I’ve always loved the idea of creating something from nothing and helping people along the way, and that’s exactly what I get to do every day.

8.) What do you suggest to others who want to take a leap in their career?

Start before you feel ready. You’ll never have all the answers at the beginning, and that’s okay. What matters is showing up, staying consistent, and being open to learning. And don’t be afraid to lean on the people around you. The right support system is everything. Your network is your everything, so make sure you have a good reputation. Be the expert in your trade and truly love what you do. It really is true when you hear “If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life”.

9.) Do you believe in college, trade school, or any training?

I think it’s all about what fits your personality and goals. College gave me great tools and perspective plus great networking, but honestly, the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came from doing, getting my hands dirty, asking questions, making mistakes, and growing from them.

10.) How did you decide to make Fayette County your home?

This is where I’m from. I grew up on the golf course, went to school here, and now I’m building my life and business here. Staying connected to the community and contributing to its growth is incredibly important to me!