Sami Jo Lien has been in entertainment publicity for nearly 15 years, but has always harbored a love for interior design. In 2021, she set out with a plan to build an ADU in her Overland backyard to utilize for herself, family, friends and even visitors to the South Denver neighborhood through short-term rental. After several stall-outs and added permitting costs, she decided to pursue another route. The workaround? A 1978 Airstream.

Can you share a bit about yourself and what led you to create Margo, The Overland Caravan?

I had been wanting to host a space for years, but with real estate costs, I just could never swing it. The ADU felt attainable, but being in a flood zone, it was so difficult to get through the approval process. I had worked with a very cool business in Louisville and even had the entire design ready, but after spending so much time and money to secure permitting, I hit a wall. I didn’t want to give the project up entirely, so I jumped on Facebook Marketplace to explore other options. Margo appeared in my feed: a 1978 Airstream Argosy Minuet.

I made an appointment to see her the next morning and fell in love immediately. The owner said I was 1 of 40 people who were interested, but since I was the first, I had first say. I went for it, and we brought her home a few days later.

What inspired you to choose an Airstream Minuet for this project?

I don’t know what I was looking for when I had to pivot from my original ADU project, but I really went off my gut feeling, and the minute I stepped inside the camper, it just felt right. I had just tackled 5 months of chemo and a double mastectomy for a breast cancer diagnosis I received earlier in the year, and so I was just really leaning into my intuition.

Can you tell us about the restoration or design process—what’s been the most rewarding (or challenging) part?

Margo was already in amazing shape when we got her. A woodworker had owned her previously and did some really beautiful work to the interior. I just got to gussy her up and bring in the vision I had for the inside. I really took my time on the project, and I have to say it was just the right thing to reignite my creativity and fire after going through a health crisis. I usually am very stressed and private about my process, but working on the airstream has been very slow and steady, and I’ve loved every part of it.

What special features or unique details make Margo stand out from other short-term rentals?

Margo’s a total experience. She’s got an eclectic soul and blends the retro charm of the ‘70s with the cozy, handcrafted feel of a UK shepherd’s hut. She’s an inviting retreat in our little island-like neighborhood of Overland, so its so quiet and peaceful parked right under a big tree, but you have all of the fun urban luxuries nearby: Levitt Pavilion, Overland Golf Course, Antique Row, great food, cocktails and the light rail to connect you to anywhere in the city.

What kind of experience are you hoping to create for guests who stay in Margo?

When I was really in the trenches with my two little ones, I needed to get away to a hotel once in a while to refill my tank. I thought, “how cool would it be if it were in my backyard?” I think all moms and parents — really anyone who needs a break in life — should take time away like that once in a while because it really does help refill your cup and reconnect you with who you are. I wanted to put my own spin on a space like that and share it with anyone looking for something fun and creative that was easily accessible.

Do you have any fun surprises or hidden details that guests will love discovering?

I do, but I think I’d love to save a lot of them for when they visit! One of my favorites I will share though is that we’ve curated a selection of records that were all released in 1978 to correspond with Margo’s birth year. She even has her own playlist.

How are you partnering with local businesses to enhance the Margo experience?

I’d really like to help visitors get to know our special little slice of Denver and give them a good sense of our fun little community here. I’m currently working on putting together some fun add-ons that visitors can apply to their bookings like coffee, beer or snacks from local favorites in the neighborhood.

Can you share any collaborations you’re especially excited about?

Yes! I have a fun giveaway coming up for Mother’s Day, where I’m pulling in a few local businesses, including my girlfriends who run Bloom Bar. You’ll have to join us over on Instagram to see the full details in May!

What’s been the most exciting or unexpected part of bringing this project to life?

I think how effortless and natural things have come together. It’s definitely been a learning curve, but never difficult. I tend to think that’s a sign you’re on the right path.

What advice would you give to someone dreaming of launching their own creative venture?

I’m always going to be the person cheering someone on (seriously, I’m very terrible and expensive to go shopping with). You have one life – why not? Just get organized and see how you can logistically make it happen. Ask for help, and go for it. You can do this.

How can people follow along or support Margo?

You can visit our website at margotheoc.com for bookings and more information and follow along on social media: https://instagram.com/margotheoc https://www.tiktok.com/@margotheoc https://facebook.com/margotheoc