Meet Sami Jo Lien | Publicist and Airstream Host

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sami Jo Lien and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sami Jo, every day, we know how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for my business was a bit of a winding road. I’ve always had a great love of travel, and over the years, I’ve built a pretty impressive resume of unique stays from around the world. I’ve come to really understand what makes a place feel special, and what makes you want to book it, relax in it, and tell all your friends about it.

Originally, I was trying to build an ADU in our backyard, but after years of navigating Denver’s permitting maze, I finally decided to change course. That’s when I found Margo – my 1978 Airstream Argosy Minuet – nostalgic, and completely different from your average rental.

The heart of the idea really came from when my kids were teeny tiny. My version of self-care was booking a night away at a nice hotel; somewhere that was charming, quiet, had a comfortable bed, and all the snacks and streaming I could handle. I wanted to create that same kind of escape just steps from home, and also share it with others. Margo became the perfect way to offer that retreat, not just for me, but for anyone who needs a little getaway with personality.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always had an eye for design. I love to mixing styles, colors, textures, and ideas in a way that feels both beautiful and functional. I love when a space doesn’t just look good, but feels like it has a sense of humor, a point of view, and a little surprise around every corner. That approach is at the heart of what I created within Margo.

Art and design have been longtime loves of mine. I have way too much artwork stashed away at home (my walls simply can’t keep up). I draw a lot of inspiration from designers I admire like Natalie Papier, Kate Pearce, Sarah Sherman Samuel and Jasmine Bible. They each bring this vibrant, unapologetic individuality to their work that really resonates with me.

My background working in public relations the last 15 years has played a huge part in shaping my creative process, too. I know how to craft a story, share it in a way that sparks interest and connection, and how to make something feel both meaningful and memorable. That’s part of the magic I hope people feel when they stay in Margo.

The journey to get here wasn’t fast, and that was actually a gift. I bought Margo shortly after finishing a very long and personal journey through breast cancer. Instead of rushing to the finish line (which is usually my default mode), I gave myself permission to go slow and enjoy the process. And honestly? That’s probably why I had so much fun with it!

What I want people to know is that Margo isn’t just a pretty place to stay. She’s a love letter to resilience, creativity, and the joy of doing things your own way. She’s for anyone who needs a little adventure, a little comfort, and a reminder that the best things often take time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d be so excited to play tour guide and give them the best mix of local flavor, hidden gems, and classic Denver fun. Here’s what our ideal week might look like:

We’d kick off with donuts from LaMar’s (because sugar before coffee is a power move), then swing by Corvus Coffee for the kind of cup that makes you believe in mornings again. From there, we’d wander over to Wash Park for paddle boating and a little picnic and then, obviously, a stop at my very favorite bakery in town: Devil’s Food Bakery.

One night we’d head to The Post for fried chicken and beer (arguably Denver’s most satisfying combo), and follow that up with cocktails at Bear Creek Distillery or Laws Whiskey House,

Maria’s Empanadas would be our go-to lunch after a bike ride on the Platte River Trail, which is just two blocks west of Margo. Sunday? That’s reserved for the Pearl Street Farmer’s Market. Fresh flowers, great coffee, and usually something you didn’t know you needed.

We’d walk across the river to catch a free concert at Levitt Pavilion one night, then another we’d make the quick 25-minute drive to Red Rocks for an epic show (plus all the bragging rights that come with it).

I’d also encourage a trip on the light rail (just a 3/4 mile walk) into Union Station to stroll the beautiful interior, and land at Baumé for five-star desserts and champagne. Then hop back on the train down to Mineral Station for a cozy movie night at Alamo Drafthouse, where you can eat, drink, and watch in total comfort (and silence, as they are definitely a theatre for the true movie lover).

It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, indulgent eats, local charm, and just enough sparkle. And yes, we’d probably sneak in a slow morning inside Margo once or twice too, because even the best tours need a little downtime. You can order ANYTHING in via DoorDash, and let’s be honest — everyone loves a big cup of coffee, a custom cocktail and delicious snack under the covers while binging their favorite book or streaming series.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to give a huge shoutout to my husband. While I may be the face and voice of the business, he’s been the steady, behind-the-scenes force making so much of it possible. From late-night repair sessions to hauling materials and troubleshooting things I wouldn’t even know where to start with, he’s put in an incredible amount of work without expecting much recognition.

The truth is, a project like this doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes hours of effort that no one sees, and he’s shown up for all of it with heart and humor (even when things got messy—literally and figuratively). I’m really proud of what we’ve built together, and I definitely couldn’t have done it without him.

Website: https://www.margotheoc.com

Instagram: @margotheoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/margotheoc

Image Credits
Loredana Gaudiuso Photography