Insights

The Story Behind Exclusive Use. Rethinking How To Find Unique Properties.

Posted by Sharon Levingston
July 27, 2026

There are moments in business when a gap becomes impossible to ignore.  For us — that moment didn’t happen overnight.  It emerged slowly, through years of conversations, experiences, and shared frustrations.  And eventually, it turned into something very clear:

The way professionals find & research unique properties for corporate retreats simply wasn’t working.

As co-founders, we shared a clear vision:

To create a platform that didn’t try to be everything to everyone — but solved this problem.

Exclusive Use came to life.

We kept seeing the same trend.

Through our work in the business events and tourism landscape, we understand the needs of corporate bookers, event planners, and third-party agencies.  We are also deeply connected to properties — from large-scale venues to regional hotel partners. 

The feedback was consistent for smaller events:

  • “We’re looking for more bespoke & unique properties.”
  • “We want something with character, something that leaves a lasting impression.”
  • “I’m time poor – where do you go in search of the right property.”

At the same time, we knew there were exceptional boutique properties, private retreats, and exclusive-use venues perfectly suited to these needs.  But they were hidden.

Not because they lacked quality — but because they lacked the right platform and visibility.

Images: Eagles Nest, New Zealand

Where the idea began.

We could see both sides of the equation:
Professionals searching for corporate retreat venues, leadership offsite locations, and small meeting properties.
Properties offering exactly that — but struggling to reach the right audience.
The issue wasn’t supply, It was discovery.  And more importantly, it was trust.
Most platforms were built for scale.  Thousands of listings. Endless search results. Little distinction.  For time-poor professionals, this created friction — not efficiency.
And for smaller, story-led properties, it meant being positioned alongside listings that didn’t reflect their offering.
We kept coming back to one simple idea:
Not every property should be listed everywhere.

We’ve Built something different.

At its core, Exclusive Use is a curated B2B platform connecting professionals with handpicked & carefully selected properties, suited for private & discrete meetings, retreats, and personal stays.

But more than that, it represents a deliberate shift:

  • From volume to curation
  • From search fatigue to simplicity
  • From generic listings to meaningful discovery

Because finding the right property shouldn’t feel like a compromise.

The power of a curated collection.

From the beginning, we made a conscious decision, Exclusive Use would never be a mass listing site.

Every property is carefully selected for its character, quality, and ability to deliver memorable event experiences.

That means:

  • Boutique properties with a strong sense of place
  • Exclusive-use venues designed for privacy and connection
  • Retreat-style environments suited to strategy sessions and leadership gatherings

For meeting planners, EAs, and corporate bookers, this creates something powerful: A trusted, efficient way to discover the right venue — without the noise.

Built with intention, not haste.

It’s taken years! We’ve worked quietly behind the scenes — refining, testing, and building. We weren’t in a hurry to launch, we needed to get it right.

Working with foundation property partners, shaping the experience, and ensuring the platform delivers real value from day one.

It’s our commitment to elevating properties that deserve to be seen.

We created it because we knew there was a better, easier way.

Looking ahead.

We’re excited to bring our vision to life.

A future where property searching is no longer time wasting. Where every search leads to the perfect solution.

We aim to raise the standard of how properties are discovered and booked, creating better experiences for professionals & better business for property owners, building a collection that reflects quality, character, and trust.

This is just the beginning of the story. Follow our journey.

Donna & Sharon

Share:

Related Articles

Start Planning with Confidence

Explore our curated venues, or let us recommend the perfect space tailored to your needs.