On a crisp morning in Upstate New York, we pulled up a gravel driveway, our curiosity growing as an expansive landscape and silhouettes of modern barn houses came into view. Sally and Doug, the visionary co-founders of Audrey’s Farmhouse—a hospitality brand with four stunning venues in Upstate New York—had just put the finishing touches on their latest project: Friends and Neighbors, a thoughtfully designed accommodation and event space nestled just outside of town in historic Stone Ridge.

Doug and Sally welcomed us into the warmly lit lobby, adorned with carefully curated art and decor; an inviting mix of traditional and modern.

An Unexpected Journey into Hospitality

Sally and Doug, a former visual merchandiser and an attorney at the time, met in Portland before moving to New York City. After years of working the grind in the corporate world, they began casually looking for property in the Hudson Valley, both as an investment and as a weekend escape for much-needed respite. When they stumbled upon Audrey’s Farmhouse, a 1740s Dutch farmhouse inn, they were immediately captivated by its rustic charm and sprawling landscape—but little did they know its discovery would spark a life-changing journey.

Initially running the B&B on weekends, they soon realized that balancing life between the city and Upstate was becoming unsustainable. When Sally became pregnant with their first child in 2014, they took a leap from their former careers, fully immersing themselves in hospitality, and a new way of life waiting to unfold.

The Art of Realizing a Vision

“We haven’t stopped building since,” Doug laughs, showing us the set of trusty power tools he keeps within arm’s reach. He and Sally share an extraordinary ability to bring ideas to life—Doug masterminding the logistics, Sally orchestrating the creative details. Piece by piece, together they've built extensive hospitality brand offering not just accommodations but venues, dining experiences, and more.

With multiple properties and events to oversee, mobility and convenience are essential. “I need to be able to work,” Doug explains, dressed in a simple yet stylish ensemble balancing workwear with a refined edge—ready to switch gears between carpentry and customer-facing engagement.

A decade in, with two children and three additional venues, their life is full—but they’ve mastered the art of preserving and highlighting a place’s original character, whether it be nostalgic charm or lush greenery. Rather than stripping things down, they work in harmony with their surroundings, finding creative ways to share the inherent beauty of each space.

Perfect Companions for a Hands-On Lifestyle

True to their dynamic, hands-on nature, Sally and Doug choose accessories that complement their busy lives. Sally carries the Roadster Crossbody Bag in Black, a sleek yet practical piece that keeps her hands free while holding her daily essentials—lipstick, pens, and her iPhone—bringing ease while complementing her chic style. Doug opts for the Diario Large Tote, a spacious and durable companion that reliably fits his tools while maintaining a refined aesthetic.

A Space for Gathering and Celebrating

Accommodating up to 200 guests, the main hall located in the event quarters features soaring vaulted ceilings and plenty of  natural light; an expansive and inviting space that seamlessly connects to the outdoor landscape through a full stretch of accordion glass doors that open into the lawn. As we walk around the bright empty hall, we can’t help but feel a little tingle of anticipation, knowing countless special moments are soon to take place here.

As Sally and Doug guide us to the back of the property, sunlight filters through the pine trees, casting a soft glow over the landscape. We follow them over a small rise, revealing a tucked-away pond—an untapped gem brimming with potential. They light up as they walk through the grass, sharing ideas; though they’ve spoken of taking a break, it’s seems there might be more adventure ahead.