Amanda’s journey to launching Wellies & Windbreaks in 2015 wasn’t part of some long-term business plan. It grew — organically and intentionally — from a desire to build a working life that fit around her young family.
“Being able to work from home when bringing up young children was my primary motivation,” she shares. “Having the flexibility to be present all the time for your family but also have a career really is the holy grail.”
At the time, Amanda had three children under the age of seven. After returning to work in London following her first two, the arrival of her third child prompted a reset. Around the same time, she and her husband had started spending more time in the Witterings — a coastal spot that quickly captured their hearts.
“A very fortunate opportunity arose to manage my father-in-law’s holiday property in 2011, just after I had my third child. I started looking after it, and after doing that for a few years, I realised it was something I could do for others — and possibly make a career out of.”
In April 2015, Wellies & Windbreaks officially launched — built on Amanda’s natural flair for service, her eye for beautiful homes, and her deepening connection to the area.
What Makes a Wellies & Windbreaks Property Stand Out?
From the outset, Amanda has been clear: Wellies & Windbreaks isn’t about scale — it’s about curation.
“The portfolio is described as a ‘handpicked collection’, and that is very much what it is,” she explains. “There are so many properties to rent in the area these days, but I’m very discerning about what we choose to add.”
Every home in the collection meets a high bar. Style and character matter, of course — but so does a clear USP: something that gives the property a sense of place and personality. That might be an unforgettable sea view, a private deck, a beautiful garden, a hot tub, or even a flexible layout that works equally well for families, couples, and groups.
“We try hard to find properties that make guests feel like there is something special and unique about the home they’re paying to rent,” Amanda says. “And we maintain all our properties to a high standard — we encourage our homeowners to do the same. We want to offer a level of comfort and service that keeps guests coming back to the area, and more importantly, back to us.”
Trusted by Homeowners — and Guests
While some holiday rental companies rely on paid ads or property listings, Amanda’s business grows through reputation.
“We don’t go out to find properties. Rather, homeowners come to us,” she says. “Wellies & Windbreaks is well established, and our reputation is strong. Word-of-mouth, personal recommendations — that’s what builds trust and long-term relationships.”
That trust is a two-way street. Amanda insists on knowing each property inside out — not just for marketing purposes, but to be able to answer questions honestly and give guests the right advice.
“That generates loyalty and trust from both guests and homeowners. Trust and respect should never be underestimated when it comes to running a business.”
Amanda is also clear about what she won’t take on — a stance that sets her apart in an increasingly saturated holiday market.
“We don’t take on every property that comes to us. We are very clear about the type of holiday home we want and the standard it needs to be.”
A Business with Community at its Core
Amanda is also refreshingly honest about the broader impact of the holiday letting market — particularly in high-demand coastal areas like the Witterings.
“We’re mindful that the holiday rental market can price locals out of their homes,” she says. “Just because a house is by the sea doesn’t mean it’s fair game for letting.”
Her business draws clear ethical lines. She won’t list homes in new-build residential developments. She avoids areas that should remain affordable for local residents. And she makes a conscious effort to strike the right balance between welcoming visitors and protecting the community.
“The holiday industry brings jobs and income to the area — but it has to be done responsibly,” Amanda says. “This area has to remain somewhere that people can live, work, and raise families — not just visit.”
Hidden Gems and Local Favourites
Of course, no one knows the area quite like Amanda — so we asked her for her favourite local hidden gems. She gave us two.
“First, the stretch of beach between East and West Wittering. Everyone flocks to the beach huts at West Wittering, but if you just walk a couple of hundred metres east, towards East Wittering, you’ll find a lovely, peaceful stretch of white sand flanked by dunes. You can picnic without the crowds — it’s such a joy.”
“Second, Knead in East Wittering village. Forget Gail’s — the sourdough here is amazing. The cakes, the coffee, the hot cross buns at Easter — it’s just incredible. The baker, Joe, and the ladies who serve work like trojans. Over Easter, they made thousands of buns every day and people were queuing before they even opened.”
What’s Next for Wellies & Windbreaks?
When asked about the future, Amanda is honest — and reflective.
“Who knows — do we grow, or do we stay small and independently manageable? If I find the right person to replicate myself, I’d be prepared to grow a bit… there’s a job opportunity for anyone reading this!”
She’s also thinking longer-term — and big picture.
“One thing is for certain: I’d never move out of the area. I think it’s critically important that a holiday rental agency knows their properties and their patch.”
“Maybe one day I’ll franchise the concept — work with other like-minded small holiday rentals agents who have in-depth knowledge of their own local areas. Imagine a network of excellent independent agents around the UK — people who guests can trust, who only take on quality properties, and who really care.”
For now, Amanda is continuing to nurture a brand that reflects her values: quality over quantity, trust over transactions, and real, meaningful service.
Plan Your Stay — and Join the Community
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend by the sea, a family summer break, or a peaceful coastal retreat to recharge — Amanda has created something truly special in Wellies & Windbreaks.
Explore the full collection of boutique holiday rentals in the Witterings and Chichester Harbour at welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk
And if you’ve already stayed and loved it? Recommend it to a friend. Book again. Or drop Amanda a line — she’s always happy to help you find your next favourite spot.
Because once you’ve felt the sand beneath your feet and the salt in the air… it’s only a matter of time before you come back.
