Talk. Connect. Grow.

Networking wisdom for professionals who know that success starts with a great conversation.

Member Spotlight: James Rubino

Written by Brad Colacino
Founder & Creative Director | Bright Cycle Design Co.
August 25, 2025

For our very first Member Spotlight, we’re both happy and proud to feature long-time member James Rubino. James is the hospitality brain behind two related ventures that turn “where you’re staying” into part of the story. He’s the Co-Founder of LakeGeorgeVacay (launched August 2024), a luxury vacation rental management company and direct-booking platform on Lake George with the motto “Dream It, See It, Click It.” Think resort-style stays—hot tubs, game rooms, pet-friendly options, theaters, wine cellars, lake views and dock access—plus a personalized arrival app and concierge add-ons like private chefs, boat charters, mobile hibachi, fireworks, sauna/cold plunge, and playful “WOW” extras (yes, “S’mores with Sasquatch” is a real thing, not a myth). He also lines up exclusive vacay offers with local favorites like Adirondack Extreme, Happy Jack’s, and Adirondack Winery—perfect for families celebrating milestones, reunions, and all the big life moments.

Slightly closer to Saratoga, James also runs Rubino Home Ventures (since May 2022), a short-term rental management company serving track goers, concert lovers, traveling professionals, and visiting families. The properties include thoughtful touches like heated pools, mountain & lake views, dedicated workspaces, walkable access to downtown and the racecourse, coffee bars, pet-friendly setups, and central air, all designed to make each stay comfortable and effortless.

Short version: whether it’s a milestone weekend on the lake or a quick Saratoga getaway, James is in the business of making it memorable.

We had a chance to sit down with James and grill him on a few other questions:

How did you first hear about Networking @ Night?

Through a friend.

What kind of clients or connections are you hoping to meet through this group? What’s an ideal referral for you?
Like-minded individuals who want to grow and scale their businesses. For me, an ideal referral is either:
– Anyone visiting the Saratoga or Lake George area who needs a place to stay.
– Someone with an investment property in the area who’s interested in short-term rentals, and potentially doubling their revenue compared to long-term rentals.

Have you attended other networking events in the region? How do they compare?
Yes, we’re members of the local chambers. With Networking @ Night, it’s a different demographic of professionals, with more of an emphasis on creating and growing real relationships.

How has networking helped your career or business so far?
It’s pushed me to get comfortable marketing myself and my business in all kinds of social settings. Repetition really is key– after years of doing this, I’ve seen a tremendous difference.

Are there any local businesses you collaborate with or recommend often?
Yes! At Lake George Vacay, we offer concierge services for our guests and love partnering with local businesses to feature their services. Supporting local is a big part of what we do.

What’s something most people don’t know about your career path or background?
My very first short-term rental had to shut down after only four months because of new local regulations banning them. Definitely a fight-or-flight moment that taught me resilience.

If you weren’t in your current field, what would you be doing instead?
Probably a professional sports agent.

What’s your go-to spot for coffee or lunch in Saratoga Springs?
Spot Coffee or Cardona’s.

What advice would you give to a young professional in this area or industry?
You either win or you learn. You never lose. So never quit.

Do you have a quote or other words of wisdom that you’d like to share?
“You can’t appreciate the sunshine if you’ve never stood in the rain.”
“To get something you’ve never had, you have to do something you’ve never done.”

If you’re interested in reaching out, you can contact James at: [email protected]