One of the best parts of LCC is getting to know the brilliant, big-hearted people who make this community what it is. Our Member Features highlight the makers, founders, artists, dreamers, and everyday geniuses among us — the people building our community in ways big and small.
This month, we’re excited to introduce a member who has shaped Portland’s hospitality scene for nearly two decades. She's the owner of two beloved restaurant/bars — The Sapphire Hotel and The Box Social, Carrie Engle.
We dove into what moves Carrie and how her work continues to build and support queer connection. Here's what she shared with us.
What do you do professionally or creatively?
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for most of my life and I own two restaurant/bars, the Sapphire Hotel and the Box Social.
Hospitality naturally lends itself to creativity. Deciding how you want a space to look and feel/what kind of experience do you want your customers to have/how can you put it all together with the right combination of food and drinks.
What’s something you’re working on right now that you’d love to share?
At the Box Social, we are collaborating with our neighbors over at Lua (delicious Vietnamese restaurant and lovely people!). We're going to open up a wall so we can serve their food and they can serve our drinks. It’s been really fun working with them and finding a new angle with our cocktail program that compliments their food.
Also, 2026 will be my 20th year of owning the Sapphire Hotel. I am working on doing a refresh of the space to celebrate the occasion. It’s been as very reflective experience to think about when it all started and where I am today.
What’s lighting you up lately?
Finding joy in small moments. There’s a lot going on in the world and in life so I’m trying to slow down and enjoy what’s around me. Trail runs with my dog in forest park, sharing a laugh with my partner, making soup on a rainy day.
What’s one thing that brings you real joy?
Croissants.
What are you manifesting or calling in for the new year?
I’m really hoping I can slow down next year and just maintain the momentum from the
changes I put in place this year. I’d love to have more time to connect with friends and community.
Morning person, night owl, or neither?
I really shine in the afternoon.
Coffee or tea?
Both, but mostly coffee.
Favorite place in Portland right now?
Forest park! Crisp air, fun trails, gorgeous scenery.
Song you have on repeat?
Toni Braxton's “Un-Break My Heart”
A lesbian or queer icon you love?
Always a Megan Rapinoe fan.
What has been your favorite LCC event or moment so far?
I have really enjoyed (and needed!) being in a professional space with other queer women. I love the meetings with the “Visionaries” where everyone talks about what is going on in their lives, professionally and personally.
What do you appreciate most about the LCC community?
Since I became a member, I feel like I finally have a group of people that I can relate to and
that can relate to me in a way I don’t have in my regular routine. I feel seen. I feel like this is a point of view and a community worth investing in.
Follow Carrie at @care_bear78
Explore more about her restaurant/bars at thesapphirehotel.com and bxsocial.com
