Tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been in the industry?
Hi there! My name is Courtney Pilon and I’m the director of sales for Champagne Weddings & Travel. We specialize in planning luxury vacations and destination weddings. I have been in the travel industry for over 15 years.
Why and how did you decide to become a travel advisor?
My passion for travel is what led me to become a travel advisor but curiosity, the need to continuously learn, and helping couples plan their dream day is what has kept me in the industry.
What’s your favourite part of being a travel agent?
As a destination wedding specialist, I would say that my favourite part of working with couples to plan their perfect wedding is getting to know every person’s life story, as well as having a long-lasting, positive impact on one of the most important days of their lives.
What’s the main thing that’s changed about your clients or the travel industry since the pandemic?
The pandemic taught me the power of continuing your education, despite how much experience you already have. During the pandemic, I decided to learn more about different cultures to help me better serve the diverse couples I work with, and it has more than paid off. This year alone I am working with couples from four different ethnic backgrounds since they feel confident in my ability to help them plan their wedding as I understand their expectations and cultural requirements.
Do you believe more people are using travel advisors since the pandemic? Why or why not?
Recently, I have noticed an increase in the number of people who are utilizing travel advisors to plan their vacations. I believe this is due to the knowledge we provide travellers. We also offer a sense of security when it comes to travel that people appreciate more than ever since the pandemic.
Can you share a special travel memory and what travel means to you?
In November 2022, my husband and I had an amazing opportunity to go to Thailand and experience an elephant sanctuary. To say that it was an amazing experience would be an understatement. That trip meant the world to me as it was an opportunity to give back to the community that hosted us.
What’s still on your travel must see list?
Although that was a bucket list experience for me, I still have a lot of things that are on my must-see list such as doing a wine tour in South Africa, seeing the beautiful waters of Zanzibar, and going on a Safari, to name a few.
In hindsight, what do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting out?
Having been in the industry for many years, I wish that in the beginning I had truly understood what it meant to be resilient and persistent. The pandemic taught me that I can get through anything when it comes to being a Travel Advisor. Sure, it would have been easy to quit, but I persevered, and the hard work is definitely paying off.
Do you have anything to add?
I’m so honoured and grateful to have received this nomination. Congratulations to all travel agents that have been nominated!
