I was lucky enough to start in the industry in 2021. With a pause in the world I got the time to reconsider where I wish to be. Knowing that I have always had a passion for travel, it only seemed to make sense that this is the path that I choose. I am a mother, wife and own my small cake company and now I get to travel as well and encourage others to do the same. Cake and travel really, how did I get so lucky?
I always loved to travel. My husband knew I loved it as well so when the opportunity came up it was a quick jump to the punch. I was always the family member or friend that people asked for advice when travelling and most conversations before started with “where to next” so it seemed fitting to choose this path. I thought I knew a lot about the travel industry but it turns out there is always something to learn.
The opportunity to travel is definitely a highlight, but also the ability to share that with others. I have many first time travellers that contact me for assistance or to travel with me and I love seeing the excitement when trip planning.
Staying focused and social media. It is the way of the future and other than word of mouth how one builds their clientele. It takes patience and a lot of time to continue to build a social media face.
When starting out, start with the one part of travel that lights your sole. It is so easy to get distracted with all the opportunities out there. That can get overwhelming very quickly. When you focus on one thing at a time it becomes easier and your passion will clearly be seen.
As I was not an advisor pre pause, I only see what the industry is after the pause. Personally, I feel there is a lot of demand still for everyone wanting to take those trips.
It is simple, human interaction. Someone to chat to and ask the questions. When you book with me I become your friend. I want my clients to be able to message me anytime (within reason) with all their questions. I also want them to tell me about their trip, send me photos of their trip, and get them excited for their trip before they travel.
As I do focus on women’s tours a lot of my clients are 45-60.
There are so many memories that I can not really name just one. My favourite time every time is when I bring someone who has never been to Disney before. Whether it was my children when they were young, or my mother who never travelled before or even my in-laws. To be able to see them enjoy themselves away from the hustle of life is truly something incredible. And that is just what travel is. A reminder that we are building a life and it does not always mean we need to be working.
An upcoming women’s group to Patagonia.
I know my time is valuable and I am always at a debate about this. For complicated bookings that I know I will put a lot of time into I do charge a small fee. But for other bookings like all inclusives, etc I usually do not. However, I do have great conversations with clients before doing work and explain how valuable my time and resources are. Most of my clients are very respectful of this so far.
What an incredible opportunity to be nominated for something so wonderful. Thank you to all my mentors in the industry that keep me positive. This is truly an honour. My success is truly here because of others believing in me and with so much support from my host agency Fareconnect.
