What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
My love for travel evolved in my 20’s I was working in the mortgage industry and had earned several incentive trips that gave me the travel bug. I was not happy in my current field, and I loved the idea of everything travel related. In 2003 I enrolled in Mann Travel Institute and after 14 weeks I received a travel agent certificate.
Unfortunately, my timing was off. Travel had suffered a bit from September 11th, and I was not able at the time to quit my salaried position. We had a new home and a baby, so financially it was just not conducive for me.
I would not find myself in a travel role until 2014! I worked for a local Audiology practice. The practice was contracted with the government doing military health events. In this role I was responsible for coordinating travel for the audiologists and technicians. No matter rain, sleet, or snow they had to be on time. Although this was sometimes demanding but I loved every minute of it. Once this position was dissolved, I decided I wanted my own travel agency. So, my husband and I opened Keepsake Journeys Travel in 2017, which rebranded in 2025 as, Isle Be Trippin’ Travel Group. I wanted something people would remember.
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
I had two epiphanies. The first one was when my position with the practice ended, I missed it so much and became so depressed for months after. The second one was during Covid. I had a decent pipeline at the time and clients counted on me for answers and whether their money would be refunded. I spent countless hours on the phone with suppliers. It became clear that there was a need for me and other agents. Travel clients needed someone to answer the phone and to advocate for them. So many travelers did lose money and reservations because they may have booked themselves or online. I knew then that in my heart I was where I needed to be.
How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?
I feel like I am still evolving, but with more confidence. Upon graduating from The Travel Institute, I feel more professional. It took me a while to get here because of different life incidents. I did not give up and finally graduated. The struggles to find time to study and get here has been even more rewarding.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
I strive to educate my clients on ways to travel more economically, safely and provide them with all the tools I can for a successful vacation.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
No matter what happens in the world, or life do not give up. Since starting my own business in 2017 I have had to take several breaks. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2018. I stepped away to undergo treatment and several surgeries. I had just started rebuilding the business and then Covid hit. Finally, my husband was diagnosed in March 2025 with lung cancer.
We are once again rebuilding and it has been challenging. I have never given up, and neither should a new agent. It takes time and nurturing to become successful in this business. Try to set yourself apart from the competition.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
I continue to educate myself and become familiar with the travel trends and products to offer to our clients
If you could only pack 3 items for a trip around the world, what would they be?
Only 3 things?!?!? This is a tough one… I would have to say my husband, our dog, and one heck of a music playlist!
What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?
I want to see all the islands in the Caribbean and share those experiences with others.
