What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
When I started researching my first cruise in 2007, I became obsessed — in the best way possible. I dove deep into every detail. And after that first cruise? I was hooked. I began sharing my experiences and growing knowledge of the cruise industry with friends and family. The defining moment came when I realized I was already “booking” trips for them simply because they trusted my research and love for travel. I wasn’t doing it for the money; I was doing it because I genuinely loved helping others create unforgettable memories. That’s when I knew this could be something more.
So, in January 2013, I officially joined the industry — with no formal training, just a whole lot of heart. Taking that leap was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
When I first started, my husband didn’t believe in me. He saw my career in travel as a hobby and didn’t fully understand my vision or how seriously I was taking it. At the time, I was building my business from the ground up — learning everything as I went, working tirelessly to prove to myself (and others) that I could make it.
It took several years of hard work and persistence to build a strong foundation, but I never gave up on my dream. Eventually, my husband saw the results of that hard work: my growing business, the clients I was helping, the team I was building, and the impact I was making. He realized how wrong he was, and now, he proudly tells everyone he knows about my passion and the success I’ve achieved.
That moment, when I saw his complete support and belief in me, solidified everything. It was the moment I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. Not only had I proven it to myself, but to the people who mattered most.
How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?
The Travel Institute gave me the foundation and formal knowledge I needed to take my business to the next level. It helped me shift from someone who loved travel to someone who truly understood the business of travel.
Since then, my journey has evolved in incredible ways. I’ve built a thriving agency, expanded my knowledge of destinations and travel styles, and developed a team under Destinations by Design that shares my commitment to excellence. I’ve also continued to invest in ongoing education because I believe the more I learn, the better I can serve.
From being a solo IC booking trips at my kitchen table to reaching Platinum status with Travel Planners International and mentoring other advisors, it’s been an incredible ride. The confidence and credibility I gained from The Travel Institute helped me grow not only as a business owner, but as a trusted travel professional.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
My favorite part is knowing that I get to play a small role in some of the most meaningful moments of people’s lives. Whether it’s a child seeing the ocean for the first time, a couple celebrating an anniversary in a dream destination, or helping a young woman travel for the first time after her husband passed away — it never gets old.
I love the transformation that travel brings. People come home changed—more connected, more open, more inspired. And being the one who helps make that happen? It’s incredibly fulfilling knowing I’ve had a part in making the world a little bit smaller and more connected.
It’s also about building trust and relationships. My clients become more than just clients—they become friends. Knowing they count on me to craft experiences that are seamless, memorable, and deeply personal is the greatest honor.
That’s what keeps me going—the joy, the connection, and the impact travel can have on someone’s life.
What’s one cultural experience that left a lasting impression on you?
A few years ago, I traveled to Tanzania — and that trip changed me. It wasn’t just the incredible landscapes or the wildlife (though they were breathtaking); it was the people who left the deepest mark on my heart.
Despite living with so little by our standards, the communities I encountered radiated a kind of joy and contentment that was humbling. Their needs were met not by excess, but by simplicity, connection, and gratitude. And they smiled. They smiled a lot.
That experience continues to remind me what matters in life. Happiness can be found in family, community, and appreciating the present moment. I came home not only with memories, but with a renewed perspective on abundance and what it means to live fully.
It’s a cultural experience I’ll never forget, and one I often think back on when planning trips for clients who are looking for more than just a vacation, but a deeper connection to the world.
What skills from The Travel Institute have made the biggest impact in your career?
From qualifying clients and understanding their unique travel styles to mastering itinerary design, supplier relations, and time management, the practical tools I learned helped me elevate the service I provide. The emphasis on ethics, professionalism, and continued education also really resonated with me and shaped the way I run my business to this day.
In short, it helped me become not just someone who loves travel, but a trusted advisor who’s equipped to truly serve clients with expertise and care.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
First and foremost: believe in yourself. You don’t need to know everything on day one. I started with zero formal training and a whole lot of heart, and that’s more than enough to begin. The skills will come with time, but passion, work ethic, and a genuine love for helping people are the real foundation.
With that said, build a strong foundation. Take the time to truly learn the business. Understand how to qualify clients, manage bookings, build supplier relationships, and protect your time. Get your back office in order. Create efficient workflows that work for a business just starting out and for a multi-million dollar business. A strong foundation sets the stage for long-term success and helps you navigate challenges with confidence.
Second, invest in education early. Whether it’s through The Travel Institute, supplier training, or mentorship, the more you learn, the more confident and capable you’ll become. Knowledge builds trust, and trust builds your business.
Third, find your tribe. Align yourself with a supportive agency like Destinations by Design or host. Surrounding yourself with people who believe in you and want to see you succeed makes all the difference.
Finally, remember your why. On the hard days (and there will be a lot), remind yourself why you started. You’re not just booking trips—you’re creating lifelong memories for others. That’s a gift. Own it, protect it, and let it fuel your journey.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
I genuinely love learning. Whether it’s a new destination, a fresh travel trend, or an updated booking platform, I see change as an opportunity to grow, not a setback. The evolving nature of this industry keeps things exciting. It challenges me to stay sharp, think creatively, and always work on improvement.
If you could only pack 3 items for a trip around the world, what would they be?
My family: No trip around the world would feel complete without the people I love. Sharing new experiences, seeing the world through their eyes, and creating memories together would be the greatest part of the journey.
My phone and charger (I hate to admit this one!): My phone is my essential travel companion. It keeps me connected, helps with navigation, captures photos, and allows me to stay in touch with the world while on the move. And, of course, the charger is a must to keep everything powered up!
A scarf: Whether it’s for warmth, covering my shoulders when needed, or just adding a little extra style to my outfit, a scarf is my go-to accessory. It’s versatile, lightweight, and always comes in handy.
What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?
Antarctica! It’s always been on my bucket list. The sheer remoteness, the sense of adventure, and the opportunity to see nature in its purest form are what make it so enticing. The wildlife, the landscapes, and the challenge of such an epic journey are the perfect combination for me. I can’t wait for the day I can experience it firsthand.
