What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
My journey into travel and tourism came from a deep love of exploring new places and helping others create meaningful experiences. For many years, I planned trips for family and friends just for fun, and I realized how much joy I felt in researching destinations, organizing details, and seeing how travel brought people closer together.
The defining moment for me came after retiring from a long career in the legal field. I wanted to start a second chapter doing something I was truly passionate about. Travel had always been such a source of adventure and growth in my own life, and I knew I wanted to help others experience that same magic.
Pursuing my CTA certification gave me the knowledge and credibility to turn that passion into a profession. Today, I get to combine my attention to detail with my love of meeting new people, creating personalized journeys that aren’t just vacations—but memories that last a lifetime.
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
I knew this was exactly what I was meant to do when I had a client return from a trip and tell me it was the best vacation they had ever taken—because every detail was handled and they were able to just relax and enjoy. Hearing how my planning allowed them to be fully present with their loved ones was incredibly rewarding. That was the moment I realized this career wasn’t just about booking trips—it was about creating experiences that become lifelong memories. Helping people see the world, stress-free, and knowing I played a part in that joy—that’s when it clicked for me that I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?
Since graduating from The Travel Institute, my journey has grown in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The CTA program gave me a strong foundation in both the business and service aspects of being a travel advisor, and from there I’ve been able to truly shape my agency, Travel by Design, around my passion for creating customized experiences. I’ve gained confidence in handling complex itineraries, expanded my partnerships with top travel suppliers, and found my niche in curating unique group trips, luxury cruises, and personalized vacations. More importantly, I’ve grown in my role as a trusted advisor—clients come to me not just for a trip, but for peace of mind, knowing every detail will be cared for. That transformation from ‘booking travel’ to ‘designing experiences’ has been the biggest evolution in my career since graduating.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
My favorite part about helping others experience the world is seeing how travel truly transforms people. It’s not just about the destination—it’s the look on a client’s face when they come home and tell me they finally checked something off their bucket list, or how a trip brought their family closer together. I love being able to take the stress and uncertainty out of planning so they can simply enjoy every moment. For me, the joy comes in knowing I’ve played a part in creating lifelong memories, whether that’s a first-time traveler gaining confidence abroad, or a couple celebrating a milestone in a dream destination. That’s what makes this career so rewarding—it’s about more than travel; it’s about connection and experiences that stay with you forever.My favorite part about helping others experience the world is seeing how travel truly transforms people. It’s not just about the destination—it’s the look on a client’s face when they come home and tell me they finally checked something off their bucket list, or how a trip brought their family closer together. I love being able to take the stress and uncertainty out of planning so they can simply enjoy every moment. For me, the joy comes in knowing I’ve played a part in creating lifelong memories, whether that’s a first-time traveler gaining confidence abroad, or a couple celebrating a milestone in a dream destination. That’s what makes this career so rewarding—it’s about more than travel; it’s about connection and experiences that stay with you forever.
What skills from The Travel Institute have made the biggest impact in your career?
The Travel Institute gave me a solid foundation, but the skills that have made the biggest impact in my career are professionalism, confidence, and the ability to truly listen to my clients. The CTA program taught me not just how to plan trips, but how to anticipate needs, ask the right questions, and create experiences that feel personal and intentional. It reinforced the importance of attention to detail, clear communication, and continuing education—all of which I apply daily as I design customized travel for my clients. Those skills have allowed me to build trust, form lasting relationships, and elevate the level of service I provide.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
My biggest advice to anyone just starting in the travel industry is to take the time to research and find a great host agency—having the right host is absolutely key to your success. Equally important is seeking out a seasoned mentor who can walk alongside you through the process. I was fortunate when I began my career to be paired with an incredible mentor through the KORE program. She has been with me since the very beginning, always available to answer questions, provide encouragement, and offer guidance. Having that kind of support system not only helps you avoid common pitfalls but also gives you the confidence to grow your business with a strong foundation.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
When I was first starting out, one of the best pieces of advice I received was to never stop the learning process—and that’s something I’ve carried with me every day in this business. Whether it’s attending in-person trainings, completing online courses, or networking with other advisors, there is always something new to learn that keeps you sharp and ahead of the curve. The travel industry is constantly changing, and that’s what makes it exciting. For me, staying motivated comes from embracing that change—knowing that every new trend, destination, or tool is an opportunity to grow and better serve my clients.
