The Planning Process

Planning a vacation is increasing in complexity. Between multiple cruise line websites and the seemingly endless array of online booking platforms, it's easy to become overwhelmed and wonder if you're missing something important that will dramatically impact the quality of your trip. If you love planning your own trips, that's great! If planning all the details fills you with something other than enthusiasm, a professional, Independent Travel Advisor is your partner in creating the meaningful vacation you deserve. In addition, my connections with WorldVia Travel Network and Travel Leader's Network provide you with the best onboard perks and benefits. Below, read on about how I work with clients to help shape vacations they'll remember for a lifetime.

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1. Connecting

Answer a few quick questions about your travelers and trip idea to get us started.

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2. Conversation

Next, I’ll reach out to schedule a complementary consultation in-person (if you prefer and live nearby), or via Zoom. During our chat I’ll learn more about you, field initial questions, and better understand how I can help you meet your travel goals. Building a relationship through clear communication is an essential part of this process. It's so fun to hear about your vacation ideas!

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3. Collaborating

If you’d like to move forward in partnership, I’ll send you an agreement and collect a concierge planning fee based on the complexity of the trip we are working on together.


You'll find my planning fee often pays for itself by saving you time, accessing exclusive partner benefits, and providing you with the peace of mind that allows you to focus on enjoying your vacation.


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4. Crafting

This is where the magic happens! I get to work creating your trip, drawing on my trusted network of reputable travel suppliers through WorldVia Travel Network and Travel Leaders Network. These resources help bring you the best value and quality for your investment. Planning a vacation takes time, research, and focus. Your concierge planning fee supports this professional process.


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5. Choosing

When my initial work is complete, we’ll meet again for a tour of your trip proposal, specifying the details of your itinerary along with pricing and the reasons for my choices. I’ll send you a detailed copy to review on your own, along with timelines for your decision and any booking payments.


Once you’ve made a decision (congratulations!), I'll make any adjustments needed to perfect your trip, then make your bookings. From here, I handle  supplier relationships, lock in any amenities or perks, and monitor for savings.


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6. Celebrating

Fantastic! Now you can relax and look forward to your well-deserved vacation. I’ll stay on top of key dates and reminders before your trip, briefly check in while you’re away, and follow up on your experiences when you return.


You'll always be able to contact me during travel as well, so the unexpected can be handled with speed and professional care.


Clear Concierge Planning Fees

  • Just Flights, Please

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    Airfare ticketing $25 per passenger, round trip. Your airline rewards number is easily added, so you're sure to earn your miles.


  • Classic Cruise Vacations

    A Virgin Voyages cruise ship in port

    $150 per cabin


    Ideal for cruises departing from the United States or abroad. This includes research for your pre-embarkation hotel, ensuring you obtain the best onboard benefits, booking dining reservations and shore excursions if you'd like, and any flights you will need to and from your ship.

  • European River Cruise Vacations

    An Avalon cruise ship passes a castle on a hill

    $250 per cabin


    Includes research and planning for your cruise, flights, and hotels for a complete vacation with additional exploration expanding from your embarkation or debarkation port…or both! Do you love trains too? I do! They're an ideal addition to your adventure and a great way to see the landscapes of Europe.


  • Something Else Entirely

    train next to Colorado River

    Would you like to take a luxury train ride through the Rockies or across Canada? Cruise the Missisippi? Explore all-inclusive resorts in the Carribbean? Let's discuss the possibilities to see if I'm the best advisor for you. If you have a vacation idea centered around adults, I'd love to chat.