I know you’re afraid to ask… but how do I get paid doing this fun job?
I often hear that people don’t want to “bug me” so they just muddle through planning a trip themselves.
But there are two things that should make you want to bug me and have your friends and family bug me too!
1 - I LOVE planning trips to Disney and Universal. Every time I log in or call about a trip, I head right down memory lane. Poor Don had to institute the “only once every three years” rule so I wouldn’t plan a trip each and every season.
2 - I actually make money doing this. I know, it’s crazy that I’m paid to do something I truly love. I would probably do this for free, but I have three growing boys that are seriously about to eat away every penny we have.
People always get a little uncomfortable discussing money, but let me give you the basics. You pay Disney the same price whether or not you go online, call it in, or have a travel agent do it for you. The exact same price.
If a travel agent books the trip, Disney then pays the agency a commission which I receive a portion of. So even if I did nothing but book the trip, you aren’t paying a dime more than if you did it yourself.
The reason Disney is willing to give a portion of their profits to a travel agent is that they know that the Guest is more likely to enjoy their vacation. There’s a better chance of Guests returning to Disney again and again if they are given guidance by someone with a knowledge and passion for their product. Universal uses the same model.
I’ve talked before about the reasons to use a Disney travel agent - you can look back at this blog post for a refresher - Do You Really Need a Travel Agent to Book a Disney Vacation?
So why would you not want to use a travel agent? Let me answer some of the most common reasons…
* I want the cheapest rate and can do that myself. — Nope! You just aren’t going to find it cheaper on your own. And I will monitor and possibly find a cheaper rate as it gets closer to your trip. I will apply it automatically and let you know! And if time is money, I’m saving you tons of it by doing the leg work for you.
* I love Disney too and want to plan it all myself. — This one is totally understandable as I feel the same way! But the cool part is, I can book it and then let you take over the planning if you like. I will still be there for questions and will still monitor for better deals.
* How do I know you won’t up-sell me? — Trust me, I am the queen of getting a good deal. I spend way more time then I should figuring out how to save a penny or a bit of time. I will never lead you towards spending more just to spend more. I want you to get the absolute most out of your vacation for the least money and hassle.
So PLEASE consider contacting me when you’re thinking about a trip. And I would be so appreciative if you would forward my information to your family and friends. Word of mouth is the best advertising I can get! I’ve got those three boys to feed, you know… :)
PS - if you refer a friend and they book a trip, your next meal is on me! I'll contact you to find out your favorite restaurant and send you a $10 gift card to the place you choose! Easy!!