Exploring Life & Business with Mary Reconnu of Collecting Memories Travel Co.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Reconnu

Hi Mary, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up in rural eastern North Carolina, I used to comb through the gigantic Rand McNally map to see where the roads led to. I think that started an interest in traveling but as I became an adult, travel truly became my passion. During the pandemic, a friend reached out to me about going to a particular destination. During our conversation, she said, “you know, you really should be a travel agent.” That planted a seed. I mulled over it for a bit and now three years later, here I am with a thriving and growing travel agency.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting your own business is never a smooth road. There is so much information to consume and to make sure that you are running your business properly. Education is the key to this. Initially, I was overwhelmed with all of the information out there but for me, I made a checklist of how to get going and set goals on what I wanted to achieve.

As you know, we’re big fans of Collecting Memories Travel Co. . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am passionate about travel and that comes through to my clients. I love nothing more than to have someone tell me that they just had the best vacation of their lives. It could be a road trip through Maine or celebrating a 40th birthday in Zanzibar. Both of those vacations are equally important in my eyes. There is something to be said for the detailed and personal touch that I offer with my company. I want to get to know my clients likes and dislikes so that I can cater to their needs. I am proud of the fact that I started this business during the pandemic and that it has flourished over the past three years.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think people want to travel more now than ever before. I also believe that clients desire more adventure travel and customized itineraries. An agent needs to be flexible to meet those needs. Unfortunately, we have seen an uptick in MLM companies that are trying to work their way into the travel industry. Those companies are not educating their agents and it is a very slippery slope.

Pricing:

• My services are free to my clients except for occasions where I charge a minimal planning fee.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.collectingmemoriestravelco.com
• Instagram: @collecting_memories_travel
• Facebook: @collectingmemoriestravelco