Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Ward.
Hi Carrie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Florida, where my love for Disney began at an early age through countless visits to Walt Disney World Resort. After moving to North Carolina, I continued that magical tradition with my husband and our four daughters. Disney has always been special to our family, and we’ve made so many wonderful memories there.
Over the years, I discovered that one of my favorite parts of every trip was the planning process. I’ve always been organized and detail-oriented, and creating itineraries, researching resorts, and crafting the perfect experience brought me genuine joy. After being a stay-at-home mom for twenty years, I knew that when I returned to the workforce, I wanted to do something I felt truly passionate about and planning Disney vacations was the perfect fit.
I’ve now been a travel advisor for 5.5 years, and I absolutely love what I do. There is nothing more rewarding than helping families create lifelong memories and experience the same magic that has meant so much to my own family.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. As an independent contractor with Small World Big Fun, I essentially run my own small business, which means I’m responsible for marketing myself and building my client base. That can be a slow process for any new travel advisor. On top of that, I started in February 2020, just weeks before the world shut down and all Disney destinations temporarily closed. Travel was almost nonexistent during the first several months of my business. While it was challenging, I used that time to research, train, and learn everything I could so that I’d be fully prepared once travel returned.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a travel advisor specializing in planning magical vacations to Disney destinations and Universal Studios. I support my clients from the very beginning, helping them choose the perfect resort or ship and walking with them through every step of the planning process. I’m always available to answer questions before and during their vacation, and making their experience seamless and stress-free is my top priority.
Because I spend a great deal of time in the parks and on Disney Cruise Line ships, I’m able to provide firsthand insight, tips, and recommendations. I’ve stayed at every Walt Disney World resort hotel and have sailed on all six of the original Disney Cruise Line ships. As a Disney specialist, I also offer webinars for clients traveling to Walt Disney World and Disneyland, helping them understand the My Disney Experience app and how to purchase and book Lightning Lanes.
I’m very proud of the work I do, and nothing makes me happier than receiving positive feedback from clients who had an amazing trip.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing my business and expanding the relationships I’ve built with my clients. One of my favorite parts of this career is becoming a small part of my clients’ vacations, especially families who travel to Disney every year or who are excited to explore new Disney destinations.
I’m also planning to broaden my expertise by focusing more on luxury travel. As my business grows, I look forward to helping clients discover high-end experiences. Overall, my goal is to continue evolving, learning, and offering even more personalized and elevated vacation planning services.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://trips.vacaythecarrieway.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carriewardsmallworldbigfun/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacaythecarrieway/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-ward-2807731bb/
