Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Kolodziej.
Jennifer, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always loved traveling! When I was a kid, my mom made sure we went on vacation as a family once a year. It was something I looked forward to every year. My favorite childhood memories include those vacations. As I became an adult I had a hobby of researching different hotels and destinations. I had often thought that being a travel agent would be my idea of a dream job.
After high school, I went to college to become a dental hygienist. I’ve been practicing dental hygiene for 13 years and I love it. When I had my first son 5 years ago, I cut my hours to part time. Although motherhood is extremely busy, I found myself wanting to utilize my down time as my son became more independent.
I looked into how to sell travel from home. I thought it was a great option to make money on something I love while still being with my toddler and being able to keep my dental hygiene job.
Has it been a smooth road?
There was a lot for me to learn because I always want my client’s vacations to be as perfect as possible. I treat my client’s vacations as if they were my own but with their needs and wants as a priority. I would say it has been a smooth road because I didn’t have huge expectations.
I thought I’d give it a try and see where it takes me. I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the outcome! My biggest struggle is juggling motherhood and two careers but I always make it work! I’m a person that thrives being busy.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a home-based travel agent. I work out of my home, under a host company. I do most of my work through email and phone calls. I specialize in all-inclusive resorts to Caribbean destinations and also sell a lot of Disney. I love booking honeymoons!
I am very proud of the individualized service my clients get. This day in age, people often book their own vacations online by a variety of websites. They may spend hours or days researching and reading reviews.
I do that research for my clients. I ask a bunch of questions when we get started to make sure I know what they’re really looking for in a vacation.
If I don’t know the answer or I’m not familiar with the resort that fits their needs, I have a plethora of other agents that have been to the resort or sent clients to that have feedback.
I make sure they have everything they need before departure and that the trip will go smoothly. It is nice for my clients to have a person to go to if they have questions along the way or something isn’t as expected. Travel can be overwhelming and there are so many mixed reviews out there.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, Chicago is a great place for this type of business but being that my business is at home, I could be anywhere. I have had clients in other states and even other countries.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dreamvacationawaits.com
- Phone: (847)606-2683
- Email: jennytravelservices@gmail.com
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