Renee, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you take vacations? Why or why not?

YES! Embracing a mix of both distant getaways and delightful staycations is like unlocking a whole new level of adventure and relaxation. It’s a way to sprinkle in those staycations to keep the excitement alive in business without straying too far. Imagine the thrill of discovering hidden gems in your own backyard, coupled with the refreshing bliss of exploring new horizons across the globe. My decision to blend these experiences is like curating a personalized recipe for ultimate rejuvenation.

Renee, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, I’m Ms. Renee, your Chief Travel Concierge Advisor with a rich background in Executive Administrative support/Management and the Service Industry. Over the years, I’ve leveraged my expertise in customer service and administrative support to help individuals plan events and trips. My focus in the travel industry is to provide detailed information and booking services for solo travelers, families/groups, and business professionals.

What sets me apart as a Travel Concierge Advisor is my love to help. I take each client’s trip as if it were my own; bringing a fresh perspective to the details. While most travelers often concentrate on packing and the business or leisure aspects of their trips, I make it a point to consider often overlooked details like cultural nuances, weather, tipping guidelines, event planning, etc.

One of my strengths lies in my ability to handle stress gracefully. Even in challenging situations, I remain composed to ensure my clients experience smooth and memorable journeys. I genuinely care about addressing concerns promptly, offering solutions, and providing satisfaction.

At CBJ Travel, I take pride in our commitment to giving back. In 2023, we not only contributed regularly to a Non-Profit Organization but also assisted in awarding three students with financial scholarships for college. Moving forward, I aspire to continue these efforts on a larger scale to make a positive impact on more lives. Every travel booking with CBJ Travel contributes a portion of earned commissions toward supporting these meaningful goals. I’m excited about the prospect of creating unforgettable travel experiences while making a difference in the lives of others.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

I have different ways to get new clients, but the best and most used source are referrals; which is the reason why I have to give good customer service and treat my clients well. Without my clients and their referrals, I’m not sure if I would be able to be where I am at this given moment. So, thank you to every person that has patronized CBJ Travel in the past and I definitely welcome the new ones.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Outside of my children (Charnee, Darnell, Denzel & the memory of my beloved CJ), in expressing my gratitude, I recognize the foundation of my resilience and progress is deeply rooted in the love, generosity, guidance and support of the Norris family and Nicole L. Brown Coaching Camp. Their belief in me has been a cornerstone in shaping both my business and personal development. I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering support I receive on my entrepreneurial journey from them all.

Carlos and Tammy Norris kickstarted my venture by not only recognizing potential in me but also investing in my aspirations. Their selfless act, marked by simple yet powerful words of “you do well,” accompanied their generous payment of my startup fee to learning travel. Their belief in me during the early stages of my travel bookings has been a blessing beyond my wildest imagination.  They’d witnessed me working hard on my job at that time serving others but saw frustration in my face.  They also heard me stress to others my love to travel and cruise.  One day, they asked me to lunch to make a suggestion on how I can supplement my income on my 9 to 5 while making things happen so I can travel.  Their encouragement and acknowledging my professional strengths help me to make one of the best decisions I’d made in a while (laughing).

Equally instrumental has been my involvement in the Nicole L. Brown’s Coaching Camp (NCC). This transformative experience provides me with essential tools for building confidence, navigating the legal and administrative aspects of business, and offering crucial support during both triumphs and challenges along my entrepreneurial journey.  NCC was the reason I was able to hang in there throughout the pandemic, which was hard for a lot of businesses.  In the moment when I felt like giving up, NCC’s teaching strategy of celebration during tough moments pushes you to be creative and different during pivotal times.  This camp allowed me access to high-caliber people and rooms I typically would be afraid to enter; still afraid but I’m learning to do it afraid.  My entrepreneurial aspirations extend beyond financial wealth. I am driven to achieve a balanced state of mental and physical well-being, and to reflect that balance in the service I provide to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cbjtravel.net
• Instagram: cbjtravel
• Facebook: CBJ Travel

Image Credits
Alisha Hunter