We were lucky to catch up with Elaine Achtzehn recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Elaine, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

For much of my life, I made career a primary focus. I worked long hours, surrounded by a lengthy commute. Marrying later in life, I opted for a destination wedding, feeling it was much more efficient than a wedding and honeymoon. Being away from work did not make too much sense to me at the time.

When my children were old enough, both sets of grandparents insisted we take a multi-generational trip to spend time together. Traveling had been a priority on both sides of the family, so my husband and I had lots of fond memories of travelling with our families growing up. We took the multi-gen trip and had an incredible time. We created so many new memories together that can never be replaced. I surprised myself at how much I enjoyed the time away and I was not even restless. If I had not been away at the time, the draw to my work would have been too much but this trip was exactly what we needed, uninterrupted time together. My girls were so happy; they couldn’t wait to do it again. Sadly, before we could make it happen, my father was diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer. I stopped working immediately to help with his care, and he survived for 6 months. Upon his passing, I returned to work but quickly realized that it was time to reevaluate my priorities. Losing a loved one can of course be life changing but only after reminiscing did, I realize how impactful travel and making uninterrupted time to explore new sights and create memories changed the course of my life.

It became my mission to help others find that space to slow down and spend time with their loved ones, creating memories in new places together. Something that can never be taken away. I don’t remember many specifics about the long hours I worked over the years or the details of the job but I’m forever grateful for the memories I have of travelling with family. Well Traveled Moments was born out of that mission and our mission statement is: Designing custom travel experiences that immerse clients in the beauty, culture, and uniqueness of each destination. Delivering exceptional customer service and personalized itineraries, we strive to create journeys that inspire lifelong memories and bring our clients’ travel dreams to life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As mentioned in our story behind our mission, I entered the travel industry after a life-changing event helped me realize the importance of uninterrupted time with loved ones to create memories and there is no better way to do that than while exploring new destinations.

I personally have a passion for wellness and longevity and as a result have added wellness travel to our portfolio by becoming a certified wellness travel specialist. Helping others realize how to create peace and health through travel. We can provide whatever level of service preferred in that space. Being purposeful with health allows us to truly live our best lives and be our best selves for loved ones and pursuing that goal together, there is nothing better.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing clientele has been passion. My mission is beyond a general business mission statement, it is truly a passion. Having passion for what I do prompts me to strive to be better. Of course, I make mistakes, but I care so much about every detail and nuance that even when I make a mistake, I work very hard to make it right. My clients appreciate the amount of care that goes into every detail. Excellent reviews and referrals have created growth and continues to grow my business.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

Personal relationships cultivate brand loyalty. I send tailored newsletters along with social media posts. I also keep an eye out for itineraries or new locations that may be of interest to a particular client. When I see something, I think might be of interest to a particular client, I send it their way. When my clients see something in a newsletter that interests them, they respond directly to me. This fosters a more personal relationship vs. a transactional one.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.welltraveledmoments.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welltraveledmoments/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elaine.welltraveledmoments
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-achtzehn-cta-2723305/
• Twitter: https://x.com/ElaineWTM
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@welltraveledmoments