Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Slater.
Jessica, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
18 and a half years ago, I went out on a whim and purchased a franchise. I was still in college but couldn’t decide what I wanted to do other than to travel. I struggled thru the early years trying to figure out what I was supposed to do as a very young business owner with no plan. I worked other jobs for several years trying to grow my business. During this time I got married and then had three kids. After my last baby was born, I was ready to get serious about my business and pour more of my energy into it. I was determined to be successful and eventually took on a few associates who work as independent contractors. I now have nine of them and my business is thriving thanks to the support of friends, family and past clients who have endlessly sent me referrals over the years.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was definitely not a smooth road. I purchased my franchise on Sept. 11, 2000, The following year on my work anniversary was one of the worst days ever for our country. Everyone became fearful to travel. Any reservations I did have canceled for the most part. It took several years to build back the confidence so people would be traveling again. There were many days I didn’t think I would want to continue to struggle to try to make this dream work. I knew that one day, I wanted to have kids and I wanted to be able to stay home with them and work, so that was my drive and motivation every day.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a vacation specialist with a passion for the Caribbean. I have been to almost every island in the Caribbean, some more than once (or even twice). I can put together a vacation to just about anywhere for you. Your vacation is treated like my own and I pour my heart and soul into making sure that I make your vacation dreams come true. I pride myself on my customer service and attention to detail. I will work long days, weekends and after hours answering emails and texts from my clients. The internet can’t do that for you. You need the personal touch of a travel consultant to care enough about you and your family’s vacation.
Who have you been inspired by?
Of course, my mother – she is the hardest working woman I have ever known. Growing up, I never felt like we (my siblings and I) ever did without. She may have been struggling with many things but we never knew that. We always felt loved and like we were the richest family in the world even when we might not have been.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dreamvacations.com/jslater
- Phone: 770-718-9147
- Email: jslater@dreamvacations.com
- Instagram: dreamvacationsslater
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeisgreatslater
- Twitter: @CruiseOneSlater
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
