Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Stokes
Hi Jennifer, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated from the Culinary Institute in Hyde Park, NY. I always loved to cook since I was a child. Originally wanting to be an architect, but exploring my options, I can remember touring the school and I was hooked! The smells, the white coats and hats, I was so excited for the adventure. After graduation, I was asked to complete a fellowship position at one of the schools onsite restaurants. I found my way in the industry, but it led me eventually to owning a cafe and catering business which I continued to prosper for 13 years. I eventually sold it. I was burnt out and needed a change. I explored a few things, but landed in purchasing a travel franchise with intentions on selling all types of travel, but no relation to my “past” career. Well, I just couldn’t help myself, I missed cooking and the foodie atmosphere, culture and love that always surrounded me when I was involved in it. I decided to create a niche in food and wine tours. My business has really taken off in not only my personal groups that I take on these trips, but also my group business in general for families and more. I truly have found such a great balance with the two things I love to explore most, the world and the food of all its people.
Alright, 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?
Well, the pandemic began approximately 3 months after I invested in my franchise, so I lost the few bookings that I had obtained in early 2020. along with this, I also find the most challenging clients are friends and family. Along with those people who feel why do you need a travel advisor? My work goes beyond finding a deal, way beyond. Its experience, destination knowledge and added support before, during and after travel. Most people do not realize what they don’t know, From my side, I see they are missing out, they could get much more out of their experience for the less, the same or a small fee in comparison to going through, what can be a lengthy process of research and unanswered questions. These only name a few
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am known as ” The exploring chef” creating local and worldwide food and wine experiences that dive into culture and history too. I am most proud of the growth I have experienced in my line of work and personally. The creativity involved in curating the tours is just so fun, but also challenging from a distance. The specialized itineraries that dig deeper into the destination enveloping immersive travel experiences that are unique and memorable with touches of history and culture which after all is where cuisine comes from.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I hired a business coach to help me see what I truly wanted to do, how to hone in on it and focus on what matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theexploringchef.com
- Instagram: the_exploring_chef
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jastraveladvisors/?modal=admin_todo_tour
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-stokes-7ab96324/
- Other: https://www.jastraveladvisors.com
Image Credits
Anne Say Photography
