Today we’d like to introduce you to Misty Jones.
Misty, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
After 12 years in corporate aviation, I decided to open my own travel concierge service. A month after starting my business, I was laid off from my corporate job, and things got real very quickly! As a new business owner, I was apprehensive and decided to take another job offer until I was comfortable being a full-time entrepreneur. After three months at my new job, my business took off. I was receiving referrals and clients quicker than expected and decided to end my employment with the new position.
Less than four months later, my mother was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer. At that moment, I knew being laid off, and starting my business was a part of God’s plan. I was able to meet people who were in dire need of getting away themselves or taking family members on trips of a lifetime. I was able to focus and generate business while my mother received her chemotherapy treatments. Seeing the pictures of my clients traveling and hearing the stories they shared once they returned from their trips evoked emotions I’d never felt before. I was elated to be a source of their happiness.
I’m not your typical budget driven agency. I take pride in curating experiences. I often tell people, “I don’t sell travel, I help you make intelligent travel decisions.”
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Of course not! Learning to operate a business is no small feat. I did not have previous business experience and didn’t realize I was going to be the salesperson, admin, marketing dept., etc. I began taking business courses that were pertinent to my industry. I quickly found a mentor to help me navigate being a new entrepreneur. I read a lot of books and did research. I attended workshops and watched webinars until I began to feel comfortable. Trial and error definitely came into play, thus resulting in a few financial losses. Like they always say… it takes money to make money!
During my quest for knowledge, I became a member of the CCRA Travel Network. After attending several meetings and obtaining my TRUE ID signifying I was an accredited agency I put my name in the hat to become the Chapter Director for the Houston Chapter. I received the position, and it has been a pleasure to help mentor other agents in the Houston area. My chapter is consistently growing and is currently ranked #6 in membership nationally.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My career in travel started out of a genuine passion for vacation, and all that comes with it! I enjoy every stage of the planning process and love helping others make their travel dreams a reality. With my agency, no detail of your trip is overlooked, and you’ll always receive the best value.
My company focuses on providing excellent service while focusing on your unique vacation and needs. By sharing my firsthand knowledge of the most popular resorts and cruises, I’ll make sure your vacation is truly memorable. Unlike booking websites, I’ll go above and beyond to make sure all your needs are met, and all your questions are answered. That’s personal attention you won’t find anywhere else.
In addition to traveling to many of the most popular destinations myself, I have also worked closely with many of the top travel suppliers. I’ll use my training and industry certifications to keep you informed of the newest resort features and amenities. Not to mention, I have access to private aircraft and exclusive destinations.
What were you like growing up?
I’ve always been outgoing! Growing up, I was involved in a little of everything. I was athletically inclined and played basketball, ran track/ cross country, gymnastics, and cheerleading. My parents fostered my love for travel at a young age. We traveled extensively during the summer months. It was then that my love affair with flying was sparked.
Contact Info:
- Address: 8866 Gulf Freeway Suite 250-J
Houston, Texas 77017 - Website: www.theboardingpass.net
- Phone: 281-810-6642
- Email: misty@theboardingpass.net
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_boarding_pass
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/theboardingpasstx
- Twitter: @boardingpasstx
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston 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.