Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqlyne Mba-Jonas.
Jacqlyne, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I never envisioned myself becoming an entrepreneur of any kind. I’m a Software Developer by trade. I went to school for it, and have worked as one for almost a decade. So if I were to start a business one would rightfully assume it would be technology-related. But instead, it was travel, and in the beginning, I got a fair share of doubtful and surprised “huh?”.
I developed a passion for travel at a young age. The day-to-day routines of life and seemingly being stuck in one environment because of it was something I’ve always wanted to escape from. There was much more to the world than this little bubble my life revolved in, and I became determined to go take in as much of it as I could.
So here I am one evening scrolling through Facebook, and in one of my many travel groups, I stumbled upon some information on owning a travel business and was intrigued. After months of research, learning and 3 AM bedtimes, Journeys by Jacqy was born. Now I have the knowledge and resources to fuel my passion and help others find their ideal escape. My business turned a year old in March 2021 and I’m loving it so far.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
New journeys are never easy, and this has been no different. Being a first-time business owner there was a lot to learn, especially as a solopreneur running every aspect of my business. From running the books, to branding myself, to gaining new clients, etc.
I started my business barely a week before the world shut down due to COVID-19. I was worried, but at the same time I knew the situation was temporary. With barely anyone traveling I was at a bit of a standstill. With a service-based business like mine, clientele is everything. No clients equals no revenue. I stayed positive, continuing to gain more knowledge about the industry, pick up more travel certifications and put my brand out there. Six months in I finally had my first client. Before the year was up, I had a few more. My business did run at a loss in 2020, but by February 2021 I had outdone my revenue for all of 2020 alone. My business has been growing steadily, and I’m looking forward to seeing how far it can go.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Journeys by Jacqy is an Independent Travel Agency. As a travel agent, my role is to simplify the trip planning process for clients (individuals, groups, corporations), arrange travel on their behalf, and ensure they experience the best trip possible. I assist with anything travel-related, like flights, cruises, rental cars, hotels, resorts, vacation homes, excursions, events (sports, concerts, theater), vacation packages, etc.
So rather than spend a couple of weeks researching your needs for a trip, you can come me, tell me where you want to go, how many people, what your budget is and I do the work for you while you go about your life. Within a short timeframe, you’ll receive a detailed trip proposal from me with options for everything you need for your trip. I assist with reserving your selections and all you have to do is pack your bags and go! In summary, I save clients time and money.
To top it all off, I do not charge for my services. My clients pay me absolutely nothing. Instead, I earn a commission from travel suppliers for a booking. Not only do my clients get a free, convenient service, they also have the potential of paying less than whatever they would find on their own online. By working with an industry insider, they get access to special industry rates as well! My clients also have the opportunity to pay off a vacation over time, no interest or credit checks involved! Working with an Independent Travel Agent has a lot of great benefits.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
A great way people can support me will be by utilizing my services for their trips and referring me to others who could use my services as well. Again my services cost nothing and could yield potential savings for my clients. I can be reached via my website, social media, email or phone.
Contact Info:
- Email: jacqyjonas@journeysbyjacqy.com
- Website: https://www.journeysbyjacqy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeysbyjacqy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JourneysByJacqy
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/journeys-by-jacqy-houston
