Happy 1st Birthday to Stephanie Chipping Travel

And I’d just like to take this opportunity to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported my dream. This includes everyone who has liked and shared my page and discussed it with friends, family and colleagues - even passed business cards their way! Plus, not to forget the biggest thanks to those who put their trust in me to cultivate their perfectly designed trips. Your feedback has shown me that I’m doing what I do best and that I’ve gained some great new friends from this too.

I have to also mention that the Travel Counsellor support is second to none. Head office are available around the clock. It’s like you’re adopted into this new family who always have your back and there’s always someone by your side.

Now… I can’t say that I planned for a global virus to upturn our world as we know it, but it’s definitely been a first year in business that I won’t forget in a hurry. And do you know what? Has it taught me more in a few months than what a small business would expect to learn in a lifetime? Indeed, it has. Think of it as a crash course in problem solving, crisis management and how to bake the perfect banana bread - all at once! It’s made me more driven than ever.

Year one still brought many fantastic events and I’ve met so many incredible people along the way. I’ve been to destination-themed events across the region, sailed on a fantastic cruise, took a luxury trip to Thailand with an unforgettable group of fellow Travel Counsellors and then celebrated our achievements at the most incredible 25th anniversary star-struck conference in Manchester.

I’ve sent people to India, Oman, Australia and Bali. I’ve organised road trips across the USA, city breaks, family getaways, luxury trips to Dubai and the Caribbean and surprise trips to anniversary trips. I’ve even been involved in a rescue mission to get people home during the crisis. I’ve worked long hours, night and day - who knew you actually work more when you work for yourself!? But it’s been a lot of fun.

Sadly, some of you are postponed and are still waiting for your fun to begin. But when it does happen, I’ll make sure it’s perfect for you!

So, what’s next?

Well, coming up is a virtual wedding fayre with the wonderful Glenfall House. The previous event was a great success so I’m very much looking forward to this. Honeymoon planning is my absolute favourite!

I’m already helping many of you with trips for 2021 which is keeping me busy during lockdown. However, my trips to Spain and Cornwall were both cancelled in April so these will be the first ports of call. The next big trip is also in the planning stage!

Business is going to be baby steps for a little while, ensuring that everyone who is booked is looked after and can return safely to travelling. I’m looking to the end of this year and into 2021 for flexible trips where I am able to amend reservations without penalties. I’m also continuing to increase my destination knowledge - but this task will be never-ending! Once restrictions allow, I think my diary will be backlogged full of coffee dates. I miss you all and I know some of you are eager to discuss your travel plans over a quality flat white! Stay safe and keep dreaming. We will get back to travel soon.

Until then…

Stephanie