Meet our Team

Desiree H.

Desiree H.

Owner/Travel Advisor

Desiree (Des) brings a lifelong passion for planning and a genuine love of travel to every itinerary she creates. Her professional journey began in the event planning world and naturally transitioned into travel, where she found her true calling – designing unforgettable experiences for couples, families, and groups.

With a degree in Travel and Tourism and numerous accreditations/specialized certifications, Des pairs formal education with hands-on expertise. Her background includes event planning, large-scale golf tournaments, coordinating corporate travel, and curating detailed destination weddings and honeymoons.

Des approaches each trip with the same care and excitement as if it were her own. Whether she’s orchestrating a luxury honeymoon in Europe, a grand destination wedding in the Caribbean, a family-friendly vacation getaway, a magical trip to a Disney Destination, or a milestone celebration at sea, she brings creativity, attention to detail, and a personal touch that sets her apart.

Her clients know her for her warm approach, expert guidance, and the joy she brings to the planning process. It’s no surprise that many return trip after trip, year after year.

Des founded Always an Adventure Travel out of the desire to give clients more than just a quick booking – she wanted to give them peace of mind, personalized attention, and thoughtfully crafted adventures. After seeing how overwhelming and impersonal the travel process has become, she was inspired to build an agency that brought back the joy of planning and providing great service, coupled with the excitement of discovering new places with a friendly, personalized touch.

Allisha R.

Allisha R.

Travel Advisor

Allisha is a passionate traveler who has turned her love for exploring new places into a way to help others create unforgettable vacations. Over the years, she and her husband have traveled extensively—often with their three sons.

Allisha has a special love for warm, tropical destinations and is a frequent flyer to Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic—visiting several times a year. Allisha has also toured nearly every corner of Florida and enjoyed trips to popular U.S. destinations like Mackinaw Island, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Virginia Beach, Ocean City, Myrtle Beach, Las Vegas, Wisconsin Dells, and Hershey Park. Known among family and friends as the go-to trip planner, Allisha brings her firsthand destination knowledge and eye for detail to every itinerary she helps craft.

Her goal is simple: to make sure every client enjoys personalized service tailored to their unique preferences and truly having a memorable travel experience. Ready to plan your next adventure? Allisha is here to help!

Amy F.

Amy F.

Travel Advisor

Amy Friedburg is a passionate traveler who has turned her lifelong love of exploring new places into a way to help others create unforgettable vacations. Since 2018, she has helped families, couples, and friends plan their dream getaways—making travel planning stress-free, personal, and full of magic.

Amy’s love for travel began long before becoming a Travel Specialist. Growing up with family trips and now making memories with her husband and their two children, she’s developed a deep understanding of what makes a vacation truly special. Together, they’ve created countless memories visiting some of the country’s most magical destinations—from Disney and Universal to national parks and coastal escapes.

Over the years, Amy has had the privilege of exploring incredible destinations, including:
Frequent visits to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, where she’s gained insider knowledge of the parks, attractions, and dining. European adventures filled with culture, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable cuisine. Road trips across the U.S., discovering the country’s natural beauty and diverse charm.

With a deep love for creativity, details, and behind-the-scenes magic, Amy uses her firsthand destination experience to craft seamless itineraries that reflect each traveler’s unique style, interests, and budget. Whether it’s a sun-soaked Caribbean resort, a theme park adventure, an international journey, or a cozy mountain retreat, her goal is simple: to make every trip effortless, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.

With her expertise, creativity, and passion for travel, Amy offers personalized recommendations, insider tips, and hands-on support every step of the way—so all you have to do is relax, enjoy, and make lifelong memories.

Audrey O.

Audrey O.

Travel Advisor

Hi, I’m Audrey, a travel agent who specializes in family-friendly vacations to magical destinations like Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal theme parks, and all-inclusive resorts like Sandals and Beaches, and more!

 

I’m especially passionate about Disney: it’s my favorite place to travel and share with others. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your tenth, something small and intimate or a multi-gen trip, I love helping families navigate the ins and outs so they can make the most of their time and create unforgettable memories.

Let’s make your dream vacation a reality!

Carol C.

Carol C.

Travel Advisor

Since 2018, Carol has been helping families, couples, and adventurers of all kinds turn their travel dreams into stress-free realities. As a mother of two young adults, she deeply values the impact of well-planned vacations—particularly those customized to suit varying ages, interests, and needs. Carol is proud to have instilled her passion for exploration in her children, who now enjoy traveling across the globe.

From childhood Disney and Universal family getaways in Orlando to recent cruises and tropical island escapes, Carol understands how travel evolves through life’s stages. An enthusiastic pickleball player, she specializes in organizing group trips centered around the sport, seamlessly blending fun, fitness, and travel.

For Carol, the only thing better than being on vacation is planning one. Her passion lies in taking the stress out of travel planning, curating personalized itineraries that reflect each client’s taste, style, and budget.

Whether your dream is a magical family adventure, a tranquil beach retreat, or a long-awaited bucket list destination, Carol is ready to meticulously plan every detail—ensuring you can focus entirely on creating lasting memories.

Cheryl B.

Cheryl B.

Travel Advisor

What began as a Disney-obsessed newlywed (yes, she even honeymooned at Magic Kingdom!) has grown into decades of adventure and a passion for turning travel dreams into reality. Cheryl and her husband started their journey starry-eyed on Main Street, U.S.A., and today they’re still making magical Disney pilgrimages, now joined by their adult kids, family and friends, and a lifetime of memories. Those vacations taught Cheryl the value of thoughtful planning, especially when navigating food allergies, accessibility needs, and family dynamics, and showed her how much joy comes from creating stress-free travel experiences.

After retiring from a career as a judge’s secretary, Cheryl traded the courtroom for cruise decks, castles, and Caribbean sunsets. While Disney will always be her first love, her travel portfolio spans far beyond, from luxury cruises and stress-free all-inclusives to European adventures that rival any guidebook. Her years in the legal world sharpened her ability to anticipate challenges and smooth out details with flawless precision, so every trip feels seamless from start to finish.

What sets Cheryl apart is her belief that every vacation should be an adventure worth celebrating. From Mickey-shaped waffles at sunrise to thrills at Universal Studios, from cocktails with your toes in Caribbean sand to ocean and river cruises, and from exploring European markets to discovering hidden gems around the globe, Cheryl doesn’t just book trips, she crafts experiences, curates memories, and adds just the right touch of magic to every adventure.

“Adventure is out there!”

Elisa O.

Elisa O.

Travel Advisor

Elisa’s adventures have taken her everywhere – across continents and careers. After 33 years of teaching and organizing her own personal vacations, she’s putting her expertise to use helping others see the world. She’s found that planning a vacation takes all the same patience, flexibility, organization, and attention to detail as planning every day in the classroom. Decades honing these vital skills have given her the tools she needs to partner with clients, creating the stress-free vacations of their dreams.

Disney holds a particularly special place in Elisa’s heart, as well as in her planning portfolio. An expert in Disney Destinations and the Disney Cruise Line, she’s experienced the magic they have to offer more times than she can count. She’s planned all types of Disney getaways for parties of all sizes – from cruises for couples to four-park sweeps for large families. Whether it’s a client’s first park visit, fifth Disney cruise, or once-in-a-lifetime European getaway, they can rest easy knowing that every detail is taken care of.

When she’s not planning a client’s ideal vacation, Elisa is most often out exploring the world for herself. The relaxing beaches of an island resort, the main deck of a Disney cruise, and the winding streets of small European towns have all become familiar sights to her. She finds that nothing beats hands-on experience she gets when she travels, and enjoys using what she’s learned to the benefit of her clients. It’s all a part of turning travel dreams into reality – and that, to her, is the best part of the job.

Heather C.

Heather C.

Travel Advisor

Heather has always had a passion for travel and helping families create unforgettable experiences. Some of her favorite destinations include Aruba, the Bahamas, Disney, Universal, and Sandals Resorts—places she loves to visit often. Beyond planning trips, Heather enjoys sharing insider tips and tricks to help clients make the most of every vacation.

As a mom to a daughter with severe food allergies, Heather understands firsthand the importance of safety and peace of mind while traveling. She’s dedicated to guiding families through every step of the journey with care and attention to detail.

Before becoming a travel advisor, Heather specialized in coordinating business travel for groups across the country, giving her extensive experience in planning and logistics. Today, whether you’re dreaming of a cruise, an all-inclusive getaway, or the magic of Disney and Universal, Heather is here to make your vacation stress-free and memorable. Best of all—her services are completely free.

Heather O.

Heather O.

Travel Advisor

Heather is a dedicated travel advisor with many years of experience helping families plan unforgettable vacations.

As a former teacher, she brings the organization, patience, and thoughtful planning skills needed to design trips that work for families of all sizes. Heather and her husband, Joseph, have 4 children, ranging from teenager to early elementary, so she truly understands the joys and challenges that come with family travel.

Heather fell in love with Disney on her first trip at 18, and that magic still inspires her today. Her family visits Disney destinations several times a year.

Not only does Heather specialize in Disney destinations, but she also specializes in cruises for the whole family! Whether sailing the high seas or exploring the parks, she knows how to turn family trips into lasting memories. She specializes in creating stress-free, family-focused vacations tailored to a wide range of group sizes and budgets.

Let Heather handle the details so your family can focus on what really matters: having fun and making memories together.

Jodi B.

Jodi B.

Travel Advisor

 

Jodi has been fortunate to travel all over the world and live in many locales during her lifetime. That passion for exploring new places is what inspires her to help create unforgettable, memorable  journeys for others.

As a travel advisor, Jodi crafts personalized vacations for families, multi-generational groups, parents with kids, solo travelers, honeymooners, and older clients who want to make the most of every adventure.

Jodi specializes in Disney destinations, all-inclusive escapes to Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Virgin Voyages cruises, as well as exciting getaways to Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood.

No matter where you’d like to go, Jodi’s goal is to make your vacation stress-free, seamless, and full of magic.

Katie M.

Katie M.

Travel Advisor

 

Born and raised in Orlando, Katie brings a lifetime of firsthand Disney experience to every vacation she plans. A frequent visitor to the parks and an annual passholder since 1999, she combines local insight with years of experience to craft your perfect vacation.

Katie specializes in planning vacations that create lasting memories, guiding families from the thrills of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando to the extraordinary magic of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, which has become her favorite place in the world. 

She’s also explored the history and charm of London and Scotland, discovering the best ways to navigate the cities, visit iconic landmarks, and experience each destination like a local. Her love of travel extends to the high seas, where she’s sailed with Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America, and Celebrity, learning the ins and outs of each cruise line so she can help families seeking the perfect getaway at sea.

Whether you’re planning your first family vacation or returning for your latest magical adventure, Katie loves designing itineraries that fit your unique style, budget, and interests. Her goal is simple: to take the stress out of planning so you can focus on making memories that last a lifetime.

Kelly H.

Kelly H.

Travel Advisor

 

Kelly is a travel advisor who loves helping families turn vacation dreams into reality. Whether it’s a magical theme park getaway, an unforgettable cruise, or a luxury escape abroad, she’s passionate about creating seamless, stress-free experiences tailored to each traveler’s needs and budget.

 

A former high school teacher turned travel professional, Kelly brings the heart of an educator and the mind of a planner to her work. She’s known for her thoughtful organization, creative itineraries, and ability to make even complex trips feel effortless. Kelly specializes in helping multigenerational familiesfamilies traveling with special needs, and those looking for luxury or once-in-a-lifetime experiences make the most of every journey.


An avid cruiser and theme park enthusiast, Kelly has sailed with 
Disney Cruise Line on Alaska, Caribbean, and Northern Europe itineraries and experienced the excitement of Walt Disney WorldDisneylandUniversal Orlando, and Universal Studios Hollywood firsthand. Her travels have also taken her to 46 U.S. states, throughout Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and all across Europe—giving her a wealth of firsthand insight she uses to help clients craft unforgettable vacations.

 

Kelly lives in the Chicago area with her husband, two children, two cats, and six chickens. Her family’s shared passion for travel even landed them on Wheel of Fortune: Disney Week, where she and her husband won an Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise—an adventure that remains one of her all-time favorites and a reminder of why she loves helping others create magical memories through travel.
Michelle L.

Michelle L.

Travel Consultant

Michelle is a world traveler and experienced cruiser with sailings worldwide. She specializes in creating unforgettable journeys that blend luxury, culture, and seamless planning. Whether it’s a luxury ocean, river or expedition cruise experience or premium escorted vacation, she is passionate about helping her clients experience the world in comfort and style, while immersing themselves in the unique cultures and stories that make travel so enriching. She’s also a proud Disney expert – an Annual Passholder, Disney Vacation Club member, and Platinum Castaway Club member – giving her insider knowledge for magical Disney VIP experiences by land and sea.

As a CLIA Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC) and a Travel Institute Certified Travel Associate (CTA), she brings professional expertise to every itinerary she designs. With extensive experience planning trips for families, couples, groups, and solo adventurers, she’s here to take the stress out of travel so you can simply relax and enjoy. Her goal is to create seamless, worry-free experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Michelle is ready to help you to start planning your next adventure—because the world is waiting!

 

Renee A.

Renee A.

Travel Advisor

 

Hi, I’m Renee, and I believe the best trips are the ones that fill your heart as much as your photo album.

I’ve been married to my best friend for over 30 years, we’ve raised two wonderful sons, gained the most amazing daughter-in-law, and recently became proud grandparents to the sweetest little grandson we absolutely adore.

Family is at the heart of everything I do, which is why I love creating vacations that bring people closer—whether it’s a magical family adventure, a romantic escape, or a celebration of life’s milestones. I handle the details so you can focus on what matters most: making memories together.

Shelly K.

Shelly K.

Travel Advisor

 

Shelly’s first trip to Walt Disney World was in 2005 as an adult. All her life she heard about this magical place and dreamed of visiting it one day. Shelly has been a travel advisor since 2013, and travels to Walt Disney World as often as possible to experience all the new attractions, restaurants and resorts. She always makes it a point to try something new during each trip and can recommend the best options for you based on her first-hand knowledge and experience.

Shelly strongly believes in the importance of making memories through vacationing. She believes it is a privilege to be able to help people plan their vacation adventures and takes great pride in her work.

While Walt Disney World will always have a special place in her heart, Shelly specializes in a diverse portfolio of destinations, including Disneyland, Universal Parks & Resorts, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, Sandals & Beaches, Loews Hotels, Marriott Hotels, Hilton Hotels, and more. She also specializes in planning trips to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii, where she spent her Honeymoon in 2022!

For Shelly, seeing the joy and wonder in her clients’ stories and photos is the greatest reward – a reminder that every vacation is an opportunity to create new memories that last a lifetime.Whether it’s a theme park vacation, a relaxing cruise, group travel, or a unique adventure, Shelly is here to ensure your experience is seamless and memorable. Let her experience set you up for the best trip ever!

Stephanie M.

Stephanie M.

Travel Advisor

Stephanie believes in the power of family vacations—and what better place than Disney to make those memories? With extensive knowledge of every Disney property—from Disney theme parks to Disney Cruise Line and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa—she’s the go-to resource for crafting a vacation that’s not only magical, but also perfectly tailored to your family.

What sets Stephanie apart is her approach: she doesn’t just plan the trip, she plans your trip. Her goal is to design an experience that matches your family’s interests and budget while still leaving time to relax and soak up the magic. She also knows that some of the best Disney memories are made around the table, which is why she treats dining as just as important as choosing the right resort. From magical meals to magical moments, Stephanie is here to make it all unforgettable.

A lifelong Disney traveler, Stephanie has experienced the magic from every angle—visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland numerous times, sailing with Disney Cruise Line, and experiencing the beauty of Disney Aulani in Hawai‘i. She’s also joined in on special events like runDisney races, the Keys to the Kingdom Tour, EPCOT’s festivals, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and her personal favorite, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

As a mom of five, Stephanie has “done Disney” with babies, toddlers, kids, and teens—sometimes all at once! She knows exactly what it takes to keep a trip running smoothly for every member of the family and loves helping parents feel prepared, relaxed, and confident so they can focus on making memories together.

With Disney vacations more complex than ever, Stephanie makes planning simple. Whether your dream trip is a theme park adventure, a tropical Aulani escape, or a Disney Cruise across the seas, she’ll guide your family to the must-do experiences and hidden gems so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the magic.

Sue K.

Sue K.

Travel Advisor


R
ecognized by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a “Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent,” Sue combines award-winning expertise with a lifelong passion for Disney. A graduate of the College of Disney Knowledge, her expertise is built on decades of personal experience, beginning with her own first trip to the Contemporary Resort in 1976.

Sue specializes in crafting magical vacations for groups of all sizes, especially large, multi-generational families. She loves orchestrating detailed itineraries that allow everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—to experience the wonder of Disney together. As someone who navigates dietary allergies and restrictions herself, Sue offers invaluable firsthand guidance to ensure every member of your party can dine with confidence and ease.

From her favorite resorts like the French Quarter and the Yacht and Beach Club to discovering new restaurants, Sue is always adding to her extensive knowledge base. She is efficient, organized, and dedicated to designing a trip that fits your unique needs and budget.

Let Sue handle all the details so you can focus on the magic. Whether you are dreaming of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani, a Disney Cruise Line voyage, an Adventures by Disney tour, a Universal vacation, or a relaxing all-inclusive stay at a Sandals or Beaches resort, she is ready to help you create your best trip ever!

Stay Tuned!  More of our amazing team coming soon!

Ready to start your next adventure?  At Always an Adventure Travel, we’re looking for passionate, motivated travel advisors who love creating unforgettable experiences for their clients. Here you’ll find a supportive, inclusive community, competitive, timely commissions, and access to top supplier partnerships.  Together, we will turn your passion for travel into a rewarding career.

 

🚀 Apply to Join Always an Adventure Travel