Making memories…
From a young age, my happiest memories have always involved travel. I cherish those childhood road trips where we'd travel cross-country to visit family. Those journeys weren't just about the destination; they were opportunities to explore the incredibly diverse and unique cultures that make up this beautiful country. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for travel and adventure.
And so it began…
Nothing is more valuable than the memories we make and the relationships we build—and the happiest way to nurture both is by exploring the world through travel.
As I started my own small family, that love of travel only deepened. I discovered just how powerful travel is: it connects people, helps build dreams, teaches compassion, ignites the imagination, and fundamentally shapes who we become. Luckily, I married a fellow travel enthusiast, and together, we've loved sharing that mutual passion for exploration and adventure with our children!
In 2020, our youngest little adventurer arrived, and just over a year later, our lives changed completely! We packed up our home in Charleston, SC, loaded up our bustling tribe of six (plus the dog!), and set off on an epic cross-country journey to our new base in Salt Lake City, UT. Sharing that long, winding road with my girls—the very journey I’d loved as a child—was pure magic.
But the real discovery? I realized I absolutely love the planning! Researching not only the best route but also hunting down those unexpected, exciting stops and brand-new experiences for my daughters along the way was just as thrilling as the drive itself. That excursion made it crystal clear: I genuinely love planning travel
💔 When the World Felt Smaller
When our youngest was three, the world I knew—the one full of open roads and adventures—suddenly felt terrifyingly small. She was diagnosed with Level 2 Autism, and as a mom, navigating those first months was one of the scariest experiences of my life. With her being nonverbal, struggling with intense meltdowns, and even starting to express self-harming behaviors, I was constantly worried.
I felt like our beloved world of travel had become an incredibly scary place. I was paralyzed by questions: How would she cope with a strange new hotel? Would crowded places instantly trigger a meltdown? The thought of facing unkind stares from strangers or, worse, being asked to leave a venue by staff, was a heavy, sad burden.
Suddenly, every future family memory felt uncertain. Would she miss out on the fun adventures with her big sisters? I worried about the tough choices—like someone potentially having to skip my oldest daughter's college graduation in NYC just to stay home. And what about my other three girls? It felt unfair that they might have to experience family memories with half their loved ones missing. All I could think was: Could I even gather the things I needed to keep her safe if we tried to keep traveling? It was a deeply sad, scary, and overwhelmingly stressful time.
💖 Turning Passion Into Purpose
But here’s the wonderful truth I discovered: that scary, small world doesn't have to be permanent. I decided to channel my deepest love—my passion for travel—and my drive as a mother into finding a better way. I realized I could use my unique experience and planning obsession to make travel not just possible, but easier and truly great for families with special needs.
I began diving deep, learning about fantastic organizations like Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, which advocates for those with non-visible disabilities. They've been key in spreading awareness and understanding globally! It’s inspiring to see how many airlines, airports, and destinations are stepping up, offering specialized accommodations, dedicated sensory-friendly events, and thoughtful ways to lessen crowding and lower noise. The world is becoming more inclusive every day!
Because of this journey, I now want to use everything I’ve learned—and my sheer love for adventure—to work with your family. I want every loved one to still be able to enjoy exploring this incredible world, and I am driven to provide the best possible experience for your unique autistic explorer. I am genuinely grateful for the chance to help a parent confidently open the world up for their child, doing everything possible to keep them safe. For that moment in time, I will handle the planning and preparation so you and your friends can simply focus on making the memories and enjoying the beautiful journey!
This is my story. I can’t wait to hear yours! Sign up for a Dream Mapping session today! I look foreword to collaborating with you!
