Meet Nadia Sparkle: Founder/Owner / Lead Travel Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nadia Sparkle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nadia, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Hands down, my business would not be where it is today without my clients. I am BIG on customer service. I truly work to create a relationship with each of my “Sparklers.” I create invaluable travel experiences because they are invaluable to me. They have awarded me with lifelong memories and friendships. Not to mention, it is their strong word-of-mouth and repeat business that has helped solidify my 5-star reputation and success. I also think my own travel experiences are a major factor. These destinations and excursions are tried and true. The cultures, sights, and off-the-beaten path adventures I personally experienced are threaded through each travel package I put together. This business is called Travel with Sparkle, because essentially there is a little bit of me on every trip…something you cannot get anywhere else.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Travel with Sparkle, is a lifestyle travel agency focusing on international group travel. Founder and owner Nadia Sparkle curates off-the-beaten path group excursions to various international destinations. Each travel itinerary and journey is trademarked by an immersive, cultural, and enriching experience. Coupled with these lavish trips is Sparkle’s hospitable personality and her commitment to serve. She believes that travel is invaluable. Therefore, it is her mission to design excursions that are equally convenient as they are luxurious. Because of Travel with Sparkle, clients of all backgrounds can venture around the world, creating cherishable memories along the way. Q & A 1. How did you come up with the idea for your business? Before I began creating individual and group trips professionally, I coordinated travel excursions for my friends and family. I would host family reunions aboard cruises. I even put together a few cabin packages as a quick and fun getaway. But, it wasn’t until I was introduced to a travel agency owner, by my step-mother, where I considered making this my career. At first, it was a little side-hustle. I booked trips, here and there, to help pay for my daughter’s college tuition. Then, it gradually turned into the full-fledged business it is today. Let’s just say, I haven’t looked back since! 2. What is the most important factor behind your success / the success of your brand? Hands down, my business would not be where it is today without my clients. I am BIG on customer service. I truly work to create a relationship with each of my “Sparklers.” I create invaluable travel experiences because they are invaluable to me. They have awarded me with lifelong memories and friendships. Not to mention, it is their strong word-of-mouth and repeat business that has helped solidify my 5-star reputation and success. I also think my own travel experiences are a major factor. These destinations and excursions are tried and true. The cultures, sights, and off-the-beaten path adventures I personally experienced are threaded through each travel package I put together. This business is called Travel with Sparkle, because essentially there is a little bit of me on every trip…something you cannot get anywhere else. 3. How did you get to where you are today business-wise? A lot of hard work! Ongoing professional development is key. I have attended many conferences that relate to the world of travel. However, I have also invested much time into learning the world of business too, like social media marketing, branding, and networking. There is no shortcut when owning a business. The idea of getting rich quick is just an idea. You really have to roll up your sleeves and put in effort to reap the benefits. I have done that and will continue to do so. 4. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? No, it wasn’t easy. Probably the most difficult aspect, especially in the beginning, was building trust. I had to prove to clients why they should trust me as a travel professional. This is also a competitive industry. And when I say the industry, I mean having to compete with other agents alongside popular travel sites. I had to figure out how to stand out, what exactly made me so special. What helped me overcome is remembering that human appeal. As someone who personally travels, I have insight and insider information that you can’t get through a 100% online travel company. I can share honest recommendations and guidance versus solely relying on reviews and search engines. Most importantly, I am accessible. If someone wants to book a trip they can do so directly. Clients are no longer overwhelmed by the many hotel options and excursions. Nor do they have the responsibility or pressure of putting together a full itinerary. That’s my job. Simply, pick up the phone. I am there to answer questions and to, ultimately, curate unique travel excursions. 5. What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? I’ve learned to not put all of my eggs in one basket, especially during the recent pandemic. My niche is group travel. But, due to shutdowns, my business almost slowed to a standstill. Group trips were cancelled because of international travel restrictions. People also did not feel comfortable traveling let alone traveling with others. Thankfully, I continued to offer individual trip packages to those who were interested. 6. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? I am a proud black female entrepreneur who has worked extremely hard to get to where I am today. It is amazing how a dream or a passion can become your greatest reality. I once was a nurse. Now, I am a highly sought after six-figure travel advisor booking excursions for high-profile music icons, television personalities, professional athletes and more. I have built an amazing award winning agency, one with an incredible brand, reputation, and lifelong success. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
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Website: www.travelwithsparkle.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelwithsparkle/
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/travelwithsparkle
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Travelwithsparkle

Image Credits
Personal Photo credit to Aucklands of Auckvision.com