Meet Karis Shaffer

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Karis Shaffer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Karis below.

Karis, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

After being laid off just before the pandemic, I took a significant step back to reassess my career path. I took two years off, during which I realized that working for someone else wasn’t what I wanted anymore. I needed something that truly resonated with my heart. Just as I was about to start applying for new jobs, my family and I took a little getaway to Jamaica. I planned the entire trip—flights, resorts, transfers, and even travel insurance. That experience was a turning point for me. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a spark that ignited my passion for trip planning. I returned home with a clear vision and immediately looked into what it would take to start my own business. By September 2022, I launched Karismatic Adventures. Now, I dedicate myself to creating joyful and memorable travel experiences for others, and I’ve never felt more fulfilled in my work.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

At Karismatic Adventures, we specialize in crafting the perfect romantic getaways for couples, making each journey unforgettable. What truly sets us apart is our dedication to creating tailored experiences that cater not just to the destinations but also to the dreams and preferences of each traveler. We understand that planning a trip shouldn’t be stressful, so we offer flexible payment options. This means you can secure your dream vacation with payments spaced out up until 45 or 90 days before travel, depending on the destination.

My passion for travel ignited when I started exploring new countries with my then-boyfriend, now wonderful husband. Over the past 12 years, we’ve made it our tradition to embark on at least one international trip each year, and it’s this personal joy in creating lasting memories that I bring to my clients. I believe every couple should experience the rejuvenating power of travel without the burden of upfront costs.

And you know what’s really exciting? We also host group travel opportunities, which include specialized trips like scuba diving adventures. This year, I’m super excited because we’re planning to take our dive team to Belize. It’s more than just a trip; it’s about building a community of like-minded adventurers who can share these incredible experiences together. At Karismatic Adventures, we’re not just planning trips; we’re crafting lifelong memories and friendships. Come join us and let’s make your travel dreams a reality!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey with Karismatic Adventures, there are three key elements that have truly shaped my success and could be invaluable for anyone starting in this field.

First up, getting certified in the travel industry was a game-changer for me. It’s crucial to have that solid foundation of knowledge to provide accurate and reliable information to your clients. If you’re just beginning, I highly recommend pursuing certification. It not only boosts your credibility but also your confidence in crafting unforgettable travel experiences.

Next, continuous learning has been essential. I regularly attend training sessions with vendors and properties. This isn’t just about staying updated—it’s about getting firsthand insights that allow me to tailor vacations perfectly suited to my clients’ wishes. My advice? Dive deep into learning opportunities. The more you know, the better you can serve your clients and truly make a difference in their travel experiences.

Lastly, the support from a host agency has been indispensable. Being aligned with a host gives me the credentials and the backing to run my business smoothly. For those new to the industry, finding a supportive host can make a world of difference, providing you with resources and support as you build your business.

In this field, these elements aren’t just tools; they’re stepping stones to building trust and creating lasting client relationships. If you’re passionate about travel and eager to create memorable journeys, these steps are your blueprint to success.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

When it comes to the people who’ve supported me through challenges and been instrumental in my development, my husband Josh stands out as my rock. He’s been incredibly supportive every step of the way. Whether it’s proofreading websites and forms or being my travel partner when we’re scouting out new properties, he’s always there, making sure I have everything I need to succeed.

I also owe a huge thank you to my family—both those here with me and those watching over us, like my mom. They’ve always encouraged me to reach beyond what I thought possible and have pushed me to achieve greater heights. Their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation and has played a crucial role in shaping the person and professional I am today.

Their support has not just been about helping me overcome challenges; it’s been about celebrating every small victory along the way. This journey wouldn’t be the same without them, and I’m grateful for their love and guidance every single day.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Underwater: Cinzia Barito
Disney: Disney staff
Mexico Tulum: Cancun Adventures Excursion Tour
Group picture: Someone at the beach
Other pictures: Karis Shaffer

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