How Louise started a family travel business with no experience and gained a whole new community

3 min read

When Louise decided to start a travel business, she didn’t come from the industry. In fact, she had never worked in travel before.

She was a childminder, running her own small business from home – and feeling ready for change. She wanted freedom. More joy. And most of all, she wanted to travel.

“I didn’t have any experience. I just knew I wanted to do something different. Something fun. Something for me.”

But what she found was more than a business. She found a new lifestyle – one she could share with her son.

“He’s nearly 20 and has ADHD and epilepsy. It’s not always been easy for him to find work. I saw this as something we could do together. A business we could build as a team.”

That’s exactly what they’re doing. From training sessions to cruises, Louise and her son have stepped into the travel world side-by-side.

And they’ve never been alone.

“The support has been incredible. Everyone I’ve met – at training, on trips, on calls – is so friendly and helpful. It’s your business, but you’re never doing it by yourself.”

Louise says she’s made friends for life. Whether she’s on a cruise, at a retreat, or in a WhatsApp group chat, she’s surrounded by other consultants cheering her on.

“We’re all different ages, from different places, doing this in different ways – but we all help each other. It feels like a proper community.”

One of her proudest moments? Attending the Seminar at Sea cruise with her son.

“We didn’t expect to enjoy Fred. Olsen as much as we did, but we absolutely loved it. The ship was smaller and more personal, the scenery in the fjords was breathtaking, and the staff were amazing.”

“And for the first time, my son joined me in training. He was actually excited to get up and hear from Steve and Duncan – that’s how engaging it was!”

The trip was just one of many experiences included in her franchise package. She also took part in the Millionaires’ Retreat in Turkey and the Elite Experience in Mauritius, both of which deepened her skills, confidence, and belief in what’s possible.

 “Mauritius was the trip of a lifetime. And I didn’t have to pay extra for it – it was all part of the package.”

Today, Louise is building a business that fits around her life – not the other way around. She’s working at her own pace, learning as she goes, and always supported by people who genuinely want her to succeed.

“Even though it’s your business, you’re not doing this alone. You’ve got a Business Development Manager, a whole network of consultants, and constant training. And if you ever get stuck, someone’s always there to help.”

“I’ve had one-to-ones with Steve and Duncan. I’ve had coaching, encouragement, and ideas. And when people speak up about something they need – the company listens.”

Her advice to anyone thinking about joining?

 “You don’t need experience. You just need passion – and the right people around you. If you’re thinking about it, just go for it. It’s honestly the best decision I’ve made.”

Are you ready for your next adventure? First watch our Discovery videos, then schedule a chat with us so we can help you choose the best franchise package.

Jenny Farenden

Jenny Farenden

Head of The Travel Franchise

Jenny has spent the better part of two decades helping franchise businesses grow – not just in numbers, but in reputation, reach, and meaning. She joined The Travel Franchise in 2022 and has been central to its transformation into the most recognised and awarded travel franchise in the UK.

View all posts by Jenny

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