Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann Williams.
Hi Ann, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story continues from an interview with Voyage Baltimore in 2023
Williams Family Events (WFE) is a family-oriented business located in Stafford, Virginia, that was created as an events/entertainment planning company about 16 years ago, as a “morale booster” at my place of employment at the time.
During the pandemic, taking various courses, selling cruises and travel, WFE gained recognition as a CLIA*-certified travel agency, and was incorporated into the existing company.
*CLIA – Cruise Lines International Association
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My biggest obstacle/challenge is staying relevant in the travel industry. With online travel websites and advanced technology, like AI, people tend to forget the role of an actual travel agent. Travel agents can help plan your travel needs with a personal touch. We do the research and get the best deals for our clients, eliminating time and money. There are no extra costs associated with a travel agent since we make our money from commissions paid by cruise lines, hotels, car rentals, and even special activities. In addition, if something goes wrong on your trip or you have a complaint, we are available to handle and hopefully solve the problem directly; otherwise, you may not be able to reach anyone through online or AI.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Travel Agent – pretty much setting up travel for both individual travel and group travel, whether it be land tours, cruises, or other events, such as organizing Broadway shows, murder mystery dinner shows, shopping and casino bus trips.
Basically, I’ve always had a passion for travel, and I feel blessed to be able to fulfill my dreams.
Most proud of … my family … being married to my forever travel partner for almost 38 years; a mother of two adults, Jazman and Jordan (Alex), and two beautiful grandbabies, Layla (10) and Jaylen (6).
If you have a passion for travel and/or love planning trips for your family and friends, this is the job for you. Locate and work for a local travel agency so you can learn while you plan your travel needs. Normally, you don’t need any experience.
Disadvantage: Usually, no fixed salary; work on commission. Hence, the more travel you sell, the more money you can make.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The travel industry has increased since the pandemic, especially in the cruise industry, and expects record passenger volume, requiring dozens of new ships on order for the next decade.
Pricing:
Pricing varies with all travel. All-inclusive getaways are great. I love cruises because they are mostly all-inclusive … food, entertainment, and lodging. You have options if you want to purchase excursions, specialty dining and/or drink packages. You unpack once, visit different destinations, eat, and do whatever you want to do on a cruise. My husband and I call it the best vacation you can take!!
Pricing:
- See above
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @williamsfamilyevents
- Facebook: HTTP://www.facebook.com/WilliamsFamilyEventsVA
