HI! I’m Amy, Founder of Destinations by Amy, a boutique travel agency dedicated to creating unforgettable journeys for clients around the world. Based in a suburb of Chicago, I’m happily married to my husband, Steve, and we share our lives with our two wonderful children, Mikey and Lucy. Together, we cherish the thrill of adventure, the solace of a beachside retreat, and the magic of discovering new destinations—a passion I have channeled into a career dedicated to exceptional travel experiences.
For over 15 years, Destinations by Amy has specialized in destination weddings, social travel, and meeting & incentive groups. My passion for travel was sparked during college when I had the chance to study abroad in Costa Rica. Immersed in its vibrant culture and natural beauty, I felt the transformative power of travel. This experience ignited a commitment that would lead me through explorations across Mexico, the Caribbean, and beyond, learning firsthand about top wedding destinations, luxury resorts, and unique experiences to bring back to my clients.
Career Journey and Philosophy
The journey to building my business wasn’t always a straight path. After graduating from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I was honored as Advertising Student of the Year for two consecutive years, I spent several years in the corporate world. However, the call to pursue my passion for travel proved too strong to ignore. With encouragement from mentors and a drive to prove that a meaningful career in travel was possible, I took a leap of faith and founded Destinations by Amy.
Initially, it was a challenge. The travel industry is highly competitive, and as many people said, “No one makes money in travel.” But my determination was unwavering. I wanted to create an agency that would make planning destination weddings and group trips seamless, enjoyable, and entirely unique to each client. It’s been a rewarding journey ever since, and I haven’t looked back.
A Boutique Agency with a Personal Touch
Destinations by Amy isn’t just about booking trips; it’s about curating once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Each itinerary is crafted to bring people closer together, whether it’s couples exchanging vows on a tropical beach or families reuniting for a special occasion. I’m proud to work alongside an incredible team of women who share my passion for delivering personalized service to every client we serve. Together, we’ve built a reputation for attention to detail, deep industry knowledge, and the ability to turn dream weddings and special events into reality.
Specializations and Industry Certifications
I’m honored to hold several specialized certifications in the travel industry, including WOW Wedding Specialist with Hard Rock All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. These certifications ensure I can provide my clients with in-depth knowledge about premier resorts and wedding venues. I’m also certified as a Sandals Weddingmoons Specialist, enabling me to offer exclusive insights into some of the most sought-after resort destinations in the Caribbean. These partnerships allow us to offer clients unique perks and a seamless experience from start to finish.
In addition to weddings, we specialize in social and corporate group travel, including meetings and incentive programs. Our agency partners with top-tier resorts and venues to offer clients options that go beyond the standard package, creating customized experiences to suit their unique preferences and needs.
Core Beliefs and Mission
I believe that “a beach vacation cures all.” Whether it’s the tranquility of the ocean or the joy of a sunlit beach, there’s something undeniably healing about being by the water. This philosophy drives my approach to travel planning, where each detail is considered to provide a stress-free, memorable experience. I understand that travel is about connection—to people, to places, and to the world itself. My mission is to facilitate these connections in the most seamless way possible.
Milestones and Growth
Since founding Destinations by Amy, I’ve had the pleasure of assisting thousands of clients in celebrating their most cherished life events. Over the past 15 years, we’ve expanded from a small agency to a trusted provider in destination travel, known for handling complex logistics and offering a personal touch. It’s been a joy to watch my agency grow, supported by the incredible relationships I’ve built with clients and industry partners alike.
Looking ahead, I am committed to further developing our services and continuing to adapt in an ever-evolving travel landscape. My ultimate goal is to make Destinations by Amy synonymous with impeccable service and life-changing travel experiences.
A Personal Touch in Every Journey
At home, my life revolves around my family. Steve and I celebrated our honeymoon with a memorable cruise through the Panama Canal, a journey that began in Miami and ended in San Diego. This experience deepened my love for travel, and we continue to prioritize family adventures. Sharing these values with our children has made them curious and open to the world, and I bring the same sense of wonder and discovery to each client I work with.
I look forward to helping more people see the world and celebrate their milestones in the most beautiful settings imaginable. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a family reunion, or a corporate retreat, I’m here to make the process enjoyable and stress-free—ensuring your travel experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
