Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamii Middlebrooks.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My love for travel began when I was a kid, moving around as a military brat in places like Germany. I also lived in Hawaii in my early adult years. Trips to the Bahamas with my godfather during school breaks sparked my interest in the Caribbean.
Our family travels often caught the attention of friends and family, leading my husband to suggest turning my travel knowledge into a business. With his support and help from a former friend, I sorted out the paperwork and eventually completed the necessary training to launch my travel agency, named after my daughters.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Running a travel business has been quite the adventure, with its fair share of unexpected bumps along the way. One of the first things I realized was that my biggest supporters weren’t who I expected. While I thought my family and friends would be my main cheerleaders, it turned out to be strangers who truly valued my expertise and hard work.
As my business grew, I faced a new challenge. People who once freely sought my advice became reluctant to pay for my services. It was tough to accept that not everyone sees the value in paying for what they once got for free. Family and friends often expected discounts that just weren’t feasible. I joke with them, “Do you ask for a discount at the gas station or Gucci store?”
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit the travel industry hard. With everything at a standstill, I almost shut down the business. But my sister Natasha was my anchor, encouraging me to keep going and reminding me of the passion that started it all. These hurdles have made me stronger and more committed to delivering amazing travel experiences.
As you know, we’re big fans of SoléRina Vacation, Inc . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I believe that travel is about creating stories and memories that last a lifetime. SoléRina Vacation, Inc is a luxury travel brand that specializes in crafting unforgettable experiences for destination weddings, corporate groups, solo adventurers, and families alike. My goal is to make every journey special, whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a relaxing family vacation.
I am proud to be recognized as one of the top agents for Delta Vacations in 2023 and Virgin Voyages in 2022. This recognition is a testament to my dedication and passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences. In 2023, I was honored to be nominated as a Spotlight Entrepreneur by The Content Creators Experience, highlighting my innovative approach to travel planning.
What truly sets SoléRina Vacation, Inc apart is my personalized approach and deep expertise. As a certified travel specialist for destinations such as Japan, Mexico, Disney, Universal Studios, Jamaica, Korea, Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda and many more, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my clients. I am also proud to be a Gold Tier First Mate with Virgin Voyages, showcasing my commitment to excellence in cruising experiences.
I want your readers to know that when you choose SoléRina Vacation, Inc, you’re choosing a partner who is deeply passionate about travel and dedicated to making your trip seamless and extraordinary. From Disney and Universal Studios to the serene beaches of the Bahamas and the vibrant culture of Japan, I have the expertise to plan a diverse range of experiences. My love for many other countries rich history and culture inspires me to continually bring fresh ideas and adventures to my clients.
I want your readers to know that when they choose SoléRina Vacation, Inc, you’re choosing a partner who is deeply passionate about travel and dedicated to making your trip seamless and extraordinary. From Disney and Universal Studios to the serene beaches of the Bahamas and the vibrant culture of Japan, I have the expertise to plan a diverse range of experiences. My love for many other countries rich history and culture inspires me to continually bring fresh ideas and adventures to my clients.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
When it comes to risk-taking, I tend to be pretty cautious because of my anxiety. I believe in doing my homework and planning thoroughly before making any big decisions. Some might call this being overly careful, but I see it as a way to keep my business stable and successful.
I wouldn’t call myself a natural risk-taker, but I have taken calculated risks when needed. For example, starting my business was a big step into the unknown, despite my worries. I spent months looking into market trends, figuring out potential challenges, and putting together a strong business plan to reduce risks. This preparation helped me start my business with confidence, knowing I had a solid base.
A principle I live by is “all money ain’t good money.” This reminds me that not every opportunity is worth it. I’ve turned down potentially profitable deals because they didn’t match my values or long-term goals. Focusing on sustainable growth and ethical practices helps me avoid unnecessary risks that could harm my business.
In the end, my approach to risk is about finding the right balance between being careful and seizing opportunities. I may not jump into uncertainty, but I know that growth often means stepping out of my comfort zone. By carefully assessing risks and making informed choices, I aim to build a successful business while keeping my peace of mind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.solerinavacation.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solerina_vacation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solerinavacationinc
- Other: https://www.google.com/maps/place/SoléRina+Vacation,+Inc./@47.279229,-76.8188964,1z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x44fe8c88c91ebd23:0xb32afd91ba85b18d
Image Credits
Wedding photo: Brittany Rodriguez
Disney photo: Mikki Rivera
Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure photos: Aubree Middlebrooks
All other photos are mine
