Welcome to our feature highlighting women-owned businesses in Volusia County, with a special focus on Autumn Thurston, a dedicated Travel Advisor at Cruise Planners – Find Your Hideaway LLC. Volusia County is home to a vibrant community of female entrepreneurs who have been instrumental in shaping the local business landscape. In this article, we spotlight Autumn Thurston’s expertise and achievements in the travel industry, shedding light on her valuable contributions and the outstanding services offered by Cruise Planners – Find Your Hideaway LLC. Join us as we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and success of women like Autumn who are making a mark in their respective fields.

Could you share a significant achievement or milestone that your business has accomplished? What challenges did you overcome to reach this point? I started my journey with Cruise Planners in May. After completing a 6-day training in South Florida, I began selling travel. Since then my business has grown consistently. The biggest achievement I have received was being recognized as a top seller in my region (East Region of the United States). First achievement came just two months after I joined CP and for the month of August I was #7 in the top 15 of sales. I continue to stay humbled and truly feel blessed and I am ready to take this industry to new levels to provide my clients with the best travel opportunities and deals I can find. Currently I am a Certified Princess Cruise Line Specialist as well as a Certified Sandals Specialist and working towards many many more.

What makes your business unique in the industry? My business is a well-oiled franchise that was formed in 1994 and founded by CEO Michelle Fee who is recognized as a top leader in the travel industry. Because Cruise Planners is a widely known agency, travel partners from all over the world provide exclusive deals and discounts to Cruise Planner agents to sell to their clients. This means I have access to the latest and greatest trends, deals, and even training for my own educational purposes to become as educated in this industry as I can. And yes, I sell WAY MORE than just cruises. Aside from the name, Cruise Planners have access to all-inclusive resorts, luxury vendors that include yacht-style cruising, railroad vacations, even a trip to SPACE! From infinity and beyond, I will be able to assist anyone for all their travel needs.

In honor of National Women Owned Business Day, what message would you like to convey to fellow women entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners? Invest in yourself. No matter what industry, continue to strive to be better by taking seminars and training to learn and grow.  Make wise decisions, but don’t always play it conservative.

Get inspired by more local women in business HERE!