Meet Derek

Derek has always found travel as a great way to get away and soak in some downtime from the hustle and bustle of life. Since he was a child he has had the privilege to travel across the world to many new destinations and return to several time and time again. Some of the highlights from his travels have been a trip to Europe, multiple trips to the Hawaiian Islands (including Aulani), many cruises to the Caribbean and an anniversary cruise to Alaska, several trips to California and Disneyland, as well as more trips to Walt Disney World & Universal Orlando Resort than he can count. His favorite travel partners are his wife, Melissa and their little man, Owen.

 

Throughout all of Derek's travels one things has rang true: he has always been the planner. Derek thinks of every detail when it comes to vacation planning to ensure the best vacation for his family and friends. Whether that is which resort is best for small children, which floor is best on the cruise ship, or the best dining experiences, Derek has always been the one to ensure all t's are crossed and i's are dotted. This became especially true when Derek became a dad. He had always been told that it was impossible to travel with baby so he set out to prove that wrong. Derek and Melissa took their first overnight trip with Owen when he was just 5 weeks old to the Great Smoky Mountains. Their travel continued as he has grown to include several trips to Disney and multiple cruises. In the words of Owen "more cruise ships please."

 

This lead Derek to pursue vacation planning as a travel advisor. With an extensive background in event planning, logistics, and operations, and his love for travel- a career in the travel industry fit right in. Derek has experience with family trips, couples, friends, and multigenerational vacations. Whether you are in the planning stages, ready to book, or don't know where to begin, Derek's travel industry expertise will help ensure your family has the best vacation possible. Derek has many certificates and completed trainings to specialize in Disney Destinations including Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Royal Caribbean Internationals, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line, Hyatt Inclusive Collection, Sandals & Beaches Resorts, Marriott Resorts, and Hilton Resorts among others!

 

When not planning another vacation or supporting clients, Derek can be found out on a run, drinking a cup of coffee on the porch, watching FSU & BGSU sports, or spending quality time with his family. Derek would love to get to know you and help make your vacation plans become a reality!