Ringing in Romance Sales

Brenda O’Neale, owner and founder of With This Ring Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Travel Agency, based in Homestead, Pa., has planned and executed more than 60 destination weddings in Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, St. Kitts and St. Lucia. She was named Travel Impressions’ first Travel Ambassador for Hard Rock Hotels and Palace Resorts, and is a top WOW (Weddings on the Water) specialist for Hard Rock Hotels and a Palace Gold Pro Agent.

How Did You Enter the Travel Business?

For 28 years I was an agent and supervisor for US Airways in their international reservations department. In 2007, we received news that our office would be closing and our options were to transfer to another city or accept a buyout. With my dad not well and my children grown, I opted to take the buyout.

How Did You Get Started as an Agent?

It just seemed to be a natural transition for me from the airline industry. I was searching for a career that would make me happy and provide income. I had started doing wedding ministry at my church, and my pastor said I was pretty good at it and should start my own business.

My very first wedding was for my youngest son, Brian. He was married at Windjammer Landing in St. Lucia with 35 guests from the U.S. and Caribbean. It was truly trial and error, but [planning the event] turned out to be an amazing experience.

How Did You Build Your Business?

I started doing a bridal show here in [Homestead, Pa.] and worked at distinguishing myself as a destination wedding specialist. I [conducted] mini-educational seminars and explained to clients the benefits of a destination wedding. I also started writing for Black Bride, Groom and The Soul Pitt magazines, showcasing destinations and some of my couples.

I also had some of my couples featured in Caribbean Bride magazine and was a contributor for MarryCaribbean.com.

The local cable station also had me as its travel specialist and I did several shows during the holidays providing travel tips. My agency is mainly referral based. I chose not to join a host agent as I figured I was working hard for my money and did not want to split it with anyone. TravAlliancemedia President and CEO Mark Murphy afforded me the opportunity to participate in [several of the company’s] Weddings and Honeymoons Expos for fellow travel agents.

What Do You Think Has Helped You Become Successful as a Travel Agent?

This industry is all about relationships. I have taken the time to get to know the destinations, tourism boards, properties and business development managers for the various resorts. I stay loyal to a few resorts and continue to learn about new properties.

What Do You Enjoy Most About Being a Travel Agent?

I love helping our clients plan the travel of their dreams and I love sharing with my fellow agents. Visiting the new resorts and destinations is also very rewarding.

Is There Any Advice You Can Provide to Up-And-Coming Agents?

Be sure to build your relationships with business development managers and tourism boards. Listen to webinars and read the travel agent magazines to stay current. Find your niche, and just really enjoy the experience.