When a single mum to two neurodiverse boys hits over £1 million in bookings in just 13 months, you know there’s magic happening.
Meet Catherine from Phoenix Rising Travel in Leeds. She joined JLT in August 2024 with a simple goal: to travel more herself. What she’s built since then? A thriving family bucket list business that’s completely smashed every target she set!
Travel Niche & Her Superpower
Catherine specialises in family bucket list holidays, and her approach is refreshingly honest: fast, to-the-point advice that works for busy parents.
“We all know busy parents haven’t got time for small talk,” Catherine laughs. “I aim to be as quick as possible and give people advice that meets their needs.”
But here’s her real superpower. As a single mum to two neurodiverse boys, Catherine gets it. She understands the unique challenges families face, the extra planning needed, and the destinations that work best for children. Her personal experience becomes her professional edge.
The JLT Journey So Far
In just over a year with JLT, Catherine has booked an incredible £1.01 million in travel. Yes, you read that right. Over a million pounds!
Here’s her proudest win: “Hitting my personal goals. I need to have a think on my next ones because I’ve flown past the targets I’d set myself!”
What started as wanting to travel more has become a business that’s exceeded her wildest expectations. And she’s only getting started.
Her Most Memorable Booking
Catherine’s first Disney booking holds a special place in her heart, and for the sweetest reason.
“I was booking my own Disney trip at the same time, so I could relate to the client,” she shares. “Being able to share that excitement and genuinely understand what they were feeling made the whole experience so much more personal.”
There’s something powerful about an agent who’s walking the same journey as her clients. Catherine wasn’t just planning their dream holiday. She was living it alongside them.
Words of Wisdom
When asked what she’d tell someone on the fence about joining JLT, Catherine’s advice is beautifully practical:
“Do it. What have you got to lose? Just don’t think Rome was built in a day, and the clients will come to get you. You need to work to make it work.”
One thing that’s surprised her since joining? “The range of countries open to children with lots to do.” Catherine’s discovering that family travel has no limits, and neither do the possibilities for her agents.
Her favourite JLT tool? WhatsApp! “So many friendly people around to help.” That community support has been crucial to her success.
What’s Next
Catherine’s dream destination is a Safari. She’s waiting until her boys are old enough to appreciate it, but you can bet when that day comes, she’ll be the go-to agent for family safari adventures.
Her travel tip for clients says it all: “Don’t limit yourself. Anything is possible.”
Catherine’s story proves that when you combine personal passion with professional purpose, incredible things happen. From wanting to travel more to building a million-pound business in 13 months. From personal challenges to professional superpowers.
We’re so excited to watch this journey unfold, and we know this is just the beginning!
Keep showing up, Catherine. Your clients, your boys, and the entire JLT community are cheering you on!
