Travel Advisor Success Story: Sheryl Clarke-Dawkins, Dawkhouse Travel

08.10.2024 - 18:50 / travelpulse.com / North America / Claudette Covey

Cheryl Clarke-Dawkins. (Photo Credit: Sheryl Clarke-Dawkins)

Travel Advisor Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look at Sheryl Clarke-Dawkins, owner of Dawkhouse Travel, a member of Ensemble.

How did you get your start as a travel advisor?

My journey into the world of travel advising began after years of delivering exceptional service as a travel host. Over time, I developed a deep passion for creating meaningful and memorable experiences for others. Clients consistently encouraged me to transition into a more formal role as a travel advisor.

After years of organizing travel for multigenerational families, particularly those with dietary restrictions, I finally embraced this role and became a certified travel consultant. My experiences with my own family, especially as a parent of a child with food allergies, made me uniquely equipped to serve clients with specific dietary needs. This expertise has been the foundation of my business and remains a key part of my services today.

How did you build your business over the years?

I built my business by focusing on personalized service and understanding my clients' needs. From the start, I specialized in group travel for multigenerational families, particularly those who face the complexities of dietary restrictions. My personal experience as a vegetarian and a parent of a child with food allergies helped me connect with clients who required similar attention.

Through a full concierge approach, I handle every detail, allowing clients to simply enjoy their trip without worrying about logistics. My motto – ‘Just travel, I’ll take care of the rest’ – has resonated with clients, leading to repeat business and referrals. Over the years, I have refined my services to accommodate a growing range of clients, always staying true to my focus on dietary and wellness considerations.

What characteristics make you a successful advisor?

My organizational skills and attention to detail have been pivotal to my success. I pride myself on offering full concierge services, ensuring that my clients have a seamless experience from start to finish. Being empathetic and truly understanding the challenges families face, particularly with dietary restrictions, has set me apart. I strive to provide not only safe and enjoyable trips but also thoughtful itineraries that consider each individual’s needs. My ability to listen carefully and deliver personalized service has been key to building trust and long-term relationships with my clients.

What have been your greatest challenges?

One of the greatest challenges I’ve encountered is navigating the complexities of travel with dietary restrictions. Ensuring safe, allergy-friendly meals for