The Heart Behind Storymakers Travel

Travel shapes memorable stories families will share for years. Planning those trips comes with late-night research, conflicting advice, and the pressure to “get it right.” Storymakers Travel takes the stress away.

With firsthand experience across more than 25 countries and years of planning vacations, we trade decision fatigue for clear guidance, thoughtful itineraries, and days that unfold with ease. You bring the dream. We shape the experience.

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Meet Valerie

Founder, travel designer, and cat mom. I am just a small town girl with big dreams.

It all started when I was a little girl in New Mexico and got in trouble at my grandparent’s house. I don’t remember what I did, but I had to go sit in the corner. That would change my life!

My grandma had a basket of National Geographic magazines in that corner and I loved reading them. I quickly realized that being “in trouble” was fun! That was the beginning of my passion for travel.

It wasn’t just a passing phase—it became a way of life. Eventually, Storymakers Travel was born. After years of exploring over 25 countries, I learned that the best stories aren’t found in guidebooks—they’re made in the moment.

Turning dream destinations into seamless, unforgettable journeys is what I do. Whether it’s a luxurious European river cruise, a romantic escape to Hawaii, or an exotic Asian adventure, I am here to help.

I understand that sometimes the first step in planning an awesome vacation is the hardest. Where do you go? What do you do? More than anything, I want you to have a great experience and know that I will always advocate for your needs.

The memories you make on your vacation are the stories you will share with your friends and family for life, and this is important.

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Our Approach

A blend of expertise, empathy, and intentional planning.

1 We listen first.

We ask the right questions to understand your family’s style, needs, and non-negotiables. This ensures your trip isn’t just well-planned; it feels like it was designed for you.

2 We build with intention.

Using real-world knowledge from our own travels, we create an itinerary that avoids rookie mistakes and keeps your days flowing smoothly, not rushed or scattered.

3 We support you throughout your journey.

From reservations to timing to day-of questions, you have someone who knows your plan, knows the destination, and cares about how it all plays out.

This is more than planning. It’s crafting a feel-good story you will live.

Coleen’s Travel Story

Travel has always meant freedom to me—the freedom to explore, to dream, and to discover the world in all its beauty. It all started when I was just 10 years old, pouring over maps and imagining the places I would see someday.

Years later, I turned that curiosity into a career and now I help others create their own unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a family vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, I approach every trip with the same passion that first sparked my love for exploration.

I believe travel is about more than just destinations, it’s about the stories you bring home and the moments that stay with you forever. With me by your side, you’re not just booking a trip, you’re starting a new chapter in your life’s story.

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Emily’s Travel Story

I’ve always loved Disney for the magic it brings to life—the way it makes you feel like anything is possible, no matter your age. From the very first time I walked down Main Street, U.S.A., with the sights, sounds, and smells pulling me into a storybook world, I was hooked. Disney isn’t just about theme parks or movies, it’s about creating lifelong memories, sharing joy with family and friends, and experiencing a sense of wonder that stays with you long after the vacation ends. That love for Disney has only deepened since experiencing it through the eyes of my family. Whether it’s watching my kids laugh during a character breakfast or ending the day with fireworks and happy hearts, every Disney trip has given us cherished moments.

It’s this deep, personal connection to Disney that inspired me to become a Disney travel agent. I know how overwhelming planning can feel, and I love taking that stress off your plate so you can focus on the fun. From booking the perfect resort and securing dining reservations to finding the best parade spots and Genie+ tips, I take care of the details so you don’t have to.

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Testimonials

“We had such a good experience with this trip. Valerie was super communicative, from delays, gate information, travel documents, to coordinating with vendors and transportation she was on it regardless of what the time change was in the US. I could not have been more impressed and was very grateful for her attention to detail.”

— Sydney

“Valerie is amazing! She has great recommendations and she is very easy to talk to. I was able to enjoy my Jamaica trip with everything included! You won’t regret booking with Valerie!”

— Amber S.

“Wow, you are incredible at what you do! (I may have said that before). Thank you so much for following up like this, it was not expected but it is much appreciated! You are very thorough, which is rare these days. We will definitely be using your service in the future!”

— Steve

“Your enthusiasm and passion for travel makes you PERFECT for this career. We had the best experience booking our cruise through you. I can’t wait until you can book for us again.”

— Christine

“Our family was super served by Valerie for an Alaskan cruise experience celebrating our son’s college graduation. If you want an epic vacation, please call Valerie and she will guide you and make your vacation dreams come true”

— Renée

“Valerie made our trip so easy!! All our air travel was perfectly choreographed without any close calls , which made the travel so much more relaxed.We loved our hotel she recommended and the location was perfect”

— Suzanne

“Valerie was wonderful to work with planning our family trip to Paris! She kept me on track for booking flights, hotel, and activities. We had a delay with our departure flight. She was in contact and ready to support in any way she could. I appreciated her check-ins and availability. I loved being able to refer to the trip plans app. I will definitely contact Valerie when we plan our next big trip!”

— Danielle

Certifications

Our Service Partners

Prefer to DIY? Here are a few partners we have that you can book it yourself and still have our pre-travel and during travel support. Great for those late night owls that wake up and feel like booking a trip!

Let’s Create Your Family’s Next Chapter

Help make that story unforgettable.

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