Deidre Carter- Briscoe, owner of Briscoe's Leisure Travel, is cruising along as she helps non-profit organizations raise funds by setting up cruise fundraisers through her travel business.

Name: Deidre R. Carter-Briscoe

Web Address: http://www.leisurefuntravel.com 

Position: Leisure Travel Specialist 

Company Name: Briscoe's Leisure Travel 

Years in Current Position: 2 years 

About You: I have traveled a lot and I know the things that I have liked and disliked. I have dealt with travel agents who were not honest with me. So, when I started this business it was my passion to provide my customers with total honesty and give them the type service that I wish I had received in the past.

Unique Qualities: I treat all my customers as if they are the only ones that are important to me. I have more than 300 customers and when they need me to answer their questions and ease their fears, I am there for them; holding their hands. 

Who Can Benefit Most by Your Services: People who need to "layaway" their vacations and organizations that need an easy fundraising tool.

How did you get your foot in the door: I have always loved organizing events. But when the travel agency opportunity came along, I just wanted to be able to travel in an inexpensive way and discovered that I really enjoyed putting together special memories for others. 

Toughest professional challenge: Getting name recognition. There are so many travel agencies out there today, and I have to prove that I am different from them by the fact that my customers receive personal attention and hand-holding all the way through their vacation planning. 

Characteristic of an indispensable employee: Someone who is very personable and strong in marketing. Employment needs in next year: Someone to file, enter customer information into database and prepare mailouts. 

Advice in helping others in their business: Just be patient. It doesn't always happen over night. Put your business in God's hands and if it is meant to work out it will.

Theresa Love
Theresa Love
Editor