SMALL WORLD BIG FUN - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Healthcare Practices Manager
Amber is from a small town in Michigan, where she lives with her husband, son and two daughters. Amber is a Healthcare Practices Manager and Law Enforcement Wife. She fell in love with Disney as an adult the first time she took her son there. "The magic in a kid's eyes as they walk into a Disney park is SO contagious! You can't help but feel like a kid again yourself!" She shares her love for Disney with her husband who was also immediately hooked on the MAGIC!
Now a few years later and adding two little princesses to their growing family, Amber and her family travel to Disney multiple times per year. Two years ago they became Disney Vacation Club Members and love making irreplaceable memories as a family at their favorite vacation spot. Throughout the years, Amber and her husband have loved sharing their love and knowledge of Disney with family and friends and helping plan multiple trips. The love of planning and sharing led Amber into becoming a Disney Travel Agent, where she can spread the magic to many families!
Using her first hand experience, Amber works hard for her clients to take the guesswork out of planning their Disney trip! She provides first hand knowledge on traveling with small children and infants. She loves to help make trips as accommodating for her clients as possible so they can make the most out of their trip and get the best magical experience possible!
Job Titles:
- Accountant
- Disney Travel Agent in Sherwood, AR
Amy Perry is an accountant by trade, and she is excited to bring her love of Disney to her clients with all the organization and research that is needed to plan the most magical trip. Her travels to Disney began in 2011 on her family's first trip, which they expected to be a "one and done." However, the family caught the Disney bug and have now been to Walt Disney World® Resort multiple times, Disneyland®, and even Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i. Amy still cries when she sees Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom® Park for the first time on each trip.
Amy lives in Sherwood, Ark. with her husband, Chris, and an active son with food allergies. Disney trips are some of the only times that they feel their son is completely safe from his allergies. Disney is fantastic about caring for his needs and making sure he can enjoy all his meals. Their family loves trying at least one new restaurant each trip, in addition to visiting old favorites like ‘Ohana and Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria.
Amy's favorite ride is the Tomorrowland® Transit Authority in the Magic Kingdom. She loves taking a break from the hubbub and cruising around above the park watching other families enjoying some of their best moments and recapping the best parts of the day with her own family. She's a huge fan of the nightly fireworks and seeing the awe and wonder on the faces of those around her.
Job Titles:
- Travel Agent in North Little Rock, AR
I love crafting dreams, one journey at a time! I am a seasoned travel agent at Small World Big Fun, LLC and have dedicated my career to curating exceptional travel experiences. I specialize in international exploration and bucket list adventures such as River Cruises and African Safaris.
I also have a passion for tropical, all-inclusive vacations, with a particular expertise in honeymoons and destination weddings. I think my superpower is matching my clients with the perfect property!
Brenda was fortunate to travel multiple times as a child to Walt Disney World® Resort and Disneyland® Resort, as well as to both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, creating a love for all things Disney and Universal. Now as an adult, she lives outside Orlando with her husband and son. Living so close has allowed for some great experiences - from her son's first haircut at the Harmony Barber Shop at Magic Kingdom® Park to watching the fireworks from home nightly to date nights with her husband at the theme parks. She has just about done it all and seen it all and is full of insider information and tips - both from her experiences and from her many friends who are Cast Members.
Living in Florida so close to so many cruise ports has also fueled an immense adoration of cruising as her favorite type of vacation! Being able to unpack once and visit so many different destinations while staying in a "floating resort" is such a great way to travel! Whether you're looking for family-friendly, an adult getaway, or luxury sailing on rivers or the ocean, there really is something for everyone. She KNOWS cruises and sails quite often to make sure she knows all the things for her clients- she's been on 15 cruises across 7 different cruise lines just in the last 20 months!
Brenda has had a huge passion for planning travel as long as she can remember and for her, researching for and planning a trip is almost as exciting as the trip itself! She always has had friends and family asking her for travel advice and help. That, combined with experience planning trips for couples and families, led her to become a travel agent. Her love of travel planning combined with a love of Disney, Universal, and cruising made this truly her dream job: to plan the perfect vacation for each client - for every budget, family size, and stage of life.
Brenda knows that planning a trip can get overwhelming, and that's where she wants to help take the stress out of planning to make your next trip the easiest and best vacation ever!
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Dallas, TX
Throughout her childhood and even adult life, Brenna Potash has been fortunate to travel all over the world. Greece, Italy and Tahiti are some of her favorite destinations but none compare to the magic she experiences when visiting Disney.
As a child, Brenna made many trips with her family to Disneyland® Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort, but it was when she participated in Disney's College Program in 2009 that her love for Disney grew even more. During her time as a Cast Member, she attended Disney University. There she completed multiple training and learning series courses that enriched her knowledge of Disney and customer service.
Some of Brenna's favorite Disney memories are taking her daughter for her first visit, dressing up for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with her entire family, and girls' trips to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
Another favorite memory is when she completed the Dopey Challenge, a runDisney event where she ran 48.6 miles in four days during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January 2020. As an avid runner, Brenna loves participating in runDisney events and believes everyone should experience the extra Disney magic the races bring.
Originally from a small farm town in Illinois, Brenna now resides in Dallas with her husband and daughter.
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in North Carolina
Growing up in Florida, Carrie visited Walt Disney World® Resort often as a child. She now lives in North Carolina, but Carrie has carried on that tradition to her own family. For the past 20 years, she and her husband, Gary, have been taking their four girls to Disney every year. "It is a tradition that is very special to our family with some of our best memories on vacation there."
Carrie wants to share her years of Disney travel expertise by helping other families plan their own dream Disney trip! Her daughters are in their teens and 20's. "As an experienced Disney mom, I know how to plan a Disney trip with kids of all ages," Carrie says. An organizer by nature, Carrie says planning every detail of a trip is almost as fun as going. "I love to research all things Disney and can't wait to help clients plan their trip! Disney can be overwhelming so let me use my knowledge and experience to help you have a stress-free vacation."
Carrie and her family stay at a different Disney resort whenever possible. They have been to 16 so far, so she can help you decide which one is best for you. Disney is constantly changing. She travels several times a year to provide her clients with the most up to date information and tips! She wants every family to be well prepared before they leave so they can make the most of their vacation!
Cindy Minor, owner of Small World Big Fun, holds your ticket to your family's best vacation ever.
Job Titles:
- Travel Agent in Fort Worth, TX
While she has been a travel advisor in an official capacity for a few years, Connie has enjoyed planning travel and traveling for many years. She specializes in Disney Destinations, Universal Resorts, most cruise lines including the Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and AmaWaterways River Cruises.
She lives in Fort Worth, Texas, where she shares a love of singing barbershop music singing with the current Sweet Adelines International Champion Chorus, The Rich-Tone Chorus.
"I love Disney for so many reasons, but the magic and nostalgia you feel while walking down Mainstreet is a memory that will last a lifetime," says Small World Big Fun agent Courtney Prochaska. Courtney's love of Disney started at a young age, from taking many trips to Disney World with her grandfather. "I remember sitting on my grandpa's shoulders to watch the Mainstreet Electrical parade and being in awe. I was also chosen to participate in dancing with characters in a parade down Mainstreet, and I still remember it fondly today." Disney is a place where Courtney has made some of her greatest memories.
She knew that she always wanted to take her family to Disney to create lasting memories for her boys, as she had when she was growing up. Seeing her son walk down Mainstreet holding his bubble wand for the first time as a toddler, is another memory that Courtney will never forget. The sights, sounds, smells, flavors, and scenes all put you inside the story and for her family, it is the perfect escape and vacation. Courtney has stayed at many of the resorts on Walt Disney World property, including stays at all the categories of the resorts: a deluxe, moderate, and value stay. She has eaten around the world in Epcot, raced on Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios, danced to the music of the drummers in Harambe in Animal Kingdom, and completed an "every mountain" challenge in Magic Kingdom.
Being a total wizard nerd at heart, Universal also offered Courtney a chance to live in one of her favorite fantasy lands. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal is an experience not to be missed by Harry Potter fanatics. From the taste of butter beer, being whisked away above Hogwarts, and even creating your own wand at Ollivanders, Courtney would love to help you and your family create their inner wizard or witch.
No matter what your budget is, Courtney would love to help you feel the magic, and create lasting memories for you and your family. Every family has a story, and Courtney would love to help you create a personalized and extraordinary next chapter in yours.
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Shreveport, LA
Crystal has been part of the Small World Big Fun team since 2012 and has been her family and friends' vacation planner for many years beyond that!
Crystal is a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, but now lives in Shreveport, Louisiana, with her husband, Paul, and four daughters.
At a very early age, Crystal learned the importance of family vacations and treasures the memories she made with her family on those vacations. Her parents loved Disney and first took Crystal when she was 2 years old, and every year thereafter! "As an adult, my parents would take all of us kids and grandkids to Disney. There would sometimes be as many as 25 of us! I can remember my Dad racing the kids to Space Mountain® when he was 75! That just goes to show Disney brings out the kid in all of us. Since losing my Dad in 2017, these are some of the fondest memories I have with him."
She carries on that tradition with her daughters. "It's so wonderful to see my girls experiencing Disney the same way I did growing up! It brings back some incredible memories!" Crystal says.
Her goal is to help her clients create memorable family vacations customized to their needs, wants and budget. Crystal enjoys getting to know her clients and has even become good friends with some of them through their love of Disney.
"Getting to hear how wonderful my client's vacations were and having them continue to use me as their travel agent repeatedly is a very rewarding part of my job. It's why I do what I do!" she says.
Crystal specializes in all Disney destinations, Universal Studios, Sandals, Beaches, European vacations, and many other cruises and all-inclusive vacations. Her planning services are customized to meet the individual needs of her clients and she strives to give all of them an experience that is stress-free, unique and MAGICAL! Contact Crystal today to plan your unforgettable vacation!
Job Titles:
- Speech - Language Pathologist
- Disney Travel Agent in Nashville, TN
Emily Gregg was super knowledgeable and helpful with every detail of our trip. She was only a text or call away from day one until our trip was over. We had a magical time that will be special to our family forever!! Thank you, Emily, for everything!
Emily Gregg has been a huge Disney fan since her very first trip with her family when she was 6 years old. Even now, Emily loves that every time she enters Magic Kingdom® Park, she feels like a kid again.
Emily is a speech-language pathologist who lives outside Nashville, Tenn., with her husband, their two children, and the family dog, Copper (named after Disney's The Fox and the Hound - one of her favorite Disney animated classics).
Emily believes that Disney vacations and experiences only get better with age. "I'm always puzzled why some people think a Disney vacation is only for kids," Emily says. "For me, Disney World is a place I can go and completely unplug. It's like the cares and worries of the outside world just melt away. Driving under the Walt Disney World® sign feels like coming home to me!"
For Emily and her family, the name of the game for every Disney vacation is "try something new." Of course, they have their list of do-not-miss attractions at Walt Disney World (currently the Rock ‘n' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith and Peter Pan's Flight®). But, last year, they expanded their horizons and traveled to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i. "Talk about heaven on earth! It was one of the best vacations we have ever taken together as a family!"
Emily is constantly asked by friends and family to give them suggestions for their Disney vacations. She loves that a Disney World vacation can be so different from one family to the next and she enjoys working with her clients to make their vacations special for each member of the family.
Job Titles:
- Travel Agent in Cleveland, TN
Heather Coulthard has been traveling since she was born. "I got my passport at 6 months old and did my first trip ‘over the pond' to England as my parents are British."
Over the years, she has visited Walt Disney World® Resort more than 20 times, traveled to 16 islands in the Caribbean, sailed on nine different cruise ships, and explored eight European countries. Heather and her husband have always traveled with their children; their first official family trip was to Disney World when their daughter was only 6 weeks old. They've traveled to London, Paris, Los Angeles, Key West, New York City, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and more.
"Vacations are the best way to spend quality time with your family," Heather says. "Travel gives you a chance to escape the stresses of everyday life, to learn something new, to experience different cultures. It is the best way to give your kids a broader view of the world."
After working for 12 years as a top-selling sales rep for a children's clothing company, Heather joined Small World Big Fun in 2014. She now uses her love of and experience traveling to help clients realize their own travel dreams.
"I love meeting new people and love sharing my love of travel with my clients!" she says.
Heather specializes in Caribbean travel, cruises, and Disney Destinations. She lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and has clients all over the United States.
Working with an SWBF agent like Heather is simple. "There is NO ADDED COST to clients, and they receive lots of experience and someone to guide them. They also don't have to talk to a stranger or spend a lot of time on hold."
Heather is a born storyteller and people person who is ready to take the stress out of your travel and put the BIG fun back in!
Traveling is always on her mind. If she's not taking a trip, the next best thing is planning all the exciting details for her client's travel.
As a local Central Florida resident and Annual Disney Passholder, Heather frequents all Disney World Properties & Parks with her toddler allowing her to stay "in the know" and close to the magic. As a mother herself, she is able to provide tips and tricks for successful trips for families of all kinds. Born and raised in Michigan, Heather also has a deep love for the hidden gems of The Midwest.
While Heather is absolutely a Disney aficionado, her travel experience spans far and wide. From walking amongst the ethereal Scottish Highlands to feeling the warm ocean breeze on the beaches of the Caribbean - Heather has seen, felt, and experienced travel that has shown her a new view of the world and herself.
With a bachelor's degree in Marketing from The University of Michigan-Flint and 10+ years experience in marketing and client relations, Heather's background and personal passions provide professional service to her clients with both knowledge and enthusiasm.
In her spare time, Heather loves cooking and baking, going to the beach, visiting Disney with her daughter, planning her next vacation, and making memories with her family.
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Dallas, TX
- Planner
Jody is a natural planner in all aspects of her life, and that is especially true with planning family vacations. Being a vacation planner is definitely her dream job - well, after playing Elsa in the Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire show at Magic Kingdom Park - and she is committed to helping clients plan vacations they will never forget.
After working in higher education for 10 years, Jody wanted a more flexible, kid-friendly job. So she turned to her love of theme parks, all-inclusive resorts, and travel planning and now helps other families and couples plan their dream vacations. She started with all Disney destinations (including Disney Cruise Line), but quickly added in Universal and all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean.
"I often tell my clients that I care about their vacation more than them!" Jody says. "I'm so very devoted to my clients and making sure they have all they need."
The best part of her job is seeing the smiles from the children - and parents - in the photos that they send her, Jody says. "I am helping make precious and treasured memories and solving problems and making life easier for parents and grandparents. I feel like a rockstar because kids get to have such a blast and the times of their lives partly because of me!"
She loves helping families who are not sure where to start in planning their trips. "I love helping solve problems and putting together the puzzle for them." She also treasures those clients who work with her for their family vacations year after year. "To me, it's all about having true relationships with my clients."
Jody visits a Disney or Universal destination almost monthly, with other vacations scattered in throughout the year (her other favorite destinations include Cancun and Punta Mita, Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona) so she knows first-hand the experiences her clients will have. "It's so important to have feet on the ground and be on top of all that is new for my clients."
Originally from Georgia, Jody now lives in Dallas, Texas. She is married to Zak and has elementary aged kids - a daughter and son.
Juli loves to travel and LOVES to plan.
Juli found her true passion for travel when she became an adult. As a huge fan of Disney and Harry Potter, she took her first trip to Walt Disney World & Universal Studios, in Orlando, Florida, when she vacationed with friends from college. From there on out, she was hooked! Juli loved to travel, and she couldn't get enough of it. Always looking for the next adventure.
Juli lives in Maumelle, Arkansas with her husband and son who love all things Disney, especially "Cars". After being off work for maternity leave, and spending quality time with her little family, Juli realized she was ready to return to work, to fulfill her passion of planning and traveling. After working as an Event Planner, for a prominent Arkansas Association, and working with both large and small groups of clients, Juli understands the importance of paying attention to detail. Juli believes that communication is of the utmost importance, and is key to creating a successful and memorable trip.
Juli has the knowledge and skills to help you plan the vacation of your dreams. Let her love for the little details help you relax and enjoy your next big adventure.
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Akron, OH
Julie stumbled into love with Disney World as an adult. Having never gone as a child, she and her husband, Steve, figured the spur-of-the-moment trip they planned for their young daughters would be something they might do every few years. Julie knew that plan had vanished as soon as Steve turned to her, about three minutes into their drive home, and asked, "When do we get to go back?"
Now only a few years later and the parents of five small children, Julie and Steve have been back to Walt Disney World® Resort several times, and spend their free time planning trips they haven't even booked yet! They are fascinated by the ins and outs of Disney, and together they love to learn the balance between the art and science that is a Disney vacation.
Using her first-hand experience, Julie helps take the guesswork out planning Disney and Orland0 vacations for big families.
"I believe that the best expertise I provide is not just a knowledge of the details of the Disney products, but specifically in traveling with small children. I do the planning for my clients and think of the details of traveling with children so my clients don't have to."
But no matter how fascinated Julie is by how to "do" Disney, she is much more fascinated by the "what" of what a Disney vacation offers - namely, time to reconnect as a family, or as a couple, or as friends, a team, or whatever group you are part of, and create memories that will strengthen that bond for years to come.
She can't wait to tackle the work that comes with planning the details so that you can have Big Fun!
Job Titles:
- Travel Agent in Little Rock, AR
Joining Small World Big Fun in 2016 was the perfect culmination of personal and professional experiences for Katherine. She is detail-oriented and a planner by nature and has an adventurer's heart. Katherine traveled internationally for the first time when she was 18 and was never the same after.
During college, she spent a year studying in Oxford, England, and another year working abroad after college, giving her the opportunity to explore many European countries. She worked in the nonprofit field for more than 20 years and had the opportunity to travel to a number of countries not necessarily on the beaten path. Each was a treasured experience for its own unique reasons.
The world is a big place and Katherine wants to see it all! So far, she's visited 33 countries and is always ready for the next big adventure.
Katherine shares her passion for travel with her husband and they have tried to instill a respect for other people and cultures in their three children, balanced with a thirst for exploration. Planning and talking about their next family trip is always a hot topic at dinner time. Katherine's goal for her family is to always have the next adventure to look forward to.
If you are traveling solo, as a couple, as a small or large multi-generational family, or as a group, there is a destination and experience that is right for you. Katherine is happy to turn your vision into reality. We may not be able to read the entire book to which St. Augustine refers, but won't life be richer the more chapters we read?
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Conway, AR
Kelli Hendrix Trickey began her career at Small World Big Fun team in April of 2012 after over a decade of planning her own family trips to the Walt Disney World Resort! She has been married to Bart, her college sweetheart, for nearly 33 years, and is the mom of 4 practically grownup sons, one fantastic daughter-in-love and has a brand new grandson! Kelli and her family have made many family trips to Walt Disney World- staying at nearly every Disney resort but with Fort Wilderness Campground and Wilderness Lodge as their favorites. They cruise often as a family and love a trip to Universal Orlando! Kelli lives with her husband in Conway, Arkansas, in an empty nest except for pets, when they aren't traveling.
Kelli fell in love with Disney as a child watching "The Wonderful World of Disney" and after her first trip in '89, has been nearly every year and has had many magical moments there. "I feel like I'm 9 years old again, without a care in the world. That's what keeps me coming back year after year." Watching her two older sons march with the Conway High School Band before the Main Street Electrical parade was a magical moment she will never forget! "It brought tears to my eyes watching them come down Main Street USA, and hearing the crowd cheering for this huge high school band that took up the entire street! We worked and raised money for three years to pay for this trip for the kids in the band. It was worth every penny to see those kids experience Disney Magic first-hand, many for the first time." Another favorite memory is seeing one of her sons become a college program cast member at Epcot. Her favorite ride is Big Thunder Mountain Railroad with Tower of Terror a close second!
In her "spare" time, Kelli enjoys crafting- quilting and sewing especially; cooking; watching Razorback baseball and football (which includes her youngest son who marches with the Razorback Marching Band); and reading voraciously. She is an expert at planning trips for large and multi-generational families, as well as helping navigate Disney/Universal/cruises with significant food allergies.
Kelli can be reached at 501-339-3427 or by email at kelli@smallworldbigfun.com.
Lindsay was bitten by the bug (or Mouse) to plan memorable family vacations when she took her own family Disney trip in 2022. With the help of her Small World Big Fun agent, she learned how to strategize her itinerary to get the most magic out of their vacation. She quickly realized she had so many friends and family who would need the same help, and decided it was her turn to jump into the role.
Lindsay vividly remembers her own first trip to Disney World at five years old, and meeting Cinderella at the base of her castle before dining inside. "Cinderella told me that Gus and Jacques were known to run throughout the dining room, and I spent lots of time looking under the tables during our meal! This all came full circle for me when I took my two girls to Cinderella's Royal Table for my daughter's 5th birthday." It's moments like these that inspire Lindsay to plan vacations that will leave each person with a lifelong memory to cherish.
Although she was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Lindsay did make a brief escape for the mid-west when she attended the University of Missouri. Here she studied Journalism and spent some time on stage in the University's musical and stage productions. She quickly decided to trade in the harsh Missouri winters for extreme summers, and she headed back to Dallas upon graduation.
Lindsay spent 12 years in the non-profit sector specializing in fundraising, and corporate and individual donor relations before taking a pause once her third child was born. She currently lives in Dallas with her husband and three daughters. If she's not managing her three kids' busy after school schedules, or cooking meals, Lindsay can be found unwinding with a Bravo or reality tv show.
Her favorite vacation spots include Paris and anywhere with a beach. Her dream vacations include a visit to the Amalfi coast, the cliffs of Greece and to the lavender fields of Provence.
Job Titles:
- Travel Advisor With
- Travel Agent in Nashville, TN
Lizzy has been a Travel Advisor with Small World Big Fun since 2013. Since joining the team, she's booked over 500 (and counting!) reservations to various destinations.
Lizzy began her career specializing in Disney theme parks, Disney Cruise Line, and Universal Orlando. Today, she also serves clients in various cruise destinations, Europe travel, and all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.
Job Titles:
- Client Experience Manager
Lori lives in Springdale, AR. She is married with 2 adult children and 3 adult step-children. Lori just retired from a 30 year teaching career. She loves to travel and make travel plans. Lori has traveled to Europe and Mexico and, of course, many places in our wonderful country. She did not get to enjoy Disney until her adulthood, but has been lucky enough to experience the magic many times over the last 20 years!
Lori says "Every time I visit, I fall more in love with all things Disney. Nothing compares to the feeling of stepping into the Magic Kingdom and seeing Cinderella's Castle. It doesn't matter if it's your first time or your tenth time." Some of her favorite rides are Peter Pan's Flight, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Soarin', Rock ‘n' Roller Coaster, and Avatar Flight of Passage.
She has also visited Universal Studios several times (she's a huge Harry Potter fan!). Lori thinks the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must see while you are in Orlando. "You can be completely immersed into the world of Harry Potter by boarding the Hogswarts Express, passing through the lobby of Gringotts, and strolling through the magical streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley."
Lori is beyond excited about the opportunity to work for Small World Big Fun and considers this a dream job! "I can't wait to help others experience amazing vacations while making treasured memories with family and friends."
Job Titles:
- Agent
- Disney Travel Agent in Little Rock, AR
Small World Big Fun agent Mandy Piechocki is excited to be part of the Small World Big Fun family! She has been helping her friends and family plan their Disney vacations for years, so this role is the perfect fit. Her grandparents spent time every summer in Florida and watched Walt Disney's dream come true as they were there the summer Walt Disney World® Resort opened in 1971.
Mandy and her family traveled to Disney World every summer, and they still believe vacationing in the "World's Happiest Place" is the best! So, you might say Disney is in her family's DNA. Her favorite vacation memory as a child was riding the boat over from Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and catching that first glimpse of Cinderella Castle. There's nothing better!
Mandy was chosen to participate in the Disney College Program and was a Cast Member for two summers. She worked at Disney's Hollywood Studios® and also Disney's Wilderness Lodge. And it runs in the family because her sister was a Cast Member at Magic Kingdom® Park. The lifelong experiences learned were invaluable for understanding customer service and why the overall Disney experience still stands as the blueprint for providing the best vacation experience for families.
Mandy and her husband Michael have two daughters and are making their own special Disney memories! Because of her love and knowledge of Disney, she wants to help customize the perfect plan for your family and share with you the magical experiences that come with a Disney vacation.
To get Mandy started on planning your vacation, call 501-658-1332 or email mandy@smallworldbigfun.com.
"I've loved Disney for as long as I can remember," says Small World Big Fun agent Martha Hasty. "I will always remember running with my dad to Space Mountain® and being mesmerized by the Electric Light Parade. As an adult, I love creating new Disney memories with my own family. My son has been to Disney 12 times already, and he's only 10!"
Living just a few hours from Orlando made investing in an Annual Pass an easy decision. "I made eight trips to Disney World this past year, and experienced Disney during every season, attended special events and in ALL kinds of weather," Martha says. In having so many varied experiences, Martha brings a level of expertise to her Disney vacation planning that her clients really value. "I work hard to plan the vacation that meets the needs of each client. It takes a lot of research to make that happen!"
Martha's favorite Disney memory came from a recent trip in the past year. "We've been trying for years to get autographs with Suzy and Perla, the girl mice from Cinderella. On our last trip, my son and I got in line to ride Dumbo while my husband went to get coffee. On his way back to meet us, he saw Suzy and Perla and got in line to meet them. The cast member told him that they would not be out for very much longer, so if we didn't want to miss out, we needed to hurry. My husband called me just as Dumbo took off! Thank goodness Dumbo doesn't fly for very long! We jumped off Dumbo and ran like crazy people through Fantasyland to where my husband was in line. We got there just in time!"
Job Titles:
- Travel Agent in Atlanta, GA
A former client of Small World Big Fun, Nicole and her family had such a great experience planning her Walt Disney World® Resort vacations and cruises that she wanted to join the fun!
Nicole and her husband are both from Florida. "Growing up, going to Walt Disney World was a rite of passage," Nicole says. "We are continuing the tradition with our own children." At Walt Disney World, Disney's Beach Club Resort is their family's favorite. "Oh my gosh, the POOL. It is AMAZING. We also love the short walk to the fabulous restaurants in Epcot® World Showcase. Do not miss the pizza at Via Napoli, and, if you are there with just the grown-ups, be sure to check out Tutto Gusto."
Nicole and her family have also cruised multiple times on the Disney Dream. "Let me tell you - as a mother, a Disney Cruise is truly the most relaxing vacation you will ever take. There is something for everyone. My kids love Disney's Oceaneer Club. My husband enjoys the sports deck. If you need to find me, I'll be hanging out in the spa on one of the heated stone benches, watching the waves go by. Heavenly."
One of her favorite Disney memories was celebrating her daughter's fourth birthday at 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Nicole says, "She lit up like a Christmas tree when Prince Charming asked her to dance. It was pure joy. I will never forget that as long as I live."
Besides planning fantastic Disney vacations, Nicole enjoys coaching her son's Odyssey of the Mind team, volunteering with her daughter in the National Charities League, playing tennis, running, and enjoying friends and family.
Nicole has her own special way of seeing the parks and taking advantage of every special thing that Magic Kingdom® Park, Epcot®, Disney's Animal Kingdom® and Disney's Hollywood Studios® have to offer.
Labeled as the bono-fide Disney Queen by her friends and family, Nikki has been a lover of all things Mickey since she was a little girl. A native of both Florida and California, she has been too both Disneyland and Walt Disney World more times than she can count. Nikki is also a former Disney World cast member who loved bringing so many magical memories to guest on a daily basis. Nikki continues to stay up to date on all things Disney by frequenting the parks regularly, and has stayed at most hotels on Disney property.
Nikki wants to share her love of Disney and knack for planning to help families plan their next dream vacation. Let's face it, Disney can be complicated! Fortunately, Nikki loves to sort things out and will make your next trip stress free so you can concentrate on the FUN!
Nikki has always had an adventurous spirit and never says "no" when it comes to packing her bags and seeking out a new place to explore. Apart from Disney Destinations, she has journeyed to over ten countries and has been to almost all fifty states. Nikki would be delighted to help you plan your next (or first!) Disney vacation, or wherever you want to adventure. It's a "whole new world" of possibilities!
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Sherwood, AR
Paige Sallis lives in Sherwood, Ark., with her husband, Ryan and chihuahua, Max. She has been in the employment industry for more than 10 years but is ready to put her love of Disney to work. Paige and her family first visited Walt Disney World® Resort when she was 11 years old, and she's been going back ever since.
"Each time we visit, there is something new and exciting that we haven't experienced before. After many visits over the past 20 years, I learned how to hit the ground running and ride all the rides without much of a wait, and I've also discovered the more laid back side to Disney. They're both equally magical.
"When families think about going on a Disney vacation, they sometimes don't realize how much information is out there. Research and planning can be a huge part of a Disney vacation and some just don't have the time. I'm here to help take all of the time and stress out of the vacation so that you and your family can enjoy ‘The Happiest Place on Earth.'"
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent / Disney
Parks aficionado Sarah is an avid traveler and fun-finder. She is always ready to "go" wherever adventure calls and wants to help you do the same! She seeks to bring the magic she feels at the Disney parks to your family's vacation through scheduling, attention to detail and choice-making - Sarah will make preparing for your Disney trip stress-free!
Disney destinations have become a specialty of Sarah's, planning trips to the parks on both coasts, aboard the many cruise liners, and around the world with Adventures by Disney®. Sarah herself is a Walt Disney World® Resort annual passholder and Disney Vacation Club® member so she is regularly in the parks staying up to date on everything new and exciting.
Whether you are detailed-oriented yourself or want to be completely hands-off, Sarah is here to help, to be your contact, and to make magic for your special trip! Ready to start planning? Contact Sarah today!
As Walt Disney said, "it was all started by a mouse." At age 5, Stacey met Mickey for the first time in Disney World, and still remembers watching and rewatching the VHS Disney travel guides, showcasing the wonder of the parks. Her teenage and college years were filled with more Disney Magic, typically planning trips for her family, all the while fostering a deeper love for Mickey and his friends.
Fast forward a few years, now with her husband John, life offered another unforgettable adventure. Stacey and her husband relocated to Nice, France where they lived for two years for a career opportunity. Two years in the south of France would prove to be a life changing experience and bring her to the realization she truly loved to not only travel but to PLAN travel. In those two years, she and her husband camped throughout the south of France, explored Roman ruins, ventured through Monaco, visited pubs in Ireland, and walked over the canals of Venice. From the Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany to the ancient amphitheater in Ephesus, Turkey, Stacey maximized her two years abroad, visiting ten countries, and fully embracing the adventure, even the little bumps along the way.
Experiencing life abroad opened her eyes and changed her worldview. When they returned to the States, after having two little boys, she found another amazing way to plan travel and see new places by discovering the National Parks with her family. In the past 3 years they have visited 10 parks with the goal of seeing all 52. Walking through the giant Sequoia groves or climbing the snowy trails of the Rocky Mountains can be just as life changing as a trip abroad. As Aladdin would say, it's "a whole new world."
With her love for Mickey, it's no surprise that she wanted to see his original home- DisneyLand, the place where it all began. That first trip to Disneyland (while pregnant!) was pure joy and excitement. Since then, she has been to Disneyworld many more times soaking up all the rides, characters, and Disney magic with her kids. Whether it be an awesome dance party at Hollywood and Vine with Mickey and Minnie for a rocking character meal, walking through Galaxy's Edge with her Star Wars loving husband and two boys, touring Epcot, or singing along with the amazing soundtrack of the Guardians of the Galaxy ride, seeing the magic of Disney come to life for others is a thrill unlike anything else.
Travel can be such an enriching experience, one that truly creates unforgettable memories and life-changing experiences. From DisneyWorld to DisneyLand, Europe to Epcot, leveraging her years of travel experience, Stacey is ready to plan your next perfect adventure!
Job Titles:
- Travel Advisor in Tulsa, OK
Stacey took her first flight at 5 years old and has not wanted to stop traveling since! She has traveled to many places in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Brazil from vacations to mission work in remote villages.
Stacey began her travel-planning career as an administrative assistant to Small World Big Fun owner Cindy Minor. As a result, she has a daily working knowledge of what it takes to plan a fantastic Disney vacation for your family. With a background in event planning and customer service, providing a great customer experience comes naturally to her.
Stacie Cordell has had a passion for traveling and other cultures for as long as she can remember. As a child, her family often went on snow skiing trips in the winter and beach trips in the summer, planting the travel seed at a very young age! There was always a trip to look forward to!
One of Stacie's earliest memories is meeting a family friend from El Salvador who taught her words in Spanish - a completely new and incredible concept for a 5 year old! She believes that encounter is the first realization of her love for other cultures. Over the years, the joy of travel and the passion for other cultures grew and by her early 20s, she was living in Mexico and traveling throughout the world.
Stacie is fluent in Spanish, having lived and traveled extensively in Latin America. Mexico, Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador… they all have beautiful geography and people. During those many years, she had the privilege of planning and organizing international travel for different occasions and various groups. She also has been fortunate to travel personally to many beach resorts throughout Mexico and knows what to look for when it comes to beach vacations!
As a former Spanish instructor at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Stacie encouraged students to travel abroad during their college careers, and insisted that traveling should be ongoing throughout a lifetime. She says, "Traveling to a foreign country is one of the most eye-opening opportunities. It is unmatched as a resource to expand worldviews, understand cultures (including one's own culture), and developing a well rounded perspective that helps foster compassion and insight into people and customs that are different from our own."
Having spent much of her adult life planning events and traveling (personally and professionally), it is no surprise that her travel expertise shines in group trips, whether it's a wedding, anniversary, a girls' getaway, or anything in between! She also specializes in beach vacations, particularly to Mexico and Latin America, but has traveled or planned group travel in South America, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe, as well.
Originally from Arkansas, but a gypsy at heart, Stacie currently resides in Texas.
Stephanie has a passion for travel and a love for Disney. She is committed to creating magical experiences for families. Her knowledge of all things Disney, including Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and Adventures by Disney, make her an excellent resource for anyone planning a Disney vacation. She has had the opportunity to travel frequently with her family. As a result, she has visited Disney many times and has become well-versed in all aspects of planning a Disney vacation.
Stephanie lives in Fort Worth, Texas with her Husband and her two daughters whom are 4 & 5 years old. She is also a Registered Nurse in the ICU at a large hospital system in the DFW area. After working through the pandemic, she scaled back her hours working as a nurse, and now only works a few shifts per month. She has a passion for helping people, and is excited to help families in a completely different way.
Her experience as a nurse in the ICU has taught her the importance of extreme attention to detail and accuracy. As well as being an advocate for her patients. She applies this same level of advocacy and attention to detail when planning vacations for her clients. She understands that every family is unique, and she takes the time to get to know her clients and their individual needs and preferences.
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Disney, a seasoned pro, or looking to explore the world with Adventures by Disney, Stephanie is here to help you plan the perfect vacation. From choosing the right hotel to booking the best dining experiences, Stephanie can handle all the details, so you can focus on enjoying your trip. Let her expertise and passion for Disney make your next vacation the best one yet!
Job Titles:
- Disney Travel Agent in Moline, IL
Stephanie Yemm has loved traveling since she was a little girl, and she loves recapturing the magic now!
"Travel to any destination can spark imagination and inspiration, no matter the age," says Stephanie, while reflecting on her life experiences and the important role travel has played in it. "While exploring new places, I have learned to never give up on imagination and to learn from others and their experiences."
Job Titles:
- Certified Sandals Specialist
- Disney Travel Agent in Little Rock, AR
From her first visit to Walt Disney World® Resort in 1973 to her most recent trip, Susan Pendleton is always captivated by the magic and excitement of Disney.
In addition to several trips to Disney World, she and her family have traveled to Disneyland® Resort, cruised on the Disney Magic, and spent a day soaking up the sights and sounds of Disneyland® Paris! She has even chaperoned school field trips on "behind the scenes" science trips to Disney World.
Susan has even run the Disney Princess Half Marathon - and, she'd love to help you plan a runDisney race trip, too!
After working as a teacher and school administrator for more than 30 years, Susan joined Small World Big Fun in 2012. "I didn't set out to go into travel," she says, "but I enjoyed planning trips for my own family, and I love Disney and enjoy the challenge."
Susan and her husband live in Little Rock, Arkansas, and have two grown daughters. One of her daughters, Dru, is also a Small World Big Fun agent!
A Certified Sandals Specialist, Susan also plans dreamy beach vacations to Sandals and Beaches resorts. If you have a cooler destination in mind, Susan can also organize your perfect ski trip.
"I love helping clients plan vacations that provide them with experiences they will treasure - and will talk about, smile about, laugh about, look at pictures of - for years to come. Truly magical memories."
Let Susan take care of the planning and details of your family's dream vacation. "My role is to advise you, listen to your needs, and plan so you can head out on your vacation with confidence that all the details have been taken care of," she says.