Fueling the Magic: The Path of an Agent-Turned-Small Business Owner

By Stephanie Malone

MVT Owner and President, Michele, at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Oahu with her daughter.

Throughout the month of March, organizations and individuals across the country have celebrated the accomplishments of women in history, and in our everyday lives.

From business, to science, to the arts and the home, this month of recognition highlights women whose stories are not always told. We saw the return of ‘Celebrate HER Story’ at Walt Disney World, where female performers, chefs, artists and Imagineers made their mark in and around the parks, along with favorite female characters who worked to overcome adversity and chart their own way.

Agents are always learning more about new resorts, attractions and experiences so they can help clients build a trip that best suits their wants and needs.

At Magical Vacations Travel, we’re grateful for ALL our trailblazing agents, year-round. Agents work tirelessly to build dream getaways that their clients will remember for years to come, often sacrificing sleep and their own family time to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible. They’ll also be the first to share how rewarding it is to help give guests an unforgettable experience with the ones they love.

MVT Owner and President, Michele DeNofa, can attest to just that.

Michele started with Magical Vacations Travel as an agent back in May of 2009, while she was simultaneously working full time as a legal secretary.

Michele started with Magical Vacations Travel as a part-time agent in 2009. Through a twist of fate, she came to own and run the agency at the end of 2011.

By the end of 2011, the then-owner of the agency was ready to move on to other opportunities, offering Michele the chance to take over Magical Vacations Travel. “I had just lost my full-time job back in August,” she said. “It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because I would have never taken on such a huge venture if I was still employed full time.”

Michele quickly learned how much she was accepting, moving from part-time agent to running the whole of the company. She was suddenly on-call 24/7 and bearing the responsibility to perform well.

“I had to trust in the agents I hired, knowing they would truly do the best for our clients,” she said.

The pressure must have worked its magic, because under Michele’s leadership, the agency quickly achieved Gold Earmarked status with Disney Destinations, with just under ten agents. Since then, Magical Vacations Travel has grown so much more, taking on new properties, growing to nearly 40 agents, and earning the coveted Platinum Earmarked status for 2023.

Under Michele’s leadership, Magical Vacations Travel has grown in both agents and accolades, reaching Platinum Earmarked status for 2023.

Agents have grown with Michele at the helm, as well. Year after year, several MVT agents have peppered the list of Top Disney Travel Agents from the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, and new programs like Magical Voyages – a specially curated itinerary of bucket list cruises – have been born.

Looking ahead, Michele doesn’t see herself slowing down.

“We want to grow the agency and continue to bring the excellent customer service and devotion from our agents to make every trip magical,” she said.

Through specialized training, constant monitoring of news and offers, and on-site education, Michele and her agents are well on their way to meeting every new goal set forth.

Michele’s passion for Disney and building memorable experiences inspires her to keep moving toward the next goal.

“It’s hard work, but if it’s something you truly believe in and want, keep up that hard work and all will fall into place” she said, offering advice to fellow business owners like herself. “Be open to trusting others. This is how your business grows and your employees learn to trust you back, and it makes for a very successful business.”

For Michele, Magical Vacations Travel is not just a job. What she does every day for her agents and clients fuels her own joy, bringing the next goal posts closer and closer.

“Having the love and passion for Disney, makes me want to keep spreading the magic.”

Find out for yourself why Magical Vacations Travel makes the difference for so many. Reach out to us today for not only a free quote, but for the firsthand experience and extra service that keeps guests coming back, time and time again.