Welcome to our Travel Advisor Spotlight series, where we shine a light on the incredible professionals who we have worked with through the years across the TravelSMG events! Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to Tiffany J. Short of Dragonfly Journeys.
What got you into the Travel Industry and how long have you been an Advisor?
I started in 2018. I never imagined I’d be in the travel industry. I began my career as an Investigator with the Sheriff’s Department, but after an on-the-job injury, I had to step away from that world. A few years later, while planning a family trip to Disney World, I discovered something new. I worked with a travel advisor who quickly noticed that I had already mapped out 95% of the trip myself. She said, “You should think about becoming an advisor.”
That small spark turned into a career. I started out with a small agency focused on Disney World vacations, but it didn’t take long to realize that my true passion was helping people discover the world beyond. From Europe’s cobblestone streets to river cruises, safaris, and cultural journeys, I fell in love with international destinations.
Along the way, I met my business partner at that first agency, and together we decided to open Dragonfly Journeys Travel Company. Today, our mission is simple: to help travelers design meaningful experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
What made you first realize the value that a Travel Advisor brings to a consumer’s travel experience?
I first realized the value of a travel advisor when I hired one. She knew the ins and outs, offered guidance I wouldn’t have thought of, and was there as a safety net if anything went wrong. That experience showed me how important it is to have someone in your corner—an advocate who takes the stress out of planning and makes the whole trip smoother.
What does being a Travel Advisor mean to you?
Being a travel advisor, to me, is about service. In my previous career in law enforcement, I served my community by protecting and supporting people during some of their hardest moments. Now, I serve in a different way—by guiding travelers, protecting their time and investment, and supporting them through the unexpected challenges that can arise on the road. The uniform may have changed, but the heart of service remains the same.
What’s your favorite type of trip to plan for a client?
My favorite trips to plan are the ones that become lifelong memories. One of my clients took an amazing dream trip to celebrate their anniversary. Just six months later, the husband passed away unexpectedly. Knowing that I had a hand in helping them celebrate that milestone and create those memories together is something I’ll never forget. It reminds me every day that what I do isn’t just about travel—it’s about helping people make moments that truly matter.
Where is your favorite place to travel?
Honestly, my favorite place to travel is wherever I am—it’s all about being in the moment and soaking it in. But if I had to choose, Costa Rica and Italy are tied at the top of my list. Both offer such rich culture, amazing food, and unforgettable experiences. That said,I have an upcoming trip to Japan… so who knows? It just might steal first place!
Who is your favorite Travel Supplier to work with?
I don’t have just one favorite travel supplier—I work with multiple, depending on the destination and my clients’ needs. What I really value is building strong relationships with each company’s representative. Getting to know them personally allows me to better understand their strengths, stay up to date on offerings, and ultimately use that insight to create amazing, customized trips for my clients. I especially enjoy working with niche suppliers for specific destinations, since they bring such specialized knowledge and unique experiences to the table.
Where do you go to keep up-to-date on all the industry news and information?
I stay up-to-date by actively following TSMG along with other leading travel news publications, which help me keep a pulse on industry trends and changes. I also make it a priority to complete yearly training with multiple suppliers as well as through our consortia. Between ongoing education and staying connected to industry news, I’m able to bring fresh knowledge and up-to-date insights directly to my clients.
What’s some advice that you would give to your fellow Advisors to keep them motivated when they get frustrated by their day-to-day?
The best advice I’d give to fellow advisors is this: always remember your “why.” This career can be challenging at times, but when frustrations pile up, pause and think back to why you started in the first place—whether it’s your love of travel, the joy of helping clients make memories, or the freedom of building your own business. Reconnecting with that purpose has a way of putting the daily struggles into perspective and reigniting your passion.
What TravelSMG Events have you attended?
I’ve had the pleasure of attending both ETAF and the Romance Forum with TravelSMG, and I can honestly say their events are some of the best organized and most informative in the industry. Each one offered incredible networking opportunities, valuable education, and inspiration I could take back to my business. While it’s hard to choose a favorite, I definitely have my eye on the Owners Forum and Amazing Destinations for the future. With the quality of their events, how can I choose?
How has participating in TravelSMG events helped you as an Advisor?
Participating in TravelSMG events has been a game-changer for me as an advisor and as an agency owner. Not only do I gain valuable education, supplier connections, and industry insights that help me serve my own clients, but I’m also able to bring that knowledge back to support our independent contractors. The events give me tools and resources to help them grow, too—so the benefits extend far beyond just my business. Each event leaves me with stronger relationships, fresh ideas, and renewed passion, which ultimately lifts up our entire team.