After 17 and a half incredible years, Traveling Vineyard has officially closed its doors. For many, including myself, it was more than a job—it was a journey filled with connection, personal growth, and countless unforgettable moments. In this deeply personal reflection, I want to share my gratitude for the experience, the lessons learned, and my excitement for what lies ahead.

The End of an Era

When the announcement came—a week before Christmas—it was a shock. Traveling Vineyard, where I had spent nearly two decades as a top leader and wine guide, was ceasing direct sales operations. This wasn’t just a business; it was a family, a community, and a platform for sharing joy and connection over great wine.

"I’m grieving—there’s sadness, but mostly gratitude. I’m grateful for the friendships, the knowledge, and the confidence I gained along the way."

The Gifts of the Journey

Over the years, Traveling Vineyard wasn’t just about selling wine. It was about creating lifelong friendships, building an amazing team, and learning invaluable lessons about business, leadership, and life. My team of brilliant leaders and wine guides brought so much joy, and I’m incredibly proud of everything we accomplished together.

From the annual retreats we held in Florida to the celebrations, incentive trips, and everyday moments of connection, this journey was filled with memories I’ll treasure forever.

"We gained so much—confidence, knowledge, and the realization of what we’re capable of achieving. I know my team will go on to do incredible things."

Navigating the Loss

While I’m hopeful and excited about the future, there’s no denying the grief that comes with this transition. We lost not just a job but a way of life that brought flexibility, freedom, and purpose. I know many of us are wondering what comes next, but I truly believe there’s something bigger and brighter waiting for us on the other side.

"I’ve learned to take the time to grieve, process, and feel all the feels. But I’m also filled with hope for what’s next."

What’s Next for Me

With the closure of Traveling Vineyard, I now have the opportunity to focus on this podcast, explore new collaborations, and think bigger about what’s possible. Whether it’s hosting wine tastings in new ways or working with brilliant women from different industries, the possibilities are endless—and that’s exciting.

"I don’t know exactly what the future looks like yet, but I know it’s going to involve sharing great memories, supporting others, and sipping tasty cocktails!"

Lessons Learned and Shared

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned so many lessons that I hope to carry forward:

• Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to lean on others and work collaboratively.
• Lead with Heart: Make decisions that prioritize people over profits.
• Stay Flexible: Life and business are full of unexpected changes—embrace them.
• Choose Enthusiasm: Passion and excitement are the foundation of success in anything you do.

Direct sales often gets a bad rap, but it’s a legitimate and rewarding industry when approached with the right mindset and effort. For anyone considering this path, my advice is to ask the right questions, be realistic, and find a product you truly love.

A Toast to the Future

While this chapter has closed, the memories, friendships, and lessons will last forever. To my team, customers, hosts, and everyone who supported me on this journey: thank you. You’ve made these years unforgettable, and I’m excited to see what we’ll create together in the next chapter.

"I believe in myself, my support system, and the amazing opportunities ahead. The future is bright—and I’m ready to toast to what’s next!"

Closing Thoughts: As I move forward, I’m filled with gratitude for the past and hope for the future. I’ll continue to share, connect, and inspire through this podcast and beyond. If you have ideas, collaborations, or simply want to share a toast, I’d love to hear from you.

Here’s to new beginnings, new adventures, and a brighter future. Cheers!