Behind the scenes: two days of connections and inspiration at TTG Black Book.
Some of the most valuable work I do for my clients happens long before we begin discussing their next holiday.
Recently, I spent two days at the inaugural TTG Black Book event at the Business Design Centre in Islington, reconnecting with existing partners, meeting new suppliers and discovering properties and experiences to share with my clients.
It was also an opportunity to step back from the day-to-day running of my business, take part in some valuable business sessions and think about how I can continue to develop the service I offer.
So, why do I make time for events like this — and what does it mean for you?
Relationships are a huge part of what I do.
When I recommend a hotel, plan a journey or arrange a special experience, knowing the people behind it helps me bring everything together. Trade events give us time to sit down, catch up and have proper conversations.
Reconnecting with existing partners allows me to hear what has changed, ask questions and deepen relationships built over time. It also gives me the opportunity to talk about what matters to my clients, from thoughtful personal touches to the practical details that can make all the difference to a stay.
Having someone I can contact directly — someone who understands my business and the care I put into each trip — is enormously valuable.
Meeting new suppliers is another important reason I attend.
Even after more than 30 years in travel, there is always something new to discover. Over these two days, I learnt about properties and experiences that could become part of a future itinerary.
As I listen, I’m often thinking about particular people: who would love this setting, who would appreciate that experience, or whose next celebration might be the perfect occasion.
Those conversations help me build a collection of ideas that I can draw on when we start planning together. Sometimes a small discovery becomes the detail around which a whole trip takes shape.
Meeting suppliers gives me the chance to explore what a property or experience is really like. Who would feel most at home there? What makes it special? What should a client know before deciding?
These conversations help me decide whether something belongs within the holidays I design, so that my recommendations have a clear reason behind them.
Alongside the supplier meetings, the valuable business sessions offered time to reflect, learn and consider fresh perspectives.
Running an independent business means balancing client care with everything happening behind the scenes.
Spending time with others in the industry is valuable too. There is a great deal to be gained from exchanging ideas with people who share a commitment to travel and personal service.
I returned from TTG Black Book with fresh ideas, strengthened connections and new possibilities to explore.
For me, that is the purpose of attending: to keep learning, stay curious and continue building the knowledge and relationships that help me plan your travels.
You may never see the conversations that happen before your itinerary reaches you, but they are an important part of the care that goes into it.
If you’re beginning to think about your next trip, I’d love to hear what you have in mind. I may have come back with just the idea for you.
Janet x