TTAND hosts luxury training for advisors in Toronto & Vancouver

The Travel Agent Next Door (TTAND) recently hosted a two-day training program focused on selling luxury travel, bringing together 48 advisors from across Canada.

Thirty advisors attended the first LUXE Mastermind session at the Shangri-La Hotel in Toronto, with a second session held in Vancouver from March 10–12 for another 18 agents. 

The program is designed to help advisors better understand affluent and high-net-worth clients as TTAND expands its luxury supplier offering.

The sessions were led by Dr. Paul Russell of the U.K.-based Luxury Academy, a consumer behaviour psychologist who works with luxury brands on understanding high-net-worth clients and the factors that influence their decision-making.

TTAND executives Rhonda Stanley and Christine Ufniak also led sessions alongside participating luxury suppliers.

“The agents were thrilled and see the value of the program. It is a cost to them, and giving up 2.5 days of time, along with a lot of prep work but they see the value already,” said Ufniak, director of marketing at TTAND. 

“They are engaged, and excited about the insights from the supplier sessions and the content Paul is providing. They have a clear direction of how to grow their luxe business.”

Advisors who attended the program described the sessions as a practical deep dive into how luxury travellers think and make decisions.

“Attending the Luxe TTAND Mastermind event has been one of the best investments I’ve made in my travel career. Dr. Paul Russell has a remarkable ability to turn on the light within each of us. I’m truly wowed by the depth and clarity of his guidance. He has inspired me to approach my work—and my everyday—with renewed focus and confidence,” said Camille Wilson of Adventures with Camille.

“Participating in the Luxe Mastermind at the Shangri-La is not just another professional milestone; it’s a strategic investment in elevating my luxury brand. This program empowers me to better understand my client needs ensuring each of their journeys reflects the pinnacle of personalized luxury. I’m thrilled that TTAND is investing in this new travel offering!” added Louise Gardiner, CTM.

Scott Waldron of Gravitate Travel said the program offered “in-depth insight into the mindset and decision-making of luxury travelers,” along with collaboration opportunities with suppliers.

Several luxury partners also presented during the event.

“As a supplier partner, this was a great opportunity to speak to an extremely focused group of professionals who have invested their time and money in the Luxury Market,” said Kathryne Cuthbertson of Oceania Cruises. 

“We were able to tailor a message that shows them who the Oceania Cruises Guest is and how our experience has been built around their lifestyle and desires.”

TTAND said the program is part of its broader push to support advisors building luxury travel businesses through new supplier partnerships and specialized training.

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