4 minute read
New Horizons for Authentic Luxury
As Maja Dimnik takes her next steps with her booking platform, she appreciates the support from all the network members who helped make her dream a reality.
A LOT HAS HAPPENED SINCE YOU UNVEILED YOUR NEW BRANDING 6 MONTHS AGO – CAN YOU BRING US UP TO SPEED?
We’ve successfully secured initial funding from incredible investors, Fil Rouge Capital, who provide fantastic support. Our team has grown, and I’ve welcomed two new co-founders, making it no longer a one-woman band. We’ve kicked off extensive marketing activities, refreshed our website with valuable content like a corporate section, blog, exclusive offers, and various enhancements to boost bookings. Additionally, we’re working on implementing a booking engine for direct connectivity with the properties featured on our website.
WHAT WILL THE NEXT PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT LOOK LIKE FOR AUTHENTIC LUXURY?
We are continuously working on increasing our collection. As mentioned earlier, travelers will be able to view realtime availability and make instant bookings. The next step involves integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance the booking process. In the upcoming phase of platform development, additional features will be introduced alongside accommodations, empowering guests to craft a one-of-a-kind, dream vacation tailored to their preferences.
HOW CAN WE IN THE NETWORK SUPPORT YOU IN THIS PHASE OF GROWTH? WHERE DO WE SIGN UP!?
At this stage, you would help us most by spreading awareness of our platform, ensuring that as many travelers as possible become familiar with Authentic Luxury and, of course, choose to book with us.
WHAT HAVE YOU TAKEN FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF PITCHING FOR INVESTMENT?
You could easily ask me, “What haven’t I learned!” Seriously, I’ve gained a tremendous amount of knowledge, and I’m still learning from my investors. In the journey of finding the right investors, I learned how to craft an impressive pitch, how to pitch to investors, what they are looking for, and what matters most to them. Throughout this process, you begin to consider aspects you may not have thought about before but are crucial for a solid business model. This has steered Authentic Luxury in the right direction.
WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN HELPFUL IN TERMS OF PASSING ON INFORMATION AND SUPPORT?
It’s hard to thank everyone individually because each person’s support, no matter how small, has been incredibly valuable. I want to give a special thanks to Chris Nader of ENVI Lodges. His substantial insights into pitching and the investment segment has helped me a lot on my journey, and I’m truly grateful for his assistance.
HOW IMPORTANT HAS YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH ECO RESORT NETWORK BEEN IN THE PROCESS?
On my journey in the process of creating Authentic Luxury I have already been involved with many of the industry colleagues and leaders who attended Eco Resort Network. This was a great opportunity for us all to meet in one place, spend valuable time together, and share ideas and experiences. The Eco Resort Network provides a fantastic opportunity for key contributors in our industry to connect and network. I definitely want to be there next year in Mauritius.
WHAT IS THE DREAM ONCE AUTHENTIC LUXURY IS FULLY DEVELOPED? WHAT WILL TRAVELLERS GET FROM IT AND WHAT WILL HOSTS BENEFIT FROM?
The vision is to be the leading platform for hosts to align with and for travelers seeking sustainable and immersive resorts and lodges in most beautiful natural locations worldwide. Our goal is to provide a seamless booking experience, coupled with AI assistance, allowing travelers to effortlessly create a personalized, once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.
JUST HOW STRESSED ARE YOU RIGHT NOW?!
Hahaha, is that a funny question? Yes, I’m feeling stressed, but also more excited than anything. I’m under pressure to get good results and prove to our investors that they made the right choice in supporting us. The need to secure another investment soon adds to my stress. Still, I really believe in the vision of Authentic Luxury, and I’m confident we’ll succeed.
