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Summerville Journal Scene • March 21, 2012
Shady Umbrella means great vacations BY STEFAN ROGENMOSER The Journal Scene
ristin Fry wants to send customers to the perfect vacation destination without the hassle. Fry runs the S h a d e Umbrella, a travel agency that plans trips of all varieties and keeps people from being overwhelmed by the endless options presented on the Internet. “People call me all the time who are completely overwhelmed with all that’s out there. I help people walk through different types of properties.” She’s run the business out of her Daniel Island home for four years. This year will be the first time she has a booth at the Flowertown Festival. “I basically plan travel but I don’t have any service fees,” Fry said. “All of my
travel planning is complementary to my service. “I’m making sure they get the best deal possible setting up their trip and making sure everything goes smoothly.” She says there is no upcharge with her. Fry plans honeymoons, cruises, destination weddings and a new type of trip called the “baby-moon.” “It’s where the couple takes their last big trip before they add on one more to their family.” Despite a number of travel options available online, Fry says going through an agent allows for a person connection and ensuring that the traveler picks the best resort for them. Fry is able to tell clients more about their trip before it happens and then can assist them once they’re on their way. “I make sure everything is going smoothly for them and (give them) basically anything they need while they’re away. Most of the time I don’t have to do anything like that. I am an advocate for them if there’s something they need.” Fry said she makes sure to help her cus-
tomers find the best rates. “I really love to travel. I love helping people find their perfect spot. I really love honeymoons and destination weddings. It’s such a special time in people’s lives.” The Caribbean is one of her favorite places. “I love the Caribbean. Basically anywhere in the Caribbean makes me happy. It’s just a relaxed atmosphere. It’s great … gorgeous blue waters, sand. It’s a perfect beach vacation.” The best way to get there is to fly. “Each little airport is different. Most airports in the Caribbean have a Caribbean band like steel drums or a mariachi band. There are things like that to welcome you. The minute you set foot you’re in vacation mode.” Her booth will represent some of the companies and brands Fry represents. Two that will be shown at the booth are Sandals, property for adults only and Beaches, for family friendly properties. Provided For more information visit Fry’s web- Kristin Fry wants vacationers to find that perfect place site www.theshadyumbrella.com in the shade.
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