The Shameless Tourist: Company Profile

Background

Overview

The Shameless Tourist is a luxury travel agency specializing in crafting bespoke travel experiences that foster deep connections and create lasting memories. Founded by Kaleigh Kirkpatrick, a Texas A&M University alum, the agency has grown into a thriving all-female team dedicated to designing unforgettable journeys for clients worldwide.

Mission and Vision

The agency's mission is to kindle the spirit of discovery, fostering deep connections and curating memories that echo across generations. Their vision is to provide personalized, seamless travel experiences that enrich the lives of their clients and the communities they visit.

Primary Area of Focus

The Shameless Tourist focuses on creating customized travel itineraries for various occasions, including multi-generational adventures, family vacations, couples' getaways, and immersive cultural explorations. They emphasize responsible tourism by supporting local economies and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Industry Significance

As a Virtuoso-affiliated agency, The Shameless Tourist is part of a network of luxury travel advisors known for their expertise and exclusive partnerships. This affiliation allows them to offer clients unique perks and access to high-end accommodations and experiences.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Personalized Service: Designing unique travel experiences tailored to individual client preferences.

Seamless Planning: Managing all aspects of travel logistics to ensure a stress-free experience.

Luxury Expertise: Providing access to exclusive accommodations and experiences through industry connections.

Areas of Specialization

Family and Multi-Generational Travel: Crafting itineraries that cater to diverse age groups and interests.

Couples' Getaways: Designing romantic and intimate travel experiences.

Cultural Explorations: Offering immersive experiences that connect travelers with local cultures.

Key Technologies Utilized

Axus Itinerary App: A mobile application that provides clients with real-time updates and access to their travel information.

Primary Markets Targeted

The agency serves clients seeking luxury travel experiences, including families, couples, and solo travelers interested in personalized and culturally enriching journeys.

Financials and Funding

Specific financial details, including total funds raised and recent funding rounds, are not publicly disclosed. The agency operates as a privately held entity, focusing on delivering high-quality, personalized travel services to its clientele.

Pipeline Development

As a service-oriented business, The Shameless Tourist does not have a product pipeline in the traditional sense. Instead, they continuously develop and refine their travel offerings to meet the evolving needs and preferences of their clients.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Axus Itinerary App: This app allows clients to access their travel information with real-time updates directly from their smartphones, enhancing the travel experience.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data-Driven Personalization: Utilizing client data and preferences to craft tailored itineraries that align with individual desires and expectations.

Leadership Team

Kaleigh Kirkpatrick, CTA

Position: Founder & Principal Travel Designer

Professional Background: Kaleigh is a Texas A&M University alum who has transformed her passion for travel and meticulous planning into a thriving all-female agency specializing in bespoke travel experiences.

Key Contributions: Under her leadership, The Shameless Tourist has been recognized by industry-leading publications and has become a trusted name in luxury travel.

Stephanie Buckner

Position: Senior Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Stephanie brings extensive experience in luxury travel planning, focusing on creating personalized and seamless travel experiences for clients.

Key Contributions: Stephanie has been instrumental in expanding the agency's offerings and ensuring high client satisfaction.

Kelly Felsing

Position: Group Travel Specialist

Professional Background: Kelly specializes in organizing group travel, ensuring that itineraries cater to the diverse needs of all participants.

Key Contributions: Kelly has successfully coordinated numerous group trips, enhancing the agency's reputation for handling complex travel arrangements.

Tara Cress

Position: Senior Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Tara has a background in luxury travel design, focusing on creating unique and memorable experiences for clients.

Key Contributions: Tara has played a key role in developing the agency's luxury travel offerings and maintaining high standards of service.

Yvonne Heerema

Position: Senior Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Yvonne brings a wealth of experience in luxury travel planning, with a focus on personalized itineraries.

Key Contributions: Yvonne has been pivotal in expanding the agency's clientele and enhancing the quality of travel experiences offered.

Caitlin Mendoza

Position: Luxury Disney Specialist

Professional Background: Caitlin specializes in luxury Disney travel, offering clients exclusive access and experiences.

Key Contributions: Caitlin has developed specialized Disney travel packages that cater to the unique needs of Disney enthusiasts.

Melissa Morales

Position: Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Melissa focuses on designing luxury travel experiences that are both personalized and seamless.

Key Contributions: Melissa has been instrumental in curating high-end travel experiences that exceed client expectations.

Briana Davis

Position: In-House Lead Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Briana leads the in-house team, ensuring that all travel designs meet the agency's high standards.

Key Contributions: Briana has streamlined the agency's internal processes, enhancing efficiency and client satisfaction.

Katie Matteson

Position: Senior Associate Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Katie specializes in luxury travel design, focusing on creating personalized itineraries.

Key Contributions: Katie has contributed to the agency's growth by developing unique travel experiences for clients.

Abby Whitenton

Position: Associate Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Abby assists in designing luxury travel experiences, ensuring attention to detail and client satisfaction.

Key Contributions: Abby has been involved in curating travel experiences that align with client preferences.

Erin Naff

Position: Associate Luxury Travel Designer

Professional Background: Erin focuses on creating personalized luxury travel itineraries for clients.

Key Contributions: Erin has played a role in expanding the agency's offerings and enhancing the quality of service.

Julie Jamgochian

Position: Operations & Innovation Specialist

Professional Background: Julie oversees operations and innovation, ensuring the agency remains at the forefront of the industry.

Key Contributions: Julie has implemented innovative solutions that improve operational efficiency and client experience.

Lindsey Rosenstein

Position: Brand Manager

Professional Background: Lindsey manages the agency's brand, ensuring consistent messaging and market presence.

Key Contributions: Lindsey has enhanced the agency's visibility and reputation through strategic branding initiatives.

Leadership Changes

As of December 2025, there are no publicly available records of recent significant changes or appointments within The Shameless Tourist's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The luxury travel industry is characterized by a growing demand for personalized and unique travel experiences. Travelers are increasingly seeking bespoke itineraries that offer cultural immersion and authentic local experiences. The market is also witnessing a rise in responsible tourism, with travelers prioritizing eco-friendly practices and support for local communities.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the luxury travel advisory space include:

Truly Tokyo: A travel advisory service focusing on personalized experiences in Tokyo, offering tailored itineraries and local insights.

Never Ending Voyage: A travel blog and advisory service providing in-depth guides and itineraries for destinations worldwide, emphasizing off-the-beaten-path experiences.

These competitors offer specialized services that cater to niche markets within the luxury travel sector.

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