We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelley Woods and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelley, what do you attribute your success to?
Being myself, what others call it is being authentic. Some see my life as being complicated. I’m a single working mother and I also have a travel business. I share that with my audience and choose to educate them on that. Other people want to see that you can relate to them or your circumstances is similar to them I don’t have the best life, but it’s alright with me. I guess that’s considered part of my brand.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work as a creative is a bit confusing, because I chose to do almost everything under the travel umbrella. But, after a couple of years I decided to stick to only a few things when it comes to my travel business. I decided to create travel experiences for groups and families and the influence will come automatically. My kids and I, we still travel, but not so often because I’m working in corporate America again. It wasn’t easy deciding to go back and it’s still not easy developing a business that’s always changing. I’ve learned to pivot when needed and also diversify your portfolio while you can. Some things you have to pick up and other things you have to let go, but your business should definitely be streamlined to work for you.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Since 2017, I decided to start keeping my coins in the community by shopping black. My favorite area to visit in Houston is definitely Third Ward. I love the food, atmosphere, makes me feel like I’m always at home. I like shopping every other Saturday at The Shrine of the Black Madonna and The BLCK Market. Ride bikes with 3rd Ward Tours, visiting the Project Row Houses, and eat at Sunshine’s on Old Spanish Trail for a vegan meal. It’s so much to do in that area, a week stay wouldn’t be enough.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be successful without my followers and those that are in my Cute Luggage Travelers group. Their support is amazing and I want to thank them for being there during these difficult times. Not only for myself, but for others. I would like to recognize someone that is making moves to create a better self. Author Moniqua Sexton has me wanting to be like her when I grow up lol. She’s a single working mother that has just released her series of fictional books that has been receiving great reviews. I’m so proud of Moniqua Sexton, her journey through single parenthood is awesome sauce. Follow @authormoniquasexton and me too @travelingwithcuteluggage

Website: www.travelingwithcutelugggage.com/freebies
Instagram: @travelingwithcuteluggage
Facebook: www.facebook.com/travelingwithcuteluggage
Other: Join the Cute Luggage Travelers facebook.com/groups/travelingwithcuteluggage