Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Schmidt.
Nicole, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Several years ago when I was working as a Web Designer, I was approached by a gentleman in Las Vegas to upgrade his website. The gentleman then decided that he didn’t want the website re-designed but requested that I broker tours for him. That’s when my love for Digital Marketing fell into play for me.
I created a website to provide lead gen for his tours and I provided over $85,000 in business the first year that I worked with him. Our second year we did over $115,000 in tours.
Since becoming familiar with the industry as well as IATA accredited, I continued to pursue the travel & tour industry.
Realizing there isn’t a current Hollywood Tour providing lunch at a restaurant–yet alone in Beverly Hills; I decided to create my own tour and perfect it with what is much need for tourists.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. I have become the victim of a credit card processor stealing funds. I even had to sue them in court. In this industry, you realize you can become victim when growing a successful business.
After doing over $6,000 in tours in one day a credit card processor (First Data) decided they were not going to send me the funds. They initially told me the funds had been sent so I waited longer. Next, several weeks later they told me the funds were “lost” and they needed more time. Afterwards, they claim they figured out their problem and it would be sent again, then asked me to verify my bank account in which they stole several thousand from. After realizing I’m their personal ATM, I had to take them to court.
They caused so much damage to my business. I had to pay out of pocket for the tourists that were going out that week. The second batch of tourist were not able to go at all because without our sales sent to us–there is no money left to provide food, gas other payments related to the tour. So we had to cancel the tours until we got our money back from the credit card processor. We asked them to refund the tourists who didn’t get a chance to take the tour. They also didn’t do this! They claimed they are not able to. And left me holding their bag of a mess. Ultimately, resulting in them being sued.
This was the worst time ever. I decided to rebrand and relaunch because my 5-star rating was affected. This was an extremely sad time for me.
In addition, I have had to fight off competitors in the industry infringing on my trademarks amongst many other hurdles.
Official Hollywood Tour – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We provide an all-inclusive tour of Hollywood! This includes visiting Santa Monica beach, eating lunch in Beverly Hills (or alternately in Hollywood) at a restaurant, viewing Movie Star homes, cruising Sunset Blvd, and also spending time on Hollywood Blvd Walk of Fame.
We differ from other Hollywood Tours because with our tour company you are able to get out of the vehicle. With each stop, you may spend 1 hour on your own to shop for souvenirs, take pictures, and get the full Hollywood experience.
We are most proud for the quality and care that we put into our tour. We truly want people to enjoy themselves.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is being able to do what you love– while generating enough money to provide for your family.
Pricing:
- Official Hollywood Tour – $120 per person
- Las Vegas to Hollywood Tour – $179 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.officialhollywoodtour.com
- Phone: 1 844 801-5604
- Email: [email protected]
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
