Shannon Nelson, founder of Her World. (Credit: Courtesy of Her World)
Sharing the Magic of Travel with Her Fellow Women
Shannon Nelson’s travel agency, Her World, works with women looking to explore the globe, alone or in groups.
Shannon Nelson’s travel agency, Her World, was born from her passion for travel, and her desire to share the profound, life-changing experiences she herself had while seeing the world. Nelson told us, “I wanted to share that gift with my fellow Arkansans, encouraging them to step beyond Little Rock and discover destinations that would open their eyes and hearts.” Since launching Her World in 2021, Nelson has created personalized travel experiences for individuals, groups and corporate clients alike. She experienced a significant setback earlier this year, in the form of identity theft – but her commitment has not wavered to building exciting, luxurious and seamless journeys for all those who share in her wanderlust.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
We’re all about empowering women to explore the world with confidence, creating luxury experiences that feel tailored just for them. As an SBA-certified Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, we’re proud to stand for excellence and integrity in everything we do. And, our diverse offerings go beyond planning individual journeys — we also support corporations in finding accessible, affordable travel solutions that align with their goals. With our expertise, personal touch and passion for making travel accessible to all, we are working to redefine what a travel agency can be.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Being named the “Most Pioneering Luxury Travel Solutions Provider 2024” by the Southern States Business Awards. This recognition feels incredibly rewarding because it reflects the heart and dedication we put into every journey we create. Gaining SBA certification as an Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) was another milestone that reinforced our mission: To make travel accessible and diverse, as well as truly memorable.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Scaling to meet our potential. With our recent SBA certification, we have an incredible opportunity to secure government and federal contracting — a space where we can make a real impact. But to take on these larger projects, we need to build the right foundation, which includes securing the funding needed to bring on new employees, invest in the necessary software, and develop specialized products and services. Growth is both exciting and challenging, but we’re ready to take it on with the right support and resources. We are now focusing on strategic steps to secure both the clientele and the funding required to support this growth. We’re actively exploring partnerships and grant.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?
I was a C-level marketing executive in corporate America, trying to balance my career while also building my business on the side. Last year, I took the leap to become a full-time entrepreneur. It was terrifying to walk away from steady benefits and stability, but I made it work — until May 2024, when I was hit by an identity theft crisis that drained both my personal and business resources. Suddenly, everything I had built was gone, and I found myself forced to start over. But despite the setback, my commitment hasn’t wavered. I’m now in the process of rebuilding my legacy from the ground up, and while it’s overwhelming at times, I’m determined to get back to where I was – and then, to continue moving forward.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Remember that no one will ever care as much about your business as you do. It’s not personal, it’s just reality — your business is like your child, and it’s up to you to nurture and protect it. I was prepared for the sleepless nights, the personal investment, and the stress. But one thing I didn’t anticipate was the loneliness that can come when things get overwhelming – especially here in Arkansas, where the entrepreneurial community isn’t as strong. You have to be your own biggest supporter, keep your mental health in check, and remind yourself every day that, in the end, you’ve got you.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
I find strength by envisioning where I’ll be 10 years from now: Running a premier travel management agency, winning awards, and making waves in a multi-million dollar industry. I remind myself that every successful leader has had to lie in their own trenches, and it’s resilience that separates those who thrive. Meditation and focusing on that future vision keep me grounded and hopeful.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“Mount Everest” by Labrinth. It reminds me of my passion, my purpose, and the future I’m building. When I listen to it, I feel reconnected to why I started this journey.
Who is your most important role model?
I don’t really have a role model in the traditional sense – rather I’m focused on becoming the best version of myself. But my passion for travel was deeply influenced by my late uncle, Charles. He served in the Navy and, as a child, I would sit wide-eyed as he shared stories about the incredible places he’d seen, the foods he’d tasted, and the people he’d met across the world. Even though he had a real fear of flying, he encouraged me to never let fear hold me back and made me promise to get on that plane, no matter how terrified I might feel. His courage, his adventurous spirit, and his belief in exploring beyond our comfort zones are what truly sparked my love for travel – and it’s what drives me every day as I grow Her World.
Instagram: @Its.her.world.now
YouTube: @ItsHerWorldTravels
LinkedIn: @HerWorld
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