March 2012 Cool Mom Business - Hi Ho Vacations

Meet: Holly McGuire

The Business:
Hi Ho Vacations – a free Disney Travel planning service.  We help families make the most of their money and time when visiting any Disney owned property – Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise, Adventures by Disney, and new this year Aulani in Hawaii.  So often families become overwhelmed with the options available to them when heading to a Disney Destination,  many times overpaying for options or simply not knowing how to take advantage of amenities they have paid for.  To date we have saved families thousands of dollars – not to mention time and stress. 

Finding Balance:
This is the toughest part of owning your own business.  Balance!  I’m still learning to deal with the dishes in the sink and a living room that seems to always need vacuumed.  I do have a wonderful family who pitches in with the day to day “business” around the house.  It’s becoming our new normal and is teaching my boys the importance of valuing their belongings and their home. 

Best Advice for a working mama:
When you spend time with your kids and family focus on them. I’m sure many working moms could tell you that just because your PHYSICALLY there – does not always mean your THERE.  I do my very best to be present with them.  No cell phone – no e-mails.  It’s hard at times but I’m improving.

Top 3 must haves that make your life easier:

1. My support system, the indispensable people that help with my boys.  I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to know while I’m working, my boys are happy and well taken care of.
2. My iphone.  It allows me to be away from my desk for periods of time but still available to clients if needed.  I can find meals on the go-check my calendar – return emails from the ball field….
3. Yoga.  There can be a lot of pressure planning the perfect vacation for our sweet clients.  I could not get through a week without my Yoga and Pilates sessions.  The best stress reliever!  

For more info: www.hihovacations.com or 317-586-4002