Mechanicsburg woman turns family vacation planning into business

Jenny Weimer

Business Name: Wish Upon a Castle with Jenny

Years in business: Less than a year

Location: Mechanicsburg

Contact: wishuponacastlewithjenny.com

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: I have always been passionate about traveling, and I usually have several trips planned, along with a long list of destinations I hope to visit someday. I love researching various locations, activities, customs and lodging options available in vacation spots worldwide. Sitting with a cup of tea poring our travel books or watching travel vloggers on YouTube is my favorite winter activity. Over the years, friends and family have frequently asked for my help in planning their dream vacations. After years of doing this informally, I decided to make it official and start my own travel planning business. My goal is to assist those who find vacation planning overwhelming and ensure they have an incredible travel experience.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: I have been planning vacations for my family, extended family and friends for quite a while. I’ve created detailed itineraries for various destinations, including Ireland, Grand Teton, Yellowstone and Glacier national parks, Washington, D.C., Rehoboth, Charleston, St. Augustine, Marco Island and Disney. Last year, I began researching travel agencies and potential partners to collaborate with, aiming to work with those that prioritize families over just making sales. In January of this year, I officially made the leap and joined the Wish Upon a Castle team.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: I provide complimentary travel planning services specializing in Disney, Universal, Viking, Sandals and Beaches, and I’m always excited to plan for new destinations. I work one-on-one with my clients in person, over the phone or via Zoom — whichever they prefer. Together, we discuss their dream vacation, including location, lodging, activities, dining and budget. I cater to young families, families with teens, multigenerational families and retirees, all seeking to enjoy a relaxing adventure.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: The biggest challenge I am facing right now is getting the word out about my services. However, referrals are coming in quickly. People are able to find me on Facebook, Instagram and even TikTok, which has been helpful in spreading the word.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: It’s so hard to pick just one! Having spent most of my life in Cumberland County, I would say my favorite thing is that it feels like home. After all of my travels, I’m always so happy to return and see the sunset to the west, the dark blue-green mountains to the north, the beautiful Susquehanna to the east and the open fields to the south. Cumberland County is large and offers many metropolitan activities within a few minutes or hours’ drive, but to me, our county still has that small-town, welcoming, friendly feel. Some of my favorite local businesses are Basehore Farm Market and Paulus Farm Market in Mechanicsburg, and Leo’s Ice Cream in Carlisle.