Meet the Team
At Red and Black Travel, we take pride in our exceptional team of seasoned travel enthusiasts. Each member brings a unique set of skills, passion, and firsthand knowledge of diverse destinations, ensuring that your journey is not just a trip but an unforgettable experience. From meticulous itinerary planning to personalized customer service, our dedicated team is here to turn your travel dreams into seamless realities. Join us on an adventure where every member of our team is committed to making your travel experience truly extraordinary.
Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Gayle Smith
Gayle Smith is the visionary founder of Red and Black Travel, Prescription Travel, and Prescription Travel Group. Gayle's commitment exceeds transactional travel planning; it's about cultivating a team that strives to create meaningful and personalized client experiences. As the driving force behind Prescription Travel and Prescription Travel Group, Gayle has extended her passion for travel beyond exploration to the mentorship and coaching of young travel advisors.
Co-Founder & Chief Sales Officer
Sam Johnson
Sam hails from Big Sky, Montana, and a sense of adventure has followed his whole life. Taking him from skiing in his hometown to exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and scuba diving in the Galapagos. Sam believes that travel opens the mind to new possibilities and invokes excitement for the future. Sam looks forward to helping you curate your next unforgettable experience.
Meet Our Interns
Intern Advisor
Jodie Henderson
Meet Jodie, an upcoming graduate from the University of Georgia, driven by an insatiable wanderlust and a fervent appreciation for life's adventures. As she prepares to embark on her career journey with Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland, she is excited to weave her passion for travel seamlessly into her professional endeavors. With Jodie, you'll discover unforgettable journeys, discover the world's wonders, and forge connections that stretch far beyond borders!
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Travel Interests: Adventure, Culture, Beach Getaways, History
Intern Advisor
Janie Kilby
Janie is a University of Georgia student majoring in Hospitality and Food Industry Management. She was born in a small town in Georgia and made the most of all the trips her family planned. From traveling across the country to traveling across the world she believes travel is the root of happiness, education, and life-long memories. Janie looks forward to navigating your interest to plan the perfect getaway for relaxation, education, or adventure!
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Travel Interests:
Family Travel and City Exploration
Intern Advisor
Sage Perez
Sage grew up on Saint Simons Island, Georgia, and loves to live life on island time! Her home has helped her find her love for hospitality and travel. She has been studying at the University of Georgia since the fall of 2020 and is well-traveled herself. She has been on two study abroad trips and has traveled with her family a good amount. Sage is excited to help others find their new homes away from home!
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Travel Interests: family travel, city exploration, celebratory travel, relaxation
Intern Advisor
Ashleigh Lang
Ashleigh, a proud Athenian, was raised amidst the rich heritage of Athens, Georgia. Her family vacations were educational escapades, fueled by pre-trip readings that ignited her passion for exploring new cultures. Now, she seeks out hidden gems, preferring hole-in-the-wall eateries over tourist traps. Let Ashleigh guide you on your next adventure for an authentic, immersive experience.
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Travel Interests: Wine and food, history
Intern Advisor
Jessica DeNardo
Meet Jessica DeNardo, a 3rd year Hospitality student at UGA, specializing in food and beverage with a focus on wineries. With three years of experience at her family's winery, Stoney J's, as a server and floor manager, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise to the travel industry. Additionally, she operates her own wedding photography business. Outside of work, Jessica finds joy in spending time with her golden retriever, delving into a good book, and staying active at the gym. Let Jessica be your guide to unforgettable journeys!
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Travel Interests: Wine, weddings, Honeymoons
Intern Advisor
Jacob Conrad
Growing up surrounded by a family of passionate travelers, Jacob inherited a deep-rooted love for travel and hospitality. Although school, sports, and two other brothers ensured his family’s schedule was packed, there was always a little extra time to travel. For Jacob, travel is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone to create lasting memories through new experiences. Jacob looks forward to connecting you to your dream destination!
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Travel Interests: Adventure, Relaxation, and Cuisine
Intern Advisor
Rachel Eck
Rachel Eck is a social butterfly who loves to travel both across the country and overseas. She has lived all over the south and has loved meeting new people and the diverse aspects of each state. Her dad sparked her love for travel when they explored places together while growing up. Now, she’s got a new puppy that she enjoys taking on adventures. Rachel is super excited to show others all the amazing things the world has to offer.
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Travel Interests: family trips, cruise lines, adventure
Intern Advisor
Copleigh Thomas
Copleigh has a passion for exploration and adventure. When not exploring new destinations she enjoys spending time with her two cats, Kirby (Yes, Kirby as in Kirby Smart) and Woody. Copleigh looks forward to helping you curate your next unforgettable adventure!
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Travel Interests: Family Travel, Hiking trips, Adventure
Intern Advisor
Sydney Baumgardner
Sydney, a passionate traveler with an excitement for exploring new horizons, brings her love for adventure to the forefront as a dedicated travel advisor. With Sydney’s passion for crafting memorable experiences, she thrives on creating journeys that leave a lasting impression on her clients. Come along on this exciting adventure where every moment is full of possibilities and excitement.
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Travel Interests: Family and adventure travel
Intern Advisor
Amy Nguyen
Amy's insatiable curiosity fuels her passion for travel and exploration. With a fondness for immersive travel, she eagerly seeks out the full spectrum of colorful experiences, from hidden culinary gems to vibrant cultural encounters. Drawing from her diverse background, from growing up in an Asian household to studying abroad in the UK, she brings an abundance of creativity and knowledge to the table and to your next trip!
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Travel Interests: City Exploration, Cultural Inclusion, Cuisine, Cute Variety/Stationary Stores, Cruises
Intern Advisor
Emily Or
After hiking through a Costa Rican cloud forest, unwinding in a Hakone onsen, strolling Chicago’s stunning skyline, and venturing on other adventures, Emily is convinced that traveling is one of the most enriching forms of education. Each journey has broadened her perspective, fostering a deep appreciation for language and culture. Whether you crave a tranquil retreat, an adrenaline-fueled escapade, or an immersive cultural experience, Emily looks forward to crafting your next memorable trip.
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Travel Interests: City Exploration, Adventure, Cultural Immersion)