Summer Bowers is originally from Colfax, North Carolina, but currently lives in Fairbanks, Alaska, with her Army active-duty husband. They have two wonderfully adventurous children, ages 4 and 5. Summer began as a part-time travel advisor in 2019. In 2023, she became co-owner of a Cruise Planners travel franchise. Together with her co-owner, they have 4 employees.
Summer began traveling in 2016, when she met her husband, and moved to Italy with the military. They lived in Europe for 5 years before moving to Colorado, and then finally, Alaska. An adventure junkie, she loves anything that gets her heart racing. That includes traveling with her family all over the world!
What made you decide to look into purchasing a franchise?
In 2023, while working as an associate, I realized I wanted more from my career in this industry. I was driven to make a greater impact and to operate with a higher level of independence. I also wanted full access to the tools and resources our host agency provided, including supplier relationships and advanced technology.
Equally important, I was seeking greater financial freedom and flexibility, with the ability to build a business on my own terms and without limitations. My goal was to create an income that could match my husband’s military salary while maintaining control over my time and growth.
With that vision in mind, I approached the Cruise Planners franchise owner, Tammy Overcash, to share my interest in branching out and potentially purchasing my own franchise. Around that same time, she presented me with the opportunity to step into a co-owner role. Since 2023, we have partnered together, combining our strengths to grow into the successful, women-led business we are today.
When researching franchises, what criteria mattered to you most? How did your franchise meet that criteria?
Cost, support, technology, and relationships were all critical factors. Cruise Planners met every one of those needs, along with offering one of the most competitive commission structures in the industry.
Which of your prior skills and experiences do you use in operating your business today?
My background includes dual degrees in mathematics and actuarial science, both of which are rooted in a highly analytical, data-driven approach. I use those skills every day in running my business, whether it’s analyzing performance, managing financials, or making strategic decisions based on numbers rather than assumptions.
I am also extremely detail-oriented, which is critical in this industry. From building complex itineraries to managing client bookings and ensuring accuracy across every touchpoint, precision matters. My ability to work with numbers and maintain a high level of organization allows me to operate efficiently, minimize errors, and deliver a seamless experience for my clients.
What were your first 90 days like as a franchisee?
My first 90 days as a franchise owner were a mix of excitement, pressure, and growth. I definitely experienced a level of imposter syndrome at the beginning. There were moments where I questioned whether I truly knew what I was doing, even though I had already been working in the industry.
At the same time, I continued to operate much as I had before, focusing on serving my clients and running the day-to-day aspects of the business. That familiarity helped ground me during a period that otherwise felt very new and uncertain. I also had my co-owner, Tammy, cheering me on, reminding me constantly that there was a reason she chose ME…because she saw my potential.
There was also a sense of freedom that came with stepping into ownership. I had the ability to make decisions independently and shape the direction of the business. But with that freedom came a clear understanding that the responsibility and success of our business now rested on me partially.
Those first 90 days ultimately pushed me to grow quickly, build confidence in my abilities, and fully step into my role as a business owner.
At what point did you feel like you “got the hang of it” and settled in as a business owner?
Honestly, I’m not sure there was a single moment where I felt like I completely “got the hang of it.” There are still days when I question myself or feel like I’m figuring things out as I go.
I tend to compare myself to others in the industry, which can make it easy to feel like I’m behind or not doing enough. But when I take a step back and look at my business objectively, the results tell a different story. My sales continue to grow, my client reviews are strong, and referrals keep coming in. That’s what reassures me that I’m on the right track.
I think settling in as a business owner isn’t about reaching a point where everything feels perfect. It’s more about building confidence over time and trusting the process, even on the days when it doesn’t feel that way.
How does the franchisor support and encourage your success?
Cruise Planners has been more of a blessing than I ever could have imagined. The level of support, training, business coaching, marketing, and overall culture is truly exceptional. Every year, they continue to raise the bar in ways that still surprise me.
What stands out the most is the people. The community is incredibly welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely supportive. There’s a shared desire to see one another succeed, along with the right amount of motivation to grow and improve if you’re open to it.
Even on the most challenging days, I’m reminded that I’m not alone. I have an incredible business partner. And whether it’s navigating a difficult client or a tough situation, there’s always guidance, perspective, and reassurance that those moments are temporary. That kind of support has made all the difference in my journey.
What are you most proud of and why?
What I’m most proud of is the impact my business has had, both on my own family and on the families I serve.
Personally, I’m proud that I’ve been able to contribute financially in a meaningful way. It’s allowed our family to experience opportunities we may not have had otherwise, especially when it comes to travel. Being able to show my children different parts of the world and give them those experiences is something that means a great deal to me.
Professionally, I’m proud of the influence I’ve had on my clients. I’ve helped so many families and couples step outside of their comfort zones and experience destinations that may have never considered on their own. Knowing I’ve played a role in those memories is incredibly rewarding.
I’m also proud of the business we’ve built. It’s something we’ve grown with intention, and it reflects our values, our work ethic, and our commitment to clients. Seeing it all come together with my amazing co-owner is something I don’t take for granted.
What advice would you give to potential franchise owners?
My advice to potential franchise owners is to remember that this industry is built on relationships. The more you learn and the more you immerse yourself in the product, the more confidently and effectively you’ll be able to sell.
You can’t truly advise or sell travel if you’re not experiencing it yourself. Start somewhere, anywhere. Focus on what you know, and as you grow, continue expanding your knowledge. If you don’t know something, lean into your supplier partners and take the time to educate yourself on their products.
Also, understand that this is an incredibly supportive industry. People genuinely want to see you succeed, and there is more than enough business to go around. It’s far more collaborative than competitive, which creates a really positive environment to grow a successful business.
The Cruise Planners Franchise Opportunity
We survey tens of thousands of franchisees every year. With that information, we make lists that honor the top-performing ones. Cruise Planners slays this and appears in the following lists just this year:
- Top Franchises for Culture
- Top Franchises for Women
- Top Low-Cost Franchises
- Top 200 Franchises
- Most Innovative Franchises
- Best Franchises for Veterans
Learn More About this Franchise Opportunity
Because Cruise Planners surveys their franchisees regularly with Franchise Business Review, we can give you all sorts of insight into the health and culture of their company. You can download their full franchisee satisfaction report on our site to learn so much more.
