Meet Chantell Garrett | Founder & Chief Wanderlust

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chantell Garrett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chantell, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Travel has always been a part of my life, beginning from childhood. Experiencing different places, cultures, and people gave me a profound appreciation for the world’s beauty and diversity. That love of travel planted a seed in me—one that grew into a desire to help others discover the magic of exploring new destinations. I knew I wanted to create something that not only made travel easier but also helped people create memories that would last a lifetime. Starting Always On the Go Travel Planning and Concierge became my way to turn that passion into a reality, allowing me to guide others in experiencing the joy, wonder, and connection that travel brings. It’s not just about planning trips; it’s about enriching lives through unforgettable moments.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In addition to my entrepreneurial endeavors, I am a certified diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) professional. This unique combination allows me to blend two passions: my love for travel and my commitment to fostering inclusive spaces. What sets Always On the Go Travel Planning and Concierge apart is that I approach travel not just as an opportunity for leisure but as a platform for cultural learning and connection. The foundation of travel is people, culture, and inclusivity—values that align perfectly with my work as a DEI practitioner.

The journey to get to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. There were challenges along the way, from learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship to navigating an evolving travel industry. However, I’ve always drawn strength from my passion for helping others and my ability to stay resilient, a trait I inherited from the strong women in my family. Overcoming those challenges meant constantly learning and adapting while staying true to my mission of creating meaningful, inclusive travel experiences.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about persistence—it’s also about being open to new ideas and approaches. I want the world to know that my brand is built on heart, authenticity, and a deep love for people and travel. At Always On the Go Travel Planning and Concierge, we’re about more than just planning trips—we’re creating opportunities for lasting memories and global connections.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Dallas, I’d want to show them the perfect mix of nature, local culture, and vibrant spots around the city. Here’s how I’d plan the week:

Day 1: Community and Brunch. We’d start with a visit to Concord Church, my church home, for a sense of community and reflection. Afterward, we’d enjoy a relaxing Sunday brunch at Meddlesome Moths, known for its delicious food and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Nature & Coffee. We’d kick off the day with a refreshing walk at White Rock Lake or the Dallas Arboretum, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Then, we’d head to Soiree Coffee Bar in Trinity Groves for a cup of coffee and good conversation.

Day 3: Klyde Warren Park & Local Eats. We’d explore Klyde Warren Park, enjoying the lively energy of the city and grabbing a bite from the food trucks. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching and relaxing.

Day 4: Shopping & Dining at Legacy Food Hall. We’d venture to Legacy Food Hall in Plano for an afternoon of shopping, dining, and more people-watching. It’s a vibrant spot with a variety of food vendors and a lively atmosphere.

Day 5: Live Music in Bishop Arts. We’d spend the evening in the Bishop Arts District, soaking in the eclectic vibe and catching some live music while enjoying great food and drinks.

Day 6: Entertainment. We’d catch a live concert, play, or performance at one of Dallas’ performing centers, adding a bit of culture and excitement to our week.

Day 7: Relaxation. We’d wind down the week with a relaxing massage at World Spa or King Spa, allowing us to unwind and enjoy some self-care before heading home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to my grandmothers, Clydia Locke and the late Willie Jean Gaither. I was fortunate to grow up with these strong and resilient matriarchs who shaped so much of who I am today. Both of them had a deep love for travel—whether it was for leisure, family trips, or even country-wide bowling tournaments. Their adventurous spirit and commitment to family laid the foundation for my own love of travel and my desire to help others experience the world. They taught me the importance of resilience, community, and making memories that last a lifetime, and I carry those lessons with me every day in my business.

Website: https://aotgtravels.com

Instagram: @alwaysonthegotravels

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/always-on-the-go-travel-planning-and-concierge/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089977066930

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlwaysOnTheGoTravel

Image Credits
Candy Mion Photography
G. Lockett
H. Long
S. Malone