Travelers who work with Ruthann Szente are always surprised to learn one thing: Her expert services are completely complimentary. “There’s no additional cost for my clients,” she says. “I handle all the details so they can focus on the fun part—the travel itself.”

A full-service travel agent with MEI-Travel, Ruthann plans everything from cruises and family getaways to theme park adventures and multi-generational vacations. “I can help with pretty much any type of travel or destination,” she explains. “Some of my favorite and most popular bookings are ocean and river cruises and theme parks.”

Ruthann has been in the travel industry for more than six years, building a business she created on the foundation of organization, care, and personal connection. Her background in finance and accounting gave her a knack for planning and precision, skills that now serve her clients around the world. “As more friends and family came to me for help with their trips after seeing ours, I thought, why not do more with this love for helping others with their travel dreams?” she recalls. “It also gave me a more flexible career and allowed me to step away from the corporate hustle, which was very important with two young kids and a husband who traveled often as a pilot in the Air National Guard.”

A respected agency with two decades in business backs Ruthann’s work. “I’m proud to be part of an agency with an owner who truly takes pride in this company and is well-respected in the industry,” she says. “I continually keep up on all the latest news and trends through continuing education, certifications, and attending travel conferences to meet one-on-one with suppliers.”

What truly sets her apart, though, is her personal approach. “I don’t view this business as transactional—it’s about relationships,” she shares. “I get to know my clients personally so I can provide the trip they’re truly looking for. And I’m your main point of contact through every step—no call centers, no random agents.”

Her best advice for travelers? “Book early! The days of last-minute deals are going away as ships and resorts fill up,” she notes. “Booking as soon as you know your plans is important, and often, we can still adjust if rates go down.”

Ruthann finds her greatest fulfillment in the memories she helps create. “I love helping clients make those core memories they’ll never forget,” she comments. “It might be an annual family vacation or a surprise engagement. They all matter to me, and I’m honored to help make them happen.”

Originally from Waterville, near Toledo, Ruthann moved to the Dayton area to attend Wright State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. In Dayton, she also met her husband, now a Lt. Col. in the Air National Guard who flies C-130s. Together, they’re raising their two children—Hudson, 12, and Hannah, 6—and keeping busy with sports, cheer, and dance. “When we aren’t at practices or games, you’ll usually find us traveling to Disney World or sailing on a Disney Cruise,” Ruthann says. “This summer, we’re heading to Alaska, and everyone’s already excited!”

When she’s not planning dream vacations or cheering from the sidelines, Ruthann enjoys a little “me time.” “I love Pilates classes and treating myself to a massage or facial to relax,” she mentions.

To Ruthann, success means simple satisfaction: “Being able to provide for my family by doing something I love,” she says. “Yes, there are stressful moments, but I’d take them all to be doing this.”

Above all, she hopes to be remembered for her warmth. “You never know what someone may be going through, so I always come from a place of kindness.”

And right now, she’s spreading a little extra joy—mention this article and receive $50 in onboard credits or a gift card to use on your trip once it’s paid in full!