THE ECLECTUS TEAM
Jennifer Shanks
FOUNDER
Travel isn't just what I do, it is who I am. I have been traveling the far reaches of the globe for over twenty years on short breaks and long-term stays. I have traveled to six continents (Antarctica, I am coming for you) including sixty countries. Through my travels, I have discovered who I am and what inspires me. My specialty is diving deep into the local culture and experiencing authentic, once in a lifetime journeys. I love exploring a destination while it still has an untouched feel or finding unique ways to explore a treasured icon while avoiding the crowds. Throughout my career, I have developed a love of curating the perfect trips for my clients and developing their wanderlust.
Sarah Sturges
CULINARY & WELLNESS TRAVEL SPECIALIST
I am a Boston-based yoga instructor who has been teaching and leading retreats, both locally and internationally, for the past twelve plus years. I have a passion for gastronomy and believe that travel is the ultimate education. So when I met my Italian-born, oenophile of a husband, we decided to marry our passions—yoga and wine—in the form of our first, Luxury Yoga Wine Tour in northern Italy. Unabashedly, our lives have since revolved largely around delectable food, fine wine and beautiful places.
In order, to share these experiences with others, I have joined Jennifer at Eclectus as a luxury travel advisor, specializing in both wine and culinary travel for the discerning traveler. For more information on SeD's Luxury Yoga Wine Tours resuming in 2021, please visit my affiliate website at Sensi e Diletti.
Jessica Hart Curtis
LUXURY ADVENTURE SPECIALIST
Nothing makes me happier than all things travel! I love planning, dreaming, exploring, sharing and creating a lifetime of unforgettable experiences.
After a childhood of international travel, I bought an around-the-world plane ticket and for years I explored over 50 countries on six continents. I haven’t stopped since. I thrive on solo journeys, romantic getaways, traveling with friends, and generational family trips.
New amazing adventures are life giving. There are so many gorgeous, incredible places in our world. Whether it’s a relaxing vacation or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, my purpose is to plan your perfect trip.
MELISSA CAPPADONA
LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR
I’m a wife and mom to a 9-year-old boy who loves soccer. My life revolves around supporting my son’s dreams, spending quality time with my family, and of course, cheering him on as he works toward his soccer goals.
A native Massachusetts girl, I now live in Naples, Florida, and spend my summers on Cape Cod, where I find joy in the coastal lifestyle and the beauty of both places.
Professionally, I have over 21 years of experience in the interior furnishings industry. I started as an inside sales professional and worked my way up to Executive Director for multiple corporations. In recent years, I’ve enjoyed consulting for international companies, helping them build their brands and expand their reach in the U.S.
Traveling and planning trips have long been a passion of mine, and I am thrilled to now be focusing on this passion full-time. I recently joined Eclectus Travel, where I have the opportunity to merge my love for exploration with my experience in building relationships. My goal is to help others create unforgettable travel experiences tailored to their dreams and desires. Whether it’s a family getaway, a bucket-list adventure, or a relaxing retreat, I’m here to make your travel dreams come true with personalized service and expert guidance.
hEATHER wILDES
NORTH AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN ADVENTURE TRAVEL SPECIALIST
Where Sports, Entertainment and Travel Collide.
My whole life, I have been trying to find ways to travel. While in college, I had an incredible study abroad experience in Scotland and was able to travel all over Europe. I recall being out for a run on a Scottish hillside overlooking the North Sea and St. Andrews Old Course and being moved to tears as a rainbow appeared. It was in that moment that I realized I wanted other people to experience these take-your-breath away moments and live the magic of another time and place.
Fast-forward, now married with two children. I know firsthand that planning and prioritizing travel can be difficult. So, I’ve taken my passion for running and turned endurance races into vacation destinations! Whether pounding the pavement in the shadows of Mt. Rushmore or soaring past Cinderella’s castle at a Run Disney event – I get to fill my cup, and my family gets the benefit of exciting new places.
Whatever your passion may be, from sporting events, live music, or active adventures - I’m here to tailor every detail for you. Together, let’s plan your next unforgettable adventure!
Andrea BelL
LUXURY TRAVEL SPECIALIST
Travel isn't just something I do—it's who I am. Born and raised in Brazil, I’ve had the privilege of growing up in an international family where the emphasis on experiences and exploration shaped my worldview. At 20, I embarked on a two-month backpacking journey that ignited a passion for travel, and since then, I haven’t stopped exploring. My husband shares this love for travel, and together, we’ve made it a cornerstone of our lives. Our kids have been raised to appreciate the world beyond our doorstep, and travel is how we invest our time as a family.
As a travel expert, my greatest joy comes from curating unique, transformative journeys for others. I believe there is incredible value in crafting experiences that not only showcase the beauty of the world but also help my clients connect with it in a meaningful way. Nothing makes me happier than seeing someone discover the world through a trip designed by me.