We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shelli Nornes. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Shelli, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I used to wander. I think we all do for a while… trying things on, taking detours, figuring out what fits. But somewhere along the way (around age 50, to be exact!), something shifted. Clarity kicked in. Priorities sharpened. I don’t have the time or the patience to wander anymore.
These days, I’m walking a very clear path. It’s intentional. Purpose-driven. I know who I am, what I value, and where I’m going. There’s a certain peace in that, and a quiet power, too. Funny how age has a way of snapping things into focus. I may have taken the scenic route to get here, but now I’m moving forward with purpose, and I’m not looking back.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi there! I’m Shelli Nornes, founder of Romance Travel Group. For over 25 years, my team and I have helped couples plan unforgettable destination weddings throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. We’re not just travel agents… we’re matchmakers, therapists, and wedding whisperers all rolled into one! What makes us different? We don’t just book trips – we create personalized wedding experiences that are seamless, joyful, and virtually stress-free. Our secret sauce? First-hand resort knowledge, strong industry relationships, and a deep commitment to making our couples feel heard, supported, and excited. If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” on a beach with your toes in the sand, we’re the team to call.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that craved the spotlight, the recognition, the “look what I built” applause… that’s the part I’ve slowly learned to let go of. When I was younger, I thrived on being seen as the expert, the go-to, the one who had all the answers. And while that drive served me well for a long time, it also kept me stuck in the mindset that I had to do it all myself to prove my worth.
These days, my greatest joy comes from shining that light on my team. Watching them grow, succeed, and earn recognition is far more fulfilling than any personal accolade ever was. I want them to feel empowered, appreciated, and proud of the work they do because they are incredible. Letting go of the need to be at the center has made room for something even better: a team that rises together.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most? Not being good enough. I spent years comparing myself to everyone… how I looked, what I said, how I showed up. I always felt like I fell a little short, like I just couldn’t completely compare. That kind of thinking can be paralyzing.
But over time, I learned to channel that fear into quiet determination. I didn’t get louder, though. I got more focused. I let go of trying to measure up to everyone else and started trusting my own pace, my own voice. I’m still an introvert, but now I wear that like a badge of honor. I keep my head down, I do the work, and I kick ass. I may not always be the loudest in the room, but I’m steady, I’m strong, and I get shit done.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Honestly? No, the public version of me isn’t the full picture. People see the polished parts…the strong leader, the confident entrepreneur, the one who can handle anything. And while all of that is true in many ways, it’s just a piece of who I am.
The real me is more private. I carry deep convictions—political, spiritual, personal—but I keep them close. Not out of fear, but because I value connection over division. I’m incredibly sensitive, even though I don’t always show it. I feel things deeply. I second-guess myself more than people would imagine. And while I’ve learned to project boldness and strength, there’s still a quiet, questioning voice inside that I’m always working with.
The public gets glimpses. But the full story? That’s for the few I let in close.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I’m gone, I hope the story people tell is this: that I learned how to use the blessings I was given to lift others up. I’m all the clichés… first-born daughter, classic Type A, a sprinkle of OCD, and a healthy dose of perfectionism. For a long time, I thought success meant holding it all together, doing it all myself, and getting it all right.
But somewhere along the way, I realized that joy doesn’t come from having it all. It comes from sharing it. Whether it’s knowledge, opportunity, time, or encouragement, I’ve found purpose in passing those blessings on. If people remember me as someone who made others feel seen, valued, and supported… then that’s the legacy I want to leave.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://romancetravelgroup.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romancetravelgroup/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RomanceTravelGroup
Image Credits
none
