A WREXHAM couple has taken their love of travel as inspiration for a new business.

Ian Pritchard-Jones, 43 and Rich Goodwin, 32, from Pen-y-Llan, met while working at the Cross Foxes in Erbistock, which Ian ran for 11 years.

They have now set up a travel agency business, Tailormade Escapes, finding people's perfect getaways.

Fluent Welsh speaker Ian said: "I did a degree in hospitality management, and that's what I'd done forever and a day in my working career.

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"But we wanted to get out of hospitality because of the hours and the unsociable side of it, and started thinking what could we do that we're really passionate about, and use our skills.

"We absolutely love holidays, we have a huge passion for them, and probably subscribe to every travel magazine there is, so why not sell them."

Taking the plunge, the pair took on a franchise with Not Just Travel, and haven't looked back since.

Ian said: "The franchise offers a bit of security and it's hard work but there are worse things to talk about all day than holidays."

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The couple work from home and clients can visit, call or chat over Zoom, and with that flexibility, they can also work outside regular office hours to suit the customer.

Tailormade Escapes began in May 2024, and already Ian and Rich have had customers re-book with them.

Ian added: "There's a buzz in getting people what they want and in their budget. We have access to over 450 suppliers, big names and specialists, there's not anything we can't tap into.

"There's a misconception that this kind of service is extravagant but we've wowed people with what they can get."

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It's the personal touch that makes all the difference, and Ian says that's never more important than when things go wrong.

The recent global Microsoft IT crash saw thousands of travellers stranded or looking for answers and in such times, knowing you have the number of someone who can help is priceless.

But that personal approach doesn't end there, as Ian and Rich will give clients a welcome home call.

Ian said: "We're there for them before they go, while they're away and when they come back. It's about going a step above."

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Their passion for holidays doesn't stop at finding the best location for their customers, they want the best all over. This includes finding flights that allow those travelling to be able to get the most out of their time, sorting airport parking and some unexpected surprises without blowing the budget.

And it doesn't have to be a big budget. Ian's favourite destination is Greece and the islands, and he adds: "The food, hospitality, the way they live is so chilled.

"They do basic really well. It always looks stunning in Greece. You can't beat a taverna on the beach."

• For more details on Tailormade Escapes, contact Ian on 07780682935 or email tailormadeescapes@notjusttravel.com