Kelli Carpenter

Travel Advisor

Kelli Carpenter began her career in marketing, working with esteemed brands such as Pepsi-Cola, Coca-Cola, Kellogg’s, and Nickelodeon.

More than 25 years ago, she transitioned into the travel industry, creating specialty vacations around the globe. In 2003, she co-founded R Family Vacations with her business partner, Gregg Kaminsky, the first company to offer customized vacations for LGBTQ families and friends. The company gained widespread recognition when featured on HBO's "All Aboard!", which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, won a GLAAD Media Award, and was nominated for an Emmy. To date, over 20,000 guests have traveled with R Family Vacations, which has expanded to include adults-only LGBTQ getaways. In collaboration with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Kelli and Gregg host exclusive full-ship LGBTQ river cruises, along with group tours to destinations like Thailand and Ireland and large groups on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.

Recently, R Family Vacations rebranded as KelliGregg Travel to reflect its expanded offerings beyond family travel. The company continues to host its signature summer family vacation while also curating a wide range of travel experiences, from bespoke FIT (fully independent travel) itineraries to specialized group tours.
As an independent consultant for Nickelodeon, Carpenter produced several full-ship charters on Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, featuring beloved characters like SpongeBob and Dora, as well as live-action Nickelodeon stars.

In 2017, she received the Signature Travel Network Luxury Travel Advisor Trendsetters Award. Carpenter has also been honored with the OUT 100 designation as one of the most influential members of the LGBTQ community. Her accolades include recognition from Lambda Legal, the Family Equality Council, and the Family Travel Association.

Carpenter co-hosts a popular podcast called “#ilovemywife” sharing her travel experiences from all over the world. She also proudly serves on Belmond’s LGBTQ Advisory Board.
A graduate of Southern Methodist University, Carpenter resides in Jersey City, NJ, with her wife, singer-songwriter Anne Steele, enjoying life as empty nesters. Passionate about exploring the world, she loves sharing her travel experiences with clients, friends, and family.

"I would be delighted to share my expertise and help you plan your next adventure—whether you're traveling solo, with a partner or friend, or as part of a small or large group."

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