Leading Ladies: Ali Raymer

Story by Amelia Bowen
“I want people to feel confident saying yes to seeing the world, even if they have never traveled internationally or feel completely overwhelmed by all the details,” Ali Raymer says. “My mission is to be the ultimate travel hype girl.” As the founder and lead travel advisor at Peace & Pearl Travel Co., Ali turns stressful details into seamless adventures for clients dreaming of European getaways or unforgettable honeymoons. Yet, stepping into the travel industry was anything but a straight line. Armed with a journalism degree from Western Kentucky University and a master’s in English education from the University of Kentucky, Ali spent a decade teaching high school English. It was her role sponsoring the school travel club that sparked a new direction. Encouraged by her husband’s aunt, a travel agency owner, Ali spent summers and late nights at a kitchen table learning the trade. When the pandemic temporarily halted global travel just as her business took off, Ali pivoted back to teaching to support her family before going all-in on her agency in 2022. Today, she uses her educator’s heart to guide clients through every step of their journeys. “Getting a photo from a client mid-trip and knowing they are actually doing it never gets old,” Ali says. “The world feels a whole lot more accessible when you have someone in your corner cheering you on. ”That passion for encouragement carries directly into her leadership approach and community involvement in Bowling Green. Active at Woodburn Baptist Church, Ali leads a weekly Bible study for young moms and connects with local female entrepreneurs through Made for Mothers and IF:Gathering. Guided by mentors like Sheri Clarke, who gave Ali her start at Picture This Travel, her definition of success centers on elevating others. “I want younger women to see that ambition, motherhood, faith and a full life do not have to compete with one another,” Ali says. “Bet on yourself and do not wait until you feel completely ready.” When she is not helping clients or recording her podcast, The Travel Advisor Show, Ali recharges alongside her husband Josh and their children, Paxton and McClane. Whether enjoying tapas at Toro, walking on WKU’s campus or relaxing at home with The Great British Bake Off, Ali approaches every adventure wholeheartedly.