Brandi Minor, born and raised in Manistique, purchased at the end of 2025 a travel agency founded by a local couple. (Photo courtesy of Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce)

MANISTIQUE – Local woman Brandi Minor recently purchased Blue Diamond Travel Agency, a Manistique-based business dedicated to helping travelers create memorable and meaningful experiences.

“With years of experience creating complex itineraries, I specialize in planning stress-free custom trips, Caribbean cruises, and guided European tours for clients across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. My goal is to save you hours of research and leverage my industry connections to get you the best exclusive perks,” wrote Minor on the business website.

Mark and Jen Giannunzio opened Blue Diamond Travel Agency in 2016. The Giannunzios, like Minor, are passionate about traveling and assisting others with adventure plans.

Minor began working as an agent for Blue Diamond in 2019 under the founding owners. What started as an opportunity to combine her passion for travel and planning quickly grew into a long-term goal of ownership.

“Although she didn’t grow up traveling, her first flight at age 19 sparked a lifelong love of exploring new destinations, something she now shares with her clients through personalized travel planning,” read a press release issued by Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce this week.

Now, Minor is able to bring both personal and professional experience to her new role.

“I’ve always loved to travel and plan,” said Minor. “The opportunity to work with Blue Diamond came at just the right time… When the time came (to purchase the business), I was thrilled to take the leap. I love this job and take so much pride in helping others travel.”

Minor also has her own photography business that she launched in 2020 with the name Brandy Lynns Photography.

For a spell, both Brandy Lynns Photography and Blue Diamond — then owned by the Giannunzios — shared office space at 159 River St. in Manistique.

Minor bought the travel agency in November of 2025. She now operates out of her home, and meets clients in public when in-person meetings are sought.

“As the travel industry continues to evolve, we are seeing a shift toward experience-based travel. People want to truly connect with a destination — its culture, cuisine, and unique offerings. At Blue Diamond, I focus on guiding clients with real expertise to create those meaningful, experience-filled trips,” Minor explained.

“In addition to personalized service, Blue Diamond Travel Agency offers ongoing support before, during, and after travel, providing peace of mind in the event of unexpected changes or disruptions,” wrote Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce.

Minor is also reportedly committed to the local community and actively supports partnerships and events. One upcoming initiative includes the agency’s annual raffle in partnership with Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, featuring a $3,100 cruise prize, with tickets available locally and a winner to be announced on June 1.

“Small businesses are what make our community thrive,” said Minor. “I’m proud to be part of Manistique and hope to continue supporting local events while helping our community travel with ease.”

Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce congratulated Minor on the acquisition and commented on the importance of small business leadership and community investment.

“On behalf of Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce, we would like to congratulate Brandi on this exciting new chapter,” said Executive Director Victoria George. “Her passion for travel, commitment to customer service, and dedication to our community make her a wonderful fit as the new owner of Blue Diamond Travel Agency. We are excited to see her continue to grow the business and enhance travel opportunities for residents across the region.”

Looking ahead, Minor’s goals include expanding awareness of Blue Diamond Travel Agency throughout the area and continuing to provide exceptional, personalized service to clients.

For more information on Blue Diamond Travel agency or to book a trip, people may call 906-450-1501 or visit bluediamondtravelagency.com or www.facebook.com/BlueDiamondTA.