An Incredible Journey: Alaska, Friendships and Unforgettable Memories

I have thoroughly enjoyed every stop along my Stampin’ Up! journey. Over the years, I’ve attended many events, and Stampin’ Up! has always done an incredible job of recognizing demonstrators and making us feel truly special. Their attention to detail is second to none.

I recently returned from this year’s Incentive Trip*, an Alaskan cruise that exceeded every expectation. For so many reasons, this was a trip I’ll never forget. We were treated to an all-expenses-paid trip for two, which means we were able to share the experience with another special person in our lives. The trip included 277 demonstrators from around the world, each traveling with a spouse, child, parent or friend. I couldn’t have been happier to share this experience with Jeremiah.

*legal disclaimer: The claims published here are not representative of typical Stampin’ Up! demonstrators. The level of sales needed to achieve this result requires significant work and is accomplished by a substantially small percentage of Stampin’ Up! demonstrators.

Today I’m sharing a few photos from this incredible adventure. During our week-long journey, we visited:

• Seattle, Washington
• Sitka, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier
• Juneau, Alaska
• Victoria, British Columbia

Bundle Up – We’re Headed to Alaska!

I shared a few photos from Seattle and Snoqualmie Falls in Sunday’s Week in Review (CLICK HERE to see those pictures). Today, I’m taking you along for the Alaska and Victoria portions of the trip. Most of these are selfies, but I think you’ll recognize plenty of familiar smiles.

I am all smiles whenever Susan and Lance Nygaard walk into a room. I absolutely adore these two!

I always enjoy laughing and “talking shop” with Dawn Griffith. She and Rich bring so much fun and energy to every Stampin’ Up! event.

I’ve also always loved visiting with Lisa Curcio. She’s smart, funny and somehow manages to be even more petite in person. I’m not sure why she asked me to stand behind her for this photo, but who am I to argue?

And, of course, I never pass up a hug from Rose Marie Coleman.

Patty Bennett and I grabbed a quick selfie while twinning in matching coats from a past Stampin’ Up! gift. Can you tell which one is Patty and which one is me?

I don’t know these two from ’80s Night, but I was told they are Kylie and Bruno Bertucci. One of these things is not like the other. Any guesses?

There were three male achievers on this year’s trip. Here I am with Victor-Manuel Godov from France and Tim Lauer from Germany.

We even found time to work on a puzzle with Andy and LeAnn Greff. I snapped this photo just as we were taking apart the puzzle we completed during one of our days at sea.

Off-the-Boat Excursions

While some trip participants opted for helicopter rides and kayak adventures away from the boat, Jeremiah and I preferred relaxing outings that allowed us to soak in Alaska’s breathtaking beauty.

Stampin’ Up! gifted all achievers with tickets aboard the White Pass Scenic Railway in Skagway. The ride carried us through stunning mountain landscapes. While I took countless photos along the way, I especially love this quick snapshot from the side of the train moments before entering a tunnel.

And if you’re sitting in front of me on a train, there’s a good chance you’ll end up with a phone in your face for a selfie. Just ask Julie Scott!

In Juneau, Jeremiah and I visited a musher camp where dogs are trained for The Iditarod. The dogs were clearly loved and exceptionally well cared for by the camp staff. It may look like they’re running on a hard surface, but the trail was actually wet mud. They were absolutely thrilled to be working together.

We had the opportunity to meet the dogs and even cuddle some weeks-old puppies. So adorable! I’m pretty sure I’ve imprinted on this little guy.

The camp itself was situated on an unbelievably beautiful property that included this suspension bridge. If you know Jeremiah, you know heights and rickety bridges aren’t exactly his favorite thing. Still, he bravely crossed for this photo.

And here’s the spectacular view looking down from the bridge.

Time with Julie and Jackie

I’ve enjoyed spending time with Julie DiMatteo on several Incentive Trips, and this year she brought Jackie Beers as her “plus one” guest. That meant I had two team members on the trip, which made the experience even more special.

One evening, I was delighted to treat Julie and Jackie to dinner at Jamie Oliver’s Italian restaurant aboard the ship.

In Victoria, British Columbia, we enjoyed a traditional Scottish High Tea at the Pendray Inn and Tea House. What a beautiful setting!

Each of us selected our own tea and received an impressive tower of treats that included pot pie, scones, a Scotch egg and four incredible desserts. We felt quite fancy indeed!

After tea, we planned to walk back to the ship, but Jackie surprised us with a rickshaw ride through town instead. Along the way, we passed many of our stamping friends, prompting our driver to finally ask, “Who are you all?!” 🙂

Last Thoughts

Trips like this are about so much more than beautiful destinations. Yes, Alaska’s glaciers, mountains and wildlife were unforgettable, but the moments I’ll treasure most are the conversations, laughter and friendships shared along the way. I’m incredibly grateful to Stampin’ Up! for creating opportunities like this and thankful for every person who has supported my business and made experiences like this possible. What an incredible journey it has been – and I can’t wait to see where the next adventure leads.

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Brian

Shop the New Products

The May – August 2026 Catalog and coordinating Online Exclusives are live – and you can place your order now. To learn more, click on the image below:

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Don’t Miss June’s Product of the Month

When you place a $75 order (before shipping and taxes) in June, you can select the new Product of the Month for just $5. Here’s a look at this over-the-top, adorable stamp set:

To read more about this sweet set and see a collection of Stampin’ Up!-designed samples, CLICK HERE.

Super-Awesome!

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