Kudos
Kudos. Accolades. Testimonials.
Whatever word you choose to use, here’s some of our recommendations from real people.
Because it’s not what we say about ourselves, is it? It’s what others say.
Testimonials and Recommendations
Some people give “kudos”. Other people, “accolades” or “orchids.” Clients share "success stories." In other words, testimonials and recommendations.
You may certainly choose the label you prefer to use. Although we’re fans of “kudos,” likely because it borrows from the Greek, κúδος.
Whatever the label, the resulting words of testimonials and recommendations matter.
Why do testimonials and recommendations matter?
Because real people have taken time to write down their firsthand experiences with our client work, and to communicate their honest opinions of our creative craft.
After all, it’s not what we say about ourselves and our work, is it? Rather, it's what others say.
So, here's what real people, such as our wholeheartedly human audience and creative partners and brand collaborations, have to say about what it's like to work with us, Marilee and Paul Kostadimas, the slow travel storytellers of Spotlight Sojourns.
Of course, as the saying goes, your mileage may vary.
“Marilee and Paul Kostadimas teach that “meaningful travel is part of a meaningful life." They share personal stories about getting to know other cultures, themselves, and one another, through experiencing famous landmarks as well as hidden gems discovered off the beaten path. Whether it’s in a keynote speech, an interview, or a casual conversation, they invite you to reconsider travel as a portal to self-awareness, personal expansion, intimacy, and purpose — an invitation you won’t be able to resist!
Marilee’s soulful eloquence will touch you to the core. Paul's visual mastery and quiet authority are the ideal complement. The combined result is an intricate, sophisticated, and also very accessible transmission that will move any listener.
My audience of educated, successful listeners loved what Paul and Marilee had to say, and many orient to travel with new enthusiasm and intentionality.”
Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, MD
Host, The Intimate Marriage Podcast
"We together used social media to invite others to see St. Louis through Marilee’s eyes. We’re delighted with the reach of social media exposure.”
Brian Hall
Chief Marketing Officer, Explore St. Louis
"I had the pleasure of working with Marilee and Paul when my county hosted them for a tour in Utica. It was easy to communicate and plan with them prior to meeting and as soon as we met in person, I felt like they were old friends.
They are so professional yet easygoing and it was easy to work with them from start to finish.
I love their enthusiasm, passion, and style of storytelling when it comes to showcasing destinations.
Additionally, they’re tech-savvy and totally in tune with social media trends. Marilee and Paul created beautiful Instagram Reels and posts that we were able to share to both of our Instagram pages.
It’s a breath of fresh air to have total trust in the quality of product they produce. I can already tell that they are helping us build a new audience and spark interest in our part of NYS."
I highly recommend working with Spotlight Sojourns!
Sarah Foster Calero
President Oneida County Tourism
“Marilee and Paul Kostadimas are intelligent experts who are great at capturing an audience as they share their knowledge.
Dynamic and charismatic, these professional storytellers can strategically craft a presentation that engages and electrifies your audience."
Sarah Paikai
CEO, Aloha Management Center
“Marilee and Paul are incredible as leaders in the travel, tourism, and planning field. I fully trust them to handle any and all projects travel and travel writing related, and know that you are in good hands working with them on any travel oriented endeavors!
Solid, hard working, dependable AND with an unparalleled expertise in the space.”
Liani Kotcher
Attorney and Author, Rektok Ross
“Thank you for sharing your wisdom and amazing presence at the WITH National Conference. You are an absolute jewel to our industry.
Your personality is contagious, and your insight on storytelling and branding is enlightening. I learned so much!”
Clara Carter, CDMP
Meeting Strategist and Event Producer, Women in Tourism and Hospitality
“Marilee volunteered as a panelist for the JOURNEYS Webinar Series: Special Events Professionals hosted by Meeting Professionals International Northern California Chapter (MPINCC) Emerging Professionals. Marilee’s knowledge of the meetings and events industry with a global perspective allowed her to share tips and practical advice that was appropriate for emerging professionals.
I sincerely appreciate her commitment to the meetings and events industry and future leaders.
With her education, experience, knowledge, and background and offering her time and expertise, Marilee provided an extra special “je ne sais quoi” to the session and the audience.
She is a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend her to other organizations seeking a passionate, enthusiastic, and engaging keynote speaker or panelist.”
Thomas C. Padron, PhD, CHE, CWP
Associate Professor, Undergraduate and Graduate Program Coordinator, Department of Hospitality, Recreation, and Tourism, California State University, East Bay
"Marilee, your energy and enthusiasm have always made me smile. I appreciate how you opened my world up to service on the MPINCC Board.
I gained new skills through that experience that I use today in my business ventures. I also remember you talking to me about being present in moments. Still today, I often put my phone in my pocket and just absorb what is happening around me.
This is the most beautiful gift you have shared with me. Thank you for being an impactful part of my journey."
Paula Zimmer
Author and Founder, Travels Lightly
“A skilled strategist, Marilee is able to bring people together behind a grand vision and inspire others.”
Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, CIS
Chief Revenue Officer, Meeting Professionals International
Collaborations and More Kudos
Vienna Tourist Board
Visit Peloponnese
Visit Meteora
Lafayette Travel
Erie Canalway
Amario Suites Hotel
NY Canal Corp
Mega Spileo Estate
Visit Rochester
“Paul’s photography skills are remarkable, beautifully capturing the essence of each destination. I greatly admire his professionalism, creative approach, and the passion he puts into his work."