Our Team
Denise Ambrusko-Maida
Founder & Travel Advisor
Denise Ambrusko-Maida is the founder of Travel Brilliant, an award-winning travel agency specializing in family, multigenerational, LGBTQ+, group, and luxury travel experiences. Known for her thoughtful approach and deep industry expertise, Denise helps travelers explore the world with confidence through personalized planning and exceptional service.
An accomplished travel advisor, speaker, and industry advocate, Denise has been featured in leading travel publications including Travel Market Report, TravelPulse, and TravelAge West. She is particularly recognized for her work supporting LGBTQ+ travelers and families, helping clients find destinations where they feel welcomed, celebrated, and safe.
Having traveled extensively throughout North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, and Asia, Denise combines firsthand destination knowledge with strong relationships across the travel industry to create meaningful and memorable journeys. Whether planning a multigenerational family vacation, a luxury river cruise, a hosted group experience, or a bucket-list adventure, she believes travel should be authentic, enriching, and effortless.
In 2025, Denise launched the Travel Brilliant Collection, a luxury travel membership designed for travelers who value ongoing travel planning support, personalized service, and elevated experiences. The program reflects her belief that exceptional travel begins long before departure and should be supported by expert guidance every step of the way.
At the heart of Travel Brilliant is a simple philosophy: every traveler deserves a journey that is thoughtfully designed, seamlessly executed, and unforgettable from beginning to end.
Contact:
716-417-7824
denise@travelbrilliant.net
Thea Terranova
Agency Administrative Support
With over four decades of experience in the travel industry, Thea brings a wealth of knowledge and steady support to the Travel Brilliant team. She has personally traveled to destinations across the globe, including Jamaica and Italy, and has spent her career helping travelers turn their ideas into unforgettable experiences.
Thea’s passion for travel and dedication to client care remain as strong as ever. Her experience and attention to detail help ensure every trip is thoughtfully planned and smoothly supported.
Contact:
thea@travelbrilliant.net
James Macdonald
Africa Travel Specialist
James brings nearly 15 years of firsthand experience living and working in the South African wilderness to every safari itinerary he creates. Born and raised just outside Johannesburg, his lifelong passion for wildlife and conservation led him to train as a certified Field Guide in some of South Africa’s most remote reserves.
James has worked at and maintains personal relationships with many of the lodges he recommends, allowing him to design truly immersive and transformative African journeys. His itineraries go beyond luxury, offering meaningful connections to the land, wildlife, and culture.
Contact:
951-240-6715
james@travelbrilliant.net
Corina Stammworthy
Disney & Cruise Travel Specialist
Corina loves both traveling and the planning that goes into making a trip memorable. When she’s not running her dog grooming business, she’s researching destinations and mapping out her next adventure.
Her travel interests range from U.S. National Parks (she’s working toward visiting all 423) to Walt Disney World and South Africa. Corina enjoys helping clients maximize their time and experiences, whether they’re planning a theme park vacation or a cruise getaway.
Education: Disney Travel, Universal Studios, Royal Caribbean
Contact:
716-472-5704
corina@travelbrilliant.net
Tressa Dole
Disney Travel Specialist
Tressa has a deep passion for all things Disney and stays up to date on the latest news, tips, and park experiences. As a parent of two young children, she understands the magic and the challenges of planning a Disney vacation for families.
Tressa loves helping clients create memorable Disney experiences, whether that means planning a budget-friendly trip, a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, or a relaxing cruise with a touch of Disney magic. Her goal is to make the planning process smooth so families can focus on enjoying their time together.
Education: Disney Travel, Universal Parks and Resorts
Contact:
716-730-1374
tressa@travelbrilliant.net
Alexander Baron
Disney Travel Specialist
Alex is a dedicated Disney travel expert who loves planning just as much as the magic itself. Whether you’re a Disney superfan or planning your very first trip, Alex focuses on making the experience easy, organized, and unforgettable.
Having experienced Disney as both a child and an adult, Alex brings firsthand insight into everything from runDisney races and festivals to ride strategies and dining plans. He’s known for optimizing park days, mastering rope drop strategies, and finding those extra moments of magic.
Alongside him is his “CTLO” (Chief Turkey Leg Officer), Jess, who provides behind-the-scenes support and shares his love for all things Disney.
Education: Disney Travel, Universal Parks and Resorts
Contact:
845-304-7929
alexander@travelbrilliant.net
Kaylei Nickerson
Disney Travel Specialist
Kaylei loves exploring new destinations, with Walt Disney World holding a special place in her heart. You’re most likely to find her enjoying a churro, riding Expedition Everest, or meeting her favorite characters.
She enjoys planning trip details and sharing tips and tricks to help clients make the most of their Disney vacations. Kaylei looks forward to helping families and Disney fans create magical, stress-free trips.
Education: Disney Travel
Contact:
716-969-3794
kaylei@travelbrilliant.net
Kathryn Cartwright
Cruise Travel Specialist
Kathryn has a passion for cruising and believes it is one of the best ways to explore the world comfortably and safely. She’s always researching cruise itineraries for her family and loves sharing her knowledge with clients.
As a parent of a young child, Kathryn understands the importance of balancing adventure with ease. She enjoys helping travelers plan cruise vacations that fit their lifestyle, whether it’s a relaxing getaway or a globe-spanning journey.
Education: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages
Contact:
716-359-1727
kathryn@travelbrilliant.net
Cynthia
All-Inclusive & Caribbean Travel Specialist
Cynthia’s love for travel is rooted in both adventure and healing. After facing a breast cancer diagnosis in 2016, travel became a powerful source of renewal and inspiration in her life. This experience led her to pursue a career as a Certified Travel Specialist.
She specializes in Caribbean and all-inclusive travel, curating trips that balance relaxation, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Cynthia is passionate about helping clients create journeys that celebrate life, embrace joy, and make lasting memories.
Education & Certifications:
ALGVPro Travel Specialist, All-Inclusive Travel, Aruba, Cancun, Caribbean Experience, Cozumel, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Riviera Maya, St. Lucia, Tobago, Tropical Family Vacations, U.S. Virgin Islands
Contact:
cynthia@travelbrilliant.net
