The Vision Behind the Journey

Karen perspective continues to shape Southlake Travel—setting the tone for how each journey is designed and experienced.

That vision is carried forward by a close-knit team who share a common approach: listening carefully, guiding thoughtfully, and paying attention to the details that make travel feel effortless.

The Team


We work collaboratively, but every client relationship is personal.

Each advisor leads with care and insight, supported by a coordinated team behind the scenes. The result is a level of attention that allows our clients to travel with confidence—knowing every detail has been considered.

Together, we design travel that feels seamless, enriching, and distinctly your own.

Deonne Swanson  Southlake Travel Advisor Europe, Family and Global Journeys

Deonne Swanson  

Travel Advisor – Europe, Family & Global Journeys


For Deonne, travel is about the memories that stay with you long after you return home.

Having explored more than 20 countries and much of the United States, she brings both experience and perspective to the journeys she designs. She works closely with families and couples to create itineraries that feel thoughtful, well-paced, and easy to navigate.

Clients value her steady guidance and attention to detail—ensuring each trip feels seamless, enriching, and truly personal.

Sophia Iverson Southlake Travel Advisor – Honeymoons, Celebrations & Luxury Safaris

Sophia Iverson 

Travel Advisor – Honeymoons, Celebrations & Luxury Safaris


Sophia brings a global perspective shaped by years of living and traveling abroad, including meaningful time spent in Africa.

Her background in event planning adds a natural sense of structure and flow to the journeys she designs—whether a honeymoon, milestone celebration, or immersive travel experience.

She approaches each trip with care and intention, helping clients experience destinations in a way that feels both comfortable and deeply engaging.

Carol Palazzo Southlake Travel Advisor  Italy, Europe & Mediterranean Journeys

Carol Palazzo 

Travel Advisor – Italy, Europe & Mediterranean Journeys


Carol specializes in thoughtfully designed travel throughout Italy, Europe, and the Mediterranean, with an emphasis on cultural depth, comfort, and a relaxed pace.

Her personal travels—including Italy and Egypt—inform her perspective and allow her to guide clients with confidence and firsthand insight.

Carol listens closely to what matters most to each traveler, creating itineraries that feel refined, personal, and easy to experience. Clients value her calm, attentive approach and the seamless way she brings each journey together.

Jim Dawson Southlake Travel Marketing Director & Client Engagement

Jim Dawson    

Marketing Director & Client Engagement


Jim helps shape how Southlake Travel connects with clients, partners, and the community.

His work brings together the many ways clients experience the brand—from the Portfolio publication to Travel Talks, social media, and local partnerships. He works closely with leading travel partners including Tauck, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and AmaWaterways to ensure those relationships translate into meaningful client experiences.

At its core, Jim’s focus is simple: creating opportunities for conversation, discovery, and connection—so travel begins well before departure.

Global Perspective

Every journey begins with a conversation—guided by experience and shaped with care.