This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Olivia Ferney, chief marketing officer with Top Tier Travel. It has been edited for length and clarity.
When I was growing up in Canada, raised by two guidance counselors, hearing “no” was a fact of life. Even for little things, like making a restaurant reservation, I learned to accept I wouldn’t always get what I wanted.
Once I started working with the wealthy, I was shocked to learn that no isn’t a definite. With enough money and relationships, there’s usually a way to work around a no. In fact, some of my clients have never been told no in their lives.
Learning that felt enlightening. My whole life, I’d thought that “no” was final, and suddenly I felt like I’d found a hack. I could have been figuring things out for my friends and family all along.
My clients are kind and happy
I entered this world about three years ago, when I met my now-fiancée, Troy. I was based in Miami at the time, and already knew that Miami is wild and sexy. Going to Vegas for the first time with Troy blew my mind. There, people won’t hesitate to fly you in a king crab at 2 a.m. if you’re spending millions in the casino. Seeing that firsthand was unbelievable.
Courtesy of Olivia Ferney
Today, I share some of the things I do for clients on my social media — like buying a $400,000 gift or breaking the news that a client’s son lost $900,000 on a bet. I try not to read the comments, but I know people often assume my clients are jerks because they’re rich.
The truth is, my clients are some of the best, most interesting people I’ve met. Troy and I interview prospective clients, and say no to them if the vibe isn’t right. There are happy people in all classes, and there are miserable people in all classes.
I have to prioritize my health in this high-stress job
Today, Troy and I spend about 300 days a year on the road. We don’t have a permanent home at the moment because we travel so much. While we have access to exquisite properties, it’s not always glamorous. Sometimes, I’m washing clothes in the sink.
We’re enjoying traveling right now, but I know it’s not sustainable long term. Last year, I started losing my hair due to stress. At the time, I was managing all our international travel for clients, which often meant being up all night. It was taking a toll.
Courtesy of Olivia Ferney
Since then, I’ve been much more mindful of taking care of myself. I test my cortisol levels every month. I meditate twice a day, prioritize sleep, and try to keep myself in tip-top shape.
My job impacts my family relationships
One of the coolest parts of my job has been bringing my friends and family into my clients’ world. Last New Year’s Eve, a client flew our families — including my parents and brother — to Vegas.
The weekend probably cost $100,000 and wasn’t something my family would normally ever have access to. A highlight was seeing my stepfather touch Carrie Underwood’s hand during a private performance.
Courtesy of Olivia Ferney
This job has, however, impacted how I relate to my family. I’m a chameleon at work, and communicate at the fast pace my clients are used to. When I go home to Canada, it takes me a while to slow down to a pace that’s more fitting for a 100-acre ranch in the middle of nowhere. I try to touch grass — literally — and leave my phone behind during breakfast. I think I’d have a panic attack if it were ever on Do Not Disturb, though.
Working with the rich has changed my definition of success
I’m at a point in my career that I didn’t even know was possible a few years ago. I’m making three times what I thought was a great salary. I’ve checked so many things off my bucket list.
Now, my metrics for success have changed. The bar is so much higher. I have access to people and knowledge that can help me build wealth in ways I didn’t know were possible.
