Manderley Steele

I’m Manderley, married to my husband Stuart; we are privileged to live in the peaceful countryside of Lancashire, close to Rawtenstall. It’s the kind of place where the quiet feels restorative, and for me, its home in every sense.

For 26 years, I’ve worked in the world of corporate banking, when redundancy arrived unexpectedly and I got over the initial shock, I found myself leaning into the belief that everything happens for a reason. And in that space, a new opportunity began to take shape.

It didn’t take long to realise what I truly wanted from the next chapter of my working life. Anyone who knows me knows how deeply I adore travel. Holidays are my absolute favourite thing, making memories, discovering new places and embracing new experiences. I’ve been fortunate enough to explore many corners of the world — and just as importantly, I’ve always loved helping friends and family plan their own adventures.

A recent trip to Bali sealed the deal. Our friends asked for recommendations, booked the same hotel and excursions we’d enjoyed, and the night before they flew out, I was buzzing with excitement for them. I knew they’d fall in love with Bali just as we had. When they returned, glowing with gratitude and stories, it confirmed what my heart already knew: it was time to leave the corporate world behind and step into something that truly lights me up.

Today, I’m proud to be an Independent Travel Consultant with Designer Travel, based in Ramsbottom, Everyday fills me with genuine excitement , knowing I’m helping people plan holidays they’ll treasure — and that is a privilege I don’t take lightly.

Let’s be honest: with so many travel companies and booking options out there, planning a holiday can feel overwhelming. What I offer is simple — a completely personalised, one to one service where you’re looked after from the moment we start planning to the moment you return home.

I’m passionate about what I do. When I design your perfect getaway, you’re not just booking a holiday — you’re gaining someone who genuinely cares about your experience and will go above and beyond to make it special. I’m confident that once you try my service, you’ll never want to book any other way.