Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurie Gounelle.
Hi Laurie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in the south of France and moved to San Francisco at 19 as an au pair, an experience that opened my eyes to new cultures and new ways of living. After Hawaii and Alaska, I studied psychology and spent eight years in Montréal working in large-scale event management.
Life later brought me to San Diego, where I created Laurie en Californie. Since then, I’ve organized corporate programs, tailor-made trips, and guided groups throughout the American West. I trained in first aid, geology, wildlife, and even obtained my commercial driver’s license to accompany my clients safely and professionally.
Today, I combine guiding and consulting, helping travelers and companies discover the American West through authentic, meaningful experiences, always driven by my passion for people, culture, and exploration.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would actually say the road has been relatively smooth, not because everything was easy, but because I’ve always tried to approach challenges with curiosity rather than resistance.
There were difficult moments, of course: changing countries, starting over, learning new systems, and building a business far from home. But each time, I felt grateful for what I was learning. Even the harder experiences helped me grow, step by step.
I don’t pretend to have everything figured out, I’m still learning every day. But looking back, I feel lucky: the people I met, the opportunities I had, and the lessons along the way made the journey feel meaningful, even in the tougher moments.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Laurie en Californie is a boutique travel and events company specializing in custom-made experiences throughout the American West.
I design and organize corporate programs, incentive trips, events, conferences, and personalized travel itineraries. I also guide groups myself, which allows me to stay closely connected to the field and to the people I work with.
What really sets my business apart is the combination of two cultures: I’m French, but I’ve lived in North America for more than twenty years. I understand exactly what French-speaking travelers expect, while knowing how to navigate the American way of working, communicating, and traveling. This “bridge” between cultures is often what clients appreciate the most.
I’m also very hands-on. I’ve guided thousands of kilometers, trained in first aid, geology, wildlife, and local history, and even obtained a commercial driver’s license to accompany groups safely through the parks and desert roads. My clients know that I bring both expertise and a very human approach.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that people describe their experience with me as authentic, warm, and meaningful. My trips aren’t just itineraries, they’re moments of connection, discovery, and shared enthusiasm.
And because my work has always been about connecting cultures, I’ve recently started organizing custom trips in the other direction as well, creating tailored experiences in the South of France, especially in Provence and the Côte d’Azur, for American travelers who want to explore my home region through a local lens.
I want readers to know that whether they’re planning a corporate event, a family adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime road trip in the American West, or a discovery of the French Mediterranean, I’m here to create something truly thoughtful, tailored, and unforgettable.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I definitely didn’t build this journey alone, and I’m very grateful for the people who supported me along the way.
The families who welcomed me in San Francisco, Hawaii, and Alaska when I was very young played a huge role. They opened their homes, shared their culture, and helped shape the way I see the world. Those early years taught me curiosity, adaptability, and kindness.
My years in Montréal were especially transformative. It’s really where I discovered myself, where my personality opened up and where I learned how much joy and fulfillment work can bring. Canadians taught me the art of service, the importance of genuine human connection, and how professionalism can go hand-in-hand with warmth and pleasure. Montréal helped me grow not just professionally, but personally.
When I moved to San Diego and created Laurie en Californie, I was also incredibly supported by my ex-husband. I wouldn’t have been able to build everything I did without him. He supported me in every aspect of my life there, emotionally, practically, and professionally. His presence made many things possible, and I’m grateful for that part of my journey.
And of course, my clients have played a huge role as well. Many trusted me from the very beginning, sometimes even before I trusted myself. They recommended me, returned year after year, and gave my business the energy it needed to grow.
I’ve also been lucky to be surrounded by supportive friends, both in North America and in France, who encouraged me during the difficult moments and celebrated every small victory. Their encouragement helped me stay grounded and reminded me why I love what I do.
So if my business exists today, it’s because many generous people, hosts, colleagues, mentors, friends, clients, and partners, shaped my path and helped me at each stage of this adventure.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laurieencalifornie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurieencalifornie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurieencalifornie/?locale=fr_FR
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-gounelle-a1bb50a0/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurieencalifornie6599
Image Credits
Laurie Gounelle (Laurie en Californie)
