The Origin and Mission of Elope
The defining moment came in 2018 when I lost my job. Rather than settle, I booked a flight to Japan and immersed myself in cherry blossom season. It was a brief escape, but it highlighted a troubling reality: when I went to book another trip, the prices had doubled.
Why should travel feel like a luxury when so many people dream of seeing the world?
That single question led to the creation of Elope — a mission-driven platform built to make travel more accessible. It wasn’t just about cheaper flights; it was about ensuring that people from all walks of life could explore the world. I kept hearing stories: friends who had never left their home country, parents saving for months for a holiday, students skipping exchange programs because of airfare costs.
These stories highlighted a systemic problem: the financial burden of travel. I began mapping out solutions — late nights, endless drafts — searching for a better way. My perspective shifted further after reading That Will Never Work by Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph. Inspired, I emailed him. To my surprise, he responded, invited me to his podcast… and I panicked. I ghosted him.
Months later, he reached out again. This time, I joined his new community. From those early conversations with Marc and his son Hunter, Elope gained not only guidance but momentum. Marc became an advisor, then our first investor. More soon followed.
