Dian Philip – Co-Founder of DSLAP Travel & Services

“Why just do it when you can DSLAP it?”With over 30 years of experience in the event and travel industry, I’ve dedicated my career to creating unforgettable moments rooted in excellence, creativity, and cultural connection.

I’m a Certified Wedding Coordinator, Master Cruise Counselor, and seasoned Travel Advisor — but what truly sets me apart is my deep commitment to the smallest details, my passion for storytelling through travel, and the joy I find in surprising my clients with something extraordinary. I call it being DSLAPPED! — a signature touch that turns special into spectacular.

DSLAP Travel & Services was born out of love, partnership, and vision. Co-founded with my husband Sheldon, the name DSLAP is an acronym for our family — a tribute to the strong bond and purpose that guides our business. From day one, our mission has been to create one-of-a-kind experiences that leave a lasting impression, inspired by the connections we hold most dear.

My journey in travel began in 2007, after over a decade of event planning that included everything from intimate celebrations to corporate galas. I spent 13 years building client relationships with TravelOnly before joining The Travel Agent Next Door in 2020. Today, I proudly manage a team of five incredible travel advisors under the DSLAP Travel & Services umbrella, and we work with clients across Canada, the Caribbean, the U.S., and beyond.

My Specialty: One-of-a-Kind Destination Weddings

There’s nothing more rewarding than planning a wedding that perfectly reflects a couple’s unique love story — and then delivering it in a breathtaking location. From luxury resorts in Jamaica to cruise ship celebrations that dock on tropical shores, I thrive on curating one-of-a-kind destination weddings.

One of my most memorable weddings brought over 100 international guests together aboard a Carnival cruise ship, culminating in a gorgeous ceremony on the island of Cozumel at the InterContinental Presidente. The moment the couple gasped and the guests sighed at the paradise that surrounded them — I knew that was the kind of magic I wanted to recreate again and again.

I also offer exclusive services like the DSLAP Soundtrack Experience — a heartfelt custom gift featuring a love song playlist where guests record personal dedications that are edited into each track. Paired with a memory book filled with old photos, it’s the kind of personal detail that captures the soul of the celebration.

Our Services Include:

• Destination Weddings & Elopements
• Honeymoons & Romance Travel
• Group Travel & Family Celebrations
• Wellness Retreats & Divorce Celebrations
• Custom Cruise, Luxury, and Caribbean Getaways

Whether you’re planning a vow renewal in Negril, a father-son adventure to a basketball camp in Florida, or a wellness escape in Treasure Beach, Jamaica — I’m here to guide you every step of the way. DSLAP Travel makes dream experiences effortless, elegant, and unforgettable.

A Bit More About Me

When I’m not planning the next big getaway, I’m diving into Caribbean-inspired plant-based cooking and staying active in my faith community (I serve on the photography team at Elevation Church in Toronto).

I'm passionate about creating experiences that uplift, celebrate, and inspire — especially for families, couples, and communities who want something different from the “off-the-shelf” vacation.

Representation matters in this industry, and I take great pride in supporting Black-owned vendors, promoting culturally rich travel opportunities, and helping clients navigate travel with confidence and comfort — especially as racialized travelers.

I invite you to get DSLAPPED — with warmth, wow moments, and travel designed with your dreams in mind.Let’s make something unforgettable, together.

Love from me, The "D" in DSLAP!