The Wayward Daughter

Growing up, I always had a wandering soul. Raised to be fiercely independent, I wanted to forge my own path — but growing up in the South, that was often difficult. While so many of my friends followed the timeline — school, marriage, babies — I knew I wasn’t meant to live a life of checking boxes. As I’ve gotten older, I realize I bring a different perspective to life, one that has allowed me to see the world and find beauty in living outside of societal expectations.

I’ve always loved to explore. By the time I was 17, I had seen more of the United States than many of my friends. Though I didn’t appreciate it at the time, those early travels laid the foundation for the life I live now — and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

My solo travel journey began in 2020 as a way to cope with the grief of losing my dad. My father passed away on New Year's Day 2018 — a day meant for new beginnings, but instead marked the end of the one person who kept my world spinning. For a long time, I didn’t want to exist in a world where he wasn’t around. But I made a promise to him on that last day: I promised to keep living in honor of him, to let his spirit live on through me. And in that promise, we’ve traveled together. We’ve explored new places he never got to visit, revisited spots he loved, and returned to places we experienced together. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been a beautiful ride.

I once met a woman on a trail who told me I was brave for hiking alone. I replied, “I would have missed out on so much if I hadn’t learned to do it myself.” Like watching the sunset in Joshua Tree, seeing elk in peak rutting season in Rocky Mountain National Park, or catching the sunrise at Mesa Arch. Solo travel is uncomfortable at first, but experience teaches you that it’s worth it.

Over the years, I’ve helped friends and family plan their trips — from destination advice to budget-friendly accommodations, and even restaurant and activity recommendations. Whether you’re traveling with loved ones or venturing out on your own, I’m excited to help make your journey unforgettable.

Maybe you’ve always felt like the timeline wasn’t for you, or maybe life threw you a curveball. Whatever brought you here, I’m so glad you’re here.

Now, let’s get planning, because the most confident version of yourself is waiting!

melody@thewaywarddaughter.com
Melody Harman (@melodyinthemountains) • Instagram photos and videos