Clothes-minded: fed up with traditional outfits, one mom takes baby clothes to a whole new level

Entrepreneur, August, 2003 by Nichole L. Torres

WHERE: Atlanta

WHEN: Started in 1999

HOW MUCH: $3,800

When Richard Bondurant saw a breathtaking picture of Moorea, French Polynesia, on the cover of a magazine in 1997, he knew he had to go. After traveling to French Polynesia many times, Bondurant, as a hobby, launched a Web site for those planning to visit the islands. But when requests flooded in from people asking him to help organize their travel plans, he left his Internet and business development job at MCI.

Working out of his home as a sole proprietor, Bondurant subcontracted extra work and designed his own Web site (www.gotahiti.com), eliminating costly fees. With no advertising or marketing, Bondurant gained clients through his policy of "efficiency, service and knowledge of the destination."

Offering pre-designed itineraries and customized packages, Tahitian ravel Planners has a loyal following: bout 40 percent of its bookings are repeat clients. Currently, Bondurant projects 2003 sales of $3 million.

Now, with five employees, Bondurants commitment to service and knowledge has him and his staff visiting French Polynesia often to keep tabs on hotels, restaurants and activities and maintaining relationships that let his business offer the best vacation packages.

While Bondurant remains lean operationally, he's rich in experience: "I was looking for a stronger quality of life, and I've achieved that. I can't imagine being more fortunate." --April V. Pennington