Jody Serey of Spirit and Light is one of the founding members of the West Valley Wedding Association. Located in Glendale, Arizona, Jody is available for non-religious and religious weddings, vow renewals, commitment ceremonies, memorial services and funerals, and other observances and celebrations.
Jody founded Spirit and Light in 2001. She has won the Brides’ Choice Award for several years running, including 2011. Her complete services typically run from $150 to $200. She particularly enjoys officiating smaller events because “they tend to be more focused, intimate, and rooted in priorities that I can support with both written text and emotional conviction. Therefore, I try to keep my fees affordable so that almost anybody can secure the services of an officiant who is trained, literate, and really does give a rip about what is going on.”
In addition, Jody says her wedding officiant services set her apart in the Valley because “I do not use templates, and each ceremony is created for a particular couple or occasion. The service I provide is uniformly high quality, personal, and professional, regardless of the size of the gathering or the circumstances that have brought us all together.”
For Phoenix area brides who are looking to incorporate some sort of unity ceremony in their wedding, Jody has experience performing sand ceremonies, unity candle ceremonies, hand bindings, rose ceremonies (to honor or thank guests or family members), wine ceremonies, and a variety of other observances and rituals. She can also assist in creating an original commemoration for a particular occasion.
When asked about what trends she sees for fall 2011 and spring 2012, Jody stated, “I see a trend away from over the top displays of ‘edginess’ and a return to more meaningful, memorable observances.”
When asked what she advice she would offer to a couple making a life commitment, Jody recommends, “Keep your ceremony simple, tender, and worth remembering. It is so much more than just a momentary delay until you can get to the party and the reception.”
Jody’s passion for creating personalized wedding ceremonies shows in her work. She also believes it is important that both the wedding officiant and the couple believe they are a good fit for each other. She added, “Every wedding day is remembered. I want my couples to remember theirs for the right reasons.”
Contact information:
Email: jody@spiritandlight.net
Address: 7413 West Oraibi Drive, Glendale, AZ 85308
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/spiritandlight?ref=sgm
Blog: http://spiritandlight.blogspot.com/
Phone: Office, 623-561-0240; Cell, 623-451-0834
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Hey Bartender!
Chad Zaneis founded Hey Bartender! Professional Bartending Services in 2006. Hey Bartender! is a mobile bar service which covers the entire Phoenix metro area. Hey Bartender!, a member of the West Valley Wedding Association, specializes in:
• Bartenders-4-Hire--available by-the-hour
• Portable bars and frozen drink machine rentals
• Full-service beverage packages for any event size/type/location
When asked what makes Hey Bartender! different from other Valley bartending providers, Chad stated, “All of our staff is state certified in AZ Liquor Laws and covered under our $2M Liquor Liability Insurance policy, which is double the industry standard. If you don’t have Liquor Insurance you really shouldn’t be serving alcohol on your property in these law-suit-happy times.”
Chad added that their flexible services, which start at just $23/hr., are available for all kinds of events, including weddings, birthday and retirement parties, corporate events and more. As the owner of Hey Bartender!, Chad is particularly proud of the local awards his bartending company has garnered, including Best of Phoenix, Merchant Circle top vendor, and Momentville Hotlist member. They were honored in The Wedding Chronicle cover article Best Weddings of 2008.
Their clientele include Arizona State University, State of Arizona, UofA Alumni Phoenix Chapter, AMC Movie Theaters, Microsoft, Bebe stores, Vitamin Water, many valley caterers, special event venues, party planners, concierges, professional athletes, political figures, local celebrities and various charitable organizations. In addition, Hey Bartender! will beat any written price quote from any other insured bar service. It’s our Best Price Guarantee and you simply can’t beat it!
When asked what trends he sees for fall 2011 and spring 2012 weddings, Chad said, “The classic champagne toast seems to be going away. Also brides and grooms are looking for more unique/untraditional venues for their receptions.”
For advice on fun champagne toast alternates, consult with your bartender for options such as a custom cocktail or drink that complements your wedding theme.
Chad, who clearly enjoys his job of bringing fun and great service to any event, loves the old Frank Sinatra quote, “I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day."
His advice for a stress free event is for brides and grooms to hire good vendors and let them do what it is they get paid to do and life will be good!
Contact information:
Phone: 602.410 ABAR (2227)
Website: www.HeyBartender-AZ.com
Email: info@HeyBartender-AZ.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hey-Bartender-LLC-Professional-Bartending-Services/160342796541
• Bartenders-4-Hire--available by-the-hour
• Portable bars and frozen drink machine rentals
• Full-service beverage packages for any event size/type/location
When asked what makes Hey Bartender! different from other Valley bartending providers, Chad stated, “All of our staff is state certified in AZ Liquor Laws and covered under our $2M Liquor Liability Insurance policy, which is double the industry standard. If you don’t have Liquor Insurance you really shouldn’t be serving alcohol on your property in these law-suit-happy times.”
Chad added that their flexible services, which start at just $23/hr., are available for all kinds of events, including weddings, birthday and retirement parties, corporate events and more. As the owner of Hey Bartender!, Chad is particularly proud of the local awards his bartending company has garnered, including Best of Phoenix, Merchant Circle top vendor, and Momentville Hotlist member. They were honored in The Wedding Chronicle cover article Best Weddings of 2008.
Their clientele include Arizona State University, State of Arizona, UofA Alumni Phoenix Chapter, AMC Movie Theaters, Microsoft, Bebe stores, Vitamin Water, many valley caterers, special event venues, party planners, concierges, professional athletes, political figures, local celebrities and various charitable organizations. In addition, Hey Bartender! will beat any written price quote from any other insured bar service. It’s our Best Price Guarantee and you simply can’t beat it!
When asked what trends he sees for fall 2011 and spring 2012 weddings, Chad said, “The classic champagne toast seems to be going away. Also brides and grooms are looking for more unique/untraditional venues for their receptions.”
For advice on fun champagne toast alternates, consult with your bartender for options such as a custom cocktail or drink that complements your wedding theme.
Chad, who clearly enjoys his job of bringing fun and great service to any event, loves the old Frank Sinatra quote, “I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day."
His advice for a stress free event is for brides and grooms to hire good vendors and let them do what it is they get paid to do and life will be good!
Contact information:
Phone: 602.410 ABAR (2227)
Website: www.HeyBartender-AZ.com
Email: info@HeyBartender-AZ.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hey-Bartender-LLC-Professional-Bartending-Services/160342796541
Friday, February 11, 2011
Why I'm Not Expensive
My work as an officiant falls somewhere between a ministry and a sole proprietorship. My goal is not money-oriented, but I do need to make something to keep going. However, my financial hybrid status also causes some conflicts.
I prefer weddings that do not resemble coronations. I find that the smaller events tend to be more focused, intimate, and rooted in priorities that I can support with both text and conviction. Therefore, I try to keep my fees affordable so that almost anybody can secure the services of an officiant who is trained, literate, and really does give a rip about what is going on.
However, because I am affordable, I am sometimes seen as being naive, "not upscale," and status deprived. Somebody actually said to me, "I think you get what you pay for. So I want to pay more than you charge."
I am actually okay with all of that.
If a couple wants to pay an exorbitant amount to somebody to marry them, and it will make them feel "more married," I say go for it. But you won't be hiring me.
In the meantime, I have made the decision to stick with my modest rates, because I think it's the right thing to do. Somebody has to draw the line, and I just did.
I prefer weddings that do not resemble coronations. I find that the smaller events tend to be more focused, intimate, and rooted in priorities that I can support with both text and conviction. Therefore, I try to keep my fees affordable so that almost anybody can secure the services of an officiant who is trained, literate, and really does give a rip about what is going on.
However, because I am affordable, I am sometimes seen as being naive, "not upscale," and status deprived. Somebody actually said to me, "I think you get what you pay for. So I want to pay more than you charge."
I am actually okay with all of that.
If a couple wants to pay an exorbitant amount to somebody to marry them, and it will make them feel "more married," I say go for it. But you won't be hiring me.
In the meantime, I have made the decision to stick with my modest rates, because I think it's the right thing to do. Somebody has to draw the line, and I just did.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Les Enfants Terribles: When the Sugar and Spice Are Rancid
As an officiant, I am more than an a casual observer of small children. Many are members of wedding parties, and their willingness as participants in their parents' pageants varies dramatically. Others are young guests at the weddings in question. Over the past several years, I have noticed what I think is a distinct trend among very young girls -- particularly those ages 4 and younger. Many of them are adorable to look at, and demonic to deal with.
What is going on out there in Princess Land? And, if a little girl child has been cultivated into budding as a very tiny monster, what will happen when she hits the tween years?
I will freely admit that I haven't raised a small child in a couple of decades. But my experience is far more recent than prehistoric, and I am stunned at what passes as passable public behavior for very short females.
I think we could be in for a really rough ride with teenage girls in about ten years. In the meantime, I am considering investing in some shin-guards.
What is going on out there in Princess Land? And, if a little girl child has been cultivated into budding as a very tiny monster, what will happen when she hits the tween years?
I will freely admit that I haven't raised a small child in a couple of decades. But my experience is far more recent than prehistoric, and I am stunned at what passes as passable public behavior for very short females.
I think we could be in for a really rough ride with teenage girls in about ten years. In the meantime, I am considering investing in some shin-guards.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Small Wedding, Big Memories
Somebody commented to me recently that I must love doing "small" weddings because they are "easier."
There is nothing "easy" about any wedding that is officiated with the proper amount of respect given to the enormity of the life event unfolding -- however simple the setting or the observance. I am also keenly aware that the intimacy of a small wedding is far greater than anything that can be observed by a crowd. (How much "up close and personal" do you think Prince William and his bride will actually experience?)
As an officiant, I strive to do my best work when I know that every word, every gesture, every facial expression is in full view of everybody in the room. And because there are few distractions, there are fewer places to hide when something isn't exactly right. On the other hand, the closeness in proximity to each other of the participants in the celebration of a small wedding means that there is more genuine communication and less empty pageantry and posturing.
So no -- "small" weddings are not easier. In fact, in many ways they require more work on my part. However, they remain my favorite celebrations of any kind, and I am always delighted when somebody says of their upcoming special day, "It won't be very big..."
There is nothing "easy" about any wedding that is officiated with the proper amount of respect given to the enormity of the life event unfolding -- however simple the setting or the observance. I am also keenly aware that the intimacy of a small wedding is far greater than anything that can be observed by a crowd. (How much "up close and personal" do you think Prince William and his bride will actually experience?)
As an officiant, I strive to do my best work when I know that every word, every gesture, every facial expression is in full view of everybody in the room. And because there are few distractions, there are fewer places to hide when something isn't exactly right. On the other hand, the closeness in proximity to each other of the participants in the celebration of a small wedding means that there is more genuine communication and less empty pageantry and posturing.
So no -- "small" weddings are not easier. In fact, in many ways they require more work on my part. However, they remain my favorite celebrations of any kind, and I am always delighted when somebody says of their upcoming special day, "It won't be very big..."
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The Photographer From Hell
I recently officiated a wedding for a very gentle, soft-spoken couple who selected a Japanese garden for their ceremony. Their lighting was subtle, and their understated celebration promised to be enhanced by the sound of a small waterfall, and birds singing. Then the photographer arrived, dragging her step ladder and her attitude behind her. The fact that she looked like somebody's kindly grandmother only added to the irony that her initial snideness soon gave way to pure venom, and verbal abuse. The bride -- who was intensely shy anyway -- soon gave way to tears, and her carefully applied make-up threatened to run down her face. I waited for somebody, somewhere, to say something. Nobody did. They were either too intimidated -- or too shocked -- to react.
I have only one rule as an officiant: nobody makes my bride cry. And I mean nobody. So, I very quietly stepped in and made some threats that will remain between me, Mrs. Satan, and the spirit of my mother who taught me to behave better than I actually did. However, the photographer reined in her serpent's tongue, and I engaged the services of the wedding coordinator to make sure that she didn't unleash on my hapless bride the minute my back was turned.
I overstepped my bounds. It is usually not appropriate for the officiant to engage in tussles with other vendors without the specific permission of the couple. However, I knew the day was about to be ruined for a young woman and her sweet new husband, and I didn't want it to happen.
The photographer is not in charge of the day. Nor is the DJ, the officiant, or the caterer. The wedding is the province of the couple being married. When that simple fact is not respected, disaster can strike. Or, I will...
I have only one rule as an officiant: nobody makes my bride cry. And I mean nobody. So, I very quietly stepped in and made some threats that will remain between me, Mrs. Satan, and the spirit of my mother who taught me to behave better than I actually did. However, the photographer reined in her serpent's tongue, and I engaged the services of the wedding coordinator to make sure that she didn't unleash on my hapless bride the minute my back was turned.
I overstepped my bounds. It is usually not appropriate for the officiant to engage in tussles with other vendors without the specific permission of the couple. However, I knew the day was about to be ruined for a young woman and her sweet new husband, and I didn't want it to happen.
The photographer is not in charge of the day. Nor is the DJ, the officiant, or the caterer. The wedding is the province of the couple being married. When that simple fact is not respected, disaster can strike. Or, I will...
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Sand Ceremony: Blending a Family With Young and Grown Children
The sand ceremony is a versatile unity observance. In its most simple form, the bridal couple pours two containers of sand into a third empty vessel to symbolize the blending of the particles of their lives to create something altogether new that will never be separated again. It's a wonderful visual of what has just occurred spiritually.
In the case of a couple bringing children into a marriage -- especially children of varying ages -- the sand ceremony can be a way for the entire blended family to participate in a ritual action together. Each child can have a separate vial of sand of a different color and add it to the family "mix." In the instance that the ages of the children vary and an older child isn't comfortable pouring sand with a toddler, or a child of any age is unable to be present at the wedding, the parent of the child may add sand on behalf of his or her son or daughter to the container.
The implicit message of the sand ceremony is, "You are everything you were before, and now you have a family who surrounds you."
This is a reassuring message for anybody at any time -- but especially for the child of a parent who is remarrying.
In the case of a couple bringing children into a marriage -- especially children of varying ages -- the sand ceremony can be a way for the entire blended family to participate in a ritual action together. Each child can have a separate vial of sand of a different color and add it to the family "mix." In the instance that the ages of the children vary and an older child isn't comfortable pouring sand with a toddler, or a child of any age is unable to be present at the wedding, the parent of the child may add sand on behalf of his or her son or daughter to the container.
The implicit message of the sand ceremony is, "You are everything you were before, and now you have a family who surrounds you."
This is a reassuring message for anybody at any time -- but especially for the child of a parent who is remarrying.
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