DESERT WHIM - Key Persons
Hi!! My name is Bernadette Michele and I'm so glad you're here. My first love for events started with a carnival I put on for my siblings and neighborhood friends. While my parents were sleeping, I found myself bored and was looking for some entertainment. I began creating carnival games and entertainment in my backyard, delegating setup to my siblings, coming up with prizes, drawing up a timeline and gathered some performers. I quickly spread the word in the community and by the afternoon all the neighborhood kids were participating and enjoying themselves. Much to my mother's surprise! It was that moment that my love for planning and watching an event unfold was born.
I took my first professional position with ABC 15 working production of the evening news and community events. I later transitioned to the nonprofit sector working for Arizona's local NPR station, KJZZ, organizing galas, charity fundraisers, and corporate partnership events. After many years working with nonprofits, I seized the opportunity to manage events for Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club. While at the country club, I came into my own as a wedding planner managing a range of weddings from large, luxury ceremonies and receptions to intimate private celebrations.
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn, and I cannot wait to meet you! I recently graduated from Grand Canyon University with a double degree in both Marketing and Sports Management. I found my passion for events during my time at GCU. I have had many sports related roles, working as a tournament coordinator for the Charles Schwab Cup, and a Community Affairs Intern Coordinator at the Arizona Diamondbacks. I was also on an activity board for GCU, which allowed me to put on grand-scale special events like galas and productions in the GCU Arena. Through my unique roles, I was able to meet incredible people, build relationships, and make their day special at each event! This is what I love about the event industry- the impact I get to have on my clients, as well as the lasting memories I get that they allow me to share with them! I love the behind the scenes and planning aspect, but can't wait for event day where everything comes together, appearing so effortlessly to our guests, but perfectly placed and executed to us. Weddings are so special to me, seeing the love shared between not only the couple, but also the guests towards the bride and groom. I love interacting with the bride and hearing her nerves, excitement, and wishes for the day, and seeing all of those turn so perfectly special throughout the evening. My favorite part of the evening is a popular one- when the couple shares their vows. It gets me just about every time! can't wait to hear your vision, and how we can make it come to the life in the best of ways!
Hello hello! My name is Talia & I am a student at Northern Arizona University pursuing a degree in Hospitality and a Minor in Italian. I originally found my passion for weddings in high school when I planned our Senior Prom and helped my big sister plan her wedding. I fell in love with the behind the scenes action that results in an incredible experience for guests. My favorite part in any wedding is the First Dance. Some are choreographed, some are silly, and some are straight up tear-jerkers. It is two and a half minutes of witnessing the bride and groom in their love bubble! In my free time I love exploring Flagstaff with my sorority sisters, spending time with my family, or watching Friends! I would love the chance to help with your special day, but only if you're okay with my close proximity to the dance floor!