We were lucky to catch up with Valorie Perkins recently and have shared our conversation below.

Valorie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

As a foundational base, I have always enjoyed planning and hosting small parties and or events. I had hoped upon retirement, I would be able to establish something in event planning. However, during the Covid-19 Pandemic, I was approached with the idea of being placed on a referral list for conducting marriage ceremonies. Being a Licensed and Ordained Minister by the church and understanding the Biblical principles of marriage. Being able to maintain a working relationship with another person can be challenging when a prospective is not viewed. Having a trustworthy neutral party to assist can be productively rewarding.

I also had to consider with being on the referral list what I could offer that would stand out among other officiants. My answer came from within. I had to be passionate about what I was to offer. I had to be sympathetic and compassionate toward the desires of the couple seeking a blissful union. As a reminder, the initial start of my business was during Covid which meant “outdoor” settings for precaution and safety measures. This required me to become well acquainted with local parks and outdoor areas with a nice picturise background. Spending a few minutes with the couple regarding their likes and dislikes aided in selecting the perfect spot for the exchange of marriage vows.

I was lead to search for a brick and motar within a year of the initial startup of performing ceremonies outdoors. This endeavor would also lead to a business name as well as all other requirements for stepping into a broader establishment. A name was chosen and “Joyful Creations” was birthed. My first site locations was chosen by location convenience among other things. I started out in a quaint room rental within another business. There was just enough room for what I had pictured to accommodate the couple, a couple of guests along with a decorated arch and a small amount of additional themed decor. I viewed what others might deem as a business to be more of a ministry of sharing love. Couple kept calling and scheduling with “Joyful Creations”! For better listed advertisement I soon had to make a category addition to the name and “Weddings by Joyful Creations” came to be. Within a two year span, projections were clearer and it was necessary to apply for an LLC status. With continued growth came the need for room expansion to better provide an intimate setting with the ability to accommodate an increase in guest attendance. Weddings by Joyful Creations expanded from 140 square feet to triple the size for a chapel setting. With an additional room available for a reception to follow the ceremony. A Bridal Suite is available as needed for the bride. The Bride and Groom may return to the suite after their exchange of vows and pictures to have a moment to exhale together in solitude. Other amenities may be provided as well, a surprise to the couple as well.

Certainly Weddings by Joyful Creations has been a fruitful endeavor. Thoughts are given daily to what more can be offered to assure a positive impact is made on each heart that enters the doors. Decor changes are made on a regular basis. Couples may customize their color scheme at a minimal additional cost. The concept of a “walk in ready wedding chapel” works with the increase of cost of living as well as how the rise in prices for a larger scale wedding has increased over the years. One thing I remind couples of is the expense can only put you in debt if you choose for it to. What is most important is the exchange of vows and what is deemed important. In todays world of expense planning over the top wedding while preparing for building a life together with hopeful home building and inclusive of family expansion. I have performed ceremonies in various surrounding counties. Honored to have been asked to perform ceremonies in Dallas County as well as Clark County/Las Vegas. Several marriage elopement services have led to my being asked to later perform the couple’s public wedding with family and friends in attendance. The most marriage ceremonies performed in a day’s time has been four. Three actual weddings and one elopement. The three weddings being off-site that included travel within a 45 mile radius. Rather a ceremony be onsite at my chapel or offsite the same quality service is always given.

While I am not the only wedding officiant to the area, having good customer service, reliability, dependability and being able to conversate with couples is important. Couples should be comfortable about who will handle their ceremony in such away that it holds a place within their heart for every aspect they will encounter in their relationship. For various reasons couples may select an officiant over a church pastor. The choice is theirs, however at Weddings by Joyful Creations the ceremony will always be handled by one well qualified to stand in the office of an ordained ceremonial officiant.

Giving, sharing and being supportive in relationship building excites me the most. Assuring couples that they are not a “customer number” but a heartfelt connection is important. I check in with couples from time to time to let them know they are thought of and yet appreciated in days, months and years to come.

Valorie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I do believe much has been answered. The problem I attempt to resolve solve is the stress of what a big wedding can entail from every aspect. How little last minute oversights or problems can cause a stressed bride or groom simply be in tears and not have the memorable occasion they sought or an enjoyable honeymoon because they are simply tired from months planning and anticipation.

In a way, I serve as a planner and officiant at a fraction of the cost. My brand speaks for itself…Joyful Creations! Each matrimonial service is done with a smile and a sense of creativity that makes their occasion memorable. One may walk in desiring only a signature signing due to finances. They may be surprised with an elopement package. Regardless of what a couple may have allotted finances for, I try and give more. It could be added flowers, a special bouquet, a simple memorial honoring a loss loved one. One bride had to down scale due to personal health reasons. Days before her wedding, I informed her we would follow her original plans at her down scaled amount. The tears of joy was enough for me. At Weddings by Joyful Creations you can be assured, you matter!

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Be transparent. Most people today enjoy seeing one’s genuine nature, your love, their passion. I do not know a lot about social media presence but I do believe it is the most sought after. There will always be opinions, so give your best and build from there. Be consistent. Give your time and energy to inspire others through their struggle and take the focus off yours. Inspire others!!!

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Good honest customer service is a pet peeve of mine. Showing others you are human and not a robot. They are your customer and not just a number to increase your worth. Giving positive energy is essential. All have been affected by recent economic changes. People appreciate being appreciated.

Contact Info:

• Website: weddingsbyjoyfulcreations.com
• Facebook: Weddings by Joyful Creations

Image Credits
N/A, all photo credits to Weddings by Joyful Creations