Daily Inspiration: Meet Julia Whitley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Whitley.

Hi Julia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After moving back to the South Bay from Orange County in 2000, I became a behavior therapist for my school district for a couple of years. I love working with children and felt that I could make a difference in their lives. I learned quickly that politics are as much a part of teaching and working with children as they are just about everything else. However, I am so grateful for that pivot, because it led me to become an entrepreneur and start my own business. Finding your purpose organically is so fulfilling and having it evolve into something that resonates with others is incredible for the soul. We grew from just a few clients to being on the preferred vendor list at a few Southern California venues. I was taught well by my parents that no matter your station, everyone can serve. I worked for well-known caterers as I was still building my own business and was hired to be a lead on many high-profile events in Los Angeles. I realized then, that being in the service industry illuminated my mind and also kept me in good physical shape. Over the years, my clientele grew and we also branched out into staffing events. Our business staffed the USC and UCLA Ralphs tailgate events for a few years. What we loved more than anything, was being able to help provide job opportunities and a sense of purpose to 40 staff. Covid changed our business but didn’t stop our growth. We had to pivot like many others but found our footing and re-defined our structure. We are still being referred and are so grateful to have the growth and business that we do. We have expanded to doing spiritual and corporate retreats and have absolutely love every moment.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have been very fortunate that my business has grown by word of mouth over the years. The biggest struggle in this industry (wedding and events) is proving your worth to those that wish to spend the money on something tangible or that are simply looking for the social media content and elevation to their profile. I have been told by a few client’s, words that I am not going to repeat here, but that were incredibly offensive. It is amazing how courageous or bold someone can be to walk up to a person and tell them their positive or negative opinion of you at any moment they feel compelled. I commit myself with over 100% of everything I have to my clients and their events. For someone to belittle me or try to make me doubt my ability, especially amidst the emotional chaos of a day, is mind blowing. So many feel that this title comes with the grandiose image of sophistication, elegance and walking with not a care in the world. It is exactly the opposite. We wear all black clothing and the most comfortable yet unattractive shoes. We carry the stress of the day while trying to constantly look as if nothing is wrong and everything is amazing. We usually do not eat, forget to drink water and the one time we try to go to the bathroom, we are called away in an instant. But I love what I do and adore my clients.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have been a wedding and event planner for 23 years. I am known for stepping in a creating a sense of calm in a space where chaos is typical the norm. While I am not and will never be the famous planners and designers, I am in love with my clients and have had many of them for over 10 years. If I may quote a recent father of the Bride whose words bring me a profound sense of humility and pride.

“It is our pleasure to wholeheartedly recommend wedding planner Julia D. Whitley, and her team, whose
professionalism, talent, and dedication made our daughter’s wedding day unforgettable.
Julia was outstanding from start to finish. Her organization, calm demeanor, and ability to coordinate
every moving piece was exceptional. Every element was thoughtfully executed, and her expertise and
timeline ensured everything ran seamlessly. Julia organized the ceremony, did the ceremony and
reception party setup, ran it, breakdown, cleaned and obtained sign-off by venue staff to assure return
of our deposit. We did not have to think about it. Everything turned out perfect.”

I am honored to receive such high praise and believe his words are best to describe what I am proud of and what sets us apart.

What makes you happy?
Oh, so many things. Walking out of my door and seeing one of the many feral animals in our little neighborhood. Looking up at the sky and feeling the ocean breeze while watching the cloud formation move. Laying on my back in Sedona and staring at the millions of starts and embracing the reminder that we are so small yet contain so much possibility. Getting out of my head, being of service to others, being of support of others, baking cookies. Creating spaces where others feel seen, heard, understood and supported. I love that I am ordained and have married a few of my clients. It fills my heart and soul to be able to talk about love, marriage and relationships and become an instrumental part of their day. I could keep going.

Pricing:

• Day of Coordination $1700
• Administrative Coordination $2500

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @sejeventpro
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serendipitouseventsbyjulia

Image Credits
Kelly McDaniel Photography
Jessica Yvonne Photography