arizona key magazine - september 2008

Magical, Mystical Sedona, AZ – Ceremony Capital of the U.S.

Deciding what to do while you are in Sedona may seem to be an exhausting task to undertake as there is virtually an unlimited number of options from which to choose. Remember that you are on vacation – so slow down, chill out with your favorite beverage and re-group. When you need to take a break from all that shopping, golfing or restaurant-hopping, you might want to consider the calming, soothing benefits of your own personally-created Ceremony.

There is no better place to celebrate any type of Ceremony than the sacred land of Sedona, Arizona whose warm weather allows outdoor activities nearly every day of the year. Sedona’s most traditional Ceremonies include: Weddings, Renewal of Vows, Baptisms, Commitment Ceremonies, Blessings of Home, Land or Property.

But feel free to create your own unique Ceremony - Family Unity, Retirement Freedom, Child’s Birthday, Tuesday is Special, We’re Finally Alone - you name it and Sedona will create it for you.

Sedona is surrounded by the majestic scenery of the National Forest, including our world-famous red rock formations such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Merry Go Round Rock, and Submarine Rock just to name a few. Red Rock Crossing and Red Rock State Park are two great choices for gorgeous scenery and incredible nature photographs.

Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association members regularly perform all types of Ceremonies on the National Forest and are a terrific resource for customized Ceremonies of all kinds and types – from the religious to the all-denominational... from the elegant to the elegantly-simple... from large groups to intimate gatherings or even just the two of you.

Arizona is well-known for its Native American history and lore. Educational opportunities are available through Indigenous Ceremonies featuring tribal elders and Shamans.

Sedona’s indoor Chapel locations offer cool alternatives if the weather is a bit warm for you outdoors.

Sedona has so much to offer in the way of activities and experiences that it is sometimes difficult to find the time to do everything! Consider combining your Ceremony with the adventure of a jeep tour, a hot air balloon ride, horseback riding, or hiking tour.

No matter what you want to celebrate, Sedona is the Ceremony destination favorite for locals, citizens and international visitors. Find the JOY in holding your ceremony in Sedona and remember to take it home with you.

Rev. Janelle Sparkman, Managing Partner, Red Rock Celebrations, LLC (www.redrockcelebrations.com) is a member of the Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association, a Sedona Chamber of Commerce Affinity Group (online at www.sedonaspiritual.com).