Amy Stevens, CSEP
A southern girl who likes classic and traditional style, always with a nod to her southern upbringing. Amy feels a strong connection to the water and coastal living and enjoys broadening her perspective through local networking and traveling all over the globe with husband Eric and son Graham.
In her family, the entire household is about hospitality. Her husband owns four local restaurants and her son asked to help plan his own birthday party including theme, music choices and catering menu.
A Hampton Roads native and event planning veteran with 20 years experience, Amy is known for being detail-oriented, creative and enthusiastic. Her clients can be at ease knowing she will manage all the logistics making their vision a reality. No matter the scale: a private soiree or a corporate launch Amy consistently exceeds her client’s expectations.
Favorite Color: Navy Blue
Favorite Dessert: Anything lemon flavored
Perfect Date: “That’s a tough one, I’d have to say April 25th. Because it’s not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket.” If you get this we can be best friends.
Favorite Vacation Destination: Aruba or really any tropical destination with sun, sand and a great book.
I Cant Live Without: Aside from my sweet boys…flip flops and mascara
Favorite Quote: “Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain
Jake Young
Serving as the Event Operations Manager for the team, Jake brings a diverse background of skills to the table. Growing up on a farm in Illinois, Jake learned all about investing long hours and attention to details. While serving on numerous organizations, he has organized concerts featuring Nashville recording artists, planned annual banquets and fundraisers, and coordinated logistics activities. He and his boyfriend (they grew up 15 miles from each other) both live in Norfolk with their adorable Weimaraner, Kaiser. After recently purchasing their home, they have both been very active in the renovations. They enjoy spending time on the beach, camping in the mountains, hosting friends at their home, and relaxing with a glass of wine. When they can find time, they are out searching for the perfect antiques to add to their collection.
Favorite color: Steel Grey
Favorite desert: Derby Pie
Perfect date: A romantic dinner, then watching the stars with a glass of wine.
Favorite vacation destination: It’s a tie between Historic Savannah, GA and Ocracoke Island.
I can’t live without: Coffee
Favorite quote: As a late friend once said regarding life: “Own it. Love it. Run it.”
MaryEllen Utt
Hampton Roads native MaryEllen Utt has been a quiet member of the Lively Affairs team since last year. With a background in special events, her attention to detail and unique, vintage style shine through in her daily work as the General Manager of the popular local gastropub, The Public House, as well as in the design of her adorable bungalow in Norfolk’s eclectic Oceanview neighborhood. She spends her days leading, directing, and overseeing her employees at the Pub and her evenings wrangling her two beautiful boys Noah and Owen. She and her husband Erik love the music scene, all things craft beer, walking to the ocean, working in their yard and occasionally lighting up the town with their fun and funky selves. MaryEllen also has years of crossfit under her belt and loves leading an active and healthy lifestyle- so she bring brains, beauty and brawn to our team!
Favorite color: Light Blue
Favorite desert: All things chocolate
Perfect date: Dinner and a concert after a day at the beach
Favorite vacation destination: Anything that involves sleeping in, sunshine on my skin, and being with my family
I can’t live without: Dry shampoo and bubbly soda
Favorite quote: Happiness is not about what the world gives you, it’s about what you think about what the world gives you.
Claudia Ockert
As the most recent member of the team, Claudia Ockert has enthusiastically embraced the dedication to hospitality and service that A Lively Affair promises to all its clients. Her years as a local English teacher, swim coach, Student Council Adviser, and Assistant Student Activities Coordinator have taught her to be quick on her feet and keep a cool head at all times. As a creative and artistic soul, and a talented gardener, Claudia has a sharp eye for style and sophistication. After growing up in South Africa, and relocating to Hampton Roads in 2003, Claudia retains her love of adventure and the great outdoors. She is also tri-lingual: fluent in Afrikaans, German, and English. Claudia currently lives in Virginia Beach, where she spends as much time is she can enjoying the sun, sand and water.
Favorite color: Purple
Favorite desert: Sorbet
Perfect date: Sunset drinks overlooking the water
Favorite vacation destination: Anywhere warm
I can’t live without: My planner
Favorite quote: “Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic.” – JK Rowling
