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Exploring Life & Business with Heather Burkett-Ocasio of Events With A Twist

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Burkett-Ocasio

Hi Heather, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I spent most of my life in Miami, Florida, where I lived until 2022. I was always extremely close with my parents, especially my mom. She loved planning parties, entertaining, crafting, and enjoying the theater, all of which became integral parts of my life growing up.

When I was about 11, my older brother got married, and my mom and I handmade satin rosebuds filled with birdseed for guests to sprinkle as the newlyweds exited the reception. We spent months crafting corsages, centerpieces, and other decorations, and I cherished every moment of it.

Over the years, my mom and I continued planning parties for friends and family. In 2014, I had the idea for a Video Scavenger Hunt, which was such a success that it became an annual event to support a local Relay for Life committee.

In 2018, while chatting with my cousin’s fiancée, I learned she was overwhelmed by wedding planning. I offered my help and, within four months, had organized their wedding. The positive feedback was so encouraging that I decided to pursue party and wedding planning full time.

Sadly, I lost my mom in July 2015 and my dad in May 2022. Without them, Miami no longer felt like home, so my husband and I decided to start fresh in Jacksonville.

We’ve fallen in love with the city and its welcoming residents, and Jacksonville has quickly become home.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, there have been challenges along the way. It’s been a long journey, so that’s only to be expected. But I’ve come to realize that my biggest obstacle has always been myself.

I’ve loved event and wedding planning for as long as I can remember, but I never pursued it professionally because I didn’t recognize the value in what I did. It all came so naturally to me that I assumed it must be just as easy for everyone else.

It wasn’t until I organized that first Video Scavenger Hunt and wedding that I realized not everyone has the same instincts for organization, creativity, and follow-through. Even now, it feels strange to say it like that—I don’t mean to sound conceited. I’m simply acknowledging where my talents fit into the bigger picture.

It’s still hard at times to stop overthinking and just get out of my own way. But I’m grateful to have a gift that I’m passionate about. I recognize it as a blessing, and it makes me want to share that with others in whatever way I can. I have the opportunity to help people create memories—to laugh, smile, and enjoy life for a while—and it’s a privilege to be part of those moments, to share in their happiness and joy.

We’ve been impressed with Events With A Twist, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Events With A Twist is an event entertainment business based in Jacksonville, Florida, proudly serving Clay, Duval, St. Johns, and Nassau counties.

When I mention “Event Entertainment,” people often ask what that means. Think of us like other party entertainers—a DJ, magician, karaoke host, or clown. We’re there to host your event and ensure your guests are entertained from start to finish.

Our Sabotage Mystery Parties put a playful spin on traditional Murder Mystery Dinners. Imagine a fun gathering that’s suddenly interrupted by a twist—one of your guests isn’t who they seem to be! Enter “Krazy Kris,” an escapee from a mental institution, who is secretly sabotaging the event. Your challenge? Unmask this crafty saboteur before dessert is served! Guests dive into interactive mini-games, solve puzzles, and follow clues as the tension builds. Will you uncover “Krazy Kris” in time, or will the saboteur get away?

For something more adventurous, our Video Scavenger Hunt Party divides guests into teams of 3-6 players. After a brief rundown of the rules, teams head into the community armed with digital cameras and a list of tasks to complete for points. Would you do the Chicken Dance at a fast food restaurant for 50 points? Or maybe jump into a pool for 100? Only time will tell how far your guests will go to win! After 45 minutes, teams return to watch the hilarious footage from their hunt, and the points are tallied. Which team will claim victory, and will YOU be the VIP?

Looking to celebrate a milestone, reunion, or just have fun while creating lasting memories? Our Photoshoot Party Package is perfect for you! Guests enjoy one-on-one mini-sessions with an award-winning photographer, while Events With A Twist keeps the party lively with wacky games. The event ends with epic group shots, and the best part? Each package includes a Digital Album, 8×10 portraits, or photo albums for every guest!

What truly sets our brand apart is the creativity behind our offerings and our commitment to making sure EVERYONE is involved. In my ten years of hosting these parties, I’ve yet to meet a wallflower we couldn’t get to join in on the fun!

While we LOVE kids and hope to branch out into kid entertainment in the future, our current offerings are geared more towards teenagers and adults.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
There’s so much to love about Jacksonville, from the rich history and stunning architecture to the magnificent bridges and beautiful waterways—I don’t even know where to begin!

One of the things I’ve come to adore are the majestic, moss-covered trees that line the streets and walkways. We didn’t have anything like that where I grew up, so every time I see them, I’m reminded of family vacations when my parents and I would marvel at the same kind of trees. It’s comforting, especially when I miss my parents, as those trees bring back memories that make me feel like my they are still close by.

But if I had to choose, what I love most about Jacksonville is the people. I was lucky enough to join a local Facebook group, and the women there have been so welcoming, supportive, and nurturing. They’ve truly made me feel like part of a community for the first time in my life.

Now, if only I could figure out why summer feels hotter in Jacksonville than it did in Miami! I haven’t looked into it, but I swear this city must orbit closer to the sun in the summertime. *lol*

Pricing:

  • Sabotage Mystery Parties Starting at $599.99
  • Video Scavenger Hunts Starting at $749.99
  • Photoshoot Party Package Starting at $899.99

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