Photo Credit: Phoenix Business Journal
Gem Ray is an icon in Scottsdale nightlife; as the founder of Scottsdale Nights, he has become the go-to concierge for nightlife, the person that celebrities go to when they want to have an unparalleled time in our city.
Thanks for taking some time out of your day to chat with us Gem! How did you first become involved in the Scottsdale nightlife scene, and what inspired you to start Scottsdale Nights?
I moved to Scottsdale from LA in 2008. I came here to finish My BA in Hospitality Management at The Le Cordon Bleu Scottsdale. During my time there I reconnected with several people that I went to Ohio State with and other Networks that were involved in The Hospitality Business. I saw the potential of The Scottsdale / Phoenix Market, I did alot of Research & Networking and moved accordingly. I started Scottsdale Nights knowing a Need for It and My Genuine Passion for The Business. Marketing / Media and Taking Care of Clients is something We also Thrived for.
You’ve said that 95% of your business is based on relationships; how do you cultivate and maintain that trust over time?
I’ve been in The Business, at Some Level, for 35 Years ( started in High School ). Cultivating & Maintaining Trust, it comes from Genuine Work Ethic, Pride in Your Work, and Always understanding the Importance of Communicating to Your Relationships. Empathy is also a very good tool to have. My Foundation is based on Relationships and My Future is based on Relationships.
What does being a “nightlife concierge” mean to you beyond the VIP access and event planning?
Over the Years, Aside from Nightlife & Restaurant Marketing, becoming a One Stop Shop for Everything that is Hospitality, Entertainment, Event related is the Best way to Summarize this. This Includes Lodging, Transportation, Private Chefs, Hibachi Chefs, ATV Tours, Hiking Excursions, Shopping Referrals, Golf Pros & Experiences at The AirBnBs.
What makes Scottsdale’s nightlife experience stand out on a national level?
The Scottsdale Entertainment District and its Surrounding Areas are a Premiere Destination and Experience. The Business has evolved a great deal and The City of Scottsdale has grown with it. Top Restaurants and its Immersive Experiences along with The Nightlife Vibe. This brings a Great Crowd and Energy into The City. The Scottsdale Entertainment & Dining Venues have some Talented Team Members. Tourists and Locals like to Enjoy the Experiences, and overall most Patrons really enjoy it.
What are the biggest changes you’ve witnessed in Scottsdale nightlife over the past 15 years?
The Scottsdale Nightlife and Nightlife in general is Growing and The Experiences it Brings. This includes Entertainment Value, Choreographed Presentations for Bottle Service, Fun Gimmicks and Specialty Cocktails at The Bar, and Many Fun Aspects to Put on Social Media. Along with this, there are Many Options and The City can keep You Busy for Days.
Are there any clubs or venues from the past you still miss? Why (e.g. Axis‑Radius, PCL, Smashboxx, etc.)?
Yes, Smashboxx, Dollhouse, American Junkie, Martini Ranch, Cream, Crown Room & Spanish Fly are just a Few of Many. Great Memories and a lot of These Places help Catapult My Company to what we become and what we are growing into.
As someone deeply embedded in nightlife, do you have a favorite dive bar or spot that gives you a break from the glamour?
I Love Carlsbad Tavern, Their Osso Bucco is one of My Favorites to Eat. I also Love Goodwood Tavern.
How do you unwind when you’re not working events or planning evenings out?
My Favorite Shows to Watch are NCIS, Law & Order, Bones, Cold Case, & Now FBI. I don’t watch a lot of TV, but this is how I wind down late at Night. Also Watching Sports has always been a Love for Me.
What are your goals for the next 15 years—both for Scottsdale Nights and personally?
Keep Working Hard & Diligently on Everything. Create New Opportunities and those Opportunities will help Shape the Future. I have a 2yr and a 5yr Plan, We are Enjoying the Upward Trend of The Business, but staying Focused.