Sebastian and Shana

Hi folks! Here’s another great wedding, and another great tale to tell. This time, we were honored to be part of Sebastian and Shana’s union. Let me tell you a little bit about it.

For their cake-cutting ceremony, the selection was “2 Hearts” by Sam Felt. Now, the original meaning comes from the Dutch language and it doesn’t have an exact translation for English. The talented Sam Felt joined the UK duo Sigma and Gia Koka for this gold piece. The song starts with trumpets and gives the melody a triumphant tone.

The energy is palpable through the tone, and the tropical notes give the song unique happy vibes. And of course, this is a love song, “Two hearts are better than one…” is repeated throughout the song. Happy, vibrant tunes are always a great choice for cutting the cake; although some couples prefer something more solemn. 

But, right from the start, you could tell, that despite all the romantic details, Sebastian and Shana’s celebration was going to be all about the fun. About joyously celebrating life.

FAVORITE MOMENTS AND DETAILS

As always, I like to highlight those details or moments that made this specific wedding special. Here is my take on Sebastian and Shana’s wedding:

• The way Shana and Sebastian shared the dancefloor as they danced with their father and mother respectively. Seemed such an intimate, family moment!
• When Shana’s friends gathered around a cell phone on the floor and started recording, what I imagine it’s going to be a video they will cherish for a long time.
• The cake was simply beautiful and surrounded by all kinds of yummy tiny desserts and candles. Behind it was the wedding date and one simple but powerful word: “Endlessly”
• The way color was present in every aspect of the wedding, the chairs, the flowers, the table cloths… it was amazing to watch. 
• Last but not least, how Sebastian and Shana’s wedding morphed from being a solemn ceremony to a great, big party where friends and family seemed to have the time of their lives. 

Thank you Shana, and thank you, Sebastian, not only for having us during your special day, but to give us proof that true, everlasting love is as powerful, real, and present as ever!

Jason and Erin

Sunny Cali shone in all of its splendor on Jason and Erin’s wedding day.

It was a day of good music, good food, amazing views, best friends, and a young couple commencing their journey as a family.

Jason and Erin – the tunes, the beats, and the sounds

For the recessional song, Erin and Jason picked the classic “Signed, sealed and delivered” by superstar Stevie Wonder. The song speaks about getting back to your loved one and putting yourself to their mercy. A fun fact, there are four names under the song’s credits: Stevie, Lee Garret, and Syreeta Wright, and the fourth one is? Steve’s momma!

The famous song is featured in the films Crooklyn (1994), Now And Then (1996), You’ve Got Mail (1998), and Laws Of Attraction (2004).

The Mother and Son song was another great one. No matter how many times you hear “I’ll be there” by the Jackson Five, your heart still skips a beat when young Michael Jackson reaches those high final notes. The song is a statement of unconditional love, even if your loved one parts ways with you. What better example than a mother wishing all the happiness in the world to her son, as he gets married?

Can you believe Michael Jackson was only 11 years old when he recorded it? Of course, Mariah Carey’s version is also a great one. But the original version transmits that unique sentiment; innocent, pure, and truthful.

The First Dance – Jason and Erin

I enjoyed this part so much, it deserves some lines.

The song Jason and Erin chose for this special moment was “Make you Feel my Love” by Adele. This is a cover, as the original one was recorded by Bob Dylan in 1997, and included in his album Time Out Of Mind. There’s a reason why the British singer decided to make her own version, in an interview she said: “I wrote 9 songs in a short space of time, I was really feeling in those songs, though.

I was bitterly upset and then my manager played me this Bob Dylan song ‘Make You Feel My Love.’ The lyrics are just amazing and summed up exactly what I’d been trying to say in my songs. It’s about regretting not being with someone, and it’s beautiful.”

And as beautiful as the melody and lyrics are, what was really emotional, was how the guests reacted to Jason and Erin dancing together. The couple, of course, were immersed in their own world, looking intently into each other’s eyes. But their friends and family couldn’t hide their happiness, as they all stare in awe. How could you not? With such a beautiful bride?

Jason began with a powerful phrase, he said: “Erin, I know you and I love you.” Stating that he knew they were both going to be tearful by then, and decided to cheer his bride up. I just loved it!

Erin also moved everyone with her words, as she said that those 4.5 together had turned her into a better version of herself.

It was a fun, exciting, beautiful day, and we only wish this is only the first of many happy milestones in their lives as a couple. Enjoy your “forever”, Jason and Erin!

Alex and Sam

Another day, another wedding. Even when the media is trying to engulf us in a wave of pessimistic news, here comes a great event, and a lovely couple to prove to us life is actually pretty good. I don’t know if it was the historical place, the views, the music, or the way Alex and Sam gazed at each other during their wedding, that uplifted my entire mood.

Let’s talk some music…

I just love when the whole wedding vibe matches. The music selection was spotless for this one. For the 1st song, Alex and Same chose Latch by Disclosure & Sam Smith. Now, let me tell you I’m a big fan of Sam Smith. His “Dancing with a Stranger” is one of those songs that when it pops out, will inevitably make me sing, whether it is in the car or wherever. This song, however, was originally created by Disclosure, they wrote the song in a funky, very distinct beat from other dance tunes you hear out there.

The fantastic chill track features the warm, catchy vocals from Smith. The band had the track ready. In just one day, Sam Smith had the vocals ready. The singer recorded his own acoustic version, and his candid about it. He says the Disclosure version makes you so euphoric, that you just need to start dancing! And that’s exactly the effect that caused during Alex and Sam’s union – it was a euphoric moment when you know something amazing is about to start.

Now, moving on… when we talk about wedding songs, of course, the 1st dance comes to mind, the mother and father dance, those are your typical. But this couple was detailed enough to carefully select meaningful songs for every part of their wedding. For example, the Bride’s song was: One Man by Old Dominion.

Favorite moments – Alex and Sam

A very fun fact I learned when I met them, was that Alex and Sam are big fans of Disney. So, it was no surprise when I entered the salon, and there were certain details and décor that resembled Disney’s unique princess effect. The honor table might as well have been featured in one of the princesses’ weddings!

At the top of the reception. The bride and groom gave it all by singing and dancing “Don’t stop me know” by Queen, and the crowd was on fire. Funny thing, in this reception I saw a lot of singing along; usually, guests limit themselves to dance, and a few cheers here and there. This group of people sang with all their strength. It was fun! Another moment was when all the ladies toasted on the dance floor, singing “I wanna dance with somebody” by the late Whitney Houston.

In all truthfulness, my very favorite moment of the day was during the ceremony. The Minister looked deeply into Sam and Alex’s eyes and gave a simple request: “Love each other the best you can, with all of your hearts.”

Wouldn’t the world be happier and better if we all did that? One thing I am sure, Alex and Sam started with the right foot. We wish you all the happiness in the world and thank you for making me part of your special day.

Dylan and Maia

Another weekend, another spectacular union! Dylan and Maia sealed their destinies together, and I was lucky enough to be a part of it.

’Cause you’re a sky, ’cause you’re a sky full of stars

I’ve been to my share of weddings, both as a guest and as a deejay. And tons of them use Pachelbel’s Canon as the processional song. Along with “Here comes the bride” is the traditional choice. Nonetheless, the song has some interesting beginnings and history.  

The song starts with an 8-note bass line, with more instruments joining as the bass repeats (hence the word canon, which means music that repeats). This is why it is ideal for weddings because it can be timed to the length of the procession (no one wants to be speeding through the aisle). Pachelbel, a German composer wrote this song among many other pieces of church music.

Interestingly enough, the song was received by tepid critics and was not even considered for weddings. When and why, he decided to compose the song is still unknown. In 1980, the movie “Ordinary People,” starring Mary Tyler Moor, featured the music. If you remember, the film won tons of accolades, including Best Picture, but still, the song wasn’t that famous.

What made brides and grooms then fall in love with the piece? Ah! How we love royalty! Because when Prince Charles and late Princess Diana had their fairy-tale wedding, the royal couple used another baroque composition. Then, Pachelbel, and other baroque composers, received much-deserved attention. Of course, nowadays, people may choose Ed Sheeran or other modern artists, but Pachelbel’s Canon has a perennial charm. 

With these beautiful notes with no lyrics, Maia walked to the aisle to change her future into an even brighter one as she exchanged vows with Dylan. 

I’m gonna give you my heart, oh

Let’s get back to the music a little bit. The couple opted for “Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay for the recessional song. The song has everything to get a crowd inspired, fantastic lyrics, and a catchy melody. This song was recorded during the sessions for Ghost Stories with Avicii. Chris Martin, Coldplay’s leading man, invited Swedish EDM talented artist Avicii to contribute to the song.

 If you follow Coldplay, you know that it is usually Martin himself who plays the piano, but in this case, he asked the Swedish artist to add his majesty to the piano contribution. Martin confessed he felt he was “cheating” on his band, but the result was worth it.

Chris Martin said: “What that song represents on Ghost Stories is the release after you’ve climbed the mountain – after you’ve done anything challenging. That’s why that song is so unashamedly happy and danceable: because that’s what it needed to be. I love singing it. I know we didn’t break the mold, but it’s just so fun to play.”

A touching piece of trivia here, this song was Joe Biden’s late son Beau’s favorite song. The music played after the acceptance speeches of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris following their victory in the US 2020 presidential election. Even more touching, Chris Martin and the band performed the song at Beau’s funeral back in 2015. 

With such a fantastic music selection, the party officially began. For their first dance, the couple chose Ed Sheeran’s and his unmistakable velvety voice. Dylan and Maia even did a little choreography during their first dance; it was very fairy-tale-like! 

Friends and family gathered at the floor, and they traveled the decades dancing and singing, from the Beatles’ Twist and Shout to the final song, “A thousand years” by Christina Perri. 

The bride looked beautiful; the view was stunning; the event was marvelous. Dylan and Maia, I hope the future is bright for you and your loved ones. Let us be grateful to witness such sunsets, such fun, and such love. 

Christopher and Vanessa

And we’re on our way to glory.

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that no matter what, love always prevails. Through the peaks and valleys of our lives, our existence carries on. And with those thoughts in mind, I wrapped up Christopher and Vanessa’s magnificent wedding. What better way to start fresh this 2022 than being part of such a fun, charming event?

With that preamble, you can imagine what kind of event was Vanessa and Chris’s wedding. The ceremony -held outside -featured rose petals everywhere, including the aisle where Vanessa walked looking stunning, but most of all, looking like a woman in love. And speaking about love, it was such a cute, fun moment, when Chris (as he was saying his vows) repeated the part of “I promise to love you.” The crowd laughed as the officiant pointed out how much he liked that part.

After the ceremony, Vanessa and Christopher were officially pronounced husband and wife; the crowd moved inside for the reception. 

There, the royalty-vibe continued, not only because the ballroom is stunning itself but also the tasteful decoration that adorned it. The sweetheart table was one of my favorite parts, with lots of white roses, candles, and breathtaking details. 

Now there’s time for us to spend

Let’s talk music.

The newlyweds chose the song “Pluto Projector” by Rex Orange County for their first dance. In this song, the author confesses his love for his significant other. He also is hopeful these feelings will last forever. The second verse of the song actually talks about marriage because Rex -in his own words -said he imagined himself in wedlock with his partner.

He calls for an encore on this life again. He also does not shy away from admitting his mistakes and failures while admitting that he can be a ‘boy’ in his thoughts at times. The song reaffirms that where there is understanding, compromise, and communication, “forever” is possible. And with such amazing lyrics, Christopher and Vanessa swayed, looking into each other’s eyes. 

The father and daughter’s song was no less emotional. Vanessa and her father danced Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle. Carlisle, a contemporary Christian singer and author wrote this song for his daughter. He was looking at some family photos and suddenly realized his daughter Brooke was bound to leave the household in a few years. Bob Carlisle said the lyrics just “poured out” of him, and he immediately recorded the song. The melody and lyrics are not only about fatherhood but reflection and gratitude. Like when we look back and see we’ve done pretty good, despite all odds. It also triggers appreciation for time well spent. 

And if someone spent their time very well, were the guests at the wedding. Because once the lights were dimmed and the hip hop began, the dancefloor became a stage. 

A remarkable way to start my year. Christopher and Vanessa, I wish your journey together be as your wedding day did: filled with laughter, joy, and tons of love.

Grant and Shyanne

Once I stepped into the ceremony area, with the magnificent circular arch and the beautiful wooden and green deco, I knew Grant’s and Shyanne’s wedding would be fantastic -I was not wrong.

This thing called love.

One of my favorite things about this wedding was that the officiant was the father of the groom. How immensely cool is that? Every single word uttered by Dad was said with deep emotion and the highest sense of love. It was a fantastic experience. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

The wedding procession walked down the gorgeous aisle, when suddenly! Oh! The family dog walked as well! I am a firm believer that a wedding should be the reflection of a couple’s personality -not following a script designed by a stranger. Grand and Shyanne nailed this part; everything about the wedding said a bit of them as a couple and as two people very much in love. 

Shyanne appeared, looking stunning beyond words, arm, and arm with her father. The song they chose for the grand entrance was “Can’t help falling in love” by Elvis Presley’s King of Rock. This song was included in the 1961 movie Blue Hawaii. The funny thing is that no one of the movie producers wanted to include it; Elvis insisted on recording the melody for the motion picture. Since then, the song has been featured in many movies, such as Coyote Ugly, Only Fools Rush In, and Disney’s Lilo & Stitch. 

It was time for Shyanne and Grant to take the dance floor for their first dance as a married couple. The song they chose was a lovely tune called “Butterflies” by Macey Musgraves. Macey was inspired to write this song when she met her future husband, Ruston Kelly. Macey confessed: “Everything from the lyrics down to the production really represents this floaty, dreamy feeling that I got as soon as he came into my life. I had just met Ruston, so my world had been completely flipped upside down, so this is a great sonic representation of that.” Ruston Kelly must’ve felt the same way as he proposed to Musgraves on Christmas eve.

I loved the way the songwriter expressed it because it was the same type of experience one got from watching Grant and Shyanne as they looked at each other’s eyes while dancing. As if they couldn’t wait for the rest of their lives to begin, but at the say, they wished to stop time and enjoy this dreamy feeling. And guess what?… the family dog was present at their first dance as well!

It was 6:30 pm, and the husband and bride took advantage of the golden hour to take some fantastic photos together. From that moment on, everyone dedicated themselves to having fun! The dance floor was packed and alive until the wedding day reached its ending. Family and friends said goodbye to the newlyweds as they marched away with Freddy Mercury singing “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” 

Grant and Shyanne, we loved being part of your wedding -may all the blessings and happiness accompany your journey as a couple.

Erik and Kinsey

I’ve found something real.

I had the pleasure to accompany Erik and Kinsey as they became Mr. and Mrs. Swanson -and boy! Did they do it in a fantastic way!

Erik and Kinsey chose the Safari Park, at the San Diego Zoo, as their wedding location. This is a terrific choice for couples seeking a unique celebration filled with romance, adventure, and one-of-a-kind landscapes. Erik and Kinsey’s guests will forever treasure this memory. Moreover, when couples book weddings at this location, they contribute to the support of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts. You get a memorable wedding day, and you help the planet -that’s neat!

Hold my heart til’ it grows old.

The ceremony began, and the wedding procession entered with a charming song called “Savage beauty” -by Jacob Shea and Jasha Klebe (from Planet Earth II soundtrack). The beautiful bride then entered, arm and arm with her father; the song chosen was “Courage and Kindness” from the Cinderella soundtrack. You could say Kinsey is a modern-time princess who loves nature -a combination hard to top.

The officiant’s words were touching and emotional. My favorite phrase from the ceremony was when the officiant said: “A lasting love is rooted upon the fact that God loves you.” And, I couldn’t agree more!

Musical requests for the rest of the event varied, but the classics were ever-so present, with the Beatles, the Righteous Brothers, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra. And speaking of the Chairman of the Board, Kinsey’s father sang “The Way You Look Tonight.” I have to be honest, as I was told this was going to happen, I pictured an emotional but serious moment -I was wrong! Kinsey’s father’s unique voice surprised me, but I was also astonished by this moment’s great vibes imprinted in the ambiance. Everyone was dancing to the iconic song as Erik and Kinsey embraced each other and sang it along!

The whole wedding had too many terrific moments to recount them all! I don’t know what I liked the most, Whether Erik dancing with his two sisters or Grandma rocking the dance floor with her favorite song, “Low” by Flo Rida. One of the best wedding moments I’ve ever witnessed!

Everything about Erik and Kinsey’s wedding day matched. The flowers with the landscape, the music with the dancers, the decoration with the place. But most of all, the bride and groom matched each other. It is always inspiring, and never trite, to witness two people madly in love with each other, vowing to be together through thick and thin. It was an honor to be a part of your wedding. Best of lucks in this new stage of your life, and remember to always keep the music on your side!