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!

The Wedding of Tyler & Kathryn

The Rancho Bernardo Inn has been a witness to many love stories. From proposals, engagement announcements, and weddings, their 40-year experience as a wedding venue precedes it. I’d been at the Rancho Bernardo before but at a different location. Tyler and Kathryn chose this magnificent place as the setting for their grand day: their wedding day.

The Rancho Bernardo offers something for every taste. Of course, the landscape is impressive; anyone staring past beyond those green areas gets inspired by its beauty. But there are also cozy corners that offer intimacy and a sense of familiarity. As is if the couples are getting married at home.

A fun fact, John Lennon did not play on this song. It was that time when the two of them were not on the best terms, and the tension was reaching a boiling point. We are thankful because after they settled their differences, George Harrison collaborated in the ultimate Lennon’s hymn “Imagine.” 

“Here comes the Sun” is a testimony of the genius behind the often-underrated Harrison. It also speaks about witnessing something beautiful emerging after a long wait. We could totally sense the feeling as Tyler watched his lovely bride walking towards him, ready to seal their destinies together. 

I’ll treasure each and every day.

The Sun was shining, and the wind was indeed blowing, making Kathryn’s veil dance as she and Tyler pronounced their vows -talk about movie-like scenes!

After the ceremony was done, the couple and their guests began to enjoy the reception. The new Mr. and Mrs. chose “Joy of my life” by Chris Stapleton. In the song, the words speak about realizing how lucky a man can get as he finds the love of his life.

Sometimes, it is hard to pinpoint what stands out precisely in a couple. Tyler and Kathryn were different. There was something about them, relaxed, at ease with each other, and plainly happy that emanated good vibes.

The cake-cutting ceremony was a blast. Turns out Tyler followed a family tradition and chose a particular sword to cut the cake. There was nothing uptight about it! On the contrary, as I said, the couple reflected a peacefulness and a joy that were palpable to the rest of us. 

Believe it or not, Tupelo Honey was inspired by the domestic happiness the author enjoyed upon married the love of his life, Janet. Janet, the woman who inspired several other Morrison’s compositions, brought joy and tranquility to the prior Irish R&B band member. Tupelo honey comes from the flowers of a tupelo tree, this last one an abundant species in the Southern states. The last fun fact, for all the Friends’ fans out there, Tupelo Honey was mentioned by Ross as the most romantic song ever (his love interest, Rachel, said the most romantic song was The Way We Were). At any rate, romance did reign over Tyler and Kathryn’s wedding.

I can’t say which was my favorite part of the event. The tasteful decorations, the vows, the guests dancing their souls out with the greatest 1980s songs (you can’t fail with this decade). The way family, friends, and the couple sang Sweet Caroline at the end. It was a great wedding; it was a great day. 

Congratulations to the newlyweds, and thank you for inviting me to be a part of your wedding.

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The Wedding of Evan & Abby

She says she loves you.

Some brides enjoy the process of planning a wedding; other couples actually resent it. There’s nothing wrong with it; it is, after all, a crucial day, and there’s tons of stuff to do, organize and coordinate. For some reason, Abby and Evan gave the impression of genuinely delighting in the whole thing. Perhaps it was the way they spoke to each other, but mostly, you could see their personalities imprinted in every detail of the wedding.

It’s you she’s thinking of

Do you want to know something extraordinary? There was a lot of Beatles during the ceremony procession -as a Liverpool’s quartet fan myself, and a clients’ pleaser -we indeed include them. 

The song Evan and Abby selected for their grand entrance was even more fantastic: “Everybody” by the Backstreet Boys.  The tune and the video were a huge hit, and it is still a favorite when you want your audience to become enthusiastic and get in a party mood. Fun facts?

• The Backstreet Boys were huge in Europe before reaching the top in the States. This song was marked as a “comeback.”
• Once the video director met the band, he cataloged them as “little Michael Jacksons” and got the inspiration for the horror-based video from Thriller. Zombies, monsters, superb choreography, you get the gist.
• Believe it or not, the video meant so much more than four good-looking boys dancing. It was purposely racially diverse; if you remember, Los Angeles back then was insanely segregated due to the city’s riots. No one discussed this with the band -that was the beauty of it! Next time you watch the video, check out the dance partners. Nicely done, BSB!

Iconic, to say the least, this song is what actually started the Beatlemania. It has a fascinating -and funny -story behind it! Here you have, John Lennon and Paul McCartney obliviously writing their future hit at McCartney’s place. It was Sir Paul who suggested using a third party. So instead of composing another song that said “I love you,” they thought it would be more interesting to cast the song as a message -letting someone else know their beloved one still loved them! Isn’t that the best news anyone can receive? And how great it was to sign about someone else instead of them.

They basically crafted a little story, where one friend says, “She loves you,” and the other one replies, “yeah, yeah, yeah.” The funny thing is when the pair pitched the song to McCartney’s dad, who was present (picture Mr. McCartney senior, smoking cigarettes and watching some telly), he said: That’s very nice, son, but there’s enough of these Americanisms around. Couldn’t you sing, “She loves you. Yes! Yes! Yes!” Lennon and McCartney must’ve rolled their eyes at the comment!

Nonetheless, the message was beautiful -a message lacking selfishness, something along the lines of marriage. And on that note, we were very moved by Abby’s words during her vows. Abby said: “every moment I spent with you is a moment I treasure, and you should know how wonderful life is with you in the world.” What better discourse on love can exist? To let someone know the world is lucky to have them. 

We congratulate the happy couple and also remind them how lucky it is they have found each other. Love, a rare emotion displayed on a happy occasion. Thank you, Evan and Abby, for letting us accompany you, and bringing music, melody, and lyrics to your day. 

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The Wedding of Clayton and Renee

And I found you like a melody

Clayton and Renee’s wedding… where do I begin? 

And I wanna chase every high with you.

Clayton and Renee chose to have only their families as part of the wedding. Every choice shapes the tone of the celebration; in this case, Renee and Clayton opted for something more intimate. The cute flower girl and ring bearer walked through the flowery path, the groom and his mom, and finally, Renee appeared arm in arm with her dad. The beautiful melody by Christina Perry -A thousand years -resonated through the area, and I could tell Clayton was getting emotional with the view of such a stunning bride. 

I like written vows. There’s nothing wrong with traditional ones, but it must take courage first to come up with the right words and second to utter them without choking up mid-sentence. There’s a sort of built expectations around personalized vows, and these ones did not disappoint. My favorite part said by Clayton was: “You showed me what through love is through your generosity and your compassionate nature.” My favorite phrase from Renee was: “Vows her I promise you to encourage you to follow your dreams.” Both sentences, I thought, were fantastic and felt genuine. 

Not everything was serious, though. And it was terrific to watch Renee and Clayton practically hopping out from the ceremony -pure joy. Do you know what this meant? They were ready to p-a-r-t-y, and I was prepared to do my part.

After dinner and all the traditional protocols, Clayton and Renee took the dance floor to dance their first song as husband and wife. The chosen melody was “One band man” by Old Dominion. The band’s lead singer explained the concept behind it: “One of the things we talk about the most in this band is how we can’t imagine being on this crazy ride alone.” Isn’t it true what marriage is all about? The abandonment of oneself to become a couple; to have a partner for life. For better or worse. I don’t know what Clayton and Renee told each other during their first dance, but the complicity in their eyes was inspiring. 

That squared area with wooden floor transformed into a stage as soon as the party moved on. Watching all of the guests dancing and enjoying was terrific; the beats stumbled against the floor, around their waving arms, through their lips as they sang and celebrated their friends tying the knot. 

It was great to be part of your special day, Clayton and Renee. We wish you happiness and the best of lucks during the next chapter of your lives!

DJ Mark

Music that makes you smile

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The Wedding of Aaron and Samantha

So tired of searchin’… ‘Til you walked into my life

Aaron and Samantha are now husband and wife, one of those lucky couples who met early on in life, have seen each other grow through the peaks and valleys in life. And now, they decided to officially seal their destinies together  – DJ Mark was present to witness such a remarkable event.

The truest of words come directly from the heart.

The ceremony was spotless, with the cutest flower girls wearing white dresses and walking towards the aisle. Samantha, looking fabulous, walked arm and arm with her father while Aaron eagerly waited for her at the arch. The notes of the all-time favorite Canon in D (Pachelbel’s Canon) matched perfectly with the scenery and fantastic panoramic views. The couple opted to write their own vows. Aaron made the attendees laugh when he described the moment he and Samantha first met; then, looking directly into each other’s eyes, they both expressed they could not imagine their lives without the other. 

One really cool thing to witness was the sand ceremony. If you are unfamiliar with it, let me explain it briefly. The unity sand ceremony is a wedding tradition where the couple has separate bottles of sand (different colors), and they are poured into a unified recipient. It symbolizes how their prior individual lives become one -indivisible from now on. In one simple act, the meaning of marriage is perfectly represented. 

Die a happy man

After the inspiring words, the blessings, the cocktails, the dancing, and the laughter, it was time to wrap it up. Aaron and Samantha said goodbye to their guests with a great song by Thomas Rhett –Die a Happy Man. Rhett wrote the song inspired by the unique relationship with Lauren, whom he met in first grade! Do you know what’s even better? It was Lauren who asked for the song! She had always admired Tim McGraw’s “Just to See You Smile” for years and wanted something similar penned by her hubby. Her actual words were: “Write something besides whiskey, beer, or taking a girl home in a big truck.” You gotta love her!

Anyways, it was the perfect song to end such a memorable day, as Rhett said: “I just think this song shows how Lauren and I love each other, and I hope this song is an encouragement to other married couples or people that are dating.”

We are more than sure that Rhett’s song fulfilled that purpose at Aaron’s and Samantha’s wedding. The happy look on the new Mr. and Mrs. provides us with all the satisfaction in the world. May your journey together be filled with blessings, love, and luck!

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The Wedding of Evan and Marina

Unique is a worn-out word. People use the term nonchalantly to describe special items, situations, or events. That’s why it is challenging to come up with a word to recount Evan and Marina’s wedding; because the whole event was more memorable than simply “special” and more unique than just “unique.” I shall try my best.

Love, we can’t lose with God on our side.

At 4:00 pm, the first look was scheduled, and the wedding ceremony started at 5:30 pm. The ceremony had only a few chairs for the guests, while most stood up during the ritual. Marina walked towards Evan, looking beautiful, accompanied by the unforgettable Stevie Wonder and his Ribbon in the sky. Now, although the lyrics definitely speak about true love, people interpret them in different ways. Some fans believe Stevie was singing about finding love after a heartbreak -since the ribbon in the sky can mirror a rainbow (which comes after a storm). Others just believe the song talks about two people meant to be together -like Marina and Evan.

The officiant spoke delightfully. She said that ceremony was the cusp after a journey of space and time, reaching that place after these uncertain times we are living in. The journey stopped right there for the guests, witnessing their beloved ones getting married; for Marina and Evan, the adventure just began.

One really cool thing was when the bride and groom turned to their guests and blessed them; wanting to share the love and happiness they were feeling with their family and friends.

This is not a coincidence.

What’s better than a lovely couple dancing at sunset? Three couples dancing at sunset! Evan’s and Marina’s parents joined them on the dance floor and embraced each other as the new family they are. It was a fantastic moment.

Evan and Marina invited family and friends to dance with Mary J. Blige and her hit “Family affair.” While the song basically talks about getting super crazy on the dance floor, Blige’s bridge -suggested by Dr. Dre -is sort of spiritual. Talks about the need to throw hate through the window and focus on love -and this crowd indeed got the message right.

I never get tired of witnessing a group of people coming alive on the dance floor. The Sun left us around 8 pm, but the fun, laughter, and good rhythms stayed for more hours. Drake, The Weeknd, and so many more were present during that wedding -and the joy was palpable!

Evan and Marina are now destined to be together. If their life as a couple resembles anything in their wedding celebration, they are up to a pretty unique adventure ahead. We wish them all the happiness in the world. Thank you for choosing us!

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The Wedding of Mark & Natalie

It’s always sunny in…California

The setting was Paradise Gables, the bride was Natalie, the groom was Mark. The event hashtag was #MeettheManos. The name of the song? Picture perfect wedding.

The union between Mark and Natalie can be analyzed from three different perspectives: the setting, the couple, and the music they chose for their most fantastic day. Let’s start dissecting each one!

The couple. There’s nothing better than to discover a couple’s personality through the details at their wedding. For instance, as the guests were arriving at the ceremony, a talented saxophonist entertained the crowd. Another sweet moment was when the flower girl was “rolled” through the aisle in a tiny carriage! Cuteness overloaded. But, if there’s a moment when a bride and groom show their true colors is the moment of their vows. It doesn’t matter if they don’t get to write their own ones; the complicity in their looks, the tone they use as they pronounce them -specially reserved for their loved one -all of it transmits a unique vibe.

Natalie and Mark did write their own vows, and they were filled with humbleness, devotion for each other, and hope for a great future for them as a couple. Natalie said she was convinced it was fate that determined she would be by Mark’s side. Then, looking at her partner said: “I am honored to be chosen to be your wife.” If that’s not true love, then I am lost at words.

There were tons of outstanding musical requests for Mark’s and Natalie’s wedding. The Bee gees were present, along with Sir Elton John. Mazzy Star accompanied the guests during dinner as well as the legend and author Carole King. 

Friends and family stepped into the dance floor to show Kevin Bacon he’s not the only one with a Footloose; the guests also showed their best moves during Sweet Home Alabama and Mrs. Brightside by The Killers.

The dark sky crowned the event as friends danced and celebrated around the happy couple. But if someone showed the rest how to reign the dance floor, it was Mark and Natalie. Dancing like real movie stars, the new spouses closed the night with “Closing times” -pardon the pun.

We feel happy and blessed to have been part of such a joyous occasion. Mark and Natalie, you rocked the whole day; may the future bring more love and great endeavors for you!

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The Wedding of Robert and Katherine

You look so beautiful in this light

We live in such a cool, stunning area that often we take it for granted. Events like Robert’s and Katherine’s wedding remind us of the San Diego area’s beauty.  Robert and Katherine chose the 4th of July weekend to take their vows and start a joined adventure. The day had many unique moments that are worth sharing; it was an overall great experience.

And all of the voices surrounding us here.

Beautiful bride Katherine walked down the aisle with Ed Sheeran’s tribute to his girlfriend’s eyes: Tenerife Sea. The composer says he wrote this beautiful song at the 2013 Grammy Awards -I guess inspiration comes unexpectedly! Sheeran heard lots of people talking and chatting non-stop; he felt he didn’t belong, and all that mattered to him was his girlfriend sitting next to him. The lyrics are super romantic; there’s a verse that says: “Should this be the last thing I see, I want you to know it’s enough for me…” and with those meaningful words, Robert waited for his bride. Goosebumps, right?

The moment of truth came with the vows as Katherine described Robert as the rock to her stone; she praised his leadership, faith, and how he inspired her to achieve new dreams. When Robert’s turn came up, he confessed he hadn’t updated his vows, and all the attendees laughed. When love has this level of perfection, these types of spontaneous moments only reassure what the couple already knows: they are meant to be together. 

It’s all about tradition.

A key Macedonian tradition in weddings is the bread dance. What happens is, guests, carry a sweetened yeasted bread called koluk; guests form a circle, and the bride and groom dance in the middle. The circle symbolizes marriage -where there’s no beginning and no end. 

Unfortunately, the day came to an ending, not without the guests dancing their feet off with Michael Jackson, Blink 182, Black Eyed Peas, and other requests that made the dance floor alive. 

Robert and Katherine, thank you for thinking of us for your wedding. We have nothing but great memories from your special day, and we wish you the best in this exciting endeavor!

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The Wedding of Myles & Kyla

Now that we have found love – what are we gonna do

Witnessing a wedding is always emotional, and even if you are an “I-don’t-cry-at-weddings” type of person, you would have changed your mind after attending Kyla and Myles’s wedding.

Usually, brides tend to lean to one side of the spectrum: either they are methodical, with classic taste and a tight schedule, or they are laid-back, spontaneous, with a #yolo attitude. Kyla was a refreshing, captivating blend of the two approaches.

Starting with the couple’s choice for the venue, precisely the style we want to describe. California emanates a relaxed vibe; it immediately translates to chicness, modernity, and edginess. Who would’ve thought you could find fantastic spots, such as The Pannikin Building, downtown. It is a historic building with gorgeous wood floors, super cool vaulted ceilings and open beams, and the touch that makes it even cozier: exposed brick, which is the original thing! As the venue advertises itself, you can make this space whatever you want it to be. And so did Kyla and Myles did!

Before the wedding, Kyla, Myles, and their entourage had a photoshoot. If you’re thinking of rigid poses and frozen smiles, think again. This wonderful couple chose to get candid photos with the bridesmaids. They also stayed away from the formal “First look” pics and opted for genuine photos as Mr. and Mrs. Showing them as they are: a couple. Partners enjoying the moment, planning their wedding, but embracing their marriage -with all the spontaneity that comes along. 

Touches of classic romanticism were spotted throughout the day. For instance, Kyla was not seen by the rest of the guests until she walked down the aisle. A lovely detail that preserved the aura of mystery that accompanies the look at the bride for the first time. Also, the bridesmaids, wearing stunning rainbow-themed gowns, walked in a specific order so that the shades would blend perfectly. 

As guests walked into the reception space, they were instructed to explore, seat or walk as they pleased, not having to worry about dinner. You know why? Dinner came directly to them! And the day kept getting more incredible by the minute. 

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Jon & Judah’s Wedding

Two drifters off to see the world

Father and bride embraced each other as they walked down the aisle with the all-time favorite: Moonriver. As you may know, the song was the central piece for Audrey’s Hepburn unforgettable 1961 movie: Breakfast in Tiffany’s. When the song was initially released, it was instrumental. The theme with Hepburn signing the lyrics was not released until she died in 1993. The song’s author Henry Mancini said that it only took him 30 minutes to compose the hit, and it had to be made bearing the limitations of Audrey’s voice range. It is hard to think of another melody as fully charged with nostalgia, devotion, and inspiration as Moonriver -looking at Judah with her father made it the perfect rendition.

Another great moment happened when Jon and his mom danced: “My wish” by Rascal Flatts. A song that works ideally as a send-off, where someone who loves you wishes you the best. The song has been featured in movies, and it is the official song for the Make-a-wish-foundation in which sports celebrities partner with the organization to make children’s dreams come true. And that day, Jon’s dream came true as well.

Music requests were varied and interesting. We had Smash Mouth, Rhett Thomas, V.I.C.and many more. The happy couple said goodbye to their guests with Katy Perry and her song: Fireworks.

Another day in paradise, Jon and Judah; thank you for choosing me to help create your day. 

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