Naples DJ: Christopher and Dennette 9.19.14

TIPS FOR A GREAT RECEPTION:

1.) Have the bar in the same room as the reception. People tend to naturally gravitate to the bar, so keeping it in the room will keep them near the fun.

2.) DJ by the dance floor! Your DJ & the sound system needs to be at the edge of the dance floor. Do not make the mistake of having the DJ place the loud speakers a distance away from the dance floor. Playing music over & thru the guest tables can make for an uncomfortable experience.

3.) When arranging the seating chart, it's important to have your relatives seated close by. It's a great suggestion to not have Grandma and Grandpa sit in front of where the speakers may be placed.

4.) You are the party. When you dance, the dance floor will be full. Realize that if you spend your time visiting or outside, your guests will be wherever you are at. So dance all night!

5.) Arrange with the catering manager to have some hors d'oeuvres and your favorite drinks ready for you and the bridal party immediately after photos. You'll be glad you did.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Christopher and Dennette 9.19.14

Happy Honeymooning to Chris and Dennette in the Bahamas at a Sandals Resort! Now that the wedding is complete they'll be relaxing and celebrating together! Scott and I met Dennette and Chris last September when they were down in Florida from Missouri interviewing vendors for their wedding. We got the job! Thank you Chris and Dennette for choosing us!

This wedding reception took place at the Hilton Naples with the awesome Ashley who's the Special Events Manager at the Hilton Naples. This Bridal Couple had about 42 guests in the Royal Palm Ballroom. We played from 8pm to midnight. It was a rainy day but the weather was on Ashley's side and the wedding ceremony was doable on the beach. Whew! Their photographer was Emma Burdis who we had the pleasure of doing the entertainment at her wedding also some years ago. Always a pleasure to see and work with her!

To start the reception we did the Introductions of the Bridal Attendants with no music at Dennette and Chris' request since there were only about 40 guests. The newly weds went right into their First Dance which was to "Forever's As Far As I'll Go" by Alabama. Following that was the Blessing of the food and a few Toasts and then on with the plated and served meal. The music they requested during dinner was Sinatra type music. After dinner was the Cake Cutting and the Father / Daughter Dance. "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle was chosen by Dennette's Dad.

Chris and Dennette chose not to stress over making us a "Must Play" songlist and only chose about 5 slow songs to play at points in the evening. These were the wedding songs of some of the attending couples' wedding songs which was very nice and thoughtful. ;-)

This is a great job we have! So much being part of such an important day in these couples' lives.