Sunday, September 27, 2020

Ceremony and Reception Harpist, Hyatt Lodge, Oak Brook

A perfect setting. You are both right by the water, and 
only steps from the hotel!

I have been to the Lodge many times, but this was my first time down by the lake. It is an absolutely stunning location, and was perfect for this particular wedding. The mother of the bride had requested that I play from my Bollywood repertoire, but the drummer and I had something unexpected happened! The groom's family approached using the bridge that spans the lake, and I had continued to play as they were gathering across the lake from the ceremony site. When the drummer began to lead them across the lake, he locked in with me, and we played a duet!! It was unexpected, and so cool! After the ceremony, the guests gathered for light refreshments overlooking the lake. It was a serene setting for the couples big day!

This patio is directly adjoining the hotel.

You'll find a listing of my Bollywood repertoire at my website: www.ChicagoWeddingHarpist.com

Friday, September 25, 2020

Wedding Ceremony Harpist, At Home in Crown Point, Indiana



Home weddings are always intimate and relaxed, so definitely a terrific idea during a pandemic! This one was particularly memorable for me, because the groom turned out to be a musician, and he knew exactly what he wanted for his wedding. He chose "Nothing Else Matters" by Metallica for the processional, and it was incredible. I did an arrangement for them, so I could get as close as possible to the original, including the opening guitar solo. Since the "aisle" was short, the groom decided to use the one song for everyone, and it was a great decision. It was smoother than changing songs, and it also let the song choice really sink in with the congregation. Making things special for the bride is always at the forefront of my thinking, so I brought the music down before her entrance, and started fresh when I saw her coming down the aisle. They recessed to the Smashing Pumpkin's "Tonight, Tonight", and it all just fit beautifully.


The decorations were so lovely!!


I have a large repertoire, but I am always happy to learn new music! Please see my website for the special request procedure at www.ChicagoWeddingHarpist.com

Sunday, September 13, 2020

Vow Renewal Harpist, Lincolnshire Marriott, Lincolnshire


Just a beautiful setting!

The lovely woman who was planning this had done without the music she wanted at her original ceremony, and she was not going to go without this time! Originally scheduled for Spring 2020, she was absolutely a delight through all of the uncertainty and rescheduling, and I felt so lucky to be able to play for her! The Lincolnshire Marriott helped by providing a beautiful room that was larger than what would've been needed in pre pandemic times. Everyone was distanced and safe, and ready to celebrate the couple's happy union! Besides picking out "Air" from Water Music to process to, the bride also requested a special song for her young grandson (You've Got a Friend in Me), to make him feel included in all of the plans. Once the reception started, I played a variety of classical music and love songs, including "Color My World," which was the couple's special song back in the day. 




You can check my repertoire list for your special song, but I also learn special request music! www.ChicagoWeddingHarpist.com