However, you are most welcome to read the wonderful memories I share in this blog. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

The Wedding DJ

On a sunny and bright Wednesday July afternoon, Amanda Hume (back then, Amanda Wolfman), called me as I drove into the Oakland Whole Foods parking lot.

“We hit some traffic and rerouted, we’ll be a little late,” she said.

The chef and her makeup artist, accompanied by their friends, had nearly completed a long field trip that began in Denver, and took them through several natural wonders, including a brief stay in Yosemite. The campers soon arrived at 3:05 pm, with smiles and nerves of steel. They were on their way to the wedding venue, The Historic Sand Rock Farm, in Aptos. After several email and phone exchanges, we finally met. “What a lovely couple!” I thought.

In less than an hour, we exchanged stories and event strategies. I had never performed an event at Sand Rock. Yet their description of the place excited me. After scribbling the location on paper and nailing down the day from beginning to end, we parted.

Weeks before our first meeting, I mentioned to Bryan and Amanda that my girlfriend and I were planning a trip to Santa Cruz and Monterey.

They responded, “Why don’t you bring her to the wedding, Eric?”

We were delighted. A new wedding venue in rural Aptos to explore? We booked a hotel room at the amazing Dolce Mansion, in San Jose, and planned a fun-fulfilled weekend, surely to be topped off by Bryan and Amanda’s special day and evening!

Saturday, July 10th rolled around. I loaded my Element with the gear the night before, doubled checked the time line itinerary,  packed, set my iPhone GPS for Aptos, and we departed the Oakland Hills around 11:45 am. After a smooth jaunt down the 880, and a quick stop at Quizno’s for lunch, we made our way through the Santa Cruz Mountains.

“Are those rainclouds?” I thought, while arriving into Aptos. An overcast sky saw me cringing a bit. Yet the San Rock Farm’s owner, Kris, put my mind to rest when she told me there would be a little drizzle, but no rain.

We easily found the farm and meandered up the narrow drive, through some beautiful greenery and wildflowers. The venue immediately reminded me of Griffith Woods in Sebastopol. I love outdoor weddings, especially during the summer! And, the Sand Rock Farm certainly boasts a perfect location for such an important event!

We drove to the reception area, where we met Bryan’s father. I guessed who he was as Bryan is the spitting image of his father (vice versa). Soon thereafter, Bryan’s charming mom (a Nova Scotia native), gleefully introduced herself. We loved her colorful dress and the complementing smile.

After setting up for the reception, we tracked to the reception area, where we met Brian, a good friend of Bryan and Amanda, and the ceremony guitarist. Following a quick set-up, I left the scene to change into formal attire, while Brian began playing pre-ceremony music for the guests, arriving by shuttle, from the upper parking lot.

The ceremony began what would be a very magical day and evening! The weather brightened as the flower girl and ring bearer troop strolled, and even crawled down the aisle, sprinkling flower petals, while following the lead of a patient mom. I watched Bryan blush when Amanda came into sight. The guitarist began a fantastic rendition of “All You Need is Love,” while jaws dropped and tears flowed, as Amanda made her way down the aisle, accompanied by dad. For the life of me, I cannot recall whether her mom joined them as well. Like everyone else, I was too wrapped up in the moment.

After a brief intro from the officiant, aka Bryan’s sister (who officiated really well), and a tearful reading from Amanda’s sister (also the author of the great “Bryan was a complete booty” toast), the couple exchanged vows next to a rustic fountain of wooden barrels, and returned up the aisle to Brian’s recessional version of “All You Need is Love.”

Let’s skip forward to the reception. The guests made their way to the picturesque reception area for hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and conversation. Smiles and laughter adorned the cocktail hour, while the photographer, Joe Storch snapped shots of the wedding party, back at the ceremony area.

Following the roar of guest applause and cheer, while I announced the wedding party, the blessed couple graced the wine cellar with a first dance to John Legend “So High, then greeted the guests, and invited them to dine.

The dinner featured a buffet of meats, fish, and vegetarian delights. The caterers outdid themselves! I enjoyed working with the venue’s manager, Benne. She and her hospitable crew catered to everyone’s needs.

After dinner and some moving toasts (high fives a la mode), the parents danced with their newlyweds, and they partied into the night, filling the dance floor, moving to a wonderful eclectic blend of a little of everything.

Beautiful people, beautiful venue, blessed by a great staff = fantastic event! Thank you so much for making us a part of YOUR something wonderful!

Your moments will definitely be present with me for a long time!

Bryan and Amanda, enjoy everything you have, and don’t take one moment for granted!

With blessings,

Your DJ

Eric

What’s the secret to a perfect wedding? Well… Firstly, there’s no such thing as a perfect wedding. We all make mistakes, vendors too. To keep those mistakes to a minimum, you must be ready. You can never be too prepared for an event as important as your wedding, so get out a pen and paper, and take some notes.

The hidden core of a wedding event lies in a romantic flow. It begins well before your wedding day. For you, it starts with the proposal. For your family and friends, it begins during your announcement, and, for your guests, it wells up when they receive your invitation in the mailbox. Yes! It’s the spark, the very same feeling you still get when you see a match strike and illuminate.

The flow swells as the day grows closer, and, on the morning of your special day and evening, the flow fills everyone and brings them to the alter. It emanates from the nervous smiles from the bride, the groom, the wedding party, and from those who are close. The flow is what nudges the tears of joy that fall from family and friends, it is the warmth you feel when you say, “I do!”

The romantic flow follows you into the day and night like a soft breeze. It’s meant to be enjoyed, not taken for granted.

Take care of your romantic flow and it will give you the greatest moments you hope for on your special day. Take care of it by being prepared…

My TLC recipe is as follows.

• Communicate often with your wedding party and vendors.
• Ask for support from your family and friends.
• Create and maintain a solid event time line. Share your time line with everyone involved.
• Get your vendors to speak to each other before your event.
• The romantic flow loves bonding. Promote activities that will encourage community at your event.
• Hire passionate vendors. Avoid working with anyone who lacks respect.
• Plan in love, not in fear. Everything is going to be wonderful because you are wonderful!

In love and light,

The Wedding DJ

How do I find a good, no GREAT, DJ?

In 25 years of entertaining wedding couples, their families, and guests, I have heard good and bad stories about finding the right vendor. It’s not easy to find that special someone that will make your event shine. How will you know if that coordinator, caterer, florist, photographer, videographer, and, OH, let’s not forget… DJ, is going to be the right choice? In the never-ending tasks of putting together such a monumental affair, will you break down and settle for just anyone? I offer the following words, hoping that your DJ will be the best choice:

1. Experience counts! Remember that vendors are human beings and that people make mistakes. A DJ who has a vast knowledge of music and what they are doing will make few, if any mistakes. The mistakes they do make will quickly be rectified or go unnoticed. Experience counts when the going gets tough. If a DJ tells you “it’s a piece of cake,” consider how difficult it is putting together a wedding and ask him or her why.
2. Passion counts! We have a purpose in life, and your DJ and Emcee must have a passion for music, people, and the services they offer. Ever go to a mediocre restaurant and get served cold food? How about a fancy restaurant? Does it happen as often as it does at the one or two star joints? The food is cold because the people cooking and/or serving it don’t care. The chefs and servers who are passionate about their purpose will never serve you something they wouldn’t serve themselves. The same goes with the wedding DJ who cares. He or she is not going to play or say just anything. You, your family, and guests will be in their best interest.
3. Professionalism counts! Everyday life requires great communication, punctuality, a genuine flare, and niceness. Remember that when you hire a DJ, you’re forming a short-term relationship with someone you don’t know well. You are interviewing and might be compensating this person in hope that they will achieve, and maybe, just maybe, exceed your expectations. When meeting your possible DJ candidate for the first time, trust your instincts, as you would if you were making a really important life decision. A DJ can make, enhance, or break a wedding. How long did it take the DJ you called to return your message? Is the DJ punctual for your first meeting? If not, did he or she call you at least half an hour in advance to tell you he or she was running late? Communication is VERY important. When it comes time for your wedding day, every vendor at your event must be in sync with one another and your itinerary. If your candidate doesn’t communicate with you, how well will he or she do as the hub of your event. When the music stops, something has to happen. Will everyone be ready? Will your DJ be forward (in a polite way) about what happens next, or passive with everyone, including you and your guests, guessing?
4. Commitment counts! Is your DJ committed to his or her profession as you and your fiance(e) are to your forthcoming marriage? How can you tell if a DJ is committed? Firstly, a contract. Not just any hand-written, half-page note with signatures; I’m referring to a legally binding contract that will assure everyone’s rights. Everyone needs to feel protected, and a well-presented contract usually means that the DJ is committed to everyone’s benefit. If you have a friend or family member who understands legal jargon and rights, by all means, have them review your contract before signing it.

I have an additional comment about commitment. Any DJ who is committed to their business will have the proper event liability insurance. All of the five-star venues where I entertain require me to provide a certificate and name them as additionally insured. I hope my words help you to find the best choice for your special event! Feel free to email or call me (the digits are (415) 305-1555) anytime if you get in a bind.

The Wedding DJ,

Eric Reynolds

The Wedding DJ

Photo taken by Jerry Hamilton of Jerry Hamilton Photography

Saturday morning, my cell phone rang. I hadn’t heard Tricia’s voice since our 2008 meeting.

“My vintage Mustang was stolen on Friday. The police just called today to tell me they found it, and all that’s left is the license plate,” she said.

I cringed at the thought and told her that life works this way sometimes, and that she would have nothing to worry about at her wedding. I told her to breathe and relax. In a follow up email, Tricia wrote that she was breathing.

The big day arrived, and I made my way to the Grandview Pavilion on a sweltering Alameda day. I had been looking forward to this event for some time, and I assured myself that everything would go well with Matt and Tricia’s event.

I arrived at the Pavilion to find Matt, his groomsmen, Tricia’s bridesmaids, and their family setting up. This was their special day and, like all the weddings at the Grandview Pavilion, they were putting it on family style! I was impressed with Matt’s composure, and in awe of the bridesmaids’ beautiful red dresses. Matt and Tricia had worked hard on this event, the results were evident.

It was a similar hot day on Saturday, August 23, 2008, when I was setting up the tent for Rafiq and Janet Rahimi’s special evening. While exiting the venue, I bumped into Matt, Tricia, and the Fitzgeralds who were considering the Grandview Pavilion for their wedding. I congratulated and shook their hands, gave them a quick tour of the venue and my services, and offered them my contact info.

The next day, I received an email from Tricia, requesting a quote and any planning advice. Matt and Tricia really liked my personality and enthusiasm, so we met on November 20th, and immediately connected. Tricia was nervous about the ceremony, and I ran her and Matt through the activities.

They had nothing to worry about. The ceremony was perfect! According to Tricia’s uncle, the rehearsal on the prior Friday evening was loose, I couldn’t tell because the wedding party executed their parts flawlessly. From the moment Matt, the officiant, Jeff, and the groomsmen walked to the alter, the ceremony rocked, and Jerry Hamilton, the photographer did an amazing job in capturing it!

Photo taken by Jerry Hamilton of Jerry Hamilton Photography

After Robert, the Officiant, announced them to us, I hit the play button and Matt and Tricia strolled up the aisle to “You Sexy Thang” by Hot Chocolate, and into the air-conditioned ballroom, where they were met with Hoobastank’s “The Reason”.

The guests lined up at the ballroom entrance to be greeted by the parents, and made their way to the bar and their seats. Matt and Tricia asked for a mash up of cocktail music, and I obliged with some of their favorites with some classics. Some of the guests reciprocated with a trip to the dance floor with either a swing or cha cha.

Photo taken by Jerry Hamilton of Jerry Hamilton Photography

After seating guests for dinner, Tricia lined the wedding party up for announcements. The week before the wedding, I suggested to Tricia that I would happily say a few words about each of the wedding party members. She gave me a fantastic list of monologue, including, “She’s the mother of the best man, and a cherished friend, the beautiful and sexy Shelly Bell!” The crowd oohed and awed when I announced Matt’s sister as “the one all the single groomsmen wanted to escort down the aisle!” Matt’s brother Jacob reddened when I referred to him as the “smart and attractive 20 year-old single gentleman.” Nice one Tricia!

Following their first dance and greeting, I introduced dinner, and guests were off to the buffet for a delicious menu, Grand Catering style!

After the toasts, little Amara Ueligitone, the flower girl and Tricia’s niece, performed a hula dance, and little Gavin joined her for the second number. Parents were in tears while the cameras flashed paparazzi style!

After dinner, Tricia danced with her Mom, then her Dad. Matt followed with a dance with his Mom, then I invited all the bridesmaids for a slow dance to “Lady in Red” by Chris DeBurgh. Soon thereafter, I played a little “Respect” by Aretha, and the dance floor filled!

9 pm soon arrived, and Matt and Tricia did a farewell dance to an amended mix of “I’ve Changed for You” by Jaheim featuring Keyshia Cole.

Matt and Tricia, I am so glad everything worked out for you. Here’s to many wonderful years to come!!

Your DJ,

Eric

“So, I remember the day she was going to move to college, and YES, I get my own room…It was my room! The room was mine, and I was so excited and I said, YES, she’s gone! But I have a confession to make. That first night, I couldn’t sleep, because for the first time in 13 years, I couldn’t hear her sleeping next to me, and I cried, and I couldn’t sleep because Jillian wasn’t…” Caitlin, the bride’s younger sister said as Jillian teared.

Caitlin’s Maid of Honor toast captivated the room, and a tear jerked from my eye as I imagined Caitlin’s first night without her sister; the whole room fell quiet, and I watched their loving faces and heard the sniffles.

Caitlin’s speech embodied the feeling of the entire event. Less than 100 of Shawn and Jillian’s family, friends, and their guests joined together in a lovely environment to celebrate the two actors’ special day and evening, and they couldn’t have picked a better day as the sunshine pushed into a starry night above the Garden Tent Pavilion.

I arrived a little after 4:45pm, unloaded, and was up and playing French cocktail music for an early crowd. Immediately, I noticed the bonding and the resulting smiles and laughter; I knew I would be in for a truly special experience.The first limo arrived shortly thereafter, and out came the parents. In my tux, I greeted the couples, and Jillian’s mother, Lauren exclaimed, “You’re Eric”, and thanked me for helping with the slideshow. She beamed as she entered the tent, and, behind her, the second limo entered the grounds.

Shawn exited first and I congratulated him. Right behind him, Jillian took our breaths away, dressed in a beautiful gown, and a huge smile that never left her face throughout the event.

During the cocktail reception, I announced the parents, and then the wedding party, and, lastly, Shawn and Jillian. The composed groom greeted everyone and acknowledged his sister’s presence; a truly special moment that stuttered Shawn, and brought tears.

The couple enjoyed a half hour of the reception, and then I began the buffet dinner by excusing the head table.Dinner featured Brazilian bossanovas, a few tangos, and some classics. Jillian’s father, Michael; Shawn’s dad, Ray; and Caitlin gave their heartfelt toasts, and then Shawn and his sister, Zoe, informed me that Zoe would be making a toast as well.

Zoe delivered a heartwarming speech about Shawn; I especially enjoyed the bit about a 13-year old Shawn and his friend asking Zoe how to dress cute for school. The room roared while Shawn’s face reddened.

Toward the end of dinner, I synced Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” to the slideshow of 79 images commemorating Shawn and Jillian. Jillian’s brother, Ryan did a fantastic job putting the show together with his mother.

After dinner, the parent dances, and Shawn and Jillian’s first dance to Lena Horne’s “Honeysuckle Rose”, the dance floor filled to the sounds of Wild Cherry. From that moment on, the room never slowed down, and the night continued with the excitement for Shawn and Jillian.

Shawn and Jillian, I really appreciate meeting and getting to know a little about you and your family! Thank you for blessing me with the chance to provide you some great music to enhance your romantic flow!

With blessings,

Your DJ, Eric

Phong, the groom, ran ahead of Alice, the bride, on the beach, and etched the word “Will” into the wet sand. Alice soon discovered it, and the “U”, “merry”, and “me?” that staggered up the shoreline. I could only imagine the anticipation welling up inside them, and the “Yes” that came from Alice.

Phong reminisced his proposal in the second of three well-produced slideshows, during their wedding reception dinner, at one of San Francisco’s historical venues, The Merchant Exchange’s Julia Morgan Ballroom. The guests roared with laughter when he said, “I misspelled “merry”, like Merry Christmas.”

Innocence is becoming rarer these days. I certainly am fortunate to experience it with wedding couples. In March, when I first met Phong and Alice, I sensed the soft ground they walked upon, and, within a minute, I knew this would be an event for my blog.

I observe innocence in a smile, and I witnessed the big smiles Phong and Alice spoke of during their “Heart-to-Heart” slideshow; a presentation of how they met and their thoughts about each other. I laughed when Phong stated he didn’t like Alice’s shoes when they first met. The slideshow was a perfect means of passing on their values to the happy families and guests, and everyone reciprocated with joy and tears; the room never stopped beaming.

During the first course, I visited the bride and groom’s table, and they looked like two kids in a candy shop. My mind shot back to the adjacent cocktail lounge where jars of candy and cookies neatly rested on a round table. Two women circled the table with smiles and laughter, filling their bags with treats. I imagined Phong and Alice doing the same.

Alice, a wedding coordinator, provided me with a well-organized itinerary of enough activities to make a coordinator’s head spin. The time line was precise - transitions had to be done accurately to keep the romantic air flowing. LaQueanya Henry of Elegant Weddings by Design, the event coordinator and Alice’s associate, followed through in a professional manner. I always appreciate working with a solid coordinator! Well done, LaQueanya!

I must commend Phong and Alice on their choice of location. Julia Morgan would have been proud to have seen her ballroom on this evening. The high ceilings boasted beveled honey-combed octagon patterns, and eight angelic opaque glass chandeliers accented Julia’s wooden designs with soft white light.

The First Dance - Photo taken by Chung Chan - Chung Photo

Dark mahogany filled the room; even the dance floor’s matching parquet looked as old as the building.

“Don’t tape anything,” warned Natalie, the room’s caretaker.

I responded, “The thought never crossed my mind.”

Branch Out Floral and Event Design did an exceptional job on complementing the room with dahlias, red roses, and more. I especially admired the alter above the grand fireplace, featuring fourteen candles floating in glass vases filled with submerged red roses, rose petals, and greenery.

Phong, Alice, and the wedding party dressed fabulously. The color theme of crimson red, dark grey, and white perfectly matched the location. Alice changed a few times throughout the course of the evening. I enjoyed reintroducing them to the room, upon her return to the ballroom.

Highlights of the evening: The live performance by the Vu-Tang Binh Matthews Band (I didn’t know Phong could carry a note like that); Collin’s toast and The Adventures of The Vu-Tang video (especially Spiderman climbing the wall, and Flash running around a slow-moving Spidey!); Jean’s Maid of Honor tribute (she certainly wasn’t the nervous lady who received the microphone from me); Shepard Video Productions truly professional efforts with the event coverage and the playback of the presentations (I am so glad we were able to figure things out as nothing was going to stop this event from running smoothly); Chung Chan of Chung Photo, and his assistant’s ability to capture everything through their lenses; Matthew’s help in keeping the dance floor moving (I appreciated the music requests); Sean’s dedication to taking and processing photos for the guestbook (I hope you ate the amazing dinner, Sean); and, of course, the romantic fact that Phong rarely, if ever, left Alice’s side.

I always feel blessed to be a part of a strong community, and this wedding featured just that, and a whole lot more. Thank you Phong and Alice for the wonderful experience. I am so grateful you gave me the opportunity to be a part of your wonderful and meaningful day and evening!

Your DJ, Eric

“Eric, when you played that first dance song (Lynard Skynard’s “Sweet Home Alabama”), everyone jumped to the dance floor,” exclaimed Megan Goin, the bride.

There is something special about a “go with the flow, let’s knock it out, I love you” bride and groom, whose families and friends share this very attitude. I can’t remember the last time a 22-year old bridesmaid (who happened to be the groom’s twin sister, Mary) came up to me and said, “you HAVE to play Journey. This IS a Journey crowd!”

She was dead right. And, … not only were they a Journey crowd, but lovers of everything from Rock n’ Roll to Big Band - Lynard Skynard; Michael Jackson; The Romantics; John Cougar Mellencamp; Bryan Adams; and more. All night long, not one person wasn’t smiling or dancing their asses off.

My philosophy is that a wedding should be celebrated full-on, and everyone should dance hard until the last song of the night! Well, this night certainly shared my thoughts, and it all began when I arrived at 3 o’clock, on a warm and inviting afternoon.

The day was beautiful, and so was the venue, The Grandview Pavilion. I stepped into a sea of chiffon blue ribbons on white chairs, and four-foot tall angelic white centerpieces filled with Stargazer Lilies in ginormous glass vases. Both ballrooms of the Pavilion were open, which quickly reminded me that a lot of guests would soon be swarming the room.

Nancy McKinley, the mother-of-the-bride, greeted me with open arms. Her anxious face told me she’d been working hard. I certainly appreciated her and her dedication. Val, the venue manager, rushed between the rooms and the Grandview Tent Pavilion to make certain things were just right. I always appreciate a venue managed by a hostess with the mostest!

Chris soon arrived and greeted me with a nervous smile. The groomsmen and bridesmaids trickled into the rooms to peek at the decor. The guests arrived with similar oohs and aahs, and found their way into the tent, where I finished setting up for the ceremony.

The Tent Pavilion boasted fresh white Lilies and blue chair ribbons on white chairs to complement the ballroom decor. Greenery and Lilies decorated the alter and several fountains spewed cool water.

Patrice Hugon, the tall and slender harpist, showed up with her majestic instrument, and she set up opposite me. While Megan put on the final touches in her ready-room, Chris grouped with his groomsmen, and the bridesmaids lined up at the ballroom-to-tent entrance. I reminded everyone of their cues, and they acknowledged my guidance from the prior Thursday’s rehearsal. It’s such a blessing when a couple asks me to coordinate their rehearsal, and Chris and Megan’s run-through was fast and fun.

While the groomsmen seated late-comers, I had the opportunity to converse with the Honorable Robert McGuiness about criminal law and Chris and Megan (of course, in no relation to each other). His enthusiasm for this wedding truly shined as he knew Chris well; he coached him and the Best Man in Little League.

I must commend Chris and Megan on their decision to have Judge McGuiness officiate the ceremony, and designate the religious aspect of the wedding to Dr. Robert Godfrey, a truly present man. At the rehearsal, Nancy informed me that Dr. Godfrey studied Theology at Stanford.

Both men performed the ceremony well.

With Chris, the officiants, and the groomsmen in place, the bridesmaid marched the aisle, accompanied by Patrice’s rendition of “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring”, and, soon thereafter, Megan and her father, Rick, strolled in, followed by a gentleman who guided her long train.

Megan and her dress lit up the room, and especially Chris’ face! Cameras clicked and moms sniffled as the bride and her father approached the alter. The Judge welcomed everyone, whom he referred to as a “steely-eyed audience”, and away things went!

Dr. Godfrey’s son, William Godfrey, brilliantly read from Corinthians; Chris and Megan exchanged their vows and rings; Robert Godfrey Jr. belted out “Psalm 23″ in song; the Judge pronounced them man and wife; and everyone proceeded into the ballroom for booze and hors d’oeuvres, greeted by sounds of the Beach Boys.

Per Megan, I prepared an eclectic roster of music for the cocktail hour, and some classics for dinner. During the cocktail portion, the rooms were loud with community smiles and laughter. The Alameda families, friends, and guests connected and reconnected in a grand fashion.

I had no trouble seating everyone for the couples’ announcement and entrance. Since Chris and Megan requested that only they be announced, I decided to include the wedding party by lining them up in two rows. The formation enhanced the bride and groom’s entrance, while recognizing the wedding party as well. The guests applauded, and John and Ben, the photographers clicked, and Roger, the videographer recorded.

Chris and Megan celebrated their first dance to “Faithfully”, a classic by Journey, and then Chris greeted everyone and invited guests to dine. The catering crew served dinner; Tony and Nikki, the Best Man and Maid of Honor gave their toasts; soon followed by Megan and Chris’ fathers’ appreciation.

For the father and daughter dance, Megan and Rick had a special surprise. … They began with Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer”, and then I transitioned into “In the Mood” by Glenn Miller. The crowd acknowledged with a roar and clapped joyously. Chris and his mother, Kathy, slow danced to “In My Life”, by the Beatles.

As the crowd cheer for the mother and son dance faded, I asked everyone if they were ready to hit the dance floor. They gladly reciprocated by filling the floor upon hearing the familiar guitar parts from Skynard’s “Sweet Home Alabama”.

The rest of the night echoed the entire event. We all had a fantastic time, and like a Disney story ending, the wedding party lined up outside and surprised the couple with sparklers and fireworks. Soon thereafter, Chris and Megan disappeared into the night, in a white limo.

From the time I connected with Chris, Megan, and her mother, Nancy, at our first meeting, at the Emeryville Barnes & Noble, I knew their event would be a hoot, filled with surprises. I especially appreciated meeting them, their families, and their good friends. It is always a pleasure to be a part of an event when two families become one.

Chris and Megan, thank you so much for making me a part of your grand occasion!

With blessings,

Your DJ,

Eric

It was 6pm when I drove alongside a glistening Sacramento River in search of the historic, 24,000 square foot, 58-room Grand Island Mansion for Michael and Serena’s special day. I was early and tempted to stop for a bag of $1 cherries, yet the countryside kept me moving along Highway 160. My first trip ever to this part of the lush Delta kept me alert as I fumbled with the Google text directions. I knew I should have printed the map; A couple of times, I found myself at crossroads, hoping for a voice to guide me.

I had been forewarned by my associate to leave early. Apparently, there’s a story about a photographer who missed part of a wedding because he didn’t anticipate the slower speed limits on the rural roads. In twenty years, I had never been late for a wedding, yet the thought of the photographer made me a little anxious. Nonetheless, I was cruising about 5 mph above the speed limit, and enjoying the smalltown feel.

About a 1/2 mile from the venue, I knew I was getting close when I saw the ginormous Italian Renaissance style villa rise above the abundant green surroundings. It reminded of the southern France mansion in Russell Crowe’s movie, “A Good Year”, and, as I crossed through the gates, my eye caught a majestic fountain of sculptured lions spitting water; beyond it, anxious guests awaited the ceremony on a very green lawn.

I found the back of the mansion and the extravagant pool next to the entrance into the ballroom. I thought about taking a dip, but scooped a handful of water instead, and then entered the cool Ballroom. I roamed a little, like a tourist, and gawked at the bar and large pool table. “What an amazing home this could be for me,” I said under my breath.

After unloading my equipment, I made my way to the kitchen where I found Debbie, the general manager, organizing things for dinner. She welcomed me with a hospitable smile, and we went into coordination mode. A few moments later, the bartender, Tara, brought me a table cloth for my console table, and gave me a quick introduction of the mansion’s history.

My set-up was quick, and, thirty minutes later, I jumped into my tux and scurried up to the entrance to introduce myself to everyone. Before I said a word to anyone, Michael approached me with a big grin and a hug. We’d never met, yet I appreciated his presence and salutations. Uncle Craig caught on and, with a firm handshake, roared, ”I’m Uncle Craig!”

While John, the photographer, finished up his family shots near the fountain, Uncle beckoned to the groomsmen and bridesmaids, giving me a little background on each of them. I laughed when he introduced grandma; I really got a kick out of meeting the “hot grandma”. She was pleasant and proud of her title.

Cocktails and dinner took place in a spacious dining room, overlooking the back of the estate. The photographer and I climbed to the balcony and he took some stunning shots of the guests, enjoying the well-prepared entrees.

After dinner, everyone scattered about the property and Debbie, her staff, and I rounded up the wedding party in the foyer for announcement preparations. The party carefully descended down the grand staircase, as I announced them to the applauding guests. The ovation for Michael and Serena was tremendous. Michael greeted and thanked the guests, and then toasts were done. I enjoyed them all, especially Bonnie’s “upper hand” comments that brought down the house!

The first dance was magical. When Michael took Serena’s hands, everyone in the room could feel the sparks. There’s something truly special about having a George Strait ballad for your first dance.

Now, … with the first dance complete, it was time to put the landmark’s old wood floor to a test. In the guests’ favor, I selected Lynard Skynard’s “Sweet Home Alabama” as the first of a few classic rock tunes. The floor filled and I transitioned into a mix of Garth, Hank Williams Jr., and Johnny Cash; several good choices for an active party. Taya and Bailey, the twin flower girls, pleasantly entertained us with their dips and twirls; definitely a Hallmark moment!

Following caking cutting; bouquet toss; garter removal; and the garter toss, I invited Serena and her father to the dance floor. After a few moments of coaxing him, Serena pulled Dad, without his shoes on, to the floor. Then, Michael and his energetic mom shared the floor with several other family members during their mother and son dance. Their energy filled the room with jubilance.

It was certainly a pleasure meeting Michael and Serena, and getting to know their family and friends a little. I couldn’t have asked for a better event on a more perfect day of sunshine and laughter. I didn’t see anyone without a smile, as I admired the family values that bless Michael and Serena.

10:55pm rolled around, and Michael and Serena shared their farewell dance. An hour later, Michael helped me carry the equipment to my car, and I thanked him for his gentleman-like quality.

After one final walk to the fountain, I returned to my car and pulled up onto the two-lane highway, into the twilight, and marveled at a quarter orange-lit moon that marveled the starry sky - a perfect ending for a grand affair!

With many blessings for a long and healthy marriage. … Your Wedding DJ