Photo by Steph

expression of musical passion set in a gorgeous country setting.

This was the second of our “intimate weddings” this weekend (that’s code for a small guest list) and both couples proved that you CAN have a beautiful, fun, unforgettable reception without inviting everyone you know.

These weddings can actually be better because you have only your closest family and friends; you’ve “cut out all the fat” from your guest list.  Of course, that’s just my humble opinion.  *smile*

The festivities began with a ceremony under the arbor in the beautifully landscaped gardens.  The incomparable Reverend Stu, Jason and his Best Man waited before the fountain until Kim appeared on her father’s arm; in her flowing gown, hair in tendrils around her shoulders with white flowers in her hair, she was a gorgeous garden nymph.

Jeff loved performing guitar for both the ceremony and cocktail hour (he is always in his happy place playing outdoors) but even more so because of the musicians in the audience.  At the end of the cocktail hour, the Best Man borrowed Jeff’s guitar and sang harmonies with Jason, a performance that was received with thunderous applause!

Photo by Steph

THE DETAILS:  The bridesmaids wore blush peach gowns and carried bouquets of white daisies that matched those on the tables.  Guests picked up their table seatings on paper butterflies perched on the edge of the champagne flutes.

Kim and Jason shared a romantic first dance to “Samson” by Regina Spektor, a beautifully haunting tune that they sang to each other as they danced.  I admit, this one moves me almost to tears every time.

We had so much fun with Jason and Kim’s eclectic music choices!  Jason and his band mates rocked out to “Starlight” by Muse (love, love, love it!) and “Jungle Boogie.”  We even ended the night…with every last person on the dance floor…with the grand finale “All These Things That I Have Done” by the Killers.

Awesome music, unbelievable energy and so much love.  Thanks for having us, guys!

Bykenhulle House

Catering by Bridge Creek Catering

Photos by Kimberly Coccagnia

Photo by Jeff

and Tanya and Sean’s day showcased the best of it.  Clear skies, cool shade and an amazing ceremony beside the gardens.

Sean waited in front of a birch arbor decorated with fuschia and white gerber daisies for Tanya to arrive.  The bridesmaids walked down the aisle to the Canon in D remix by Ronald Jenkees and a smiling bride arrived on her father’s arm to the theme from Lost.

Tanya and Sean are incredibly thoughtful and fun loving, so it was no surprise that they brought as much care to their day as they do to everything else.  They were introduced into the East Dining room and I read their love letters describing how they met at work, became friends and gradually fell in love amidst baklava eating, ziti baking and Lady Gaga concerts.

The newlyweds began a first dance to “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” by Elvis.  Then, after about 30 seconds…  “Ra ra ah ha ha ha…Bad Romance.”

The newlyweds did the Bad Romance dance for their guests, complete with claw hands and shoulder shrugs, before inviting everyone to join in the fun.  What an awesome way to start a party!

THE DETAILS:  Bridesmaids in coral dresses carrying white daisies.  Sweet Tanya looked amazing in her gown with a long train and fingertip veil.  The guys wore classic tuxes with bow ties.  The wedding cake was covered with fuschia sugar flowers and a bride and groom penguin cake topper.  Each guest received a gift bag filled with chopsticks, California wine and Kazakhstan chocolate.  (I know because the newlyweds were kind enough to give us one, too!)

Photo by Steph

The night included some Russian songs, including my favorite Gogol Bordello, in honor of Tanya and her family from Kazakhstan.  Also a tradition in her country, she asked us to play some games, “when everyone is drunk.”  These guests were up for anything, so it was so much fun.

Mohonk is the perfect retreat for guests who’ve never seen the Hudson Valley, and its beauty and laid back vibe were the perfect environment for Sean and Tanya’s wedding.

You are amazing hosts.  Thanks for having us!

Mohonk Mountain House

Photos by Ricky Cheung

Photo by Steph

When we arrived, a horse was running around the track out back and I thought, What a cool spot for a wedding! Jeff set up his guitar outside on the patio for the ceremony and cocktail hour; the ceremony was held on the lawn under a canopy made of birch trees with the stone walls of the museum visible in the background.

THE DETAILS:  Inside the museum, Megan did an amazing job of decorating to complement the slate blue walls, crisp white trim and horse paintings on the walls, softening it up to achieve fresh, country elegance.

Tables were decorated with gray napkins (to match the bridesmaids dresses) and multiple bud vases with assorted pink, white, peach and yellow mini roses and lilies. Orchids were tucked into the cupcake display and white paper flowers hung from the ceiling. Guests were given succulent plants in tiny pots with flags stuck in them that also doubled as place cards.

COOL GUESTBOOK IDEA: Instead of signing a traditional guest book, guests stamped their fingerprints as “leaves” on a Guest Tree and signed them, instead of a traditional guestbook. Thoughtful Megan even provided a hand washing station to wash away the ink afterward!

Photo by Steph

The bridesmaids wore elegant gray gowns and carried designer clutches in pink and apple green. The flower girl wore an adorable apple green dress. Megan was gorgeous in her bird cage veil, her hair drawn up into an elegant twist with a white feather hair piece over her ear.

During the toast, Megan’s sister and Matron of Honor spoke straight from experience, and from the heart.  “Always remember: you are the problem I choose to have…When given a choice between acting out of fear or acting out of love, choose love and it will get you through every time.”

Megan and Ciaran chose a song by Mick Flannery, “Safety Rope,” for their first dance, a fitting tribute to Ciaran’s Irish heritage. One of my favorite moments was the bridesmaids’ “Thriller” surprise dance; they jumped up to the dance floor and followed those famous zombie moves, much to everyone’s delight.

It was a gorgeous day, impeccably planned and filled with love. Thanks for inviting us, Ciaran and Megan! Have an amazing honeymoon in Hawaii!

Harness Museum

Catering by Pamela’s Traveling Feast

Ceremony Officiant Amazing Ceremonies

Photos by Dave Robbins Photography

Video by Hello Super 8

Photo by Steph

They were a non-traditional couple (our specialty) and Nick, a musician himself, made it clear that they did NOT want the typical cheesy wedding songs or a cookie-cutter wedding experience. Our kind of couple!

Thanks to their great taste in music (80’s new wave, Talking Heads, the Cure, Billy Joel, Leonard Cohen) and their fun-loving guests, delivering was a cinch. And so much fun!

Jackie and Nick were introduced to “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash and shared a first dance to “San Francisco Serenade” by Tom Waits. Cool, right?

Each table was named after one of Jackie and Nick’s favorite bands: Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, Led Zeppelin and (my favorite) Black Sabbath. The newlyweds made a decree that if we played a song by one of these artists, the table named for it would have to dance. This was an excellent idea, as each table hopped up when their artist was played. It was the first time I’ve seen anyone dance to Radiohead!

Photo by Steph

THE DETAILS: The girls wore gray gowns that matched the linens on the tables. Flowers at the tables were variegated yellow and red roses with purple flower accents that came together with the bright lilac chair covers. The cake was decorated in blue, yellow and pink psychedelic starbursts to match the menus. (Nicely done, Pastry Chef, Casey!)

Jackie was the picture of vintage beauty, tall and elegant in her simple bird cage veil and loose lace bolero. Nick and the guys wore purple striped ties to match the wedding colors.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE NIGHT: Nick arranged a surprise serenade for his new bride. He plugged his guitar into Jeff’s amp and sang a song he had written. “You are the vinyl. I am the needle. You make me sing…” Thunderous applause!

Not only did we get to play some kick-butt music, we got to hang with real music lovers and help Nick and Jackie create a wedding that was totally them. Thank you so much for inviting us to be a part of it!

The Grandview

Photos by Steve Planck of Blue Sky Photography

Photo by Steph

e expected temperatures in the 70’s? Perfect!

We were prepared for a crazy party and these guys didn’t disappoint. Kristine and Brian kicked it off with their entrance to “Nothin’ but a Good Time” by Poison, with Brian high-fiving his groomsmen on the way in.

They shared a first dance to Bon Jovi’s “Make a Memory,” a beautiful song that really fit this classic rock loving couple.

THE DETAILS: Lavender and white roses and orchid centerpieces matched the lavender napkins on the tables. The four tiered wedding cake was decorated with lavender roses and orchids to match. The bridesmaids wore dark purple (almost eggplant?) dresses and carried matching flowers. Guests were given tiny cookies in honor of the couple’s donations to the Make a Wish Foundation.

One of my favorite moments was when Kristine danced with her father to “Daughters” by John Mayer, then had us switch into “Sweet Home Alabama” as a surprise. (Her father is a HUGE Alabama football fan!) Guests joined them on the dance floor with energy that just lit up the place.

Our photographer friend, Elissa Davidson, had a blast photographing the antics of the crazy bridal party. They hammed it up and struck poses on the dance floor all night long.

With a room full of Yankee fans, it could have been dangerous….but the couple asked us to play “Sweet Caroline.” It was the first time I heard this particular version of the lyrics; instead of “Sweet Caroline…bum bum bum” (the usual) they shouted, “Sweet Caroline…BOS-TON SUCKS!”

This group had amazing energy and enthusiasm. Thank goodness for the after party or they never would have let us leave! Brian and Kristine, you were the center of it all. Thanks for having us!

The Garrison

Photos by Elissa Davidson

Photo by Steph

couple’s wicked sense of humor and love for each other shone through the entire day.

Jeff performed acoustic guitar for the ceremony overlooking the Hudson River. What a gorgeous view!

Krisanne and Bob had us introduce the bridal party to “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by the Dropkick Murphys in honor of their favorite team, the Boston Red Sox. Of course, we timed it just right so that the Best Man and Maid of Honor (huge Yankees fans) came in to the line, “We’re shipping up to Boston…”

Confession: it is an MC’s worst nightmare the he will mispronounce the couple’s name. But I did it that night…on purpose!

I introduced them as Mr & Mrs Krisanne…at the couple’s request…then paused and explained that my “mistake” was because Krisanne filled out the paper work. I just love the fun, irreverence of this couple!

THE DETAILS: The Bridesmaids wore lavender dresses, except for the Maid of Honor, whose dress was dark lilac. They carried bouquets of white calla lilies. Lavender napkins and the famous Dutchess Manor roses matched the bridal party colors. The cake had dark purple ribbon between the layers, tiny purple polka dots and sugar calla lilies.

The couple’s constant ribbing and teasing (after chants of, “Let’s go Yankees!” by the guests, Krisanne threatened to throw out the next person who even said the word Yankees) couldn’t hide their sensitive side. These guys obviously love each other, their families and friends with their whole hearts.

It was so heart-warming to watch Krisanne and Bob dancing together to “Then” by Brad Paisley, barely moving, lost in that moment. Jeff and I knew how close they are right away; we caught them making out in our driveway after our very first meeting!

It was a beautiful day, an amazing party and a night full of love. Thank you so much for having us!

Dutchess Manor

Photo by Steph

the Hudson River.

Allison was gorgeous in her elegant, embroidered gown; she wore a white lily behind her ear.  Classic and beautiful.  Their ceremony was conducted by a young rabbi who had been friends with Allison since they were fifteen years old.  The lovely, shades of green chuppah was sewn by Allison’s sister, integrating pieces of their grandmother’s lace collection.  They incorporated several modernized Jewish traditions and so many personal touches by family and friends that it was deeply meaningful.

THE DETAILS: Gorgeous floral arrangements of purple, pale green, yellow roses, snapdragons and hydrangeas on the tables.  The cake was decorated with yellow roses and twigs for a rustic country look.  The couple displayed the wedding photos of their parents and grandparents.  The bridesmaids wore apple green dresses.

One of the coolest things about being a Hudson Valley dj is constantly getting exposed to new music.  Ben gave us Israeli horas he had chosen for his “monster hora,” an extended dance set of feverish dancing to celebrate the wedding.  It was unbelievable!  The chairs weren’t enough for this group; for the very first time we had body surfing at a wedding.  Ben was literally lifted up on the shoulders and hands of his guests!

Skillfully crafted toasts by the couple’s friends highlighted the love and the differences that drew Ben and Allison together.  Ben is the life of the party; Allison prefers the quiet life.  Ben stays up all night; Allison can see at night.  Humorous and light-hearted, they made obvious the ways Allison and Ben complement each other.  A hummingbird hovered just outside the window behind the newlyweds during the toast, as if he were blessing them,too.

Ben had his monster hora, his carrot cake and married his beautiful Allison.  The night was filled with Middle Eastern flavor, non-stop dancing (including a “mosh pit”!) and so much love it was undeniable.  Thank you so much for inviting us to your wedding!

The Garrison

Photos by Conrad Erb

Video by Michael Polito

Photo by Steph

Kristen’s viola teacher and family friend performed for the ceremony and Michael’s percussion instructor played in a jazz duo of vibraphone and bass for the cocktail hour. What a sentimental way to add meaning and cool music to the wedding!

The newlyweds were the unassuming, sweet mannered stars of the day. Kristen was beautiful in her traditional gown and Michael was stylin’ is his classic cutaway suit and gray and black striped ascot. Traditional, gorgeous and classic all the way!

THE DETAILS: The bridesmaids wore bright blue dresses, each in a different cut that flattered them, and carried bouquets of pink roses. Matching blue napkins and bold colored wildflower arrangements were at each table. Instead of numbers, the tables were named after Beatles songs: Dear Prudence, I Want to Hold Your Hand, Love Me Do. It set up a fun musical theme for the day.

Another amazing personal touch was having Michael’s uncle sing “What a Wonderful World” for the groom’s dance with his mother. I was so impressed by the musicianship amongst their family and friends.

But I’ve also got to comment on the energy! Not everyone is willing to participate in crazy dancing in bright day light, but it was absolutely no problem for these guests.

We don’t often bust out those line dances; however, Kristen asked for them and they were so right for this group. We went through not one, not two, but three group dances in a row! (I swear Jeff just likes to laugh at my two left feet leading the Electric Slide, Cha Cha Slide and Cupid Shuffle. Hey, I never claimed to be a professional dancer.)

I loved it when Kristen’s dad kidnapped her to the dance floor for “Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy” and then one of the groomsmen hijacked her for a dance to “You Shook Me All Night Long.”

There was music, love and such fun energy that it was an absolute joy. Thanks for having us, guys!

Christo’s Catering

Photos by Majestic Studios

Photo by Steph

afternoon showers didn’t help, but the skies cleared just in time for the ceremony, ushering in a cool breeze that made it a perfect night.

Peter and Kristin made an amazing entrance to “All You Need Is Love” by the Beatles, guests chuckling at the fanfare at the beginning. Then they shared a romantic first dance to Jack Johnson’s “Better Together.”

Kristin’s dress was amazing! (Despite my lame description of it.) Below the waist it flares out into feathery ruffles, adding texture and movement. Kristen wore a bird cage veil for the ceremony to completed a look of vintage chic. The result: she looked absolutely beautiful!

THE DETAILS: Bright blue linens on the tables that contrasted brilliantly with wildflower arrangements in mason jars of orange and yellow zinnias, daisies and snapdragons with a hint of indigo. The bridesmaids wore bright blue dresses and carried matching wildflower bouquets. The tables were named after Kristin’s favorite desserts and treats: Kristin’s Almost Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pumpkin Whoopie Pie.

The theme of fine, country wildflower elegance was an ideal match for Onteora Mountain House. Guests received favors of homemade maple syrup from the trees on the property of Peter’s family as well as the printed recipe card each of their tables was named for.

POLAROIDS! It’s difficult to find Polaroid cameras these days, but Kristin and Peter managed it. Guests took photos of themselves, signed the back and hung them on a clothes line for all to see. While they were waiting for the Polaroid to dry, they paged through the Pine Plains yearbook to see what the newlyweds looked like when they first started dating 10 years earlier.

Even better, the winning recipe for a Hudson Valley wedding…the beauty of Onteora Mountain House, the artistic photography of Henry Chan and us!

High school sweethearts romance, personal country elegance and fine fashion. Kristin and Peter, you outdid yourselves! Thanks for letting us bask in the light of your wedding day.

Onteora Mountain House

Photos by Henry Chan

Photo by Steph

included multiple tributes to Marist College and was followed by one of the most non-stop dancing parties we’ve had all year!

Travis absolutely loves music and gave us a long list of requests for the wedding.  Man, did he know his group!  From “O.P.P.” to “Jamboree in the Hills,” the music united their Marist friends with their West Virginia and Massachusetts family on the dance floor.

The reception began with elaborate introduction music engineered by Travis.  I announced, “Travis and Bobbie Sue had a really tough time agreeing on an entrance song.  Let’s see who won…”  Excerpts from songs referencing West Virginia, Boston and the Pittsburg Steelers followed before finally settling on “Bobbi Sue” by the Oakridge Boys.

Then I told the love story of Travis and Bobbi Sue, how they met, fell in love and got engaged at Marist College, finally getting married there in the Chapel that day.  Their first dance, “Then” by Brad Paisley said it all.

THE DETAILS:  The bridesmaids wore strapless fuchsia gowns and carried bouquets of fuchsia roses accented by pale green flowers.  The tables were decorated with matching fuchsia napkins and centerpieces of pink and fuchsia gerber daisies.  Guests were treated to drinks in Little Mermaid sippie cups, a tribute to Bobbi Sue’s love for Ariel.

Bobbi Sue was simply stunning!  As the Best man joked, “Travis may be a great guy, but Bobbi Sue greatly outshines him.”

However, Travis is no slouch himself, as the Matron of Honor pointed out.  “Our Ariel has finally found her Prince Eric and now she really is the girl who has everything.”

Travis worked the room with the microphone, singing along to “Sweet Caroline” as he egged on his guests and later on “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”

What made the night even sweeter was working with our buddies Steve Planck from Blue Sky Photography and Bill and Mike from Joyful Moments Video.  These guys are easy as pie to be around, almost invisible at the wedding…and Steve is just so irresistibly fun to mess with.

Once again the Links was spot on with timing and accommodating dinner service.  A true pleasure!

Travis and Bobbi Sue, you masterfully drew your friends and loved ones from across the country together into your own love story using the power of music and your energizing personalities.  You are now my personal heroes!  Thanks for letting us join in the fun.

Links at Union Vale

Photos by Blue Sky Photography

Video by Joyful Video