One of our emo, alternative-loving couples asked us to dig up something wedding appropriate by Taking Back Sunday, My Chemical Romance or Coheed and Cambria to play for the last song of the night.

Good thing I’m up for a challenge! I think they might settle for “Stolen” by Dashboard Confessional. I LOVE this song! We even used it for a ceremony processional last year…

The point is that you can pick pretty much whatever you. Have your entertainer announce the last song and it can easily turn into the great send off. Give it a little thought and will be the unbelievable grand finale to your wedding day.

Two Recommended Tricks for Picking the Perfect Last Song

1) Go Romantic and Sentimental.

Choose a love song that’s extra special to you. Maybe the runner up to your first dance or classic slow song everyone will enjoy. You’ll see all the couples swaying and sighing in happiness around you on the dance floor. If you love chick flicks and securing waterproof mascara was your number one makeup concern, this might be the way to go.

2) Stage a Sing Along Send Off.

If you’d rather end your evening on a fun note, choose a group sing along. Something along the lines of “Friends In Low Places” or “Don’t Stop Believin” is perfect. However, you can stretch outside the box if you know your group. Think back to the closing song at your favorite college bar; if your friends are there, it will be a sing and sway send off to remember.

I advise against picking a song that is too upbeat. Wind them up, up, up for the last song and you might have a riot on your hands when the lights turn on. Of course, if you’re aiming for an after party, that’s another story…

Get creative, have fun and find a last song that ends your night on a fitting note. Maybe a little Marvin Gaye, “Let’s get it on…”

written by Stephanie Padovani

They are a sweet, lively bunch who are like family to each other…and to us, too.  As the Commodore expressed in her speech, “I asked my granddaughter on Thanksgiving Day who was the oldest member of our family.  And she asked back, ‘Out of just the people at the table or everyone from Chelsea Yacht Club?’”

One of the past Commodore’s stood up to accept his award and say thanks.  “I always forget to thank my wife,” he admitted.  “Not because I forget my wife, but because she’s such an integral part of my life that I couldn’t do anything without her.”

The group boasts several adept ballroom dancers who love to waltz, foxtrot, rhumba and tango.  What a treat to watch them work the floor!  In a group whose median age is 61, they sure know how to enjoy themselves.

One of my favorite moments of the evening was watching the oldest member of the club, a spry young gentleman in his 90’s, tentatively join in to the Electric Slide.

It’s about family, fun and trophies for all that hard work.  Thanks for inviting us again, guys!

Villa Borghese

The thought and detail Jaclyn and Justin put into their wedding day from beginning to end was simply astounding. Romantic, heart felt and totally them.

Jaclyn and Justin sent us “tickets” to their ceremony at the theater and we arrived at Cunneen Hackett with tickets in hand. A movie poster of the couple advertised their wedding out front as “One Show Only.”

We walked into the intimate theater, taking in the mauve walls, stained glass windows and cast iron seats, and were handed the Playbill for “Right Next To You,” named for Jaclyn and Justin’s wedding song. Elaborate cast listings and bios were inside, along with ads for each of the couple’s wedding vendors at the back: Lola’s Catering, Locust Grove, Steven Gorgos Photography, Hudson Valley Ceremonies and of course, The DJ Solution. (I was floored by this detail!)

But it was the ceremony itself that really took my breath away. A string quartet and keyboardist performed exquisite covers of contemporary and show tunes, transitioning into “Moon River” with the entrance of the bridesmaids dressed in Valentine’s Day red.

A hush fell over the room as Jaclyn appeared. The quartet began to play, “This Year’s Love” by David Gray. Jaclyn entered on the arms of both her parents to join the rest of the bridal party on the stage, with a beauty and grace recalling Audrey Hepburn.

We broke after the ceremony and met up at Locust Grove for the reception.

THE DETAILS: Candles and cream rose petals on chocolate linen covered tables named for spots at Binghamton University where the couple met. Cupcakes and roses on a tiered display. Valentine’s day heart for guests to sign and hang on the wrought iron tree decorated with red ornaments.

Lola’s Catering was exceptional, as usual, featuring unique hors d’ouevres such as milkshake shots and mini angus burgers.

Jaclyn and Justin, both huge music lovers, integrated some of their favorite artists into the soundtrack of their day: David Gray, Dave Matthews, Damien Rice. Jaclyn even called up the members of her college a capella group for a medley of 80’s songs they used to sing.

It was a day full of romance, reliving old memories and making new ones. It was the best Valentine’s Day ever. Thanks for sharing it with us, guys!

Locust Grove

Cunneen Hackett Theater

Officiant – Hudson Valley Ceremonies

Photography – Steven Gorgos *Photos in this blog courtesy of Steven Gorgos.

Catering – Lola’s Catering

Ceremony Music – Art Strings Ensembles

Flowers – Flowers On the Porch

First, let me just say that Joe knows how to treat his guests to gourmet fare with style. Catering was done by Gino’s Restaurant: jumbo shrimp cocktail, succulent prime rib, sautéed portabella mushrooms…Yum!

The tables were decorated with mardi gras beads and masks. Guests danced, enjoyed cocktails and mingled…while Jeff gazed longingly at the bottles of Grey Goose martini tantalizingly backlight in electric blue on the bar.

This party was even more special because one of our 2009 newlywed couples, Donnamarie and Ed, were there post-honeymoon, to waltz to their First Dance song and bust out a little swing dancing. And another set of our bride’s parents were in attendance. Big hugs, smiles and laughs made this feel like a family reunion.

That’s the way to celebrate Mardi Gras, folks!

Locust Grove

Gino’s Restaurant

There will always be a place for Al Martino crooning, “Daddy’s Little Girl” and for Boyz II Men’s “A Song For Mama,” but when you’re looking for something different for that father daughter dance or a mother son song that fits your personality…where do you look?

A few thoughts that may knock some ideas loose…

1. You don’t have to choose a song specifically written for a parent and child.  There are plenty of beautiful, quirky or sentimental songs that work perfectly as a parent dance.
2. Search your memories for songs that remind you of mom or dad.  Did your father sing you a song when you were little?  A particular artist your mom played over and over?  Your childhood memories often suggest a song that fits your relationship.
3. Use a story to make a non-traditional song the perfect fit.  If the song that comes to mind is a little weird, have your entertainer give a little explanation so your guests understand.  One of our grooms chose “Your Song” by Elton John for the dance with his mother.  Technically, it’s a love song, but his mom played it for him on the piano and it always made him think of her.
4. Have fun with it.  Choose a light-hearted or even silly song for your parent dance.  You’ll both be smiling…and so will your guests.

Here are 9 outside the box parent dances courtesy of our creative Hudson Valley couples..

A Little Bit o’ Country

• “Mama Tried” – Merle Haggard

• “For Baby” – John Denver

Lightening It Up

• “The Wind” – Cat Stevens

• “Do You Believe In Magic” – Lovin’ Spoonful

• “Days Like This” – Van Morrison

Soulful

• “Mother Father” – Musiq Soul Child

Alternative

• “Blue Does” – Blue October

Sweet & Sentimental

• “The One Who Knows” – Dar Williams

• “Edelweiss” – The Sound of Music

Of course, these aren’t one size fit all choices.  But that’s the point.

Have you already found the perfect parent dance song for your wedding?  Leave a comment here and share the knowledge!

Even though Jeff and I have been at this for over 10 years, our couples never cease to amaze and inspire us.  From crazy surprise dances to eclectic song requests, there is always something new.

So I thought I’d share how our 2009 couples stack up again the most requested wedding songs compiled from nearly 2 million requests and reported by DJ Intelligence.

Check out the DJ Intelligence Most Requested Wedding Songs list here.

I always love the classic first dance songs: Frank Sinatra, Etta James, Billie Holiday; and the new classics by Norah Jones and Michael Buble.  But many of our Hudson Valley couples tend to think outside the box.

Here are a few of my favorite not-so traditional first dance songs of 2009.

• “Everything” by Alanis Morissette *edited version

Krystal and Dylan were rebels at heart, but that didn’t stop them for showing off their love.  Krystal was a huge Alanis fan and the passionate, unrestrained yet heartfelt love of this song was perfect for them.

• “The Way I Am” by Ingrid Michaelson

Not every couple would have the guts to dance to a first dance song that mentions Rogaine, but Megan and Kevin were up to the challenge.  This song is sentimental, sweet and humorous.

• “Njosnavelin” by Sigur Ros

I have no idea how to pronounce the (Icelandic) title of this song, but it’s one of the most beautiful melodies I’ve ever heard.  Sara and Craig’s movie themed wedding included haunting songs by this soundtrack artist from Vanilla Sky, like this one.

• “Tell Me What We’re Gonna Do Now”  by Joss Stone

Oooh, I can still see Jess and Clint working the dance floor with this one!  It was sexy, romantic and fun wrapped in one amazing R&B package.  Hot stuff!

• “Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day” by Morcheeba

Romantic and love dovey just didn’t fit Catherine and Scott.  They wanted to have fun with their first dance song.  Enter this delightful electronica piece by Morcheeba.  (Don’t blame me if you go psychedelic after listening to it.)

• “Love You Till the End” by The Pogues

The Pogues are better known as rowdy Irish rebels, not as love song artists.  But this song fit Stephanie and Josh exactly, with its earnest, unpolished declaration of love.

What’s the message from our 2009 Hudson Valley couples?

When it comes to your wedding first dance song…do what you want.  Anything goes, as long as you approve.

As 2010 progresses, Jeff and I hope to continue to be inspired by your individuality, quirks and eccentricities.  Bring it on, Hudson Valley-ites!

to the best of the Hudson Valley’s winter elegance.  Snow showers, candlelight, charming fireplace, warm hearts.

The bridesmaids made a stunning ceremony processional in their elegant, black evening gowns and scarlet shawls, carrying bouquets of white flowers.  Amy’s infectious smile lit up the room as she joined her guests in the atrium, the beautiful trophy on her mother’s arm, as Jeff performed “Over the Rainbow” on acoustic guitar.

Amy’s Maid of Honor described the “twinkle” in Amy’s eyes when she spoke about Rich for the first time as the moment she knew they were something special.  That twinkle intensified as the newlyweds slow danced together, savoring the moment surrounded by their loved ones.

The dance floor belonged to the ladies that night.  The bridesmaids belted out the words to Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance,” the song they had been singing all day, and sang every word of Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind.”

“We are in New York,” one of the ladies pointed out.  “It’s appropriate.”

Amy’s energy on the dance floor was unbelievable!  It drew her girls around her…and made it a whole lot of fun for Jeff and me.

What a beautiful way to start the New Year!  Thanks for having us, guys.

Round Hill House

Photos by Jason Hermann Photography *All awesome photos in this blog courtesy of Jason Hermann Photography.  Thanks!

Elizabeth was an absolute doll with her classic, gorgeous look: birdcage veil, vintage gown with buttons down the back and a fur wrap.  Alex chose “I Want You To Want Me” by Cheap Trick for their introduction music, a choice that had him smiling wryly as they entered the room.  I love couples with a sense of humor!

THE DETAILS: The bridesmaids wore plum gowns and Le Chambord’s dining room was decked out for the holidays with wreaths and red bows on the bay windows, elegant candelabras casting romantic candle light.  The white cake was decorated with snowflakes, hiding a decadent chocolate cake interior.

The Maid of Honor Valerie shared the goods on Elizabeth and Alex’s relationship.  “Elizabeth, you were always good at everything and if you weren’t good at it, you had an answer for it.  I knew you two were the perfect match because Alex, you don’t know anything.”

It was obvious that Alex did know a thing or two.  The proof: the amazing group of people surrounding them and the fact that he and his new wife beamed at each other all night long.

The night’s entertainment brought soul train lines to disco and Chris Brown, along with a surprise hit requested by the groomsmen: “What Is Love?” by Haddaway.  A first for 2010, the couple’s friends Rickrolled the cake cutting, as we busted out “Never Gonna Give You Up” just as Elizabeth lifted a forkful of cake to Alex’s lips.

It was an extra pleasure for us to join this group because our friend (and former petsitter) and her family were guests.  We hadn’t seen Kristin, Sean and their family in years, but it felt like yesterday.  (And we are totally crashing your place in Florida, just you wait.)

This New Year’s day wedding blended classic elegance, energy and wit into an amazing experience for everyone present.  Elizabeth and Alex, thanks for letting us share in the fun and have an unforgettable honeymoon in Japan!

Le Chambord

*Photos in this blog post courtesy of Carrie Reynolds.

It was a pleasure to celebrate with such a tight knit group of co-workers, spouses and friends.  When we learned that Meatloaf’s “Paradise By the Dashboard Light” was their signature song, we knew these guys liked to PARTY.

But it wasn’t all just about the amazing door prizes being raffled off or shaking it on the dance floor.  Incoming President Greg Burns expressed his gratitude at climbing aboard the “Kirchhoff Express” and reminded us all to be grateful for what we have, especially in these times when so many people are suffering.

They danced to Lady Gaga and Mustang Sally, Journey and Lynyrd Skynyrd.  They enjoyed the Grandview’s decadent Italian Dessert Table.  There was no stopping them.

The holidays are the perfect time to reflect on what’s important.  And then, of course, it’s time to celebrate!  That’s where Jeff and me and entertainers all over the world come in.

I’m taking an example from the Kirchhoff Consigli team: work hard, play hard and give thanks.

Happy Holidays!

Grandview

Written by Stephanie Padovani

Ashok gave us some background: an afternoon party for over 200 people, Indian, Westerners, employees with their spouses and kids.  A magician.  No booze.

As soon as we arrived at the Indotronix headquarters for the party, I knew we were in for a good time.  The large room was decorated with green tablecloths and poinsettias on top, a Christmas tree, Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas signs on the walls, electric candles in the windows.

Then the kids arrived, the most adorable little girls and boys who danced, clung to their mothers’ skirts and stole candy canes from the tree.

Magic PJ entertained the little ones with disappearing and reappearing balls, a manic racoon named Rocky and his multiple shifting accents.

Then it was my turn.  I lead the kids in a marathon of participation dances starting with the Chicken Dance and ending with YMCA, until I was panting and sweating like a marathon runner.

But how could you not enjoy yourself with these little darlings and their smiling parents looking on?

Jeff and I were so grateful to celebrate with this warm, family group.  When it became apparent that there were piles and piles of Indian and Italian leftovers, the crew made phone calls to local homeless shelters until they found someone willing to take the abundance.

An amazing example of holiday celebration and giving.  Thanks for letting us be a part of it, guys!

Magician Magic PJ Walker

Written by Stephanie Padovani