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

I knew we were in for a non-stop dancing party when one of the groomsmen approached us before the reception.  “I’ve been appointed head silly dance guy,” he told us.  “We’ve named ourselves the Dazzle Squad.”

Dazzle they did.

The bridal party made their entrance to “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas and when the Dazzle Squad hit the dance floor with the ring bearer and flower girl, they gestured wildly to the crowd, urging everyone to dance until the floor was packed.

All this even before the couple’s first dance!

Ken and Mary shared the love letters they had written for each other, highlighting how they met at a Habitat For Humanity work site, their Red Sox vs. Yankees “rivalry,” and how they had each found what they were searching for in each other.

Ken took Mary in his arms and gently led her around the dance floor to “Fields of Gold” by Sting.  The two smiled, touching their heads together as they waltzed, Mary gorgeous with a white flower and red berries in her hair.

THE DETAILS:  The holiday season has arrived!  The Dutchess Manor was decked out with live trees decorated in silver and gold; large arrangements of red roses, greenery and holly berries; poinsettas; silver branches draped in white lights; and the Dutchess Manor’s famous red rose centerpieces on each table surrounded by ornaments and pine cones.  The bridesmaids wore merlot dresses, the groomsmen gray and black striped ties, everyone draped with Dazzle squad sashes.

The wedding cake was covered in beautiful icing snowflakes and pine cones, with cranberry ribbon tied around each tier; a tiny Bruce Lee stood beside it.  Guests were given favors of stockings filled with candy and a lottery ticket.

Guests rocked out to artists as diverse as Abba, Bee Gees, Lady Gaga and The Cult…with a modern line dance and even a tango thrown in for Ken’s parents…amazing dancers!

The night was filled with warmth, fun and enthusiasm from beginning to end.  The newlyweds are off to New York City for a few days before their honeymoon in Spain and Portugal after the holidays.

An amazing couple with an amazing love story.  Thanks for sharing, guys!

Dutchess Manor

Photos by Nick Carter

The couple’s playful photo shoot with Kris Palmer captured these great images and warmed them up for the ceremony in the indoor gardens. White lights lit the tulle draped gazebo against the stone wall and greenery while gentle waterfalls trickled in the background.

The bridesmaids were lovely in chocolate dresses with pink sashes tied at their waists and carrying rose bouquets in shades of pink. The Maid of Honor’s gown was pink with a chocolate sash.  The flower girls had pink roses woven into their hair and tossed petals, followed by the tiniest ring bearer carrying a cream frog pillow.

A hush fell over the guests as Jen arrived on her father’s arm, an adorable princess flashing that famous, unstoppable grin. Chris met her at the end of the aisle; she kissed her father and took Chris’ arm as he escorted her to the gazebo for the ceremony.

Jen and Chris leaned into each other, smiling, as retired Judge Michael Brown led them in their vows. It was obvious that this couple aren’t just in love…they are also best friends.

THE DETAILS: Pink floral arrangements on the tables were framed by votive candles.  Each table was named after a year with a photo of the couple from that time. Guests were given favors of measuring tape labeled, “Love Beyond Measure.” Too cute! The cake: cascading sugar daisies with pink ribbon tied around each tier.

This was our second wedding celebration with Chris’ fun-loving, tight knit family, and they did not disappoint! By the end of the night we were dancing to Ne-Yo, Rihanna (one of the mother of the groom, Connie’s favorites!) the Cupid Shuffle and a spirited Electric Slide the family had been practicing just for the occasion.

Guests could barely tear themselves away from the delight of double desserts: a chocolate fountain with fruits and cookies for dipping on one side and a pink-hued Candy Buffet on the other filled with Swedish fish, nonpareils and more. All that on top of the wedding cake!

Jen’s contagious enthusiasm drew the guests around her and truly won my heart.  Chris’ love of music and dance brought touches of jazz and blues to the night.

Jeff and I were so touched and honored to be there for this special day in the lives of Jen and Chris. Bravo and well done! Thanks so much for inviting us.

Anthony’s Pier 9

Photos by Kristine Palmer Photography *All photos in this blog courtesy of Kris

Bridal Party Flowers by David Anthony

Cake by The Pastry Garden

Written by Stephanie Padovani

The couple’s playful photo shoot with Kris Palmer captured these great images and warmed them up for the ceremony in the indoor gardens. White lights lit the tulle draped gazebo against the stone wall and greenery while gentle waterfalls trickled in the background.

The bridesmaids were lovely in chocolate dresses with pink sashes tied at their waists and carrying rose bouquets in shades of pink. The Maid of Honor’s gown was pink with a chocolate sash.  The flower girls had pink roses woven into their hair and tossed petals, followed by the tiniest ring bearer carrying a cream frog pillow.

A hush fell over the guests as Jen arrived on her father’s arm, an adorable princess flashing that famous, unstoppable grin. Chris met her at the end of the aisle; she kissed her father and took Chris’ arm as he escorted her to the gazebo for the ceremony.

Jen and Chris leaned into each other, smiling, as retired Judge Michael Brown led them in their vows. It was obvious that this couple aren’t just in love…they are also best friends.

THE DETAILS: Pink floral arrangements on the tables were framed by votive candles.  Each table was named after a year with a photo of the couple from that time. Guests were given favors of measuring tape labeled, “Love Beyond Measure.” Too cute! The cake: cascading sugar daisies with pink ribbon tied around each tier.

This was our second wedding celebration with Chris’ fun-loving, tight knit family, and they did not disappoint! By the end of the night we were dancing to Ne-Yo, Rihanna (one of the mother of the groom, Connie’s favorites!) the Cupid Shuffle and a spirited Electric Slide the family had been practicing just for the occasion.

Guests could barely tear themselves away from the delight of double desserts: a chocolate fountain with fruits and cookies for dipping on one side and a pink-hued Candy Buffet on the other filled with Swedish fish, nonpareils and more. All that on top of the wedding cake!

Jen’s contagious enthusiasm drew the guests around her and truly won my heart.  Chris’ love of music and dance brought touches of jazz and blues to the night.

Jeff and I were so touched and honored to be there for this special day in the lives of Jen and Chris. Bravo and well done! Thanks so much for inviting us.

Anthony’s Pier 9

Photos by Kristine Palmer Photography *All photos in this blog courtesy of Kris

Bridal Party Flowers by David Anthony

Cake by The Pastry Garden

Written by Stephanie Padovani

Photo by Steph

couple’s sweet, romantic personalities. The tremendous amount of thought and care in the planning of their day really showed!

The bridal party was introduced to “I’ll Be There For You” by the Replacements, the theme from Friends, and Leanne and Chris entered to AC/DC’s “Rock ‘N Roll Train.”

THE DETAILS:  The tables were draped in navy blue linen to match the bridesmaids’ dresses and were decorated with blue and white flowers nestled in greenery.  Guests were given favors of personalized Hershey kisses and wedding cake candles.

The junior bridesmaid, Jamie, Leanne’s young niece, gave a speech, taking the microphone without a trace of fear.  She read her words off a piece of paper.  “When Aunt Leanne told me she was marrying Chris, I was so happy! Then she said I would be the junior bridesmaid and I talked forever.”

The speeches culminated with a special surprise gift: a framed photograph of Leanne and Chris together as children (though they didn’t meet until their teen years) created with the magic of Photoshop.

Leanne and Chris challenged us with a unique twist on the centerpiece giveaway.  Each guest filled in their answers to a bride and groom trivia quiz and the person who answered the most questions correctly took home the floral centerpiece.  The real prize was learning how well these guests knew the couple.  From the couple’s first meeting at Dick’s Sporting Goods to their romantic Sunset Beach proposal and Hawaiian honeymoon destination, these guys knew their Leanne and Chris trivia!

It was a treat for Jeff and me to watch Leanne and Chris smiling at each other, surrounded by their loved ones.  Chris’ family had even practiced the Electric Slide just for the occasion!  Nicely done, guys.  I meant what I said about taking you on the road with us. *grin*

Anthony’s Pier 9

Photos by Yerkes Photo

Written by Stephanie Padovani