It was a great year for me, both personally and professionally.  I had 27 wedding receptions this year.  My daughter was born and has even began to crawl a few days ago.  We bought our first house.  2010 looks to be even better so keep an eye out for what's coming.  Meanwhile, enjoy my favorite two video highlights from this year.

Happy New Years!  Whoot!

Tonight was noticeably different from normal, at least for me.  I was roommates with the groom back in college.  Or, rather, back when I was supposed to be in college (sorry, mom).  I knew all kinds of fun info on Tonka (Greg's nickname).  More fun was what I learned.  Like their first date was at Sam's Club.  Hmm.  I couldn't resist (see the video).  I also got to be at the ceremony and brought my gal with.

Scored some Bavarian Almonds from concessions.  They were open because First Night had events down the hall.  Sweet.

To the left, our best man had his Halloween costume along (from the movie Dumb & Dumber).  Sadly (or wisely) he did not wear it over to the church.  Greg, meanwhile, is on his second tuxedo here.  His first, from the rental company, was completely the wrong size... way too big in the coat and the pants were three inches too short.

Most importantly, we got to do the new year countdown before we wrapped it up.  Always nice with 200 friends and family (nice for them, though I was with my gal).

Yeah, I've been published!  I'm a member of FreshWed.com, and they've posted my article on how to creating a video slideshow your guests can enjoy (seriously, I have no idea why I'm so proud of this, but I'm rolling with it).

Read the article and find out about fellow wonderful wedding worker bees over at the blog.

 Matt met Lisa when she was a foreign exchange student nine years ago.  The couple was married a five months ago in Sweden, Lisa's home country.   No wedding ceremony today.  And, yes, I managed to avoid bad jokes invoking Volvo, IKEA, or certain beloved muppet chef.


Six people got up to toast the new couple, including Matt, his dad, Lisa's dad, two friends, and Matt's sister.  All were excellent and well prepared.  One included chopping a tie off Matt's dad.

Pictures from the ceremony displayed on a screen during the social and dinner.  No dollar dance, bouquet toss, or garter.

One nice aside.  Matt hates Peter Cetera (of Chicago).  Specifically his faux falcetto singing (I agree).  Several people know this, so he chose Chicago's "You're the Inspiration" for the parent dance as a joke, then sang a bit for us.  Thank you, Matt.

Fun, off-the-beaten-path songs I got to play: "Obsession" by Animotion; "The Look" by Roxette; "Blister in the Sun" by Violent Femmes; and Matt's favorite, "Massive Nights" by the Hold Steady.

The decorations tonight were above and beyond.  Below left, see the chandelier they put in over the cake table.  Yes.  That morning they put it up.  Along with callo lilly centerpieces and a backdrop for the head table.



 Tom and Greta asked me to repeat a game (they read about it on an earlier blog post).  Its basically a elimination version of scavenger hunt.  When I got to my last three and asked for an out of state driver's license, one contestant stole the father-of-the groom's wallet.  Touche.  Then I asked for something there was only two of.  I meant the bride and groom.  He thought I meant their rings and stole them too.  He won.

Tom had preselected six volunteers for the game.  Two were missing.  Turns out they were absent but showed up for the dance.  Their mistake.  Originally I was supposed to get Greta's brother, Matt, to sing "You Are My Sunshine."  He had to do it for Junior hockey.  Instead, we tricked our missing men onto the floor and made them sing it, with Matt (6'5", 225lbs) standing behind them.  They were good sports and learned the importance of punctuality.

My last memorable moment was a groomsman carrying Tom's mom, Carol, out onto the dance floor for.... "the Humpty Dance."

"Thank you so much for all you did to make Courtney & Tim's wedding a truly memorable event.  You went above and beyond."
     - from Nate & Renee Arens (parents)

This evening was both a ceremony and reception.  They didn't actually hire me for the ceremony, but when I heard what was planned (a CD player), I volunteered.   It was simply playing the music, but my speakers instead of a little CD player can make a big difference.

For the reception, champagne for all the guests for toasts.  To the left, their cake.  Jokes aside, it really didn't seem to fit Tim (he was an enthusiastic participant).  When the guests clinked their glasses, I called out a year.  Any couple married that year had to stand and offer an example kiss for Courtney and Tim to emulate.  Watching Tim's retired Marine dad try the Cha Cha Slide made my evening.  No bouquet toss, no garter, just the dollar dance.  Only one song, their first, to start, and we added the wedding party halfway through.  The only song request was "Free Bird" in memory of Tim's best friend.

Tim  loves heavy metal ("...the heavier, the better.") and Courtney loves country.  We compromised by playing what Courtney liked.  Sorry, guys, that's the way it works.  Especially when your choice of music is more angry, less fun.

Some folks know, but my fiance was the victim of a car accident where her left arm was broken.  Four pins were surgically inserted the same day, her median nerve (running down the wrist to the fingers) was separated from the arm.  We also bought our first home, in Crookston.  Between the two, I've had no time for DJ work (like video editing) as I take care of the girls, but we'll have everything back to (almost) normal soon.  Hopefully.  Maybe.

For this Ralph, guests entered on the main arena entance, then took the stairs or elevator down to the dressing room level where a kitchen and ballroom for up to 350 guests wait.  I got to drive down to unload my gear, which was pretty sweet.

Something I've brought up but never done before.... we saved the cake until 30 minutes into the dance.  The cake cutting was immediately followed by the dollar dance, which also gave guests a chance to serve themselves.  I'm a fan because it means waiting to enjoy your dessert instead of while you're full.

The picture of me with all the purses... well, when the wedding party arrives, we introduce them into the room.  This means someone has to get all the stuff they're carrying in so they don't have to during their grand entrance.  That's five purses and a breast pump and it all weighed a ton.

Also on the list of duties, shortening their special dances.  They wanted three: a first dance, her dance with her dad, and Travis' dance with his mom.  Rather than that totaling 12 minutes of music, I digitally shortened each to about two minutes each.  Those who have stood out there for a dance, just the two of you, understand that two minutes is long enough.  The songs were intact, each got their moment, and we kept things moving as best we could.


Another new one, I inserted Travis and Tiffany's heads (a photo from the reception) into a disco dancing video, played it at the end of the garter giveaway.  No one expected it.  It wasn't planned.  I figured out I could do it during the dinner thanks to the magic of WiFi and the internet.  The site is called JibJab.com and while you can make some of the videos free, to actually download or post them to YouTube, you have to pay.

"I just wanted to say "thank you'' for helping to make our night wonderful.  Also, thank you so much for the DVD of our wedding night,  It was so fun to watch parts of our night again.  The DVD was very well done.  I will definately reccommend you to others that I come across who are getting married.  You were very professional and you did all that I asked of you and even went steps above and beyond.  I can see you truely want to accomodate to the 'individual needs of your clients.  Thanks again." - Kiley Cossette

I got to put their slide show together and its was my favorite in years (see video below).  As soon as I saw the pictures Kiley sent me I knew exactly what to do.  The final result is to the right and, at only 3 minutes, it clips along nicely and even includes Kiley singing when she was, at most, two years old.


Kiley's dad put together a fun little quiz for the guests in lieu of a speech (How many times has Kiley seen New Kids on the Block Live?  Three.).  Both our Best Man Jon and Maid of Honor Hillary did very nice speeches, but Jason's was excellent.  His was a great example to other grooms.

Apparently "for the night" means something different to the photographer, when asked how late he'd be here.  If you're gonna pack up after the first dance, just say so.  Otherwise I'm be looking all over trying to find you so you can get pics of the bride's brother performing his guitar live.  At least I got the video and recorded the audio straight off the mixer (to download his song, right click this link and 'save link as' or 'save target as').  I also got CD recordings of her brother and dad in a band covering "One" by U2.

When: Saturday, September 5, 2009
Where: Townhouse, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song:

Somehow the post for this wedding disappeared.  I didn't notice until I was getting September 19th ready so I'll have to go back and pull some info.

When: Saturday, August 29th, 2009
Where: A Touch of Magic, EGF, MN
1st Dance Song: "Me and You" by Kenny Chesney

For her speech, she wrote and sang a song for Jesse.  It was a complete suprise (for him).  My role was to rent and setup a full keyboard and mic out on the dancefloor without Jesse noticing.  That was shockingly easy.  The song along with all the speeches and two videos (two!) brought quite a few people to tears.  One video was the picture slide show you'd expect, the other was from her dad, and was comprised of home videos as he'd let you know what was happening.

Well, something new with the garter.  We did a raffle, brought up four contestants competing by fetching items in the room.  When I asked them to bring back a person wearing a boutinierre, Gary, our winner, wheeled over grandma in her wheelchair.  She did not see the humor in it.  He did, however, win.

I'm legally required to play "Jesse's Girl" at this wedding, aren't I?

Some random compliments from the evening: "You make it so personal." and "I have never seen a DJ put so much into it."  Those are two of my favorite to hear because that is exactly what I strive for.

Coolest part of the entire day was being able to play Kathryn's song as our last slow song of the night.

When: Saturday, August 22nd, 2009
Where: Detroit Lakes, MN, Sue Pass Ranch
1st Dance Song: "Lost In This Moment" by Big & Rich

Today's job includes the mics and music for an outdoor ceremony, then social and dinner inside, then dance back outside (the dance was a last minute change due to the heat inside).  Nothing stresses me as much as an outdoor ceremony.  There are a lot of challenges and, especially with a ceremony, you want everything to be perfect.  Its also a very long day.  I started packing the car at 9:30am for a 5:30pm ceremony.  Prelude: "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Iz; Processional: "Canon in D" by Pachelbel; Sand Ceremony (you don't do candles outside): "Love" by Sugarland; Recessional: "Brandenburg Concerto" by Bach.

My experiment with video continues.  I knew that Noel & Alex didn't hire a videographer so I borrowed a 2nd camera for the day.  Since my first job was the music I missed some unbelievable moments, like the flower girl getting upset and throwing her basket before storming off down the aisle.  Its a shame her family won't be able to haunt her with the video for the rest of her life.

I was hired to make their slide show.  They were pretty hands off, for that.  I even picked all the songs.  Since space was at a premium, and the unusual shape of the hall, we setup a TV just outside on the deck and let guests watch whenever they liked.

 A designated driver was provided.  I'm not sure Sam got a lot of business, but its nice that it was available.

 Highlight of the evening?  Tailgate dancing.  Apparently Noel likes to dance on pickup truck tail gates.  Really?  Well, who are we not to provide one?  (see the video).

As the night wrapped up, the facility caretaker brought a puppy by while he waited for us to clear out.

When: Saturday, August 8th, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Guesthouse Townhouse
1st Dance Song: "Your Song" by Elton John

Never let it be said I won't do almost anything for my clients.  Tonight I gave the blessing, dismissed tables for the buffet, and tracked down some cornstarch in the kitchen (for the dance floor, to slicken things up just a little).

Chris and Sam kept things simple, made their own programs and guest book.  Some floral centerpieces alternating with candles.  No decorative cake, just sheets.  Their Catholic ceremony meant an early start to the reception - the dance was 7 to 11.  Trust me, when your day starts at 8 am (hair and makeup), 11pm isn't early.  Again, tonight, we added the wedding party half way through their first dance song to kick things off quickly.

The groom-to-be for September 5th, Mr. Josh Winzer, is in this wedding party.  Their wedding will be at the same location.  With the same DJ.  Umm.... here's hoping to impress.  I did talk to his fiance during and we made some notes (likes and dislikes) for their night.

During the dance, I got a request for the Chicken Train by Ozark Mountain Daredevils.  There isn't much to the song, but everyone gets in a circle, stomps the feet or hands, and a single dancer partners with a broom in the middle, passing the broom every so often.  Not sure which part is best, the dancing with an inanimate object, or the people terrified of said dancing (if you come near them, some will flip out, like you just asked them to diffuse a bomb), but most had a great time with it.

When: Friday, August 7th, 2009
Where: EGF Touch of Magic
1st Dance Song: "Wonderful Tonight" by Eric Clapton

"Wanted you to know I thought your choice of music was perfect. Very danceable, judging from the young and older folks on the dance floor.  Also, the sound level was just right--loud enough for the dancers but low enough for those wanting to visit. I would recommend you to others. Thanks for a great evening!"
      -Ken Starr, Father of the Bride

Rebecca and Rich are both teachers which meant tonight was an unusual combination of family, friends, and students from their respective schools.  Rich teaches theater (and SPA) at Red River and the kids in attendance were pretty enthusiastic.  Along for the ride were some faculty I knew when I attended, Doc Brown (the mayor, not the guy from Back to the Future), and some past clients' parents: the Wakefields (the DJ's earplugs courtesy Wakefield Hearing Center, conveniently located in Grand Forks) and Wingers (grandparents to the cutest fist-bumping baby you'd ever see).

Since the reception was at A Touch of Magic, I wasn't allowed there during the social and dinner to help (the facility places a lot of restrictions).  I arrived in time to assist with the slide show and speeches, though, which led us directly into their first dance song.  One problem was the video setup (provided by Touch of Magic).  Turns out Magic runs your DVD player (yes, its provide your own) into a VCR (which causes the volume to be very quiet).  Then the video kept going dim (either a bulb or cord on the fritz).  It definetely put a damper on things.

Getting things going and keeping it that way was very big with Rich and Rebecca, so only their first dance song (with the wedding party, too) before inviting guests to join them.  The only break to the dance was the bouquet toss.  No garter, no dollar dance, no problem.  My job was to shut up and play good music.

The most unusual item for the night was a pair of dance instructors.  Friends of the couple, they came in from Minneapolis.  We announced a few times they were available to help guests learn some dances.  Very cool.  I've always wished we had that available locally.

When: Saturday, August 1st, 2009
Where: Minto Community Center
1st Dance Song: "Amazed" by Lonestar

The Minto Community Center, in a town of 650 people, is one of the nicest places I've ever worked.  Yeah, surprised me, too.  It was built and opened July 5th, 2008 and is pitch perfect.  It was very easy for me to patch into their sound system - that made announcements and speeches very easy to hear in the large room filled with 400 guests.  A large retractable screen graces one wall.  One cord and I had video and sound ready to go for their slide show (which they had me make with a photo from their wedding day dropped in).

The poor ushers.  They were feeling so left out that they grafitied the limo/bus.  Then I skipped them in the introductions.  Sorry, guys, but you just aren't going to be treated as well as the groomsmen.

Actually, poor Shawn.  His girlfriend revealed to me (and, as a result, everyone) his secret love for the Kelly Clarkson song, "My Life Would Suck Without You."  Not a good move for him.  Hilarious for the rest of us.

Noah (Katie's nephew) is probably the youngest wedding guest I've ever played for, though I can't say he was really enjoying the music.  A little too loud for the one month old.

When: Saturday, July 25, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Masonic Center
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

As much as I love the Masonic Center once its decorated, I will warn you that it is surrounded on all sides by, respectively: Police Department, county jail, the mission, and the back of a brick building.  Once inside its beautiful, with a double grand staircase leading down to the reception area.


 I was responsible for creating and playing the video slide show.  Original photos came to almost 15 minutes.  An extra day with me and we were almost down to ten and it flowed noticeably better.

I've never seen anyone turn "Thriller" into a line dance before, but sure, why not?

Pretty typical evening, events-wise:  Dollar dance; bouquet; garter raffle.  Unusual items:  the party bus they hired provided a certain.... energy (see video) which I used in their entrance/introductions; the toasts were excellent; I played Ricky Martin (had to?  Got to?  Can't decide)

I also got to work with Brian of Brian's Photography.  The man was the gold standard when I started DJ'ing in 1998 and is still great to work with.  I'm DJ'ing his assistant's wedding Ocotober 2010.  Shockingly, I had very few usable photos from my camera (somehow my picture taking was worse than usual) so I'll have to wait and hope to snag from photos from Brian.

When: Friday, July 24, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Celebrity Ballroom
1st Dance Song: "Heaven" by Bryan Adams
Special Performance: "Folsom Prison Blues" by Grant Korsmo & Chambers

Tonight's entire attitude was a bit different because the couple was actually married months ago in Hawaii, so no ceremony today.  That won't stop us from kickin' up our feet, though.  That special performance above is the direct audio recording of Grant's karaoke song, and quite a crowd pleaser.  Enjoy part of it in the video, click to listen, or right click and 'save link as' to download for posterity.

No dollar dance, no bouquet toss, no garter.  We did a few special dances, including Kathryn with her grandfather.  Some requests that were interesting: a friend, Jackie, who could not attend, actually texted her request in (yes, Jackie, we did play Bel Biv Devoe).  Also in the playlist were Rolling Stones' "Beast of Burden," Marc Cohn's "Walking in Memphis," and Boyz II Men's "MoTownPhilly."

While the catering job by Bob Kincaid and his crew from 'Quality Catering' was impressive, I'll guess the taco grinders served at midnight actually appreciated most.  Sorry, Bob.  Cool centerpiece, though (photo left).

Most of Kathryn's bridsemaids are from Kodiak, Alaska, where she grew up.  One even brought a paper fan, explaining, "it's cold in Kodiak, it's hot here (North Dakota)."  First time I ever heard North Dakota described as hot, but I guess it's all relative (Friday's temp in Kodiak: ).

Last item is pretty unusual for our area (though its common in some parts of the country).  We gave away the centerpieces at the end of the night.  Anyone who wanted one, could have one.

When: Saturday, July 18, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Hilton
1st Dance Song: "Grow Old With You" by Andi Thoreson

Yes, that's a recording of their first dance song, performed live by her sister.  Its the love song from the "Weddingsinger" movie with Adam Sandler.  Andi did a wonderful job dispite my recording (not really what I'm setup for, but I try).  Right Click and 'Save Link As' to download it.


And if Andi hadn't done that, this would have been my favorite moment: the ceremony recessional was Starship's "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us." (apparently a reference to her childhood passion for "Mannequin.")  I even caught a little of Jeff's brother, Jason, singing it for us all.  Enjoy that in the video clip along with me trying to fix her bustle with my safety pins. 

The great news is that the only mishaps the entire day were earlier, before the ceremony.  There was a chemical spill and fire at the UND Engineering department that diverted traffic, making arrival at the ceremony site difficult.  Then the limo was two hours late, so never took Jeff or Sarah to the ceremony.  However, when they left, there were two.  The one they actually hired, and a second, from a company Jeff had called, but never booked because they were already full.  Apparently not.

Photographer Katie Lewis can tell you all about me running into things... and people.  A hostess, a little boy, and Andi (the singer) and her guitar all fell victim to my clumsiness tonight.  Sorry guys. Katie will be stuck working with me again on August 7th (too bad for her), but after sneaking a peek at her blog, that's good news for the bride and groom.  She and her assistant were wonderful to work with.

Sarah's only request, her only input for the music at all.... please don't play the Chicken Dance.  Everything else was entirely up to me, as long as guests were having fun.

When: Saturday, July 11, 2009
Where: Valley City Sabir's Restaurant
1st Dance Song: "Forever" by Ben Harper

Sabir's is a great restaurant in Valley City with a heck of a view out the back.  The dinner was inside, then we moved outside for the dance on a wooden deck.  This meant I setup my gear outside, and my backup system setup inside to provide wireless mic and music during dinner.

The original version of their first dance song has a 60 second instrumental in the middle, so Nicole had me trim that out.

While we skipped a dollar dance and garter toss, we were supposed to toss the bouquet.  However, there was no toss version.  Rather than my artificial backup I always carry, I tied together the loose flowers around the cake with ribbon and ta da! (picture left)

Great news!  The deck was built sturdy enough to withstand at least 75 people jumping up and down on it.  I wasn't really worried, but the concern had popped into my head when I first saw everyone out on the dance floor.

I can't praise Nam Sabir and his restaurant staff enough.  They did so many things that other banquet facilities ignore that added to the evening.  Soft lighting, a fire pit, mosquito traps plus spraying made a very comfortable night outside.  Drink service all night, including outside, meant people didn't have to wait in line at the bar.

¦¦

* that middle shot is me filming the toasts *

When: Sunday, June 28th, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Clarion Inn
1st Dance Song: "Another Side of You" by Joe Nichols

This is actually my third wedding this same weekend, and only my second wedding on a Sunday in my 11 years.  This weekend also saw my first Thursday night, and Friday delayed by a tornado.

The last time I saw Denelle before today was July of 2006, at her Matron of Honor Erica Speidel's wedding, catching the bouquet.  A photo (left) I was more than happy to dig up from the archives.  Side note:  At the wedding this photo was taken at, the toss bouquet was missing at the reception and we used the spare I had brought.

The wedding party was huge.  I announced a total of 20 people into the room for the Grand March. 


Once I had dismissed all the tables for the buffet we got Denelle & Don over for their cake pictures.  Rather than worrying about him smashing her face with the cake, she should have worried about crumbs.  Apparently a chunk of the cake fell into the bustier of her dress and had to be fished out.

We started our dance a bit differently.  Rather than Don and Denelle themselves, it was Denelle and their son Trey (Photo: Right.  Before he got too cranky - it was past bedtime), and Don with his mom, Gloria.  Then Denelle and Don got to dance together.  We also had songs to recognize Denelle's dad, her mom, and, of course, Don's two little girls.

When: Friday, June 26th, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Alerus Center
1st Dance Song: "Stay With You" by John Legend

 I worked Jenny's sister's wedding a couple of years ago.  The same wedding where Jenny met Tim.  Heavens, that is one good looking couple.


Hmmm, where to start, where to start.... how about, the second the wedding party arrived we were all ushered into the space below the main arena's bleachers just in case the tornado bearing down on Grand Forks decided crush us like bugs.  Yes, that seems like a good thing to bring up.

We had our and another wedding's guests under the bleachers for protection (the Alerus is the city's emergency shelter, if you didn't know) for about 90 minutes until we finally got the all clear.  Apparently the Alerus' emergency plan didn't dictate for anyone to update us, so, yeah!  I got to do it.  Trust me, you don't want to have to give continously bad news to large groups of hungry and cranky people.  Its like training them to dislike you.


 Once we got the all clear we retuned everyone to the ballroom and headed straight into:  Grand March; prayer; dinner service; video; toasts; and the dance.  All on a slightly truncated timeline.  We skipped the dollar dance.  I did get a really good stroll in.  Plus, I got to play "Poison" by Bel Biv Devoe.  I don't know if any request has ever made me so happy (maybe "Now that We Found Love" by Heavy D and the Boyz last December).  OK, yes, I love bad 90's music, but that's exactly why you don't ever tell a DJ "just play whatever you like".

To the right, a photo of Jenny during the dance.  I couldn't not share this.  The look is priceless.

When: Thursday, June 25th, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Alerus Center
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

A wedding on a Thursday, while not terribly uncommon, is unusual to be so large.  When I asked Margi & Zack about why a Thursday, her family does a reunion every year on this weekend, so everyone was already getting together.  The result was about 250 guests partying til midnight before heading to the lake the next day.


The first thing you'd notice walking into their reception was the assigned table seating and RSVP'ed dinner entree (3 choices).  Common in some parts of the country, I've only had about six receptions (out of about 400) do this.  The host couples have the sheets for everyone to check in and to remind them what they ordered (very important).

To the left, one table was the beneficiary of some kids giving out shoulder rubs.  Lucky folks.


Each of the first three dances (Margi & Zack; Margi and her dad; Zack and his mom) were brief.  I created two minutes versions (in advance) by cutting out a verse and chorus.  This meant each got their own song, but the entire beginning was still only seven minutes long.  Also different was during the bride and her dad's dance, we invited all dads to bring their daughters up and join us.  Same for mothers and sons for Zack and his mom.  Wonderful turnout.  The only negative was clearing the floor of fathers and daughters for Zack and his mom's dance but it wasn't a big deal and we did fill the floor right back up.

The rest of the night was reasonably typical except the guy who won the garter raffle was under two years old and at one point Margi got a little light headed.  We got her setup with water and salted peanuts and she felt better soon, though.  She and Zack did sneak out a little early (about 20 minutes).  They were pretty tired and didn't want to break up the party before the rest of us wrapped up about midnight.

To the right, daughter of a bridesmaid and a flower girl herself, Bella, wearing the apron grandma made for her.

When: Saturday, June 20, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Eagles Crest Patio
1st Dance Song: "You & Me" by Lifehouse

Rachel and Cary farm just north of Oslo.  I posted some pictures of them earlier this year taking a boat over the eight miles of overland flooding surrounding their home to get to a truck and a functioning road.  Never the less, things came together for them today.  The weather was gorgeous, they looked wonderful, and we got to the cakes before the frosting melted in the heat.

Their reception was on the patio at the Eagles Crest grill and overlooked the 18th hole of the golf course.  An awning protected guests and, fortunately, the bugs didn't come out at all til late (and even then were pretty light).

We drew from the RSVPs for an example kiss each time the guests clinked their glasses.  This led to me picking on a few of the trouble makers who kept starting things.  I kept picking the same names over and over.

The video slide show was quite a challenge.  Sunlight can make it difficult to see projector screens so I had a big screen handy just in case.  I scanned the photos for Rachel (just over 300 of them) and used about 120 to craft a nice little nine minute film.

My favorite moment had to be when Cary's son got all the boys together and did a dance to Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Jump on It."  Oh, did I mention I have video?  Just a nice little 30 second clip here, but if anyone wants the full video, email me and I'll be glad to send it along.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2009
Where: Jamestown Gladestone Inn
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

Some totals for the weekend:  480 miles (round trip), 9 hours in the car (two asleep), 3 V8s, 3 liters of water, and a breakfast pizza from Fargo Stamart (normally, no, but great on the road at 8am).



To bad Chris and Abby weren't there yet to see it, but apparently, somebody (*chough* Abby *cough*) forgot to pull their homemade punch out of the freezer this morning.  The result was the behemoth to the left (as flower girl Katie looks on).

Always follow up!  Abby's uncle Bob prepared the video, brought the player, all he needed was a screen.  Except, that's not all he needed.  He had some trouble with his laptop, so we switched to my player (always have it with, along with my projector, just in case).  The video was wonderful and funny.  Not too long and plenty of great photos.

We gave away their garter a bit differently.  We drew four winning raffle tickets.  Once I had those four guys we did a nice elimination game.  Last one to bring me what I ask for is out.  A woman's shoe; some flowers, and a piece of turtle cheesecake.

Rather than a traditional wedding cake, mini cheesecakes adorned the tables for dessert.  Abby did sneak in a groom's cake (to the right) for Chris.

I almost forgot to mention the polkas and waltzes.  At most weddings I play a few, but not here.  Abby's family has their own music theater and polka CDs.  They passes two of the CDs along to me in advance.  I played four different sets of two waltzes and two polkas.  Or was it five?  Its hard to remember these things.

For the second night in the row the couple added overtime, right up until the hotel allowed 12:30, before bidding their guests goodnight.

When: Friday, June 12, 2009
Where: Moorhead Marriot
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

Whoops!  Always double check everything before you leave!  I got about 20 minutes behind schedule when I realized 2 miles out of Grand Forks that I didn't have  my tux (construction meant I had to go 7 more miles before turning around).  This meant I was setup and ready to go right on time (always leave early, kids!).

We had some fun with the wedding party introductions when they arrived.  The sound of 180 people clapping and stomping their feet can be quite something.  Lindsey also had me bring some karaoke.  We let some of the guests (wedding party, mostly) sing about four or five songs throughout the night.  Some.... noticeably better than others.

To the left are Cierra & Matt.  I DJ'ed their reception last August 15th (I almost didn't recognize her as a blonde!).

A little side note, the roses Lindsey and Jesse were to give to their moms at the church were found at the reception.  They suggested it was another item in a list and they weren't terribly satisfied with their wedding coordinator.  I'd think not.

I'm short on pictures since my dear photographer friends Shawna and Kory were stuck working with me, again and I simply plan on poaching some of their photos since, you know, they'll look good.

When: Saturday, June 6, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Clarion (formerly Holiday Inn)
1st Dance Song: "My Best Friend" by Tim McGraw

Tonight went well most of the time.  It can be difficult to be heard with 325 people in an odd shaped room... well, two rooms actually.  Sarah & Matt had some nice touches, both in the room with the favors (boxes with Chippers), colorful cupcakes on the tables and a putting green by the head table.  If you wanted to get Sarah & Matt to kiss, you had to sink a putt.  Miss, and you kissed someone yourself.  Video at the bottom, left hand side.

The best news (for me) was the photographers, Shawna Noel and Kory.  You can see their photos below (you can tell which, because they're actually good). 

A little birdie let me know that the Pastor had referenced "Turn, Turn, Turn" by the Byrds in his sermon at the ceremony so I played it immediately after the blessing.

Since Sarah & Matt were a bit shy about being the center of attention we altered their first dance song a little.  Sarah provided the photos of them and I got a screen and projector.  The net result was a backdrop of photos that looked great, but also drew a little attention away from the nervous couple. Video is below, on the right.  The wonderful photo to the right is courtesy photographer ShawnaNoel.com

The remainder of the evening was pretty typical except for an impromptu dance contest between two of the guys.  It went on for almost five minutes and was amazing.  That led us up to a very tired couple making their except at 12:30 before I had to stop per Clarion Inn rules.

These photos courtesy Shawna Noel

When: Saturday, May 23rd, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Townhouse
1st Dance Song: "Keeper of the Stars" by Tracy Byrd

Too....tired....to.....type.  Egads, the original contract had signed me up for a three hour dance.  Reality set in about 10:15pm when the groomsmen let me know they were adding two hours of time.  Great for them, but have you ever stood in dress shoes for... (does the math)... seven hours?  I don't take breaks at these things, you know.  Enough whining, on to the details.

Guests started rolling in just before 6pm so I caught the host couples up to speed, found a high chair for a guest, and helped fill vases at the head table for the bouquets.  At 6:40 we got Andrea's dad, Paul, up for the welcoming toast, then I started dismissing tables for the buffet.  Oh, and it turns out one of the bridesmaids was one of the nurses when our baby was born. Hi, Haley!

Helped the photographer get all her shots since she was only there about two hours: cake, toasts, family, and trivia.  Wait, I forgot to explain that last one.  To get Andrea and John to kiss you had to ask a question.  So if you knew John was the little drummer boy in the kindergardner Christmas program, you asked Andrea what part he played.  She gets it right, you kiss your neighbor.  She gets it wrong, she kisses John.

Speeches, then straight to the dance.  Nothing too unusual (except that it was FIVE HOURS!) but we did a dance off to give the garter away.  I had to sweep the dance floor after a glass was broken.  Oh, and the Townhouse staff didn't know how late I was allowed to play until (it took five people to figure that one out).  And... I can't believe I almost forgot... Andrea's dad's favorite song was:   Tootsie Roll!  Sweet!  I got footage of that one.

When: Friday, May 22nd, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Holiday Inn
1st Dance Song: "Love of My Life" by Sammy Kershaw

Wow.  My first wedding of the new season (11th year!) and I was actually a bit nervous.  Fortunately, there was no cause.  Things went very smoothly... or at least the things I could help with.  There was the matter of the leaning cake (the photo doesn't do it justice).  We took care of the photos quickly and started disassembling the cake before dinner, so no harm done.

This reception was a great reminder for me.  Spend a little time chatting up guests, like Uncle Al, and you'll learn all kinds of things.  Who can sing (or can't sing, rather), the bride's first hunting trip, and who is newly single so maybe you can get a hold of your photographer friend and try and introduce him to her (didn't work out).  Important things that help make the evening a bit more individualized.  That's how I got four different guests asking me how I knew the couple.  They all assume we were friends, that I knew them personally.  Good.  That's what I'm going for.


Bryan and Paige did their first dance right when they arrived.  I think they liked the idea of changing things up a bit. 

The sign in the pic (to the right) is for the Twins game on Sunday.  Paige bought them tickets for part of their honeymoon.  We played a game of Hot & Cold for Bryan to find it (he needed help.  Apparently its a game you need to practice). 

By 12:30 am there were only about five or ten guests NOT on the dance floor.  Everyone else was still eager to keep going, but sadly the Holiday Inn sets the rules and we had to call it a night.

Once again I bring you something NOT from one of my clients but who cares.  This might be my favorite thing ever (except for the Stinar brothers).  A couple got all their friends and family to help them film a music video on their wedding day.  Enjoy!

Brian & Eileen's Wedding Music Video. from LOCKDOWN projects on Vimeo.

We all know how difficult wedding plan can be, but this is ridiculous.  If Rachel and Cary want to make a meeting with their vendors or do some shopping they've got to grab the boat, head over the flood waters surrounding their home (originally 10 miles distance), meet the parked truck at the water's edge and then drive into Grand Forks.

If you'd like you can see their photos here.

Its shaping up to be quite a year!  I've already met and beat my goal of 25 weddings for this year.  Only three to go for 30 and I'll officially be fully booked!

We've still got five weeks to go before wedding season starts so I'll be posting links and photos from clients, telling you about my favorite vendors (photographers and florists), and anything else I can think of each Monday.

P.S.  Thanks to photographer Shawna Noel for the photo of my daughter.

This story wasn't one of my events and its actually from 2005.  I just saw it and wanted to share the heartaching story of a young woman who passed away from cancer five days after her wedding.  Read the details at either Snopes.com or the NPPA.com.

The photo to the right shows one of many chemo treatments she received with her fiance waiting.  Click the links and see the beautiful photos.

When: Thursday, April 2, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Rydell Auto Center

This is another community event I donate my time to.  The Athena Awards are to honor women leaders in the community and are sponsored by the Grand Forks Chamber of Commerce.  My responsibility was a simple public address system.  Jazz on Tap provided the entertainment.  Artistic Food and Floral did the catering and the floral arrangements.

When: Saturday, March 28, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Ramada Inn
1st Dance Song: "Your Everything" by Keith Urban
Father/Daughter Dance: "I Loved Her First" by Heartland

Well, tonight was a welcome night since I haven't had a wedding dance in five weeks.  Obviously plans changed because of all the flooding in the region and these two were from the Warren-Alvarado area.


The ceremony was in Alvarado at 4pm.  Dinner was served at 6:30pm.  At 6:10 there was only 40 people in the room (so I was a bit worried), but within 15 minutes about 250 more had arrived (what, did they bus in together?) and we were off.

Cupcakes for dessert and to the left is the evidence of what happened there.  I'll say it to all the grooms:  its NEVER a good idea to go for the smash.  Trust me.  Maybe a dab of frosting on the nose.  That can be cute.  Smash and we're talking about fixing makeup and its still early with lots of pictures to come.  So let it go.



A quick buffet (the Ramada always does it right) and some speeches (the best man's was written in crayon during dinner).  The first dance had a photo slide show behind them rather than done separately and I think it worked well for them.  They were both introverted and liked the idea of pulling attention away from themselves.




 The beginning of the dance was a bit slow, but they warmed up after a bit and ended up adding time to the end until we had to stop because of hotel rules.  In attendance were Tanner & Jess Tanke whose wedding I DJ'ed last November.  They were (tonight and in November) rather... energetic (photo to the left is during a slow song).  They're a lot of fun and not afraid to show it.

Add in a quick fix of the bride's broken bodice (its fun to say!) with a safety pin before sending them on their merry way and a good night to all.

Prairie Harvest Foundation works with vulnerable adults and children.  Friday was their annual Polyester party where some came in great costumes, including leisure suits (sorry, no pics).  I was the host and DJ.  David Leonardi was auctioneer for the live auction.  Perfect for me was the silent auction (which wasn't really, but not the point).  I won custom-fitted ear plugs courtesy Wakefield Hearing center.  Better late than never.

Hopefully I'll continue to be able to donate to groups like this.  Its a worthwhile cause and the people were wonderful.

I've been off the grid for a bit and will be for a while longer.  We welcomed my first daughter into the world (10 days early).  I'll try to resume a regular work schedule as soon as possible but for now I'll just be checking email and voicemail.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2009
Where: Grand Forks Ralph Englestad Arena
1st Dance Song: "At Last" by Etta James
Father/Daughter Dance: "Stealing Cinderella" by Chuck Wicks

This evening was noticeably different because both the ceremony and reception were in the Ralph lobby.  In fact, I was more nervous for the ceremony than the bride and groom (I get worked up because I know there is no margin for error).  As usual there were no issues and everything went smoothly.



 The bride requested that I trim the first two songs to about two minutes each.  This allowed us to move things along and get the guests involved relatively quickly.

There was one major request.  The best man was married just last September.  During that reception he made his best man, this evening's groom, Kyle, dress in a giant chicken costume.  Revenge was nigh.  That's the best man Tyler in the suit (that actually belongs to his wife).

When: Saturday, January 10, 2009
Where: Fargo Radisson
1st Dance Song: "Bless the Broken Road" by Rascal Flatts
Father/Daughter Dance: "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle
Mother/Son Dance: "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts
Wedding Party song: "Amazed" by Lonestar