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1.28.12 - Ladies, How Do You Find A Husband?

2012-01-28T12:46:00.001-05:00

Author John Lewis offers some tips for you ladies who are dreaming of an amazing wedding day, but still haven't met Mr. Right.

"If you are sensing a little alone and dreaming for the perfect guy to wed, there are numerous simple steps in order to choosing the ideal hubby. A woman can spend a huge amount of time wanting for the appropriate fellow in her life that she sits idly by patiently waiting instead of positively in search of her spouse in life. Stop sitting back and asking yourself, "How do I find a husband?" Alternatively, take a couple of these suggestions to heart and get moving on your journey for love at the moment.

Law of Attraction
Begin by thinking about the law of attraction mainly because it applies to looking for a hubby. If you would like positive results in your love life, you'll have to believe confidently. You have to feel happy and carry out good to get something good in exchange. This suggests throwing out any feelings involving personal doubt you might feel about yourself or your capacity to acquire a suitable other half. If you're experiencing depressed or unhappy, you should generate a conscience choice to seek joy, and keep your goal in sight. Concentrate on the good to be able to radiate your great power out over people around you.

Self Evaluate Your Lifestyle
After you sense good about yourself plus your search for a man, you need to assess yourself. Have you been looking after yourself to perform up your assets to individuals of the opposite gender? The fact is that first images make a huge difference, therefore you need to ensure you appear your very best. Looking your best will likely make you feel good about yourself, and feeling better can definitely bring in a husband. Think about going to a beauty salon to obtain a latest hair do or switch your make-up routine. Wear clothing which makes you feel proud and strong, consequently other people get a confident emotion by you.

Personally Determine What You Deliver
Just like you are looking for a spouse, a guy is looking for partner, as well. Consider what you can offer to a guy. Do you think you're smart or witty? Would you see the wit in every situation? You have to know what your personality style is, and you should be confident in your own skin with who you are. Once you know yourself, you could start to watch out for someone that will go with you. For example, once you discover you are an intelligent, classical music fan who desires a calm, smart man, you'll then skip men who tend not to fit your needs and also save yourself the hassle regarding seeing men who will not likely work in your case. This makes free you up to concentrate on getting men who are hubby material.

Select Where You Go
After you look great, seem confident, and limit what type of man you need based on your self examination, you are ready to find the man you have always wanted. You have to opt where you go carefully to get yourself a spouse. Unless you desire a sports-lover who drinks, do not search for a man inside a pub. Preferably, think about the place where a man who actually shares same hobbies along with you might visit. If you are seeking for a reader who will encourage strong conversations, consider your local library, restaurant, or even book shop. If you prefer a businessman, try keeping your eyes as well as heart open at your future networking occasion at the office.

Stop saying, "How do I find a husband?" The reality is that when you open your heart for affection, love seems to have a way of discovering you. You'll find a spouse when you are truthful with your mind as to what you would like in a man and then looking for a man having those precise attributes."

To get more tips, visit http://www.how-do-i-find-a-husband.com

1.21.12 - Seneca Allegany Casino - Salamanca, NY

2012-01-28T12:12:00.005-05:00

Meeting that special person can very often happen by accident. For Lyndie and Bryan, their first meeting happened because of an accident! Back in 2003, Lyndie had wrecked her car, then took it to Bryan's Auto Body, where she first crossed paths with her future husband. They became fast friends, yet had to sneak around when they started dating! You see, Lyndie's parents weren't too fond of Bryan, and the last thing they wanted was for him to date their daughter! Luckily, over the next several years, Lyndie's parents grew very fond of Bryan and were esctatic when the happy couple got engaged in 2009.

Last weekend, the Seneca Allegany Casino was the spot chosen for Lyndie and Bryan's wedding reception. The couple takes trips to the casino on a regular basis, so it was a natural decision to hold their reception their too. The wedding ceremony began the day's events at Allegany State Park, the site where Bryan first asked Lyndie to marry him back in 2009. A small guest list of less than 50 family members and friends attended the ceremony, then made their way to the casino for the reception.

Michellle and the staff at the Seneca Allegany Casino were an absolute joy to work with. So professional and so accommodating. The Spring, Summer and Fall ballroom looked absolutely beautiful as guests first enjoyed cocktails and hors d' oevres. As everyone took their seats, Lyndie's and Bryan's parents were officially introduced into the ballroom, followed soon by the new Mr. and Mrs. Smith. A scrumptious buffet dinner was enjoyed by all, with the formalities
taking place afterwards. Guests smiled, laughed and danced throughout the evening! What a memorable night for a wonderful couple! Lyndie and Bryan are planning a wonderful Alaskan honeymoon in the future which certainly should be absolutely picturesque!

My thanks again to the staff at the Seneca Allegany Casino and to you, Lyndie and Bryan! It was a pleasure being part of your wonderful wedding celebration! All the very best!

12.31.11 - Premier Banquet Center - Olean, NY

2012-01-07T15:57:00.004-05:00

New Year's Eve is without a doubt one of the biggest days of any given year to celebrate. Add the excitement of a wedding reception and that raises the level of the celebration sky high!

Marissa and Matt chose to get married on New Year's Eve, surrounded by loved ones and friends in their hometown of Randolph, NY. Following the ceremony, guests traveled to the beautiful and spacious Premier Banquet Center in Olean, NY for the wedding reception. The holiday decor was stunning, as Marissa and Matt had chosen a winter theme for the reception. In meeting with them during the planning process, the happy couple also chose an uplighting package from me with the venue uplit in beautiful white color to match the theme. Uplighting fixtures were placed near the head table and around the room. I can't say enough how much uplighting adds to the beauty of any event!

Following cocktail hour and hors d'oevres, guests took their seats as parents and bridal party members were officially introduced into the banquet center. Marissa and Matt had their first dance immediately, surrounded by the special people in their lives. After a delicious buffet dinner, the parents dances took place, then the dance floor was opened allowing guests to dance off their delicious meal! After the final formalities were complete, guests danced again as the midnight hour approached to ring in the new year!

By the time the countdown to midnight occurred, there wasn't an empty spot on the dance floor! Guests donned hats and blew noisemakers as 2012 was ushered in as dancing continued until 12:30 in the morning! Marissa and Matt couldn't have picked a more special date for their wedding! The reception rocked!

My thanks to another great team of professials! To the staff of the Premier Banquet Center, thank you for your warm hospitality and great teamwork! Also want to acknowledge photographer Aleida Foulk and videographer David Ruszkowski from Olean Digital Video
for the great work! And, of course, my thanks to you, Marissa and Matt! It was an honor and pleasure to help you create a FUN wedding reception. There's no other place I rather would have been than at your event to help bring in 2012! Hope your enjoying your ski honeymoon in Vermont and all my best in your married lives together! Thank you!

12.30.11 - Ambassador Banquet Center - Erie, PA

2012-01-07T15:28:00.003-05:00

With the rush of the Christmas holiday behind everyone, the celebrating certainly wasn't over for 2011. With 2012 just around the corner, Colleen and Nickolas chose December 30th as their wedding date. Family and friends were certainly in a festive mood for the winter themed reception. Mother Nature unfortunately didn't cooperate, as the Erie area has had a noticeable LACK of snow thus far this winter.

Following the ceremony, guests made their way to the beautifully decorated Garden Atrium at the Ambassador Banquet Center in Erie for Colleen and Nickolas' wedding reception. It was a wonderful night in store for a most charming couple. As everyone took their seats, introductions were made of parents from their tables, then the bridal party made their entrance. Colleen and Nickolas were honored to have family members and good friends as part of their bridal party. After some wonderful toasts, everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet meal, prepared expertly by the Ambassador. Formal dances and formalities followed dinner, then everyone immediately made their way to the dance floor to dance the night away! Perfect way to start a weekend that I'm sure was full of celebrating for everyone!

It was such an honor to be part of wonderful team of professionals that Colleen and Nickolas assembled. My thanks to Paula and Shannon from the Ambassador Center, Kim Powell (KP Phototography) and of course to you, Colleen and Nickolas. It was such a pleasure to help create an amazing reception that kept your dance floor packed all night! All the very best to you both and hope you are enjoying your memorable honeymoon in Hawaii! All my best...

11.19.11 - Ambassador Banquet Center - Erie, PA

2011-11-22T22:53:00.005-05:00

This time of year we start to reflect on how thankful we are for having the people we love in our lives. For Amanda and Ryan, they have much to be thankful for as well. The fact that they happen to take the same karate classes together, it led them down a path of love that led everyone in their lives to the Ambassador Center on Saturday, November 19th for Amanda and Ryan's wedding day!

The weather couldn't have been more perfect for a late fall day, as the festivities began with the wedding ceremony in the Ambassador's beautiful Atrium, performed by Amanda and Ryan's longtime friend, Pastor J. Davis, who ironically had also been their karate instructor, so it made the day that much more special! Amanda and Ryan had chosen some of their favorite music for the ceremony, including the prelude, processional and recessional. Once the ceremony was complete, guests made their way down to the beautiful Hemmingway Ballroom for the wedding reception. After sampling some wonderful hors d' oevres, people took their seats for the formal introductions. From the music for the introductions right through the dinner music, guests were again treated to some more of Amanda and Ryan's favorite songs and artists. I always have believed in customizing an event, and the happy couple were ecstatic to be able to hand pick some great music! Right before the sit down meal began, Ryan's Best Man, Anthony, and Amanda's Maid of Honor, Mandy, shared some wonderful toasts to the newly married couple.

Once dinner was complete, Amanda and Ryan cut into their beautiful wedding cake, prepared by Cindy's Let Them Eat Cake. The first dance was next, followed by the Bridal Party Dance. For Amanda's dance with her dad, she definitely had a surprise for him! Starting out with a montage of various 90's hits they they BOTH loved, it segued into Rod Stewart's rendition of "Have I Told You Lately." Ryan chose "Simple Man" from Shinedown for his dance with his Mom. We opened the dance floor for about a half hour, then before moving into the rest of the formalities, Amanda and Ryan thanked everyone for their love and support. The evening finished out with more dancing, bringing everyone out of their seats for an amazing night for one and all!

Thanks go out to an amazing team of professionals...Pastor J. Davis, for a wonderful ceremony, Paula and the staff from the Ambassador, who are always wonderful to work with, Cindy Favreau from Cindy's Let Them Eat Cake and to Jennifer White and her husband from Jennifer Photography, who caputured some wonderful photographic images of the wedding day. And, of course, my thanks to you, Amanda and Ryan! It was a pleasure and honor to have been chosen as your entertainment! I am so glad that everyone had so much fun on one of the best days of your lives together! All my best, and enjoy that Cooks Forest honeymoon!

11.12.11 - Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel - Erie, PA

2011-11-13T17:52:00.006-05:00

Ashley and Jason's long romance dates back to their junior high school years together. In fact, on the first date, Ashley had to pick Jason up, because at that time, he was only 15 and couldn't drive yet!

On Saturday, the biggest day of Ashley and Jason's lives had arrived...their wedding day! As guests arrived, they couldn't help but notice how breathtaking the Regency Ballroom at the Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel was. Ashley had chosen her uplighting in white, which I must say was beautiful. After the formal introductions, the bride and groom made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, "Me And You" from one of their favorite artists, Kenny Chesney. Following some heartfelt toasts from Ashley's sister, Mackenzie, and Jason's Best Man, Mario, and prayer from Ashley's Aunt, Cathy, it was time to enjoy a scrumptious sit down dinner. Ashley and Jason took the time to prepare a customized dinner music list, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. The cake cutting soon followed, then it was time for everyone to don their 'dancing shoes', which were comfortable sandals! It sure didn't take long for the dance floor to fill up and remained full for the rest of the night! The formalities finished off with the bouquet and garter and honeymoon dance. Then, more dancing! What a great time for an absolutely perfect couple!

My thanks go out to Lisa, Karen and the always professional and gracious Bel-Aire staff. Their hospitality is always very warm. I also want to acknowledge photographer Paul Ferrer, who journeyed in from Akron, OH to capture the event in pictures. Of course, I am very grateful to you, Ashley and Jason, for choosing me as your professional host and wedding entertainment.
It was such a blast being a part of the event! I know you'll certainly be happy to escape the chill of the northeast to get away for your Caribbean Cruise! Have fun and thank you again!

11.11.11 - Nick's Place - Edinboro, PA

2011-11-13T10:43:00.004-05:00

Rachel and Allen, as you can tell, chose 11-11-11 as their wedding date. According to Rachel, every time she looks at the clock and it says 11:11, she makes a wish. Marrying Allen on Friday night, you can tell that all of her wishes have come true! Besides, how could Allen ever forget his anniversary date?

Rachel and Allen first met while attending Penn State together. They have to thank a mutual friend at college, Reilly, for introducing them. After meeting, they spent alot of time together, eating out together as much as possible. The engagement showed off Allen's romantic side, as he proposed in New York City in Central Park after a horse drawn carriage ride by a gazebo down by the water.

A small group of family members and friends traveled from destinations all over to Nick's Place in Edinboro for Rachel and Allen's wedding ceremony and reception. The service, performed by Pastor Jerry Alsdorf, featured Rachel and Allen's favorite scripture reading and a live performance of a special song. The cocktail hour took place immediately following the reception, with guests even being treated to hot chocolate on a cold November night. The night before, Edinboro had received about 2 inches of snow. A delicious buffet meal was enjoyed by all, followed by the first dance and the rest of the formalities. Even though it was a small group, everyone had so much fun on the dance floor! I love seeing people dance and have a GREAT time!

My thanks to Sara, Katie, Mary Ann and the staff at Nick's Place. They have such a wonderful, family run venue and always achieve perfection at every event! It was also a pleasure to work with Rachel and Allen's photographer, Chuck Fong, who traveled in from State College to capture all the moments of the big day. And, of course, my thanks to you, Rachel and Allen! It was such a pleasure and honor to have been chosen as your entertainment and to have hosted your 11-11-11 wedding reception! All the very best to you both and enjoy your road trip honeymoon on the way to your new home in Connecticut!

11.4.11 - Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel - Erie, PA

2011-11-05T13:47:00.007-04:00

There is nothing more important in this world than family. And, when you combine two families that have the same values and ideas, it couldn't be more perfect! That's certainly the case for Lisa and Jeff, as family members and good friends were a key part of their bridal party, as well as those in attendance.

Lisa and Jeff picked the beautiful Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel in Erie for their wedding reception on Friday night. The Regency Ballroom looked simply elegant, with the chair covers and flowers from Alburn Florist. Lisa and Jeff, in our consultation, chose one of my custom uplighting packages, picking the color white. Lisa and Jeff also designed a custom monogram, which I projected on the dance floor and throughout the reception.

As guests arrived, they were treated to delicious hors d'oevres. Once the cocktail hour was complete, everyone took their seats for the formal introductions of parents, the bridal party and Lisa and Jeff. The happy couple cut their cake right after being introduced, then shared their first dance as a married couple. It was truly a moment that was breathtaking! A delicious sit down dinner was then enjoyed by all. After dinner, Jeff danced with his Mom, Sally, and I took that moment and made it even more special by inviting all the mothers and sons in attendance to join them on the dance floor. From that moment on, guests made their way to the dance floor to enjoy dancing all night long. Lisa termed the evening "fun overload!" It was definitely a magical night and one that everyone enjoyed for sure!

My thanks go out to Lisa Di Luzio and Karen Catalde at the Bel-Aire for their hospitality and extraordinary service, the Bel-Aire staff for their professionalism, Heather Mencer from Mencer Photography and, of course, to you Lisa and Jeff! Lisa, it was an honor to be a part of another wedding in your family, Jeff it was a pleasure to meet your family members, and nice to everyone dancing the night away! I am very grateful for having been chosen as your entertainment, and wish you the very best in your married lives together!

10.22.11 - Iroquois Boating Club - Conneaut Lake, PA

2011-10-25T10:58:00.005-04:00

A High School romance, certartainly not uncommon in wedding love stories. For Karen and Shawn, their story begins at Saegertown High School. Shawn had a crush on Karen even back then and was persistent in asking her out. Good thing he was, as it led to a wonderful courtship. In the last few years, Karen and Shawn became proud parents of a beautiful daughter, Kenley.

On Saturday, family members and friends gathered at the beautiful Iroquois Boating Club in Conneaut Lake for Karen and Shawn's wedding reception. The region is absolutely beautiful this time of year with fall foliage evident everywhere you look. As guests arrived, they were treated to butlered hors d' oevres, tasty cookies and a candy buffet! Once everyone sat down, parents were introduced from their seats. Bridal Party members and Karen and Shawn walked in to an introduction favorite..."Party Rock Anthem" from LMFAO. After being introduced, Karen and Shawn immediately cut their beautiful wedding cake so everyone could enjoy it as dessert. Right before the delicious sit down meal, Shawn's longtime college roommate and Best Man, Brandon, and Karen' sister and Maid of Honor, Julie, gave some wonderful toasts and tribute to the happy couple. Karen's Uncle then gave the blessing of the meal.

After dinner, Karen and Shawn made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, followed by the Bridal Party Dance, Parents Dances and about 30 minutes of open dancing. After the bouquet, garter and dollar dance were completed, the dance floor filled again. It was such a fun night that an extra hour was added, as guests wanted to dance, dance, dance!

My thanks go out to Sandra Hunter and Judson Hunter and their staff from the Iroquois Club, who are always gracious and welcoming hosts. Also want to thank RSB Photography from Edinboro, Karen's cousin, videographer Brian Querry and to Rob Frank and his fiancee', Becca for recommending me as DJ entertainment! Karen and Shawn, you are such a wonderful couple loving, proud parents of Kenley. She was absolutely beautiful in the role of Flower Girl! I am so happy, as a team, we created everlasting, fun memories for your wedding day! All my best!

10.15.11 - Concourse Of Union Station - Erie, PA

2011-10-17T20:25:00.004-04:00

Lisa and Nate's story of love is a 9 year journey in patience and timing. Having first met at Baldwin Wallace in Cleveland, They've always cared about each other, and when the timing was exactly right, they knew it was time to spend the rest of their lives together as a married couple. Nate had carefully planned in detail the engagement, asking Lisa for her hand in marriage on the rooftop of the 10 story building for United Church Of Christ's National Office in Downtown Cleveland, right next to Quicken Loans Arena and Progressive Field. RAD Photography, who also photographed the ceremony and reception, were also present at the engagement to capture the big moment!

On Saturday, more than 300 family members and friends gathered at Erie's beautiful Concourse of Union Station for Lisa and Nate's wedding reception. The themed decor included signs indicating the cities and states that some guests traveled from, a massive cookie table and movie style, hot popcorn. Tables were decorated with various engagement photos of the happy couple. As guests began to arrive, everyone enjoyed hand picked musical selections from Lisa and Nate. Once the family members and bridal party members were officially introduced, everyone took their seats and enjoyed toasts from Lisa's sister and Maid of Honor, Katie, and from Nate's Best Man, Brad. Earlier in the day, Brad had 'borrowed' Nate's iPhone, with a couple humorous Facebook updates, one of which was completely untrue that Nate had 'cold feet."

Tables were then released to the delicious buffet. The staff of Concourse of Union Station not only had prepared a mouth watering meal, but moved all 300+ guests through the buffet in record time! My compliments to Marty Pituch and everyone at Union Station! Once dinner was complete, Lisa and Nate cut their beautiful wedding cake and guests enjoyed sweet cupcakes, all baked by Nate's friends, Karen and Mary. The first dance, Garret Hedlund's "Timing Is Everything", couldn't have been more perfect for this occasion. Once the Anniversary Dance, dedicated to Nate's Mom, was completed, the dance floor filled up immediately and was packed for 2 1/2 hours or more! A simply amazing time was had by all!

Kudos go out to another dream team of professionals! Marty and the staff from Concourse of Union Station and RAD Photography and Video, who traveled from Cleveland for this rockin' reception! And, of course, thanks to you, Lisa and Nate, it was such a pleasure to be a part of this fun, fun event! I am so pleased to have met you, your family members and friends. We definitely rocked out for sure! All my best and enjoy your honeymoon in the Caribbean!

10.8.11 - Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center - Erie, PA

2011-10-10T14:21:00.004-04:00

Cassandra and Chuck's story is a fairytale come to life. Imagine, childhood playmates who later reconnected while attending classes together at Penn State Behrend. On Saturday, after a few years of being engaged, their wedding day arrived, complimented with very happy family members and friends and an even more ecstatic bride and groom! They never stopped smiling that day or the entire time I've known them!

The Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center was the location for Cassandra and Chuck's wedding ceremony and reception in the beautiful Hemmingway Ballroom. Cassandra chose some wonderful music from Brian Crain for the prelude and the entrance of Chuck's Mom. Cassandra, escorted by her Mom down the aisle, entered to the String Quartet's rendition of "Yellow" from Coldplay. A beautiful ceremony was performed by Diana Ziemniak, and after the vows were exchanged, Cassandra and Chuck exited to OneRepublic's "Good Life". The cocktail hour immediately followed as guests got ready for a night full of celebrating!

Once the parents and bridal party members were introduced, Cassandra and Chuck made a path to their beautiful wedding cake from Bi-Lo's in Warren, PA. The cake and wedding flowers were expertly done by Gerlach's, which everyone loved! Toasts from the head table were wonderfully made by the couple's best friends, Maid of Honor, Amy and Best Man, Brandon. A final toast and prayer from Cassandra's cousin, Gloria, took place before everyone enjoyed a mouth watering (as usual) meal, expertly prepared by the staff at the Ambassador. In the early moments of dinner, I shared with everyone in attendance Cassandra and Chuck's story in detail. Then, once everyone finished eating, Cassandra and Chuck made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, followed by Chuck's dance with his Mom and the bouquet and garter formalities. From that point to the last dance of the night, guests danced the night away to some of the couple's favorite songs, including recent favorites and a couple classics! All in all, perfect day weatherwise and all around!

Kudos this week go out to the rest of the event professionals who are always a pleasure to work with! Wedding Coordinator Emily Vommaro from the Ambassador, "Click Chick" Kara Trombetta and her husband, Joe for photography and on video, via Fallon's Photography, Jim Miesner, from Fruit Tree Studios in Rochester, NY. And, of course, Cassandra and Chuck, thank you for having me on board your dream team for your amazing wedding day! Everyone had a blast for sure! Hope your enjoying your Riviera Maya honeymoon this week! Thank you again!

10.1.11 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa - Clymer, NY

2011-10-03T15:35:00.004-04:00

Life has many decisions. Educational decisions are some of the most important. For Megan and John, thank goodness Megan decided to transfer from Penn State to the University of Pittsburgh for her pharmaceutical studies, as that's where she first met John. Megan was in the pharmaceutical sorority, (LKS), and John was in the pharmaceutical fraternity, (PDC). At Halloween, there is a joint party. At this party, with the encouragement of friends, mustered the courage to introduce herself to John. An important side note, John was dressed as Waldo from the "Where's Waldo" books. Megan was a Greek goddess and had no problem finding Waldo!

On Saturday, family members and friends gathered at Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa for Megan and John's wedding ceremony and reception. The chilly weather kept the ceremony indoors, in the Crown Room, with Pastor Duane Finney officiating. Guests then made their way to the Main Ski Lodge for the reception. After formal introductions, Megan and John made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, surrounded by parents and bridal party members. Megan's Dad, Steve, welcomed everyone and toasted the happy couple. After a prayer from Pastor Pinney, a delicious sit down dinner was enjoyed by everyone. After dinner, parent's dances took place, followed by the cake cutting which led to open dancing. The dance floor filled almost immediately and stayed full the entire evening! The formalities concluded about 45 minutes later with the tossing of the bouquet, removal of the garter (to the song "Big Bad John) and garter toss. Megan and John hoped for a fun-filled party on their wedding day and their wishes certainly came true! Everyone had a great time!

My thanks for this special day go to Kim Kantola and the staff at Peek'n Peak, photographer Elisha Orin Whitmore, cake provider Jennifer Beal and Flowers By Joel. A true wedding dream team! And, of course, my thanks to you, Megan and John! I am so glad I was able to make your reception vision a reality! All the very best and enjoy your honeymoon in St. Lucia!

9.30.11 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa - Clymer, NY

2011-10-01T12:01:00.007-04:00

On Friday, Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa was the gathering point for Hollie and Aaron's wedding ceremony and reception. Family and friends from Erie, Pittsburgh, Clarion and points beyond were so excited as the happy, charming couple, who first met while working together at the Sarah Reed Children's Center, were all set to take the vows as a married couple. The inclement weather moved the ceremony to the Crown Room, with Rev. Lesli Dahl officiating.

In first meeting Aaron, Hollie had a strict rule about not dating co-workers that she always had adhered to. One night, Hollie and Aaron crossed paths at a downtown Erie drinking establishment, began to talk, then walked to the lobby of a downtown hotel and talked more until 4AM. At that point, and after meeting Aaron's family and friends, she knew that for the first time, she had to break the rule and began to date Aaron.

Once the ceremony was complete yesterday, guests made their way to the Main Ski Lodge, where they sampled cookies, enjoyed beverages and great conversation. As parents and bridal party members were introduced, I could tell from the outset that this would be a fun night in store, as customized introductions always bring out the best in people's inner personalities, and set the stage for a long night full of fun! Hollie and Aaron had chosen the song, "Green Eyes" from Coldplay as the first dance. You couldn't help but notice how deeply and love the bride and groom are.

The wedding cake was a focal point, as Hollie's Mom had sculpted the beautiful cake toppers that beautifully complimented the cake from Cakes By Joyce and Peggy. As everyone made their way to their seats, toasts were made by Aaron's best man, Damon, and Hollie's sister and Matron of Honor, Samantha. Guests were then directed to various food stations, prepared expertly by the Peek staff. During dinner, I shared Hollie and Aaron's love story and a list of the redeeming qualities they both share. Once the formalities were completed, the dance floor filled up immediately and never emptied until the last dance of the night!

Many thanks to a great team of professionals, including Kim Kantola from Peek'n Peak, Cakes by Joyce and Peggy and photographer Rachel Lusky from Pure Motif and her sister, Amy, who are cousins of the groom. It was so nice to see Rachel and Amy put their cameras down and, at several points in the evening, join everyone to have a great time out on the dance floor! The flowers, from Flowers By Joel, were truly beautiful!

I also want to thank you, Hollie and Aaron, for choosing me to be your entertainment host at the reception. You are truly loved by your family members and friends, and I was honored to witness for myself how much fun everyone had. I wish you nothing but the best as you make your way down a path in life that is full of love, respect and admiration for each other.

9.24.11 - Scottish Rite - Erie, PA

2011-09-27T10:16:00.003-04:00

Picture this, a beautiful day in Erie at a beautiful location in Erie, the Scottish Rite. Add family members, friends and co-workers from the Erie area, Pittsburgh and beyond. Add that up and it's a guaranteed recipe for a successful and fun wedding day on Saturday for Emily and Gary! After the church ceremony, guests began gathering at the Scottish Rite about 30 minutes before the scheduled start time of the reception. The catering staff from Calamari's had cookies out for everyone to enjoy. This combined with cocktails and great conversation and the day was off to a wonderful start! The room looked wonderful!

Emily and Gary had chosen the music of Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble etc. for cocktails and dinner, and excitement was building for the arrival and formal introduction of parents and bridal party members! Emily and Gary had decided on customized song introductions for the bridal party, which was perfect, since they were a fun, animated group! There were even props, including an inflatable boom box! Once Emily and Gary were introduced, they immediately made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, "Stolen" from Dashboard Confessional.

Once everyone was seated for dinner, toasts were given from Emily's sister and matron of honor, Kara, and from Gary's friend and best man, Joe. Both individuals have a wonderful sense of humor, and their toasts made everyone laugh. The Calamari's staff then directed everyone through a delicious buffet dinner, including a carving station of turkey and beef! After dinner, the parents dances and bouquet and garter were completed, then it was time to DANCE! Everyone had so much fun that overtime was added to the festivities to ensure people didn't leave with unhappy feet!

My thanks to the success of Saturday's successful reception goes to Brad from the Scottish Rite, the wonderful staff of Calamari's for the catering, Jennifer White and her assistant from Jennifer Photography, and, of course, to you Emily and Gary! It was such a blast and your reception! You picked out some wonderful music to dance to, and complimented with your guests requests, it made for a perfect day! Enjoy your first month of married life, then all the best for your honeymoon and the rest of your lives together! I was so happy to have been a part of the day and meet your family members and friends. So glad everyone had such a great time!

9.17.11 - Old Library Restaurant - Olean, NY

2011-09-19T23:15:00.006-04:00

Picture this...a charming, historic location for your wedding day. The Old Library Restaurant in Olean, NY is just that. Built in the early 1900's, the building is on the State Registration of Historic Places. Now, add a truly charming couple and you have a magical combination. On Saturday, family members and friends traveled from all over to attend Jessica and Aaron's wedding ceremony and reception at the Old Library Restaurant.

The ceremony took place in a room adjacent to the main dining area upstairs. Aaron mother, Michelle, officiated. The ceremony included a closing prayer from Jessica's childhood Rabbi, Allen Podet. Once the ceremony concluded, guests made their way into the dining area to enjoy hors ' doeuvres and wonderful conversation. Once photographer Brooke Colley had completed post-ceremony pictures, parents, bridal party members and Jessica and Aaron were officially introduced into the reception. The happy couple then cut into a beautiful wedding cake, created by Michelle Madison.

Guests then were seated for toasts from Aaron's nephew and Best Man, Isaac, and Jessica's sister, Lindsey. Aaron and Jessica then thanked everyone for coming, Jessica's Dad, Jeff, shared a prayer for those who had passed, and Rabbi Podet offered a blessing and breaking of the bread. Everyone then made their way through the buffet line, enjoying a meal that was scrumptious, prepared by the staff of the Old Library Restaurant. Jessica and Aaron chose dinner music that everyone enjoyed, from Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Ella Fitzgerald and more.

The first dance was an exceptional choice, "As Time Goes By" from Billie Holiday. Then, I was very pleasantly surprised how quickly the dance floor filled up with guests, ready to dance the night away! So many danced and offered yours truly wonderful compliments throughout the night. Thank you everyone! What a great night it was!

My thanks goes out to Jessica's parents, Cynthia and Jeff, who assisted Jessica and Aaron in the planning of their day, and to the staff of the Old Library Restaurant. Olean, NY, I'm sure is very proud to have such a professional staff at such a wonderful facility! Of course, I'm also grateful to you, Jessica and Aaron, for choosing me to provide music at the ceremony and to be your entertainment host for the evening. It was a true honor and pleasure to be a part of your day! Enjoy your Florida vacation, and send some of that southern warmth up this way! Thank you again!

9.10.11 - Peek'n Peak Resport & Spa - Clymer, NY

2011-09-14T16:10:00.004-04:00

Saturday was a beautiful day in the country, as family and friends of Stephanie and Christopher made their way to Peek'n Peak Resport & Spa for their wedding ceremony and reception. The ceremony took place in the Inn at the Peak, at the fireplace just outside the Regency Pub. Officiant Barbara Brown performed a beautiful ceremony, and the look in Christopher's eyes was unforgettable as he saw his beautiful bride make her way down the staircase to soon become his wife and lifetime partner.

After the ceremony, guests made their way upstairs to the Crown Room. What a breathtaking view, as the room was accent lit in bright, beautiful red to enhance the red bridemaids dresses and the fall theme. After the introductions, Stephanie and Christopher made their way to the dance floor as a newly married couple. After a delicious buffet dinner expertly prepared by the Peek staff, and the rest of the formal dances, it was time for everyone to make their way to the dance floor for a night full of plenty of dancing, laughter and smiles! Stephanie and Christopher's daughter, Annie, looked wonderful as part of the bridal party, and made some really nice music choices that kept people on their feet and dancing!

It was a true five-star dream team of wedding professionals assembled to make the day smooth running and perfect for Stephanie and Christopher! Thanks to the aforementioned Barbara Brown, wedding coordinator Kim Kantola and the entire Peek staff! Even 2 other weddings that took place that day, Kim made sure no detail was overlooked. My thanks also go out to Timeless Treasures Wedding Photography and to Michael Huster and his assistant from JH Video Productions. And, of course, thank you Stephanie and Christopher! It was a pleasure and honor to host your event! You and your guests helped make it so fun entertaining everyone! All the best as you enjoy your honeymoon and married lives for many years to come!

9.3.11 - Masonic Temple - Erie, PA

2011-09-05T21:16:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, I had the opportunity to entertain for Sara, Josh, family members and friends at their wedding reception in the Camelot Room at the historic Masonic Temple in Downtown Erie. Sara and Josh met through mutual friends at a bonfire a few years ago, and they eventually realized how much they enjoyed being around each other. Their first date was rather memorable, at least according to Sara, as Josh picked her up in what she termed his crappy Honda Accord, complete with a pitchfork hot dog cooker for an antenna. Josh, instead, termed it his sweet Honda Accord, although he admits he had to have the heat cranked to keep the car from overheating!

Saturday was equally as memorable, Sara and Josh's wedding day! The day was perfect again, weatherwise, as guests made their way into the nicely air conditioned Camelot Room for their cocktail hour. Once grandparents and parents were introduced from their seats, the bridal party made their entrance, followed by Sara and Josh, who immediately made their way to the dance floor for their first dance. After I shared the details of Sara and Josh's love story, toasts were made from the head table, followed by the prayer for the meal. Guests then made their way through the buffet line, with the food so wonderfully prepared by the staff of Sabella's Catering, the exclusive caterer of Masonic Temple. Dinner was followed by rest of the formalities, including the Anniversary Dance, which saw Josh's grandparents take the title of longest married couple.
The dance floor then opened for the rest of the evening with smiles all around and lots of happy dancing feet!

This was not my first experience with entertaining Sara's family on their wedding day, as I had the honor in years past being the entertainment host for both of Sara's sister's weddings, Stephanie and her husband, Ryan, and Shawna and her husband, Adam. This made the hat trick, success and lots of fun at all three gatherings!

Sara and Josh, here's hoping you enjoy your safe, honeymoon travels this week down to Florida.
I am very grateful and honored to have been a part of such a wonderful wedding celebration! I am so happy for you both and wish you all the best in the many years to come! Thank you again!

9.2.11 - Chautauqua Golf Club - Mayville, NY

2011-09-05T21:03:00.009-04:00

As summer begins to wind down, hard to believe the month of September has arrived! And, there's no better idea than to kick off the Labor Day weekend with a wedding reception! Megan and Nick decided it was a perfect time to celebrate their big day. The ceremony took place earlier on the grounds of the beautiful Chautauqua Institution, with the reception at the equally beautiful Chautauqua Golf Club.

After the introduction of grandparents and parents, Megan, Nick and their bridal party were quite the entertaining group! The formal introductions were loosely based on the movie, "Night At The Roxbury." Needless to say, everyone got a kick out of how much fun the were!

The weather was absolutely perfect, though a bit muggy on Friday night. The evening began with the cocktail hour and hors d'oevres on the patio, followed by a scrumptious buffet dinner inside the main dining area of the club. My compliments to Sally and the staff, it was such a pleasure working with such a wonderful group of wedding professionals! During dinner, toasts were given, followed by the cutting of the cake, first dance and parents dances. The formalities continued with a rather upbeat wedding party dance with just the bridesmaids, followed by all the ladies in attendance, dancing to "Into The Groove" by Madonna. I then switched to "Just Dance" from Lady Gaga, which opened the dance floor to all the guests! It really was a fun way to kick off the evening on the dance floor! The formalities concluded with the bouquet and garter, then more open dancing. Everyone was having so much fun that it led to overtime to get all the amazing music requests in! Megan and Nick, I noticed when I first met you months ago met that your smiles were contagious! It was so nice to see you having such a great time on your wedding night!

Now, being employed as teachers, that won't lead to an immediate honeymoon, so Megan and Nick will have a mini-moon, as they termed it, at Watkins Glen. In the future, they'll have time to enjoy a real honeymoon. Thank you again, Megan and Nick. It was such a pleasure to be on your wedding team for one of the biggest days of your lives! I had a blast! All my best.

8.27.11 - Avalon Hotel - Erie, PA

2011-08-29T18:14:00.011-04:00

I've said it before because it's so true! Great timing and being in the right place at the right time can very often place a future couple on a path to everlasting love! For Kayla and Brad, even though they soon discovered they worked together at Hamot, that's not how they first met. One night, Kayla was a designated driver for her friend, Sarah, and her friends, and Brad was out with his friends, Dan and Jason. Brad happened to ask Kayla for a stick of gum, they started chatting, and a friendship was born. It wasn't until Brad looked Kayla up on Facebook and talked some more that they had their first date. From the start, Kayla thought Brad so nice and was ridiculously cute! It certainly didn't take long for this happy couple to realize how perfect they were for each other!

On Saturday, family members and friends gathered at the Avalon Hotel in the Niagara Room for Kayla and Brad's wedding reception. The room couldn't have looked more beautiful, with accent lighting complimenting the wedding colors. From the outset, you could feel the excitement in the air! Once parents, bridal party members and Kayla and Brad were formally introduced, everyone knew they were in store for a fun evening! The first dance took place right after introductions, as Kayla and Brad made their way to the dance floor for their first dance as a married couple. To add to this special moment, Kayla and Brad had designed their initials for a beautiful monogram which I projected on the dance floor for the entire evening. After the dance, Kayla and Brad then cut their brownie cake, which everyone later enjoyed as dessert.

Jessica, Erica and the staff at the Avalon do such an amazing job, so it's no surprise. As guests made their way to their seats, they first enjoyed salad, then a delicious, mouth watering buffet.
Once dinner was complete, Kayla and Brad took part in a round of the shoe game. Then, a surprise bride/father dance, as the guests thought Kayla and her Dad were just dancing to "My Little Girl" from Tim McGraw. But, I quickly mixed into "Old Time Rock & Roll" from Bob Seger, which everyone enjoyed! After Brad's dance with his Mom followed by the Anniversary Dance, it was time to open the dance floor to all! After some open dancing, the formalities then finished with the bouquet and garter. Kayla and Brad's creativity made the garter removal especially fun. Then, more open dancing, and to no one's surprise, everyone danced the night away! What a fun, fun night!

My thanks again to the Avalon Hotel staff who make a wedding day perfect! Also on board the team, Beth and her Mom, Nancy, from Beth's Hearts and Flowers for the beautiful floral arrangements, Heather Neckers Kinal and her husband, Murl, from Heather Neckers Photography for the wonderful photographs and my assistant, Kirk, for helping with the accent lighting which transformed the room into a truly magical place. And, of course, Kayla and Brad! I couldn't have been more honored and excited to have been your choice as entertainment host for your amazing wedding day! I am so happy that everyone had such a great time! All the very best, and enjoy your honeymoon in Mexico! Thank you again!

If you're interested in adding a monogram of your initials to your wedding reception, please click here: http://www.johngallagher.com/gobo.html

8.21.11 - Erie Yacht Club - Erie, PA

2011-08-22T15:48:00.005-04:00

Looks like several months of praying for a beautiful wedding day paid off, as the clouds and rain disappeared with beautiful sunshine through the Erie area on Sunday for Heather and Chad's bayside ceremony and reception inside the beautiful Erie Yacht Club. Guests were attired casually, and the setting for the ceremony, officiated by Daniel Schultheis, couldn't have been more beautiful! Following the ceremony, guests made their way into the Yacht Club for the cocktail hour.

Once the introduction of the bridal party took place, Heather and Chad made their way to the dance floor for their bridal dance, "Marry Me" from Train, and then cut their beautiful and tasty wedding cake. Toasts from the head table then took place, followed by yours truly, sharing the details of Heather and Chad's love story. The happy couple met unexpectedly just after Christmas of 2009, and quickly fell head over heels in love. With daughter Felicity, they truly make a wonderful family!

Once the parents dances were complete, it was time for everyone to dance! Though the attendance was about 75 or so, all those attending had a great time leading up to the last dance of the night! What made the night more memorable was the fact Felicity caught the bouquet and young Devin caught the garter!

My thanks to Elizabeth, Kendra, Zack and the Erie Yacht Club staff! True professionals and so helpful in assisting everyone to ensure the day was perfect! Heather and Chad, thank you for selecting me as your entertainment host for such a fun day and evening for you! You both are very special, and it was a pleasure meeting your family members and friends. All the very best in your long lives together as a happily married couple!

8.20.11 - Chautauqua Suites - Mayville, NY

2011-08-22T14:28:00.007-04:00

Saturday was a beautiful summer day in a beautiful area of Chautauqua County, NY. Chautauqua Suites in Mayville was the location chosen for the reception of Corie and Jason. The evening began with the cocktail hour, including butlered hors d' oevres on the patio, with everyone moving into the beautiful ballroom, with accent lighting on the walls and pillars in light blue to match the wedding colors.

Once the formal introduction of parents from their tables and the entrance of the very animated bridal party, Corie and Jason made their way to the dance floor for their first dance. Jason is a dedicated Dropkick Murphys fan, so they chose the song "Forever" as their bridal song. Corie then danced with her Dad and Jason had a dance with his Mom. After some wonderful toasts, Corie's Dad, Felix, welcomed guests with a wonderful welcome and toast. The staff then served the mouth watering main course. The cake cutting took place after dinner, followed by the bridal party dance. Seeing that many in attendance were Buffalo Bills fans, including Corie and Jason who have attended games in all types of weather for years, it only seemed appropriate to interrupt the dance with the Bills "Shout", which opened the floor for everyone to dance the night away! Everyone had fun all the way through the last dance of the evening. The night concluded with another rousing encore of "Shout, before everyone exited.

I must tell you, it was also a pleasure to meet actor Michael Badalucco and his wife, who attended the reception and are long time friends of Corie's Dad. Michael starred in the ABC series, "The Practice."

My thanks go out for another amazing team of professionals! The staff of Chautauqua Suites, including Shelli and Matt, photographer Elisha Whitmore with her husband on videography, and Ed from Colossal Lighting for the accent lighting. Of course, I wish to express my gratitude to you, Corie and Jason, what an amazing wedding reception celebration! It was so much fun from the very start! I am so pleased you enjoyed yourselves, and have an unforgettable honeymoon in
Aruba!

8.13.11 - 3rd St. Polish Falcon's Nest - Erie, PA

2011-08-15T13:55:00.004-04:00

Saturday couldn't have been more perfect for a truly perfect couple! It was the wedding day for Nicole and Marky. Even though the forecast had predicted rain, it was abundant sunshine that greeted family members and friends for the ceremony at the Perry Monument, officiated by Robert Smith with violin music provided by Courtney Tome. After the ceremony was complete, everyone headed to the Polish Falcons Nest on 3rd St. for the wedding reception.

As everyone began to arrive, they had cookies and drinks to enjoy along with great conversation. wonderful violin music from Courtney Tome. The excitement began to build as the bridal party arrived just before 7pm. Photographer Mary Goss from Come and Get Shot and the videographers, the Dougherty's, were in place to capture the entrance of this very animated and outgoing group, including parents! Nicole and Marky had worked hard in helping to create some amazing musical memories on Saturday, including the choosing of the songs for the custom introductions! What a fun, memorable entrance by everyone, including the couple of the day, Nicole and Marky! They made their way to the dance floor for the first of TWO first dances of the evening, Marky's choice, "Three Times A Lady" from the Commodores.

Once toasts from the head table from the bride's brother-in-law, Mike, Best Man, Henry C. and the bride's sister, Monica, and a welcome and prayer from Nicole and Monica's Dad, Jim, were complete, guests then made their way through the buffet line, enjoying a wonderful meal prepared by Lisa and the staff at the Falcon's Nest. Keep in mind, this was a very interactive event! During the meal, to get Nicole and Marky to kiss, Nicole and Monica's Mom had a surprise! It was a Pittsburgh Steelers COWBELL, that was rung by various guests. I think at one point the cowbell was held captive by guets when they thought it was enough cowbell!

After dinner, it was a humorous round of the always funny Shoe Game, the cake cutting (complete with boxing gloves to the music from "Rocky), then the SECOND first dance , this time Nicole's choice, "Marry Me" from Train. After some open dancing, this was followed by the garter removal where Nicole and the Bridesmaids had a surprise for Marky! The removal song, "Legs", was suddenly interrupted by a choreographed dance to "Baby Got Back!" Nicole had Marky take a seat as the ladies danced! This was based on a comment years ago that Marky thought Nicole had an "onion booty!" Following applause at the completion of the dance, Nicole then took a seat as Marky removed the garter. But, wait! Another surprise! Not only did he remove the normal garter, but he also discovered a Penn State Garter and a Pittsburgh Steelers garter too! How fun! Then, it was the bouquet toss and the tossing of the garter.

At this point, more open dancing to finish out a truly memorable and fun evening for everyone in attendance! Nicole and Marky are very blessed to have wonderful family members and friends that love to celebrate! It was also a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with Monica and Mike, whose wedding reception I had their pleasure of doing in 2009. And, it was a chance to meet their infant son, Jack! A dedication of Katy Perry's "Firework" was made to Jack before he retired for the evening. And, the entire reception was dedicated to Marky's late grandfather, Albert Russell Milburn, whom Marky owes his life too.

Many thanks to an amazing dream team on Saturday...Robert Smith, Courtney Tome, Mary Goss, the Dougherty's, Extraordinary Weddings, Lisa and the Polish Falcons Nest, the Fedei's, the Nichols and Milburn families and, of course, Nicole and Marky! It was an extreme pleasure to be a part of such a well organized and truly FUN event. Thank you for choosing me as your entertainment host!

8.12.11 - Riverside Inn - Cambridge Springs, PA

2011-08-14T12:38:00.005-04:00

Normally on this blog, I recap the wedding reception of a couple just married in the last 24 hours. On Friday night, at the Riverside Inn in Cambridge Springs, I had the pleasure of being the entertainment for Caroline and Bob, who are celebrating 50 years of marriage. In meeting with this wonderful couple leading up to the event date, I could see the excitement in their eyes knowing they would have a chance to gather family and friends together, some who don't see each other very often.

The evening began with some of the couples favorite music, including jazz standards and easy listening vocals for the cocktail hour. Caroline and Bob's daughter, Ruth, created a wonderful slide show reminiscing about her parents 50 years of marriage. Before dinner, Bob & Caroline welcomed everyone, then turned the microphone over to their daughters who did a 'mild' roast of their parents. Guests then made their way to the main dining room to partake in the delicacies at the dinner buffet. Once dinner was complete, guests made their way into the Breeze Way for dancing to some wonderful music requests to finish out a fun celebration for the happy couple!

Caroline and Bob, it was an honor to work with you both on this landmark celebration, and a pleasure to meet your family members and friends! I'm so happy everyone had such a great time!

8.7.11 - Nick's Place - Edinboro, PA

2011-08-08T17:12:00.005-04:00

Creativity has always been the backbone of my business. Setting each event apart from the other, whether it be a wedding reception, birthday party, anniversary or other special event. When I had the opportunity to work with Joanne and Tim for their wedding day, it gave me a chance to take their creative ideas and use them to fuel a memorable wedding reception for them!

On Sunday, family and friends gathered at Nick's Place for Joanne and Tim's reception. Working with the Strand family and staff members is always a pleasure, as they are truly professional in every detail they take care of during the event. Once the guests had arrived, they were treated to delicious hors d'oevres, anticipating the arrival of the bridal party for introductions! With everyone taking their seats, parents were the first to walk in to songs that fit their personalities. Then, as bridal party members walked in, music from Pirates of the Caribbean filled the room. Then, it was time for Tim and Joanne to enter...but wait, no Tim or Joanne! Suddenly, Tim entered the room, dressed as "Indiana Tim", in the spirit of Indiana Jones! He searched to the south section of the room, then the north section...still, no Joanne! Suddenly, from the rear of the facility, Tim emerged with his lovely bride, Joanne! "Indiana" Tim's mission was successful!

The creativity then shifted to the first dance, as groomsman Andy Black led a group of talented acapella singers, in the spirit of Straight No Chaser, to sing a medley of "I'm Yours/What A Wonderful World." Needless to say, it was a truly fun and very talented presentation! As I said earlier, the creative ideas helped to fuel a fun reception! Toasts were made during dinner, then Joanne and her Dad, Phil and Tim and his Mom, Kathy, danced to a wonderful song from Josh Groban, "The Prayer." Such an appropriate choice, as Joanne and Tim have a strong faith in God. The Parents Dance was followed by the Anniversary Dance to showcase the married couples in attendance. From that point, the dance floor was packed all the way until the end of the evening, as Tim and Joanne made an early exit to prepare for their Florida honeymoon starting today!

So many people to express gratitude to for helping to make the wedding celebration memorable. As mentioned, the staff of Nick's Place, photographer Kim Powell and her assistant from KP Photography, videographer Dan McKrell, who had gone to school with Tim, and of course, Tim and Joanne! Thank you so much for choosing me as your wedding DJ entertainment! I am pleased that you, your family and friends had so much fun! It will be a day to remember for a lifetime!

8.6.11 - Chautauqua Suites - Mayville, NY

2011-08-07T11:52:00.003-04:00

Saturday couldn't have been a more perfect day for the wedding celebration of Emily and Joe. This charming couple first met while working together at a restaurant in Bemus Point, NY, got to be wonderful friends, and went on their first date to a Dave Matthews concert in Pittsburgh. Family members and friends have always played an important role in Emily and Joe's lives, so it was no surprise when Joe asked Emily to be his wife last summer on beautiful Chautauqua Lake.

Yesterday, Chautauqua Suites in Mayville, NY was the location for Emily and Joe's wedding reception. The evening began with cocktails and hors d'oevres in the Courtyard. Guests then made their way into the main ballroom as the excitement began to build for the bridal party arrival. Family and bridal party members then each walked into a song fitting for their personalities, culminating with Emily and Joe's arrival, first dance and cake cutting. Guests then enjoyed a scrumptious meal and feasted on a candy buffet, cupcake table and sweet, tasty cookies!

The energy on the dance floor was instantaneous! Genres of music ranged from current top 40 and hip hop to those 80's classics, including one of Emily's favorites, New Kids On The Block! The excitement and packed dance floor led to almost 2 hours of overtime, and many wonderful comments from guests who had so much fun...and sore feet! After the dancing had completed for the night, everyone made their way into the Bellini Lounge for cocktails and pizza! The perfect way to end the perfect day!

My thanks to Shelli and Matt and the staff at Chautauqua Suites. Nestled in the community of Mayville, the Suites is the perfect location to have your wedding if you need a facility to accommodate a large guest count. Also thanks to photographer Gary Rendali from the Buffalo, NY area, and, of course, Emily and Joe! It was such an honor and BLAST to celebrate with you last night. Thanks for all the wonderful comments and for hosting such a great party! I know you'll both treasure the entire wedding day for many years to come!

7.30.11 - Moon Brook Country Club - Jamestown, NY

2011-07-31T12:58:00.005-04:00

Family and friends are so important in our daily lives. Melissa and Jimmy, whose wedding day was on Saturday, are very family oriented people. And, they appreciate greatly the love and support of friends as well. It was family and a love of tennis that first brought Melissa and Jimmy together, and yesterday, everyone gathered at Moon Brook Country Club in Jamestown, NY for their wedding reception!

The weather couldn't have been more perfect, the decor was beautiful and the underlying theme of the day was Disney. Family members and friends arrived to enjoy beverages, great conversation of the beautiful view of Chautauqua County. Once the bridal party arrived and were introduced, Melissa and Jimmy made their grand entrance, dancing to the Frank Sinatra classic, "Fly Me To The Moon." Everyone noticed right away that the happy couple had taken a few dance lessons and their practice paid off! What a great way to start the festivities!

Frank and the staff at Moon Brook always excel when it comes to delicious food and hospitality! Guests enjoyed the music of Sinatra, Buble, Bennett, mixed with selections from "Disney Wishes" to compliment the theme. After dinner was complete, everyone enjoyed the coffee bar on the deck, then made their way back inside for the bridal party dance and parents dances. From that point, the dance floor was full for the next several hours! Such a great time!

My thanks to Frank Vassallo and the staff at Moon Brook, Jon Elder Productions for the wonderful photography and Tim Fagan Productions for their professional video work. And, of course, Melissa and Jimmy, it was such an honor and pleasure to celebrate with you, your family members and close friends on such an amazing day! Here's hoping your Disney honeymoon is as magical as your wedding day was! Congratulations and best wishes once again! Here's to a lifetime of Disney wishes come true!

7.23.11 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa - Clymer, NY

2011-07-25T14:10:00.004-04:00

Timing. It's key in any relationship. Good timing allows us to, perhaps, be in the right place at the right time to meet that special person. Timing. Again, key when determining when it's the right time to get engaged to that special person, and eventually, plan your wedding day!

Great timing was key in Heather and Brad's relationship. Meeting at a dance at the tender age of 15, it's been a wonderful 12 year journey, including the birth of Heather and Brad's now 5 year old son, Peyton! On Saturday, the charming location of Peek'n Peak Resort and Spa was the place where it was time for Heather and Brad to commit themselves to each other for a lifetime as husband and wife! Paul O'Dell officiated the ceremony on the deck at the Lodge. In the days leading up to their wedding day, temperatures had been in the 90's. Luckily, it had cooled down a bit to the 80's under bright sunshine for a perfect day.

After the ceremony was complete, family and friends made their way inside to the air conditioned lodge for cocktails and hors d'oevres. After an energetic entrance parents and bridal party members, everyone was ready to sit down and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the staff. Once formalities were completed, the dance floor had a high energy vibe all night as Heather, Brad and everyone danced to current favorites mixed with classics from Journey, AC/DC, Van Morrison and Neil Diamond. What a great time was had by all. Peyton, himself, is quite a talented dancer and wowed everyone with a few slick dance moves!

It was also nice to see one of Brad's groomsmen, Dan, his wife, Callie and their beautiful 3 week old daughter, Amya! I had the pleasure of entertaining at Callie and Dan's wedding in July of 2010, where Heather and Brad had a chance to see the entertainment experience I help a couple create!

My thanks go out to an amazing team to work with on Saturday! Wedding coordinator Kimberly Kantola and her assistant, Beth. They made sure every detail was taken care of flawlessly! Photographer Rachel Lusky from Pure Motif, and her assistant, her sister, Amy, and the video professionals from Rememory Video, Gio and Joe. What a great cast!

Heather and Brad, thank YOU so much! What a wonderful son you have in Peyton! And, so nice to meet your family members and friends too! What a great party it was! Everyone came to celebrate...and they did! Have a blast on your honeymoon in Jamaica and all the very best in the many years to come!

7.16.11 - Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center - Erie, PA

2011-07-20T14:19:00.005-04:00

Perfect love...it's something we all strive for, even at a young age. You know you've met your soul mate when you can recall the first time you met, and knew at that exact moment, they were 'the one.' For Karen and Joe, they pinpoint their first meeting to the first day of high school together, 8th period, English Honors class. From that moment, they were destined to be together for a lifetime.

On Saturday, which was almost 10 years since they met, friends and family gathered at the beautiful Garden Atrium at the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center for Karen and Joe's wedding reception! From the moment of introductions, including their outgoing bridal party, it was definitely a fun night in store. Guests enjoyed delicious hors d' oevres and a scrumptious sit down dinner prepared by the staff. After a round of the 'shoe game', and the rest of the formalities, everyone enjoyed the excitement in the air, and kept themselves on the dance floor all night to some excellent music hand picked by the couple of the day, Karen and Joe! What a great night!

My thanks to Wedding Coordinator, Valarie-Miner Moore, photographer Rachel Lusky and her assistant, Olivia, from Pure Motif and to videographer Corey Graham. It makes a wedding day perfect when a couple assembles a great team of professionals who work so well together! And, of course, a big thank you to Karen and Joe! Thank you for entrusting me with the entertainment on your special day! It was such a pleasure helping create the reception of your dreams! I know your Outer Banks honeymoon has been so memorable, and it's a perfect compliment to your perfect wedding day! All my best!

7.15.11 - Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center - Erie, PA

2011-07-17T18:51:00.003-04:00

Picture this...a wonderful couple, the parents of children together, getting married after 13 years together. What's a descriptive term that instantly comes to mind? How about...FINALLY! On Friday, family members and friends gathered at the Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center in Erie for the wedding ceremony and reception of Jennifer and David. The weather was absolutely perfect and the excitement level was high as the big day had finally arrived!

The ceremony, officially by Paster Shell, took place in the beautiful Garden Atrium. As Jennifer and David were announced as husband and wife at the conclusion of the ceremony, I played a song for the recessional that seemed to fit the day perfectly..."Finally" from Ce Ce Peniston. Laughter broke out as everyone enjoyed that concluding moment!

The reception then moved to the beautiful Hemingway Ballroom, as Jennifer, David and their guests enjoyed cocktails in the beautiful surroundings of the bar area outside the ballroom. When it was time for bridal party introductions, seems the groomsmen had a surprise planned for David, which he got a kick out of. You see, David has his hair in a natural pony tail. With bridal party members standing behind the head table, as Jennifer and David entered, David noticed all the groomsmen wearing hats with pony tails attached! Everyone got a kick out of that! A delicious sit down dinner was then enjoyed by all. Once the formalities were complete, the bride, groom and guests enjoyed a fun night of dancing! Just a perfect day for a perfect couple!

My thanks to Emily Vommaro, wedding coordinator for the Ambassador, who is always a pleasure to work with, Kim Powell and her assistant from KP Photography, who took some wonderful images of the day, and, of course, Jennifer and David! It was such an honor and pleasure to be a part of your amazing wedding day! All my best!

7.9.11 - Grove City Country Club - Grove City, PA

2011-07-11T14:00:00.006-04:00

This past weekend, I think I was humming a few bars of the classic Willie Nelson song, "On The Road Again." On Saturday, I had the honor and pleasure of traveling to the Grove City Country Club in Grove City, PA for the wedding reception of Katie and Jarret. It was such a beautiful day, and don't think there was a cloud in the sky! The Club is located near Barmore Lake, and is such a scenic locale!

As the limo pulled up to the entrance of the club, carrying Katie, Jarret and their bridal party members, guests had already arrived and were sampling some of the tasty cookies and hors d'oeuvres. Following the introduction of the parents, the bridal party and Katie and Jarret walked into the song "Love Story" from Taylor Swift. The song is so appropriate, as Katie and Jarret have enjoyed an almost fairy tale romance since they first met. They are so down to earth and have a sparkle in their eyes when they gaze and smile at each other!

A friend of Katie and Jarret's had hand drawn the couple's initials into an image, which I had converted into a monogram, which I projected on the dance floor for guests to enjoy at arrival time, for Katie and Jarret's first dance and throughout the evening! It was indeed quite a celebration indeed, as the dance floor was rockin' right through the last dance of the evening! I love it when people of all ages enjoy kickin' off their shoes and dancing all night long! What a great time!

I wanted to acknowledge the dream team that Katie and Jarret had assembled for the day! First of all, photographer Jodie Farbotnik from Ever After Images. Jodie had referred Katie and Jarret to me, and it's always a pleasure working with such a wonderful wedding professional! Matthew Hovis on video from MHP in Slippery Rock, PA. Matthew has a flair to capture your memories on video for years to come! And, Camm Mochrie and his wonderful staff at the Grove City Country Club! Camm is reestablishing the club as a premier venue in the Grove City area for weddings and private functions!

Katie and Jarret, THANK YOU once again! It was such a blast to be a part of your amazing wedding day! The monogram looked wonderful for your first dance, and so happy that you, your family members and friends had such a great time! It was indeed a party all night long! Here's hoping you're having a memorable time in Jamaica on your honeymoon!

7.2.11 - The MACA Building - Marienville, PA

2011-07-05T13:01:00.005-04:00

A holiday weekend is always festive, as friends and family take extra time off work to enjoy time together. Add a wedding to the weekend and it makes it even more special...and fun! On Saturday, the MACA Building in the community of Marienville was the location for the wedding reception of Mahala and Jesse. The bride and groom had began dating a few years ago, thanks to the help of friends, and the McCloskey pig roast! So, it only seemed appropriate that their wedding reception be casual in nature with a tropical theme and, of course, a pig roast! The MACA building is located within MACA Park, and is quite charming with an ambience all its own. As guests arrived, everyone enjoyed musical genres featuring steel drums to favorites from Jimmy Buffett! Needless to say, the meal was mouth watering!

Once dinner and cake cutting were completed inside, the festivities moved outside to the rear parking lot for a rousing round of the show game, followed by the formal dances. Then, it was time to dance into the late evening hours, under the stars. Being the Fourth of July weekend, it was rather appropriate that fireworks were set off nearby by someone enjoying the weekend themselves! I am pleased to say everyone, including Mahala and Jesse, had a great time! DeAnna Runyan from Photographs by DeAnna in Meadville took some beautiful images of the wedding day and video memories were captured by Mush Multi-Media in Tionesta.

Mahala and Jesse, just wanted to thank you so much for the honor and pleasure to entertain you, your family and friends! I am so happy that everyone truly enjoyed a wonderful wedding day for you both! And, here's hoping you had an unforgettable honeymoon at Disney World! You both are truly blessed and were a joy to work with! Congratulations, again!

6.25.11 - 10th Street Station - Ford City, PA

2011-06-27T19:12:00.005-04:00

Saturday's wedding reception for Heather and Kevan was a road trip for yours truly, traveling to the charming community of Ford City, PA and the 10th Street Station. The reception location is truly an historic building. Formerly, the location of an armory, for the last 15 years or so, it's been a very busy banquet facility, hosting many weddings each year!

It was another opportunity to once again perform at a wedding in the Landstrom family, as a few years ago, I had the pleasure of entertaining everyone at the reception of Kevan's sister, Meaghan, and her husband, Joe. Meaghan and Joe were members of Heather and Kevan's bridal party this past Saturday, as well as other fun and energetic family members and best friends!

Once the trolley arrived at 10th Street Station carrying the bridal party members, you could tell that this group was ready to celebrate! Following the heartwarming toasts and dinner, we moved into the cake cutting, a rousing round of newlywed questions with the 'shoe game' and Heather and Kevan's first dance. You could tell by the sparkle in their eyes and the smiles and laughter all night that Heather and Kevan are head over heels in love and anxious to spend the rest of their lives together!

It was no doubt that their was a high amount of energy in the air all night, and the packed dance floor proved it for sure! Besides an amazing variety of requests, everyone loved lining up for a Soul Train dance, with songs chosen by Heather and Kevan to keep everyone's feet moving and dancing all night long! The night ended with an abundance of cheers and applause for the happy couple!

I must tell you, Ron and the staff at 10th Street Station are some tremendously devoted, hard working people! Everything the entire evening ran without a hitch, and Ron even manned the spotlights at the station for the parents and bridal party introductions! If you're planning a reception in the Kittanning, Ford City area, I highly recommend 10th Street station! Thank you everyone there for your warm hospitality!

And, of course, a big thank you to you, Heather and Kevan! I was extremely honored and pleased to be a part of your wedding extravaganza! What a celebration it was! So nice to keep your family members and friends dancing the night away! Here's hoping your honeymoon in Jamaica is as enjoyable at your wedding day was! Congratulations, again!

6.18.11 - Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center - Erie, PA

2011-06-20T14:18:00.005-04:00

The beautiful Hemingway Ballroom at the Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center was the location for the wedding reception on Saturday for Laura and Matt. The weather was perfect, Laura looked stunning in her bridal gown, Matt looked handsome in his tux and both were all smiles as they arrived to their reception!

After guests feasted on a variety of delicious hors d'oeuvres and tasty cookies, everyone made their way into the ballroom to enjoy toasts to the happy couple and a scrumptious meal. Family and bridal party introductions were fun from the get go, including Matt wearing a headband, since one of his favorite movies is the Karate Kid!

Once formalities were completed, guests danced, congratulated Laura and Matt and enjoyed wonderful conversation. All in all, a perfect day! On Sunday, the newly married couple embarked on their honeymoon to Jamaica! Sounds like an amazing way to begin many years of wedded bliss!

As always, it was wonderful to work with a talented team of wedding professionals. Thanks to Valarie from the Ambassador, Marinelli Photography, Cindy from Cindy's Let Them Eat Cake and Beth from Beth's Hearts and Flowers!

Laura and Matt, thank you again! It was a real pleasure to be part of your day!

6.11.11 - Hotel Conneaut - Conneaut Lake, PA

2011-06-14T10:44:00.004-04:00

Family and friends are the backbone of our lives. Take a mutual friend, mixed with a college party, a dash of lady luck and you have a recipe for love! Those were the ingredients for a lifetime of love for Brittany and Kane. Note that I used cooking references since Kane has held a variety of Executive Chef positions! :)

On Saturday, the Hotel Conneaut in Conneaut Lake, PA adjacent to Conneaut Lake Park was the setting for the lakeside ceremony and indoor reception at the hotel. Someone up above must have been looking down as, right before the ceremony, everyone was blessed with sunshine after an overcast morning. It was absolutely beautiful environment for Brittany and Kane to commit themselves to each other as husband and wife.

Once the ceremony concluded, guests made their way indoors to the recently renovated ballroom inside the Hotel Conneaut. I must tell you, the room looks AMAZING! I can't even begin to tell you how beautiful the view of the lake is as well! Banquet Coordinator Joyce and the rest of the staff were wonderful to work with as they made sure every detail was taken care of, from hors d'oevres to the main course. Following some very moving toasts to the happy couple and a delicious meal, Brittany and Kane cut their wedding cake, shared their first dance, then finished the rest of the formalities. Then, it was time to dance! Everyone had an amazing time!

Brittany and Kane, it was such a pleasure to be an integral part of your wedding celebration! I am so pleased that you thought the evening was perfect! Enjoy your honeymoon in Hilton Head and enjoy a lifetime full of love and romance. Sounds perfect to me!

6.4.11 - Nick's Place - Edinboro, PA

2011-06-10T17:29:00.005-04:00

Family and friends gathered at Nick's Place in Edinboro on Saturday, June 4th for the wedding ceremony and reception for Shelby and Jon. After some threatening weather in the morning, by late afternoon the sunshine was abundant as guests arrived for the ceremony on the rear patio. I had met with Shelby ahead of time to hand pick the music that everyone enjoyed for this special occasion for her and Jon. It was a breathtaking moment when Jon looked down the aisle to see his bride approaching. He knew, at that point, after a four year romance, that Shelby would soon be his wife. Following the ceremony, guests made their way inside to enjoy hors d'oeuvres and a delicious sit down meal.

Now, planning an unforgettable wedding reception is a long process. Making sure every detail is taken care of is extremely important. When you're a bride and want to add in a big surprise without the groom finding out ahead of time, wow! I'll tell you in a moment what transpired and how everyone cherished that moment. After an energetic introduction of bridal party members, followed by Shelby and Jon, I had the bride and groom take a seat, back to back, for a series of questions which were part of the shoe game! It was hilarious to see Shelby and Jon's reactions, and to hear the laughter from everyone there.

Now for the special part. In the months leading up to the wedding day, Shelby had informed me that Jon's brother, Jason, was the original choice for Best Man, but couldn't attend due to being deployed overseas.The initial thought was to have a 'live' toast from Jason via Skype. Logistics then made that impossible. Then, I was informed that Jason had pre-recorded a toast, but it was embedded in a private YouTube link. My mission was to lift that video and record it to DVD. Thanks to a Google search for software, my mission was successful! After toasts from Shelby's Matron of Honor, Kassie, and from Jon's Best Man, Adam, I had Shelby say a few words to Jon indicating that she had a special surprise for him. As she spoke, I rolled out my LCD TV and played the toast on DVD from Jon's brother, Jason. Needless to say, Jon and everyone attending simply LOVED the surprise! There wasn't a dry eye in the place!

Once dinner and the formalities were complete, this group of people was ready to dance and celebrate! And, did they ever, as I played an extra hour! It was truly an unforgettable and special day, especially for Shelby and Jon! And, so many people to thank who helped make the day perfect. Sara, Katie, Mary Ann and the entire crew at Nick's Place. What an amazing location you have. You always are the best! Katie and Kirk Mihalak, who were awesome as always with photography and video! I also have to mention the group from Hoss's Steak and Sea House, where Shelby once worked. Had it not been for her manager on duty that day, Zandra, whom Jon already knew, and other co-workers, Shelby might not have waited on Jon and his friends, and their love story might never have happened. To this day, it's the only time Jon never finished a steak, as he was too busy paying attention to Shelby!

Shelby and Jon, it was such an honor and pleasure to help create an amazing wedding day for you both! I'm so pleased how happy you both were, and how unforgettable the day turned out to be! All my best!

6.3.11 - Harborcreek Social Hall - Harborcreek, PA

2011-06-10T17:23:00.005-04:00

Love is an emotion that we love to express to those we care about. Finding love with a truly special person that we'll spend the rest of our lives with can be, sometimes, very unexpected. For Angela and Scott, an unexpected meeting led to a lifetime of love for many years to come.

On Friday, The Harborcreek Social Hall was the setting for the wedding reception for the happy couple. While the 90 or so guests in attendance enjoyed a delicious buffet meal, there were loving toasts made to Angela and Scott from those at the head table and seated around the room. It was very evident how happy everyone was for the couple of the day and extended family members. Scott is originally from the Ripley, NY area, and attended school in Sherman, NY. Angela is originally from Salamanca, NY, and attended college at Jamestown Community College, Empire State College and Capella University, after a stint in the Army Reserves. The photographer that Angela and Scott chose, Breanna Farner of B. Marie Photography, is from Angela's hometown of Salamanca. Visit Breanna online at bmarie.org, or look her up on Facebook and Twitter.

Once Angela and Scott had their first dance as a married couple, the dance floor then filled up with everyone having such a great time! The wedding reception was one of the RARE occasions that Angela was seen in a dress! It's only the 4th time in her lifetime that she's ever worn one! But, she looked wonderful that day. It didn't take long though for Angela, Scott, and bridal party members to change into polo shirts, slacks or jeans. The weather was perfect, and it was
so nice meeting and entertaining everyone in attendance.

Angela and Scott, it was such a pleasure being a part of your wedding day! Thank you again!

5.29.11 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa - Clymer, NY

2011-06-10T17:10:00.006-04:00

Planning a long distance wedding ceremony and reception can sometimes be overwhelming, but for Kathleen and Mike, it was an absolutely perfect day! The Ski Lodge at Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa was the locale chosen for their special day!

Their wedding day on May 29th was actually the first time I had an opportunity to meet them in person, as their reception planning was done via email and phone calls for several months, since the wedding couple both work many long hours. Both Kathleen and Mike took the customization of their big day to a whole new level! As guests arrived, they were treated to the dixieland band sounds of the "Deacons Of Dixieland" from State College, PA. This talented group of musicians not only performed for the inside ceremony behind that beautiful fireplace, but provided cocktail and dinner music as well.

After dinner was complete, and utilizing Kathleen and Mike's hand picked music list, it was my mission to make sure the evening flowed as only a true celebration would! The music, sprinkled with a few guest requests, made for a truly fun evening. There was minimal chatter on my part, per the couple's request, which let the music bring the dance floor alive! Lots of smiles, laughter and a lot of sore feet from so much dancing!

It was a true dream team of wedding talent that day, as Peek'n Peak Wedding Coordinator Kimberly Kantola, and the Peek banquet staff made sure every detail was taken care of that day. Guests feasted on several different dinner choices, which were mouth watering as usual! Photographer Jon Elder from Jamestown, NY, and his assistant, snapped several hours of photogenic memories from the time everyone arrived at the Lodge, to the festive exit, complete with sparklers, at the end of the night.

Kathleen and Mike, thank you so much for bringing me on board the team! I had a blast, and judging from everyone in attendance, they had a blast too!

5.28.11 - Erie Club - Erie, PA

2011-06-10T17:01:00.004-04:00

The historic Erie Club in downtown Erie was the setting for the wedding ceremony and reception for Christine and Steve on May 28th. In meeting with this charming couple. you could see the glow in their eyes as the excitement in planning their wedding day was growing! It was a balancing act for Christine, as she was studying dilligently to graduate from Drexel University College of Medicine, which she did a week before the wedding!

I must tell you, the Erie Club is a simply beautiful location! It was my first opportunity to work with event coordinator, Michele, and Club Manager, Jeff. Their staff was extremely accomodating. After the ceremony, which took outside on the Peach Street side of the building, guests made their way inside to enjoy hors d'oevres, and later, an amazing selection of delicasies from several different food stations.

Once outside pictures taken by the talented team of Aleks and Agens from Aleksander Photography were complete, from locations at and near the Erie Club, Christine, Steve and bridal party members made their entrance into the Erie to a jubilant welcome from family members and friends. We transitioned right into the couple's first dance, then a cutting of a bridal cupcake, and then opened the dance floor, which was FULL for nearly FOUR hours! Besides Christine
and Steve's wonderful requests, some Greek dances were added to spice up the celebration for family members. Add some music requests and it was so much fun!

Christine and Steve are now settling into a wonderful married life, after enjoying their honeymoon in Maui! Just wanted to thank you both so much! It was such a pleasure proving the musical entertainment for such a great group of people. You both are truly blessed with wonderful family members and friends!

5.21.11 - Erie Maennerchor Club - Erie, PA

2011-05-23T14:12:00.005-04:00

Saturday couldn't have been more perfect for Danyel and Josh's wedding day! Abundant sunshine, warm temperatures and oodles of excitement as the big day had finally arrived! Danyel and Josh have such a poignant love story. From the point in time when Josh worked for Danyel's Dad and Danyel would 'pretend' to have something wrong with her car just to see Josh, to the point when Josh, being a great guy, moved in with Danyel to assist her with expenses, to the moment when, BAM, Josh knew he had to ask Danyel out before someone else did!

On Saturday, their reception took place at Erie's historic Erie Maennerchor Club, where Josh's Mom, Cathy, is the dining room manager. The ballroom never looked so beautiful as it did that night! Susan, the banquet manager, the banquet staff and bartenders made sure each element of the day came off without a hit. Certainly no surprise there!

Once everyone had enjoyed a tasty sit down dinner, while listening to a mix of country and pop music I created just for the day, it was time for Josh and Danyel to take to the dance floor for their first dance. After completing the rest of the formalities, the dance floor opened up and filled immediately as everyone had so much fun all evening, cheering on the happy couple for a lifetime of happiness!

Danyel and Josh, thank you for bringing me on board your dream team, along with photographers Katie and Eric Smyklo, Cindy Favreau from Cindy's Let Them Eat Cake and Joel Buckel from Flowers From Joel. I am so happy for you both, and know you'll enjoy your honeymoon on the sunny beaches of the south! All the very best!

5.14.11 - Nick's Place - Edinboro, PA

2011-05-18T14:17:00.006-04:00

Finding the love of a lifetime is a goal we all achieve in our lives. With the loving support of family and friends, we can achieve a goal for eternal happiness. For Kelly and Tyler, they met while attending Corry High School and attended Junior Prom together. From their high school years to attending college at Clarion University, they have always been together and couldn't wait for the day they'd become a married couple.

On Saturday, their wedding day had finally arrived! Kelly and Tyler chose the charming Nick's Place in Edinboro for their wedding reception. Almost 3 years ago, Kelly's sister, Jenny, had her reception at the same location. So, going in, they knew the Strand famiily and staff would take care of their every need and create delicious appetizers and a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy! Besides the staff at Nick's Place, I want to acknowledge photographer Tricia Patten who does a wonderful job and is a pleasure to work with!

Kelly and Tyler, family and friends, were in a festive mood all evening. The dance floor was packed and everyone had such a wonderful time! When everyone has so much fun, it creates a warm feeling for me knowing that music can touch people in such a positive way!

Kelly and Tyler recently purchased their first house, and are looking forward to spending their married lives together once they return from their honeymoon in the Dominican Republic! Doesn't that sound amazing?

Thank you again, Kelly and Tyler, for choosing me as the entertainment for your big day just like Jenny and her husband, David, did back in 2008! It was such a pleasure and honor being a part of the celebration!

5.7.11 - Lawrence Park Golf Club - Erie, PA

2011-05-09T14:13:00.006-04:00

Saturday couldn't have been more perfect weather wise for the wedding day of Wesley and Michelle! The Lawrence Park Golf Club in Erie was the indoor setting for the happy couple's big day. Over 200 family members and friends witnessed a beautiful ceremony, performed by Pastor Jack Risner, followed by a wedding reception that was so much fun for everyone in attendance!

In the months leading up to their wedding day, I had stayed in constant contact with Wesley and Michelle, customizing their ceremony and bridal party introductions to fit each facet of the day. During the ceremony, Wesley's wonderful sense of humor made an appearance, even making Pastor Jack laugh out loud! The introductions were tailored to parents and each couple's personalities and musical tastes. The love and support of family and friends are so important to Wesley and Michelle, as they received wonderful toasts and congratulations throughout the entire evening.

What can I say about the staff of Lawrence Park Golf Club? Perfect in every way...from the transformation of the room from ceremony to reception to the delicious hors d' oeuvres and tasty meal that everyone enjoyed! It was also a pleasure to work with photographer Frederick Dunn, who's style and talent are perfect for couples looking for wedding photography.

Congratyulations, Wesley and Michelle! Enjoy your honeymoon in the Bahamas, and thank you again for choosing me to provide the entertainment on your wedding day! All the very best!

4.17.11 - Camp Fitch - North Springfield, PA

2011-04-18T23:58:00.005-04:00

I've traveled many miles to many locations for wedding receptions over the years, but Sunday's reception for Karen and Alan at Camp Fitch in North Springfield was an absolutely beautiful, scenic locale. A Y.M.C.A. camp, the facility is located right on the shores of Lake Erie, and provided a beautiful backdrop for the celebration for a wonderful, down-to-earth couple. The ceremony took place at a quaint chapel on the camp's grounds, with the reception following in a large building close to the lake.

A small group of family and close friends gathered for a wonderful celebration! Karen and Alan's Bridal Party included Karen's 2 sisters, Alan's 2 children, and one of Alan's longtime friends as Best Man. The staff at Camp Fitch was very cordial, and the food was delicious!

After dinner, in the spirit of the season, there was an Easter egg hunt for the small children that everyone got a kick out of. Some dancing followed dinner, and wonderful conversation took place throughout the entire day. Ron Stephens of La Mirage Photography captured some wonderful images of the day guaranteed to be remembered for a lifetime!

After a few days of relaxation and enjoying the early days of wedded bliss, Karen and Alan will embark on their honeymoon to Hawaii! Congratulations to you both once again! It was a pleasure and honor to be a part of your big day!

4.16.11 - Sheraton Erie Bayfront - Erie, PA

2011-04-18T23:42:00.003-04:00

Family members and friends from all over the country and locally gathered on Saturday night at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront to celebrate Judy and Dan Shade's 50th wedding anniversary! The view overlooking the bay and the city was beautiful as usual, and everyone congratulated the happy couple on their milestone! Family members assembled a wonderful slide show, encompassing many family memories over the years.

The staff at the Sheraton had stations set up outside the Harlequin Ballroom with mouth watering food, including hand carved beef and a mash potato bar! It's always a pleasure working with Michelle, Thomas and their magnificent banquet team. I also had the pleasure of finally working with Kara Trombetta of Click Chick Images. The photos tell the story of a wonderful night full of love and a dance floor full of people having a great time!

Special thanks to Dan and Judy's daughter, Laurie, and son, Dan Jr., for putting together a memorable celebration for their parents. Everything was completely organized online and turned out to be absolutely perfect!

Congratulations to Judy and Dan! It was a pleasure meeting you and providing the entertainment for your golden anniversary!

4.10.11 - Peek'n Peak Bridal Show

2011-04-05T10:33:00.003-04:00

We're officially into spring! And, that means that the 2011 wedding 'season' is just around the corner. Planning a future wedding celebration? Then, the Peek'n Peak Bridal Show is the perfect place to start! It all takes place this Sunday, April 10th from 1 to 5PM.

You'll have the opportunity to experience everything Peek'n Peak has to offer to make your special day truly unforgettable! Tour the unique venues, the luxury spa and amenities. The Peak's Wedding Specialist, Kim Kantola, has assembled the best of the best when it comes to preferred wedding vendors. Chat with the experts at their booths. Yours truly, John Gallagher, will be located in the Main Ski Lodge. I'll be anxious to meet with you and chat about the ideas and vision you have for your wedding day!

If you have any questions, or would like additional show information, be sure and call Kim Kantola at 716.355.4141 ext. 7414. I'll be looking forward to meeting you on Sunday, April 10th!

3.26.11 - St. Lawrence Center - Albion, PA

2011-03-27T14:41:00.007-04:00

Meeting the one person we'll spend the rest of our lives with can happen at any moment. For Stacie and Mike, they worked together at McDonalds, building a friendship first, then embarking on a long term relationship. Their wedding day yesterday couldn't have been more perfect! The ceremony took place at 3pm, with the reception immediately following in the St. Lawrence Center in Albion. As family and friends began to arrive, Stacie and Mike had chosen music of the 1950's to the 1970's that got toes a tapping and some singing along.

Once the dinner buffet began, the music switched to the fun and romantic songs of the 1980's. Stacie and Mike love music, and they wanted their dinner music to be a treat, besides of course the delicious meal that everyone enjoyed.

Once the parents dances and the anniversary dance were completed, it was time to dance the night away! Everyone had such a great time on a wonderful day for Stacie and Mike. Katie Mihalak, husband Kirk and son Austin handled the photography and video duties as smooth as silk. Katie's creativity shined as she invited guests to take a step into her photo booth, creating everlasting memories for all ages!

Stacie and Mike, thank you so much! It was truly a pleasure and honor to celebrate with you both on such a big day in your lives together! Enjoy your honeymoon!

3.17.11 - St. Patrick's Day Bash - Avalon Hotel, Erie PA

2011-03-16T11:18:00.004-04:00

Join me, John Gallagher, at the Avalon Hotel in Erie for a St. Patrick's Day Bash from 8AM-Noon in the Niagara Ballroom! Dance the morning away to your favorite Top 40 and old school favorites! Gather your friends, and maybe family, and stop by for INSTANT music requests and FUN! Did I mention FUN?? Ok, I did...

Jessica and the staff at the Avalon are ready to bring you a party you won't soon forget! Enjoy a food buffet, interactive games and of course green beer! Wear your green, tell everyone you know that the Avalon Hotel in Erie is a MUST STOP for your St. Patty's Day festivities!

And, it certainly goes without saying, be sure and have a designated driver along with you to ensure maximum safety for maximum FUN! And, should you be in need, Care Cab is available too!
Call 461-TAXI.

2.23.11 - "You & I Bridal Show", February 27, 2011 - Erie, PA

2011-02-23T12:53:00.003-05:00

Area Brides...exciting news! A new and innovative bridal show is just days away! This will be an event that is creatively different and not to be missed! Julie Masterson, Event Coordinator at the Masonic Temple in Erie, has worked hard to assemble a list of professionals to assist you in planning the biggest day of your lives. Her many years of experience in planning bridal shows is bound to get you beyond excited to attend this event! The "You & I Bridal Show" takes place this Sunday, February 27th at the Masonic Temple, on the corner of West 8th and Peach in Erie.

Doors open at 10am, with live music will taking place in the lobby area. At 11am, there will be a Complimentary Champagne Brunch served in the Fireplace Room from Sabella's Catering, with dining in the Grand Ballroom. At 12 Noon, the Fashion Show begins, featuring the American Commodore Dancers, fashions by Lee-Mar's Bridal, with commentary by Val Weaver, fashion coordinator at the Millcreek Mall. From 1:00pm-4:00pm, visit a multitude of booths from the best wedding professionals in the Erie area! John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment is honored to have been chosen to be a part of this unique presentation! Please visit my booth location in the Camelot Room. There will be prize drawings from many of the vendors and music to put you into the wedding mood.

Only limited seating remains...please call Julie Masterson TODAY at 814.528.6811! Reserve your chance to attend a simply elegant event. See you this Sunday, February 27th at the "You And I Bridal Show" at the Masonic Temple in Erie.

2.2.11 - QR Code - John Gallagher Erie, PA Wedding DJ

2011-02-02T11:55:00.006-05:00

So, you're asking "what is a QR Code?" Simply speaking, it's a barcode. You see barcodes on the products you buy in the supermarket and department stores. Web technology allows QR Codes to be placed on websites and blogs too! And, since I like to be a trendsetter, I've added a QR code to my site and blog.

To read the QR codes on this blog, the homepage and the testimonials page of my main web site, all you need is a barcode scanner app on your iPhone or Droid. I personally use ShopSavvy on my Droid, and it works beautifully! On the homepage, you'll be able to bookmark my site on your phone, and on the testimonials page, you'll be able to view wonderful Wedding Wire reviews from my past clients.

Technology is rapidly changing and I always like to keep up as much as I can and make it easier for you in your fast-paced lives!

1.25.11 - We WON the 2011 Wedding Wire Brides Choice Award!

2011-01-25T11:10:00.004-05:00

Erie, PA - January 25, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Wedding DJ Entertainment!

I am very proud to say this is the second year in a row I have been honored to win this award!
Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation

John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

I am extremely happy and honored that John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment is among the very best wedding DJ entertainers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites including WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. I can't thank my previous clients enough! Thanks to each and every one of you for nominating me to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011!

1.16.11 - Star 104 Bridal Showcase and Expo - Erie, PA

2011-01-13T13:52:00.003-05:00

The holidays are over, and many couples became engaged over the Christmas season. January, in the Erie area, is traditionally a big month for many Bridal Shows. One of the biggest is the Star 104 Bridal Showcase and Expo at the Bayfront Convention Center. In previous years, around 600 brides, their families and friends have attended this show. Bridal Elegance and Cuffs Formal Wear put on an amazing fashion show and you'll have a chance to visit with different vendors prior to the fashion show. There are 2 shows on Sunday, January 16th, 2011 at 11AM and again at 3PM.

John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment has been proud to be a participant in this show for 10 years. Stop by my booth location to get your questions answered, and see the value I bring to your wedding day. Since I am one of the areas few FULL-TIME DJ entertainers, I am able to help you plan a perfect wedding reception when it's convenient for you through my smartphone friendly client area at johngallagher.com! In 2010, I was honored to receive the Bride's Choice Award, based on many 5 star reviews from very satisfied clients. Check them out here on Wedding Wire.

I look forward to meeting you and discussing one of the biggest days of your lives together...YOUR wedding day!

1.1.11 - Sheraton Erie Bayfront - Erie, PA

2011-01-07T14:46:00.006-05:00

Imagine being the perfect team even before you begin a relationship. For Janine and Lee, that certainly was true. Even their supervisor at work, Shannon, called them the Janine and Lee team. Even though the first 3 years of their relationship they spent working a lot, they were always there for each other. Even when college kept them apart, they found ways on weekends to spend time together. They always knew they'd be together forever, and the wait would be well worth it. Once Janine and Lee made plans to get married, each of them knew they'd be marrying their best friend in the world!

2011 began on Saturday with Janine and Lee's wedding day. Family and friends first gathered at the beautiful Warner Theater for the ceremony. The locale was perfect, and the ceremony was much more special, since Janine and Lee wrote their own wedding vows that everyone simply loved. The reception then followed at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront. The Sheraton staff did a stellar job as always. Also on board the dream team that day was Eric and Katie Smyklo from Smyklo Photography and Ron Stephens from La Mirage Videography. Once introductions and dinner took place, everyone was certainly in a celebratory mood from the holiday weekend! In fact, at the end of the night, chants were heard for "one more song!" What a perfect day it was for Janine and Lee, spending the first day of the new year with the ones they love. Right now, the happy couple is enjoying a Jamaican vacation, away from the cold and snow in Pennsylvania!

Thank you both for having me be part of your ceremony and reception, Janine and Lee! It was truly an honor and a day I will treasure as much as you both will.

12.22.10 - Getting Engaged At Christmas

2010-12-22T21:57:00.004-05:00

Traditionally, the Christmas holiday is the most popular time of the year to get engaged. Valentine's Day probably runs a close second. Gentleman...looking for a few ideas to ask the special lady in your life for her hand in marriage? Here's a few guaranteed to make the moment extra special!

Christmas gift proposal. The most popular, where you'd give the ring as a Christmas gift. Some prefer to hid the ring gift inside another box. Others prefer to place the ring box inside boxes of varied sizes. You could also place the ring box inside a Christmas stocking filled with other gifts

Christmas family gathering proposal. With Christmas being a family holiday, you want to include close relatives to be in attendance at the big moment. The gentleman might want to pop the question in front of his parents and siblings as a way to welcome the lady into his family. This can be special, especially if the lady is close to the gentleman's family.

Christmas proposal poem. If you may be a talented writer, nothing says eternal love better than a special Christmas poem. Write an original one, or find a pre-written poem from a host of different free online sources.

Christmas ornament. Having a special Christmas ornament created for the special moment of the proposal. The ornament can be engraved with the words "Will You Marry Me?" or special words of your choosing. Mention to your lady that eventually you will both hang the ornament on a tree of your own some day.

Regardless of your method to pop the question, Christmas is always a special time to become an engaged couple. Once you begin your wedding planning, I would love to be a part of the dream team you build for the big day. Merry Christmas!

12.11.10 - Masonic Temple - Erie, PA

2010-12-14T16:18:00.004-05:00

A wedding reception is a wonderful occasion to celebrate with family members and friends. Combine that with the excitement and anticipation of the holiday season and it becomes even more special. For Julie and Andrew, they chose the Masonic Temple in Erie, PA for their winter-themed wedding reception. Sabella's, as always, did an amazing job with not only the catering, but the festive holiday decorations in the Grand Ballroom!

Erie was lucky to have been spared any real significant accumulation on Saturday, and the sun made the day that much more perfect. After the introductions took place, Julie and Andrew wowed those in attendance to their choreographed first dance to the music of Spiral Staircase. Everyone was on their feet and loved every moment of it! Once everyone enjoyed the delicious buffet style dinner, and the rest of the formal dances completed, it was time to dance! The hardwood dance floor was full all night, with friends and family celebrating with the happy couple!

Many thanks to Sabella's for their hospitality. Also want to say thank you to one of my favorite photographers, Katie Mihalak! She's such a joy and a hoot to work with! The flowers from Joel's Flower Shoppe and the amazing wedding cake from Jennifer Shaffer were simply wonderful as well!

Julie and Andrew spent a couple days in Pittsburgh, due to the inclement weather, then boarded a plane headed for Breckenridge for their winter honeymoon celebration! Thank you both so much! It was a pleasure and honor to be a part of your wedding celebration

11.24.10 - Thank You Cards

2010-11-24T12:00:00.004-05:00

Since we're about to celebrate Thanksgiving, it gives us time to reflect and think about what we're thankful for. If you've recently been married, you reflect on the joy and fun of that special day. You're thankful for family, friends and loved ones who were a part of the big day. And, if you haven't done so already, it's time to think about those thank you cards.

As with anything associated with your wedding, different etiquette needs to occur. Generally, eight weeks after the wedding is generally the time frame to send them out. However, if you received gifts before the wedding date, thank you notes need to be sent out two weeks after receiving them. You might even need to acknowledge any monetary gifts or gifts sent by guests after the wedding.

With many online resources at your fingertips, personalization is easy these days. Stumped as to how to begin the thank you card? Thank the guest and tell them how much you appreciated their presence at the wedding, Then, describe the gifts you received from them and how useful those gifts will be in your future life. Besides the guests, it's often nice to send a thank you note to your caterer, DJ entertainment, photographer and decorator. They also played a key part in making your wedding day perfect!

Thank you cards are sure to mean a lot to those who receive them. And, by following the above etiquette, you're sure to avoid any mistakes. In fact, make it a team effort and share the responsibility of sending thank you cards with your spouse. It's guaranteed to help strengthen a lifelong bond between you.

11.13.10 - Nick's Place - Edinboro, PA

2010-11-14T21:21:00.006-05:00

Las Vegas is by far one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Renowned for its casinos, shopping, fine dining, it's also where many couples have headed to get married. For Kristy and Ross, March 14th of this year is when they decided, while in Las Vegas, it was a perfect time and place to become husband and wife.

Last night at Nick's Place in Edinboro, family and friends, including son Noah, gathered for a post-nuptial reception for Kristy and Ross. The evening began with tasty hors d'oeuvres, including multiple plates of sweet, delicious cookies, cocktails and wonderful conversation. As dinner time approached, guests were seated and enjoyed several enjoyable, trip down memory lane toasts from longtime friends. Then, Sara, Katie and the staff of Nick's Place escorted guests to the buffet as everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner.

Once a couple formal dances were complete, the dance floor officially opened up as almost everyone in attendance danced the night away! Both Kristy and Ross spent time dancing as well, so pleased to see everyone having such a great time! At the end of the post-nuptial reception, lots of sore feet for sure!

It's always such a pleasure to work at Nick's Place. The Strand family members treat everyone like family. So nice! And, just wanted to say thank you again to Kristy and Ross...it was a pleasure to be a part of this celebration and witnessing first hand how special your family members and friends are and how much they love you!

11.6.10 - Lawrence Park Golf Club - Erie, PA

2010-11-07T16:15:00.005-05:00

Social networking is such a powerful tool. Not only does it allow you to stay in touch with family and friends, you're able to touch base with long lost friends, maintain business relationships...and, perhaps, meet the one person you'll spend a lifetime with. For Heather and Mark, social networking brought them together, ignited a spark, spending the rest of their lives together as soulmates.

The Lawrence Park Golf Club was the setting on a crisp, Fall day for Heather and Mark's reception. The banquet room was full of family, friends and lotsa love. Immediately after introductions, the happy couple made their way to the dance floor for their first dance, followed by Heather's dance with her Dad, then the cutting of the cake. By taking care of formalities early, this allowed more time for everyone to get out and show their dance moves on the floor later.

As expected, Chef Dana didn't disappoint, the meal was absolutely mouth watering and scrumptious! Guests then enjoyed some of the delicious wedding cake for dessert. Then, it was time to dance! Everyone had such an AMAZING time, both young and old. Music is indeed a powerful medium.

After a few days of rest and relaxation, Heather and Mark will make their way to Hawaii for their honeymoon. Having fun in the sun in the sand, crystal clear water and clear blue sky does sound heavenly this time of year, doesn't it?

10.16.10 - Lake View Country Club - North East, PA

2010-10-19T23:20:00.006-04:00

Family and friends are the backbone of our lives. They are always there for us when we need them. Often, they play an integral part in introducing us to the person we could spend the rest of our lives with. For Ashley and Jason, friends noticed how perfect the two of them would be as a couple. And, thanks to continued persistence from their friends, Ashley and Jason did become a perfect and inseparable couple!

On Saturday, the beautiful Lake View Country Club was the setting for a crisp, fall reception for Ashley and Jason. Friends and family gathered for delicious hors d'oevres, cocktails and wonderful conversation. Once the bridal party arrived, everyone sat down for a delicious dinner served by the staff at Lake View. Wedding Coordinator, Leslie and Banquet Coordinator, Nancy, were so kind and easy to work with, and, of course, the food prepared by Chef Rob was mouth watering as usual. Also thanks to wonderful wedding photographer Fallon Hovis from Fallon's Photography in Meadville. The Bridal Party named her "McLovin" for the day! Haha.

Once Ashley and Jason cut their wedding cake baked by Cindy's Let Them Eat Cake, it was time for the first dance. Everyone in attendance, except me, Ashley and Jason, were unaware the happy couple had a little surprise up their sleeves! After about a minute of "Marry Me" from Train, the gears shifted immediately into a choreographed dance to the Bee Gees "You Should Be Dancing!" Needless to say, it was one of many highlights of the special day! So much fun, so many special memories!

Ashley and Jason departed on their honeymoon on Monday and are enjoying a wonderful time in warm, sunny Mexico! All the very best to you both...and thank you for including John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment in your wedding day!

10.9.10 - Brookville, PA

2010-10-11T22:38:00.004-04:00

With nearly a week of straight rain, many were wondering if it would continue into the weekend of the 9th. For Heidi and Mark, with almost 2 years of planning going into their big day, the hope that sunshine would greet them on their wedding day became a reality. In fact, temperatures on Saturday were in the 70's with abundant sunshine!

Mark's family farm in Brookville, PA was the location, and I might add, a BEAUTIFUL location for a wedding ceremony outside and the reception in the barn. I must say, Mark and Heidi's family members and friends were so gracious and welcoming! Once the ceremony was complete, everyone made their way down to the barn and adjoining tent for the reception. Dancing took place in the center of the building, and everyone, including Heidi and Mark, had so much fun with many rubbing their sore feet from so much dancing!

After some relaxation and enjoying the first few weeks of married life, Heidi and Mark will make their way to Hawaii in November for their honeymoon. While the rest of us will no doubt be shoveling, dare I say it, SNOW, Heid and Mark will be walking the sandy beaches barefoot enjoying beautiful weather!

Congratulations again to a charming and wonderful couple!

10.2.10 - Quincy Cellars - Ripley, NY

2010-10-03T20:33:00.005-04:00

Don't they say when it rains on your wedding day it's good luck? Unfortunately, rain is NOT what Jessica and Tripp had planned for. Reason being, they chose the gorgeous, scenic Quincy Cellars in Ripley, NY for their outside ceremony. Nonetheless, a backup plan was in place to move to the covered back deck. Such an amazing, unique ceremony too, including live bagpipes and a beautiful song performed by Jessica's brother-in-law. The whole event fit Jessica and Tripp's unique personalities.

Once the ceremony had concluded, everyone moved inside for the reception, beginning with cocktails, including a selection of Quincy Cellars own bottled wines. A delicious sit down dinner followed, with guests seated on the main floor as well as on the 2nd floor, and a beautiful view of the head table. Jessica and Tripp created custom music requests for both cocktails and dinner. Guests enjoyed music from Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Jewel and U2.

Once the parents dances were complete, instantly the dance floor filled with family and friends ready to dance the night away! Even with a small guest list of 75 people, music has a way of getting to people and bringing them to their feet to celebrate with a newly married couple, like Jessica and Tripp!

A big note of thanks to Amy and the staff from Quincy Cellars. It is an absolutely breathtaking location for a wedding reception, and everyone catered to the guests every need. I highly recommend Quincy Cellars in Ripley!

10.1.10 - Pittsburgh Marriott North - Cranberry Twp., PA

2010-10-03T19:49:00.006-04:00

The Pittsburgh Marriott North was the setting for the reception for Laura and Jason on Friday night. Having been the entertainment at Laura's sister's wedding back in 2005, I knew going in that this was going to be quite a party! And, I was indeed correct!

Laura and Jason and their Bridal Party began their celebrating on the limo, from what I heard, so I knew when everyone arrived, they were ready to have a great time! The first dance and cake cutting took place right after the fun introductions. After a delicious meal prepared by the staff at the Marriott, the rest of the formalities were taken care of. Then, it was time to dance...3 1/2 hours worth!

Not only did I create an amazing entertainment experience for everyone, but Laura and Jason chose me to help create some beautiful accent lighting colors underneath and around the head table. A BIG thank you to my assistant, Kirk, for helping with the amazing lighting design! And, thanks to Brian and the staff at the Marriott. Everyone was so cordial and professional from the outset. It's no wonder that many in the Pittsburgh area choose the Marriott in Cranberry for their special events! Simply put...they've got an amazing team!

Thank you Laura and Jason for making me your entertainment choice! Everyone had such a blast at your reception and am very happy you were so pleased with what we created for the big night! Have a great time in Mexico for your honeymoon!

9.25.10 - Ambassador Center - Erie, PA

2010-09-26T21:16:00.004-04:00

The path that brings a couple together to a lifetime together is always uncertain. How do we meet 'the one'? For Susan and Michael, both going to Duquesne University wasn't how they met. Thanks to mutual friends at a concert in Edinboro, introductions were made and the rest is history. A first date eventually followed at an 8 Great Tuesdays event in 2004, and Susan and Michael have been inseparable since.

On Saturday, the beautiful Garden Atrium at the Ambassador Banquet & Conference Center was the location for the ceremony and reception for Susan and Michael. An afternoon drizzle, unfortunately, moved the ceremony from the patio to inside the Atrium. Still, it was a beautiful event nonethless. The reception then followed with family and friends enjoying a delicious sit down dinner prepared by the staff. The cupcake table, which took the place of a standard wedding cake, was the topic of conversation. Betty's Cookie Correll created the masterpiece. Once the formalities finished, everyone was ready to take a spot on the dance floor! So much fun all night!

Emily, from the Ambassador Banquet staff, who was Susan and Michael's Wedding Coordinator, is always a pleasure to work with! She always manages to make sure that events take place on time and smoothly! In addition, had the pleasure working for the first time with Penny and her husband Brian from Penny Photo. It's so nice when a wedding team gels together as we all did yesterday!

In the next few days, Susan and Michael will embark on their honeymoon to the Bahamas! Congratulations to you both, it was a pleasure to be a part of your special day!

9.18.10 - Shorewood Country Club - Dunkirk, NY

2010-09-19T20:51:00.005-04:00

A morning coffee and a donut. Who would think that might eventually lead to romance! For Lori and Joseph, it truly did. Joseph would notice Lori, her kids and her Mother on a regular basis, as a family, enjoying breakfast. Eventually, he got his courage up and asked Lori out. The rest, they say, is history! In fact, Joseph eventually asked the staff and guests of the Tim Horton's at Brooklyn Square in Jamestown to assist him when he asked Lori to marry him...and they did! What a simply wonderful story of love!

Yesterday, the beautiful Shorewood Country Club outside of Dunkirk, NY was the locale for the ceremony and reception for Lori and Joseph. It was an absolute pleasure to work with Mark and his staff who made things very accomodating for everyone. Family and friends gathered to celebrate this wonderful occasion and definitely came to have a great time! Food was available throughout the evening, so as guests enjoyed eating throughout the evening, they also filled the dance floor all night!

Lori and Joseph will immediately settle into married life with a new home, a new job for Joseph and time to plan their honeymoon in a year or so. Congratulations, again!

9.17.10 - Ambassador Center - Erie, PA

2010-09-18T10:45:00.004-04:00

Some in our area don't realize the treasures that are in our backyard. Lighthouse Beach at Presque Isle for a destination wedding? For Amy and Tony, absolutely! This charming couple, along with everyone coming for the reception, hail from Butler, Pittsburgh and other areas. When they were planning their ceremony, Amy and Tony decided it would be at Presque Isle. The weather was initially threatening, but an hour or so before the big event, the sun's rays were a beautiful backdrop. After the ceremony, everyone headed to the Garden Atrium at the Ambassador Center for a wonderful reception! The Ambassador staff, as usual, one of the best!

Amy and Tony, along with their families and friends, were so nice! One of the highlights of the evening was when Tony's parents were recognized as the longest married couple during the anniversary dance! 53 years of wedded bliss! Congratulations!

Later today, Amy and Tony fly to Puerto Rico and then head off on a memorable honeymoon cruise! It was such a pleasure to work with you in coordinating what you needed for the ceremony and helping you to plan a fun reception!

9.12.10 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa - Clymer, NY

2010-09-13T11:41:00.003-04:00

Ever get the feeling sometimes on a wedding day that someone up above is looking out to make sure everything is perfect? I think that was the case for Jessica and Geremie. With a planned outdoor ceremony on the deck of the Retreat at Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa, the weather initially didn't look like it would cooperate. But, a couple hours before it was to begin, the overcast conditions turned to partly sunny skies and a wonderful ceremony, complete with unique touches for Jessica and Geremie!

Everyone then moved inside to the Retreat to enjoy delicious hors d' oevres and the beginning of the reception. Jessica and Geremie wanted to keep things simple, so even though plenty of family and friends were in attendance, they didn't want a formal bridal party. Once the happy couple were formally introduced, they had their first dance immediately. Once the buffet meal was finished, Jessica and Geremie chose to cut into a cheesecake for the cutting of the cake. The dance with parents followed, moving right into open dancing, as they wanted everyone to have fun right away!

It's always a pleasure to be a part of a Peek'n Peak wedding. Kim Kantola and banquet staff members are always the best! And, it was so much fun to work again with Jodie Farbotnik from Ever After Images! She's one of the best for sure!

After a couple days relaxation spent with loved ones from near and far, Jessica and Geremie resume their daily lives...now as a happy married couple! Congratulations again!

9.11.10 - Bel-Aire Hotel - Erie, PA

2010-09-13T10:37:00.006-04:00

The beautiful Regency Ballroom at the Bel-Aire Hotel was the setting for Linnea and Mike's reception celebration on Saturday night. Family and friends, some traveling from places like Chicago and Texas, were in attendance for a wonderful day for a wonderful couple. It's always a pleasure to see couples in the bridal party let their personalities shine for the introductions. By the time Linnea and Mike made their entrance into the ballroom, everyone was on their feet cheering the happy couple's entrance! The toasts before dinner proved how much love Linnea and Mike share with friends and family.

Following a wonderful buffet prepared by the Bel-Aire staff, and several of the formalities were taken care of, it was time to dance! Linnea and Mike love the classic wedding type songs, Chicken Dance, Y.M.C.A., Loco-Motion etc. The evening was a mix of the classics as well as guest favorites. All around, just a perfect night!

Besides a big thanks to the Bel-Aire staff, it's always a pleasure to work with one of my favorite wedding photographers, Katie Mihalak! When a wonderful team makes everything come together just right, it keeps a bride and groom, bridal party and families very happy!

After a day of relaxation on Sunday, Linnea and Mike embark on their honeymoon today for the Dominican Republic. Thank you both again...it was a pleasure to be a part of your wedding day!

9.4.10 - Masonic Temple - Erie, PA

2010-09-05T09:03:00.006-04:00

I knew when I approached Erin and Joe's limousine coach and heard the tunes jammin' and the bridal party singin' that everyone was in for a rockin' celebration at their wedding reception! And, how true that was! Once introductions took place, everyone stood as Erin and Joe entered the room and danced to Jason Castro's "Over The Rainbow." Then, everyone gathered for a wonderful meal prepared by the staff of Sabella's Catering.

Once more of the formalities were completed, the dance floor erupted with energy and was packed all night! There was so much energy that yet another hour was added to the existing 5 hour reception. So much fun! It also gave me an opportunity to once again see Erin's family, as I had been the entertainment 4 years ago at the reception for Erin's sister, Bridget, and her husband, Matthew. Bridget and Matthew's 18 month old daughter, Lila, was a part of the bridal party last night and is just the cutest thing in the world!

After winding down for the rest of the holiday weekend, Erin and Joe will embark tomorrow to their vacation in Jamaica! Thank you again, Erin and Joe! It was such an honor to be a part of an amazing celebration for an amazing couple!

8.28.10 - Masonic Temple - Erie, PA

2010-08-29T13:06:00.005-04:00

Family and friends are undoubtedly the most important part of our lives. One friend, in particular, was instrumental in introducing Joleen and Jeremy, whose wedding celebration took place on Saturday at the Masonic Temple in Erie. Allison, who attended college with Jeremy and worked as a dietitian with Joleen, must have known from the outset Joleen and Jeremy would be perfect for each other! After meeting at a seminar at Hamot Medical Center, Joleen and Jeremy have been inseparable!

The Camelot Room at the Masonic Temple is where family and friends gathered for an amazing celebration! After enjoying a buffet meal prepared by Sabella's Catering, and the formal dances took place, the dance floor erupted! There wasn't an empty spot most of the evening! To say it was a festive evening wouldn't even begin to describe it. Those in attendance definitely came to celebrate! Even had an older gentleman tell me at the end of the night..."I never dance...and you got me to dance!"

All the very best to Joleen and Jeremy and thank you both for having me be a part of the celebration! I'm so happy everyone had so much fun! Wanted to acknowledge the other members of the team that made this reception so enjoyable...Heather Mencer from Mencer Photography and Bill Miller from Sabella's Catering. Joleen and Jeremy definitely chose the best!

8.21.10 - Concourse Of Union Station - Erie, PA

2010-08-23T11:39:00.005-04:00

So many factors come into play when two people meet. For Heidi and Ryan, luckily they both attended Edinboro University! And, luckily they have mutual friends! Timing was also a key as well. One night, at the Hotel Edinboro, Heidi asked Ryan to dance and buy her a drink. The rest, as they say, is history. From that moment on, the two of them have been inseparable.

On Saturday, friends and family gathered at the beautiful Concourse of Union Station in Erie to celebrate Heidi and Ryan's wedding day! Everything was so wonderfully decorated and excitement was definitely in the air that night! You know it's going to be memorable and fun when the bride and groom walk into "Sweet Caroline!" Following a delicious buffet and all the formalities, the dance floor erupted! Heidi and Ryan truly are blessed with wonderful family members and friends who love to dance!

The bride and groom are enroute today to spend their honeymoon in Mexico. Ryan was recently promoted by Pepsi, so Heidi and Ryan will now make Altoona their home as a married couple! All the very best to you both and thank you for having me be a part of your celebration!

Besides Marty and his wonderful staff at Concourse Of Union Station, it was a pleasure to work with Marinelli Photography and Rob Engelhardt and his son, Jonathan, from Flagship Videography! So nice when a team works so well together!

8.14.10 - Lake Shore Country Club - Erie, PA

2010-08-15T17:24:00.008-04:00

nice breezeIt was simply a perfect summer day on Saturday! And, the perfect opportunity for Katie and Elliott's wedding celebration outside on the grounds of the beautiful Lake Shore Country Club! A nice breeze welcomed everyone in a spot near the bluff overlooking Lake Erie. From the moment everyone arrived, you could feel a buzz in the air. Once the hummer limo drove up beside the large tent, the bridal party members were introduced as they exited the vehicle. Katie and Elliott then cut their cake from Jennifer Shaffer and proceeded into their first dance. Then, the bridal party itching to get their groove on with Katie and Elliott, danced to "Dynamite" from Taio Cruz!

Once everyone enjoyed the delicious buffet dinner prepared by the staff, it was time for the parents dances, followed by a couple hours of open dancing. Katie and Elliott, who love to dance themselves, kept the floor hopping all night as family and friends danced to all their favorites to the late hours of the evening! Thanks to Lisa and the staff at Lake Shore Country Club, and to photographers Pete, Pat and Larissa for the excellent team work that makes a wedding day go so smoothly!

8.13.10 - Caper's - Erie, PA

2010-08-15T17:05:00.006-04:00

For some, a Friday the 13th can be somewhat of a superstitious day. Not for Melia and Dave, who were a couple that were brought together via Match.com. They consider themselves very lucky in love, and wanted to share their wedding celebration at Caper's and share their great luck with family and friends!

Following the ceremony performed by Justice Sue Mack, and included parents and children of the bride and groom, guests were treated to a wonderful buffet meal prepared by the staff at Caper's, just off the Bayfront Highway. The rest of the evening was a dance floor filled with everyone having an absolutely wonderful time!I randomly called table numbers which assuredly kept everyone dancing and celebrating all night long!

This was not only my first opportunity to not only be at Caper's for the first time, a location I highly recommend, but first time working with photographer Danielle Hartland. It so nice when a team works well together and it was a perfect day for Melia and Dave! Congratulations again!

8.7.10 - Lake View Country Club - North East, PA

2010-08-09T20:12:00.004-04:00

Over the years, as I've gotten to know the many couples whose wedding receptions I am a part of, it's always intrigues me how that particular bride and groom first met. Ashley and Steve's story was one that struck me emotionally, as well as gave me a good laugh! It was a McDowell-Prep Football game 8 years ago. Ashley was telling a friend of hers how she wanted to meet a nice guy. In a totally random moment, Steve happened to be walking by Ashley and her friend, when her friend said, "how about him!" You guessed it, Ashley picked Steve out from a crowd of people in attendance! Well, it turned out to be the perfect romance leading to an absolutely perfect wedding day on Saturday at Lake View Country Club!

Ashley and Steve's wedding day also gave me the opportunity to work for the first time with some current members of the banquet staff at Lake View Country Club in North East. A tip of the hat for a flawless night and a delicious meal to Leslie, Ryan and Chef Rob! It was also another chance to work with photographer Teresa Becerra!

After a couple days of relaxation, Ashley and Steve embark tomorrow for their honeymoon in Mexico! Congratulations again to you both! Was such a pleasure to be a part of the celebration!

7.31.10 - Ambassador Center - Erie, PA

2010-08-02T15:14:00.005-04:00

For the third time in July, had an opportunity to celebrate a wedding reception at the Ambassador Center in Erie with another wonderful, charming couple...this time, it was Tamara and James! From the very first time I met them in 2009, I knew how excited they were to talk about their big day and make sure everyone in attendance had a great time! And, they certainly did! Whether it was rock, country, hip hop, or an occasional polka, family and friends danced and celebrated with Tamara and James! It was such an honor to be a part of their day!

It's always such a treat to work with the Ambassador staff, as well as photographer Jodie Farbotnik and videography from Sidelinger Media. True professionals in every sense of the word!

Following some rest and relaxation, Tamara and James will head to Florida to spend their honeymoon together! I wanted to thank you both again, such a pleasure to celebrate with you on such a big, memorable day in your lives together as you get set to spent eternity together!

7.24.10 - Lawrence Park Golf Club

2010-07-25T20:54:00.005-04:00

It was a hot and humid day on Saturday, but that didn't keep everyone from enjoying a truly amazing wedding day for Ashley and Andrew! After their ceremony took place, guests began to arrive at the beautiful Lawrence Park Golf Club. The rain played a bit of havoc with some outdoor pictures, but photographer Teresa Becerra and her assistant, Lacie, saw a golden opportunity to take some wonderful outdoor pictures at the Club. Following toasts and prayer, everyone was treated to wonderful service and delicious food prepared by Chef Dana Roeback and staff!

Ashley and Andrew's first dance song couldn't have been more perfect! They chose "Stand By Me" from Ben E. King. Throughout the entire evening, there were always by each others side. They truly have always had an unbreakable bond and always will.

A wonderful benefit of being a wedding entertainer is seeing couples whose reception I am doing in the future or have done in the past. It was so nice to catch up with Ashley's cousin, Angela, and her husband, Daniel. Their reception was last October and they now reside in the beautiful state of New Mexico. Also ran into a Mother of a Groom, Theresa. Having contracted her son's September, 2010 reception a while back, it was so nice to recall I had actually worked with Theresa at Country 98, WXTA during the 1990's! Small world isn't it?

Congratulations again, Ashley and Andrew! Best wishes as you enjoy your Las Vegas honeymoon before returning back home to Northwest Pennsylvania!

7.17.10 - Ambassador Center - Erie, PA

2010-07-19T12:18:00.005-04:00

To describe Kristen and Michael in just a couple of words...simply charming! I knew when I first met the both of them I wanted to incorporate their unique stamp on the day. When family members and friends first arrived at the Atrium at the Ambassador Center, they were treated to hand picked music selections that were some of Kristen and Michael's favorites! Once everyone was seated for dinner, the custom music selections continued. Nothing is more special than sharing the music you personally love with the ones you love!

After the formalities were complete, everyone filled the dance floor, smiling, laughing and dancing to everything from the Chubby Checker and AC/DC to the Black Eyed Peas and Lady Gaga! One highlight of the evening was 'The Anniversary Dance." Not one, but two couples were recognized as celebrating 62 years of wedded bliss!

Not only was the wedding a celebration, but it was a chance to congratulate Dr. Kristen! Yes, the bride is a LECOM Grad Student (2010) and is now a registered pharmacist! They both were able to plan the perfect wedding, even with studying and relocating! She and husband, Michael, will begin their married lives together in Cleveland!

Another week of working with the best in the wedding business! Michelle and Darlene from the Ambassador Center, Jennifer Photography, Larese Floral and Linda Austin's Cakes! Thank you!

7.10.10 - Ambassador Center - Erie, PA

2010-07-12T11:20:00.005-04:00

Ever walk into a room and immediately feel the the buzz and excitement? That was certainly the case at Callie and Dan's wedding reception on Saturday at the Ambassador Center in Erie in the beautiful Crystal Ballroom! Several hundred family members and friends gathered to celebrate with this amazing couple!

Callie is from the Pittsburgh area originally, Dan from Cambridge Springs. They both met while attending Edinboro University, where Callie is now the Assistant Women's Basketball Coach. When Dan and Callie first started dating, Dan mentioned to Callie's sister, Mandie, that he was going to marry Callie someday. He must have known right away that Callie was his soulmate!

After some wonderful toasts from Mandie and Dan's brother, Matt, everyone was treated to a scrumptious meal prepared by the staff. Following Callie and Dan's First Dance, the dance floor ERUPTED, filling instantly with the first note of the first song! Such an amazing celebration!
Callie and Dan...thank you so much! Such an honor to be a part of your wedding reception!

It's always a pleasure to be a part of a wedding day dream team! Thanks again to Jodie Farbotnik from Ever After Images, Jerry and Tammy Ricci from Rememory Video and Valarie Miner-Moore from the Ambassador Center! True professionals in every way!

7.3.10 - Meadville Country Club - Meadville, PA

2010-07-05T09:36:00.006-04:00

On holiday weekends like the Fourth of July, it's very traditional to gather with family and friends to celebrate! When you gather everyone from all over the country for a wedding reception on a holiday weekend, it makes it so much more memorable and of course FUN!

For Colorado residents Ali and Jeremy, the Meadville Country Club was the setting as loved ones gathered to celebrate their wedding day! The reason Meadville was selected was because it seemed the most centralized location for everyone to travel to. In fact, Ali and Jeremy were married on Saturday in the same church that Ali's parents had been married in! Once everyone began to arrive at The Country Club, they were greeted by staff members and enjoyed delicious hors d'oevres. Ali and Jeremy and I had consulted over the last year, and because of the amount of people traveling from all over, had worked out a timeline that included several toasts from family members at the head table, as well as the fathers of the bride and groom. I always pride myself on the flexibility to manage any timeline with ease.

It was evident once the dance floor officially opened that people came to dance and celebrate! Love songs, current top 40 and country and what I call the wedding classics, like, yes, the Chicken Dance, kept everyone smiling and dancing for hours! In fact, once the last song played, the reception had lasted close to 8 hours!! Now that's what I call a party!

The one factor that makes weddings such a pleasure and so perfect is working with true professionals, including photographer Jodie Farbotnik, videographer Greg Schlueter, as well as the very accommodating staff at the Country Club.

Ali and Jeremy...thank you for including me in your wonderful wedding day!

6.26.10 - Conewango Valley Country Club - Warren, PA

2010-06-28T09:17:00.007-04:00

Just north of the city of Warren, PA on Route 62 is the Conewango Valley Country Club. This beautiful location was the setting for the reception for Jena and Corey. Family and friends from the Warren area, Pittsburgh and other areas of the country came together for a festive celebration for a wonderful couple! The staff at the Country Club went all out with delicious hors d'oeuvres followed by delectable choices from several food stations. After dinner, Jena and Corey finished their formalities and the dance floor filled immediately with people ready to dance the night away! By 11:00pm, the party moved to the city until the wee hours of the morning!

Such a pleasure to work with some wonderful professionals on Saturday night, including the staff at the Conewango Valley Country Club and photographer Jon Elder from Jamestown, NY. Following a honeymoon in Puerto Vallerta, Jena and Corey return to their home in the Pittsburgh area.

6.19.10 - Concourse Of Union Station - Erie, PA

2010-06-20T15:20:00.005-04:00

Saturday was a simply perfect wedding day for Becky and Peter. The theme of their wedding reception at the beautiful Concourse Of Union Station in Erie was "The Perfect Blend," and that couldn't have been more appropriate for this wonderful couple!

Peter is from our area and has spent time in Pennsylvania and Indiana. Becky was born in Minnesota, has spent time there, as well as in Florida, Indiana and Pennsylvania. Ironically, Becky and Peter met at a wedding...for Becky's cousin, Sharon. Becky was immediately drawn to Peter's brown eyes. Family and friends intervened to make sure Becky and Peter spent time together that day...and the rest is history! For the better part of the last 3 years, they have endured a long distance relationship. Now that they are married, Becky and Peter are so excited to be spending the rest of their lives together...because they are the perfect blend! For the time being, they'll make their home here in Erie.

Their reception brought family and friends from the local area, as well as from other parts of the country. Peter and Becky decided to give back to all in attendance. I asked trivia questions about the happy couple, if a correct answer was given, the recipient won a coffee themed prize! Knowing that Becky and Peter were so much fun, I couldn't resist asking a few questions of them as well in the always fun 'shoe game'. The night ended perfectly too, as Becky and Peter exited amid a shower of mini beach balls inside and sparklers outside as they made their way down Peach Street to prepare for their honeymoon in Gatlinburg, TN.

Congratulations, Becky and Peter!

6.12.10 - Concourse Of Union Station - Erie, PA

2010-06-13T07:53:00.000-04:00

The weather on Saturday was sunny, hot and muggy. Perfect for a June wedding day! As family and friends arrived at the beautiful Concourse Of Union Station in Downtown Erie, excitement was in the air for the ceremony and reception for Patrice and Dave! And, the air conditioning felt so nice too!

The happy couple were first introduced by a mutual friend, Denny. He knew all along that Patrice and Dave were perfect for each other! And, he was definitely right! After a first date at Ribfest in 2008, Patrice and Dave grew closer as their friendship grew. Right before Christmas last year, after a wonderful dinner at Under The Clock, Dave proposed to Patrice, literally, under the clock!

The couple's children, Patrice's daughters and Dave's sons, were so happy to be in the bridal party and watched as two families became one during the ceremony right in front of the head table. Guests then enjoyed a scrumptious meal prepared by Marty Pituch and the staff at Concourse Of Union Station. They've never disappointed in all the years I've worked with them!

Once open dancing began, the dance floor was full all night! Was so nice to see such a wide range of music keep everyone's dancing feet busy until the conclusion of the celebration!

On a side note, the wedding photographer, Sandy Garfinkle, has some hidden musical talent! In fact, he played harmonica on several of the Indigo Girls albums. Patrice and Dave wanted to showcase their friend, as I played the song "Chickenman" from the Rites Of Passage. Sandy was humbled, and everyone formed a circle to dance to the song!

Congratulations again to a wonderful couple, Patrice and Dave!

6.5.10 - Sheraton Erie Bayfront

2010-06-06T23:51:00.000-04:00

For the 2nd week in a row, I had the pleasure of being the entertainment for a wedding reception at the beautiful Sheraton Erie Bayfront. Family and friends from Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and all over New England gathered to celebrate Brianna and Dan's big day! And, did they ever celebrate!

Brianna and Dan met at a housewarming party in Massachusetts. After a few months of building their friendship, they had their first date, enjoying a wonderful seafood dinner. 13 months later, Dan asked Brianna for her hand in marriage. They are both so easy going, yet full of so much fun! Since I myself have family in New England, it was nice to talk with Brianna's family and friends about a truly beautiful part of the country!

When it came time to dance, it was Erie on one side, Massachusetts on the other side of the room. From the first note of the first song, everyone headed straight for the dance floor. New friendships were born and everyone had a truly amazing time, including me!

6.4.10 - Riverside Inn - Cambridge Springs, PA

2010-06-05T10:59:00.000-04:00

Emma and Randall's story is one of love, commitment and true devotion. Yesterday, I had the pleasure and honor to be a part of their ceremony and reception at the historic Riverside Inn in Cambridge Springs. The garden ceremony was finishing up just as the raindrops began to fall. Prior to the start, Randall was so eager to see his beautiful bride in her gorgeous gown. They both were full of emotion, with a sand ceremony just before being announced as husband and wife.

Emma and Randall first met while attending the same high school. Their love for each other was so strong that Randall proposed to Emma at her high school graduation party. He plays the guitar and wrote and sang a song to her. At the end of that summer, Emma was off to college, Randall joined the United States Air Force. Over time, their relationship grew stronger, especially since Emma and Randall have had to deal with 6 hour time differences (he is stationed in Germany) and a deployment to Iraq. They've traveled to Texas, South Carolina, Las Vegas and Germany together. And, now they are traveling with world as husband and wife!

Congratulations again, Emma and Randall!

5.29.10 - Sheraton Erie Bayfront

2010-05-30T09:49:00.000-04:00

One of the first things I noticed when I first met Angie and Matthew was how charming they were. At their wedding reception last night, some of the comments I heard were how charming they were. Guess I hit the nail on the head!

Angie was born and raised in Erie, Matthew was born and raised in the UK. This amazing couple met in Texas a few years back when employment had taken each of them at different times to the Lone Star State. They met in a bar, though their intial meeting was a bit rocky. Angie was asking Matthew what team he was routing for in a game that was on TV at that moment. She didn't quite understand his answers, later discovering he was from the UK. It didn't take long for their first date, and as they say, the rest is history!

Family and friends from the Erie area, all over the U.S. and the UK gathered at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront for the reception last night! The weather was perfect, and everyone from the moment of the formal introductions was ready to celebrate! The reception had a 'travel theme' since Angie and Matthew have traveled so much because of work. Everyone enjoyed some of Angie's favorite Broadway show tunes for dinner, and later, some of the couple's favorite dance songs filled the dance floor all night! The happy couple is making their home in the great state of Texas!

Jody and Thomas and the staff at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront are always a pleasure to work with, and it was so nice to work with Aleks and Agnes from Aleksander Photography for the 2nd week in a row!

5.22.10 - Lake Shore Country Club - Erie, PA

2010-05-24T13:44:00.000-04:00

Saturday was an amazing day as Erin and Matt became husband and wife. I knew when I met this charming couple a few months back that their wedding celebration would be full of fun! Family and friends, both local and from all over the country, gathered to enjoy this wonderful occasion! After enjoying savory hors d'oeuvres and a delicious meal prepared by the staff of Lake Shore Country Club, everyone made their way to the dance floor, movin' and groovin' to 80's classics, sprinkled in with favorites of the 60's, 70's, 90's and today!

Thanks again to Erin's parents, Marge and Bud, Matt's Mom, Rosemary, Matt's brothers, Erin's brother and lots of friends, I was honored to be a part of this wedding celebration. Erin and Matt are enjoying their honeymoon this week, and are making plans to return back to Chicago in early June, this time as a happily married couple! Congratulations again!

5.15.10 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa

2010-05-16T16:02:00.000-04:00

When I first met Jody and Matt to talk about their wedding plans, it became obvious on an instant how perfect they are for each other. Over the years, they had many mutual friends, and mutual interests in music. It was their love of music that brought them to the Great Blue Heron Music Festival and a friendship was born. Keeping in mind since that occurred 10 years ago, Jody and Matt truly are lifelong friends and partners.

The buzz in the air at their reception last night was electric! So much love, so much laughter from the moment of their wedding ceremony to the last dance of the night! A full dance floor all night, full of love and full of fun! A wide music variety that touched everyone in a special way!

Jody and Matt, thank you! It was a pleasure and honor to be a part of your magical wedding celebration!

5.14.10 - Avalon Hotel - Erie, PA

2010-05-15T01:12:00.001-04:00

The beautiful Niagara Room at the Avalon Hotel was the location for the reception for Jennifer and Jack. The weather on Friday was absolutely perfect for a wedding day, and everyone in attendance had such a wonderful time celebrating with the happy couple! After a customized introduction, including the 'Batman' theme for Jennifer and Jack, since Jack IS the world's biggest Batman fan, they mingled with famly and friends, before cutting into the beautiful wedding cake from Linda Austin. The staff at the Avalon Hotel didn't disappoint as usual, with a delicious buffet and superior service!

Jennifer and Jack are truly perfect for each other, after being introduced a couple years back by a mutual friend. They both have a dry wit, and compliment each other so nicely! The newly married couple heads south to Disney World for their honeymoon later today, and some time to soak in the sunshine, relax, and enjoy the first couple days of their long, happy life together!

5.8.10 - Pittsburgh Airport Marriott

2010-05-10T12:55:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, had the honor and opportunity to be a part of Terra and Rick's Pittsburgh wedding at the Airport Marriott. I first met this amazing couple back in 2005, when I was the DJ entertainment at the wedding for Terra's sister and brother-in-law, Tyffanie and Eric. For Terra and Rick to remember me all these years and to select me as THEIR wedding entertainment, I am humbled and honored!

In meeting with Terra and Rick, I customized many aspects of their reception to their tastes. From the family and bridal party introductions to the cocktail and dinner music, the evening reflected their favorites sprinkled with lots of excited family and bridal party members during the introductions! Terra and Rick also chose the monogrammed intitials projected on the dance floor during the cocktail hour and first dance. You can see their first dance here. It really is a nice enhancement.

After Terra's Dad, Al, gave the prayer for the meal, those in attendance were treated to several delicious meal courses served by the Marriott staff. Between the 1st and 2nd course, Terra's sister, Tyffanie, and Rick's Best Man, Charlie, gave amazing toasts to the couple of the day.

The energy on the dance floor the entire night was in the stratosphere!! So much fun, so many wonderful people dancing the night away! THEN, a wonderful surprise for Terra and Rick. Thanks to help from my DJ assistant, Dennis, the bridal party members were secretly asked to step outside the ballroom where their well wishes were recorded. I then played back their greetings and wishes about an hour later with some beautiful background music. Needless to say, it was an emotion filled couple of minutes as the love of family and friends was shared with everyone.

I must say, the staff at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott is so accommodating and such a pleasure to work with. Thanks to Jeannie and staff for their assistance!

5.7.10 - Erie Maennerchor Club

2010-05-10T12:24:00.000-04:00

The beautiful Erie Maennerchor Club was the location for the Wedding Ceremony and Reception for Gina and Roy. Introduced to each other by mutual friends Heather and Ryan, Gina and Roy's personalties match each other so well, and anyone who is in their presence can't help but laugh and smile!

After the ceremony was performed by Judge Ernest DeSantis, the staff at the Erie Maennerchor Club served delicious appetizers. This gave wedding photographer Fallon Hovis an opportunity to take Gina and Roy a couple blocks away for some amazing outdoor photographs! Once the bride and groom returned, and following customized introductions, Gina and Roy had their first dance and cake cutting, followed by a scrumptious meal for everyone.

The dance floor filled on the first song, as Gina and Roy were surrounded by family and friends, and everyone had an amazing time. At this point, Gina and Roy are probably enjoying their honeymoon in the sunny, hot weather at Disney World!

4.24.10 - Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa

2010-04-25T09:38:00.000-04:00

The beautiful Retreat at Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa was the setting for Ingrid and Sam's Wedding Ceremony & Reception. The initial plan was to have the Ceremony take place on the deck, with the Reception inside. Though the sun made the day beautiful, a cool breeze moved the Ceremony inside.

Ingrid was absolutely beautiful, Sam looking handsome, and the both of them couldn't stop smiling as about 100 in attendance watched as Ingrid became Mrs. Sam Healy. The cocktail and dinner hours were filled with some of the couple of the day's favorite songs and artists. Once the cake cutting and first dance were complete, the dance floor filled with family and friends, all having a great time! The evening capped off on the dance floor with a rousing sing along to Billy Joel's classic, "Piano Man."

Congratulations to Ingrid and Sam! Looking forward to seeing the both of them again in August, when I'll be a part of the Wedding day for Ingrid's sister, Amanda, and her fiance, Ryan at Holiday Valley!

4.24.10 - Peek'n Peak Bridal Open House

2010-04-24T07:17:00.000-04:00

Sunday, April 25th from 1-5pm, the beautiful Peek'n Peak Resort & Spa in Southwestern, NY will be the setting as hundreds of Brides-To-Be, family and friends see exactly why the 'Peek' will be the PERFECT location for their perfect day! Wedding Specialist Kim Kantola has assembled the 'best of the best'...24 of Peek'n Peak's preferred Wedding vendors to assist brides who are seeking DJ entertainment, Photographers and more for their Wedding day!

Erie Wedding DJ John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment is honored and pleased to have been personally asked by Kim to be a part of the Peek's Bridal Open House. Look for me in the beautiful RETREAT between 1-5pm. I'll be there to personally answer questions, and to walk Brides and their guests through the Ceremony and Reception process!

4.14.10 - Breast Cancer Blogging Event

2010-04-13T10:53:00.000-04:00

Today, John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment and hundreds of other bloggers are participating in a HUGE Breast Cancer Blogging Event! We are encouraging you, our readers, to take a moment out of your day and donate $5 or $10 to Jacqueline Reitz, a Breast Cancer 3 Day walker. Jackie is a fellow blogger based out of Dallas, and she's on the 3day team "Betties for Boobies". While the original hope was to include over 300 blogs, only time will tell how many have participated, so be sure to check out the www.bettiesforboobies.com blog for more information.

If just ONE of the readers from each of the 300 blogs takes a moment and donates $10, that will raise over $3,000.00 in the fight against Breast Cancer. AMAZING! So help all of us out. Let's make this a tremendous success! Head on over to Jackie's fund raising page at http://www.the3day.org/goto/jackier and send her some donation love! Best of all, it's totally tax deductible! Totals will be posted on the team's blog tomorrow...You'll be able to see what an impact we were all able to make!

4.4.10 - Maid Or Matron Of Honor Toast

2010-04-04T13:30:00.000-04:00

Back in February, I blogged about the Best Man's speech or toast. A growing trend, and equally as important, is a Maid or Matron Of Honor's toast or speech. The person chosen by the bride to be her Maid or Matron Of Honor is usually someone who has held a close relationship as a friend and confidante for quite some time. Many times, a sister of the bride is chosen for this important role.

Probably, an important question is how to begin the toast. Begin by sharing experiences, such as how she and the bride first met. If the relationship goes back to childhood, briefly talk about it. There's certainly nothing wrong with interjecting humor, as long as it's done in a tasteful manner. Say how perfect the bride and groom are together. If a Matron, give light marriage advice. Either way, wish the bride and groom good health, happiness and good fortune.

The toast or speech should only last a few minutes. Write the speech out ahead of time. Touch on the important points in a timely fashion. Above all, don't be nervous! Share the toast in a conversational and natural manner.

3.27.10 - 60th Birthday Party - North East, PA

2010-03-29T22:23:00.000-04:00

The American Legion in North East was the setting for a milestone birthday party for Dorothy, her family and friends! In getting to know the birthday lady, she told me, over the years, she's had over a hundred foster children be a part of her family. They all love her as their Grandmother!

After a slide show put together by Dorothy's daughter, Christina, everyone enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by the staff at the Legion. During the dinner hour, I played several selections from Elvis Presley, since he has always been one of Dorothy's favorites, mixed with some of her favorite country songs. After the cutting of the cupcake cake, which was delicious by the way, it was time to dance!! It was so nice to see the dance floor packed all night!

Happy Birthday again, Dorothy! It was a pleasure to celebrate with all of you!

3.13.09 - Sweet 16 Party - Meadville, PA

2010-03-14T19:48:00.000-04:00

West Mead #1 in Meadville was the site for Brooke's Sweet 16 Party, as Brooke, family and plenty of friends gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion! Not only did everyone dance to the hottest hits, I customized a DigiGames trivia game with questions about Brooke! Everything from her favorite recording artist, favorite number to the city and state where she was born. Birthday celebrations are just one event where DigiGames gets guests involved and having fun!
Happy Birthday again, Brooke! It was a pleasure and honor to be a part of your celebration!

3.9.10 - The History Of The Wedding Cake

2010-03-09T20:52:00.000-05:00

Over time, the design of the traditional wedding cake has varied greatly. Believe it or not, it was once a sign of fertility, as the wedding cake of the Roman Empire was made of wheat or barley. It was a small cake, broken over the bride's head, to celebrate her fertility. Thank goodness that's not a tradition any more!

The design evolved to to pile several small cakes on top of each other. The bride and groom would then attempt to kiss over the top of the cakes without knocking them down. A successful kiss was a good omen, bringing a lifetime of prosperity to the new couple.

Wedding cakes, as we known them today, first appeared in the 1660's. A French Chef visiting London happened to attend a cake piling ceremony and was shocked at the way the cakes were stacked on top of each other, and how often they fell over, so he created the tiered iced style of wedding cake we know and love today!

You may think wedding cake is simply just a desert at your reception. It's much more than that...it's a symbol of good fortune and married bliss. Your guests always enjoy admiring the wedding cake and eating the cake too. All in all, select a cake that fits your style, your budget and one that everyone will admire and enjoy tasting too!

2.27.10 - Moon Brook Country Club - Jamestown, NY

2010-02-28T15:25:00.001-05:00

God has truly blessed Lissa and Jay! Their family and friends gathered at Moon Brook Country Club to celebrate the love this special couple shares. Some beautiful toasts kicked off the evening, followed by a delicious dinner prepared by the staff. Following a few of the formal dances, the dance floor erupted and was packed all night long! Makes me feel so honored to be a part of such special and FUN wedding receptions like this!

And, a tip of the hat to Frank Vassallo and his staff at Moon Brook. Chautauqua County is very lucky to have such a first class facility that really caters to those who have their celebrations there!

2.17.10 - The Perfect Best Man's Speech

2010-02-17T14:39:00.000-05:00

The toast by the Best Man at a Wedding Reception is not only tradition, but it's a very important element of the day. Being chosen as a Best Man is not only an honor, but a very important responsibility. The speech or toast you'll give is one that will be remembered for a long time. How do you make it absolutely perfect?

Obviously, you'll be wishing the Bride and Groom the very best in their future together, but additionally sharing towards the audience the pleased periods, crazy adventures, and how your friendship has stayed powerful all through the years. It can be undoubtedly going to be embarrassing if you are unable to write a great speech at the reception as the Best Man, which means you don't wish to speak and be unprepared.

A perfect suggestion that wedding experts recommend is to always to exercise writing. A great idea is to visit websites and peruse articles on how one must begin and end a Best Man speech. For example, the perfect opening for a best man's speech will be a simple, fascinating, and needless to say respectful opening remarks regarding the Bride and Groom. No need to be nervous, just speak from the heart!

2.7.10 - Choosing Your Bridesmaids And Groomsmen

2010-02-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

In all my years as a wedding entertainer, one question I've asked Brides and Grooms as we plan the entertainment for their wedding day, is for them to describe the personalities of their bridal party. Obviously, choosing your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen can be a daunting task. Your wedding day is the most special day of your life and you want to be sure to share it with the people that are important in your lives and mean the most to the both of you. Once the excitement of the engagement has subsided, it’s time to give thought to who you intend on having in your wedding party. This is a decision that you, as a couple, should make together. Not only do you want to select the people that mean the most, but that will do a great job in their special roles within the bridal party.

Most brides and grooms look at their close family and friends to determine who will make up their wedding party. As you work to select your bridesmaids and groomsmen, think of the people that are the most meaningful within each of your lives. Think of those people that have been there for you and who you love and care for. Being in the bridal party is a position of honor and you want to be sure that those which you select are some of the most special in your life. Your wedding is a big day and you certainly want to be surrounded by the people that mean the most to you and have them standing next to you as you become a married couple.

Equally as important as selecting people that you hold close to you is the responsibility that comes along with it. Not only is there a financial aspect to being a bridesmaid or groomsman in a wedding, but there is also some responsibility to it as well. This place of honor not only means certain responsibilities on the big day, but there are also things that they will likely be involved with along the way. Throwing showers, engagement parties, and bachelor or bachelorette parties is also something that the bridal party usually gets involved with. It’s not to say that you can’t involve younger members or those out of town, but consider everything as you make your selections. Once you decide who the special people are that will be your chosen bridesmaids and groomsmen, be sure to ask them in a special and meaningful way. This is a big part of your wedding day and be sure to get them as excited about their role as you are!

1.26.10 - Choosing A Wedding Officiant

2010-01-26T12:18:00.000-05:00

Choosing an officiant who will play a crucial part of your wedding day is very important. Their role is also very important in the days and months leading up to the ceremony. If any of your friends have recently been married by a wedding officiant, you could ask for their recommendations, otherwise, you will need to pick up that phone and make an appointment for an interview.

The interview doesn't mean you have to select that particular officiant. The first thing you need to know about the civil officiant you are talking to is not what they charge, but rather, do they click with you. If you feel that the officiant is not a good fit with you and your ethics, then don’t hesitate to choose someone else. This is going to be your day and you don’t want anything or anyone to spoil it.

Part of the selection process does consist of price and features, of course. You need to find out just what is included for the price they charge. For instance, you may need to have chairs, a sound system and lectern supplied. And while some couples know exactly what they want to say, others may need help in knowing what is appropriate and need suggestions for such things as poetry or music.

Best wishes on your wedding day! And, remember, choosing an officiant is a key part of the day!

1.19.10 - Bride's Award 2010 Winner!

2010-01-19T21:36:00.000-05:00

It's not very often I feel several emotions combined at one time. Opening up an email today from Wedding Wire, I felt surprised, honored, gratified, along with a degree of accomplishment all at once. There it was...this banner proclaiming me a 2010 Bride's Award Winner! I certainly don't take the receipt of this award lightly. It shows that you, my former clients, appreciate and recognize the hard work and commitment I put into each and every wedding celebration!

The Bride's Choice Awards™ 2010 recognizes the top 5 percent of wedding professionals from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service and professionalism. The awards are determined exclusively by recent newlyweds (brides and grooms) through extensive surveys and reviews, which means past clients have spoken and selected John Gallagher Mobile DJ Entertainment to receive this honor.

From the bottom of my heart, I am eternally grateful to each and every one of you!

1.17.10 - Star 104 Bridal Showcase and Expo - Erie, PA

2010-01-18T10:50:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, had the pleasure of being a part of the Star 104 Bridal Showcase and Expo at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie. Over 500 pre-registered Brides-To-Be and their guests had a chance to visit with many diverse wedding vendors. I had a chance to meet with so many, answering all of their questions regarding Erie Wedding DJ entertainment.

Christine, from Bridal Elegance, seems to always creatively capture the attention of the audience in putting together an amazing fashion show! The one thing I immediately noticed was the variation in color, not only in the Bridesmaid dresses, but also the tux wear.

Brides...I'm so excited about your wedding day! Contact me soon so we can chat about your big day and create some ideas together as a team to make YOUR reception THE party of the year!