Addie & Tyler at Sierra Water Gardens and Whitney Peak with the Hytch, Ashleigh Marie Photography, Twist Flowers, and Delicious Designs

First wedding of the season. First wedding back since COVID. I thought I'd be a little rusty. I thought wrong. One of my favorite weddings and receptions ever (out of over 800). What a couple! What a crowd! What a fantastic group of wedding professionals. What a night!

I worked with the bride Addie on a prior wedding at Sierra Water Gardens, and I was so impressed by her professionalism and demeanor during that event. She doesn't let things fluster her and her professionalism blends seamlessly with her genuine empathy with her clients and their guests, like she was doing a wedding for a member of her family, not just another client. That really stuck with me. I also try to go above and beyond like I would if it were my own family or best friend's wedding. I really enjoyed working with her and before the wedding was over she asked if I'd be available to do her upcoming wedding and celebration. That really meant a lot, coming from her, and I immediately said that I'd be honored to be a part of her & Tyler's Big Day.

I met Tyler later, at a planning meeting and you could see the love he has for Addie just in the way he looks at her. He left the majority of the conversation to she and I, knowing that we deal with these decisions daily, but he had some definite ideas for the vision and sound of the day and evening and I had this feeling that he'd be on the dance floor all night, and I was right :)

Sierra Water Gardens is tucked between some condos and commercial buildings on Dickerson west of downtown Reno, and it truly is the oasis of the city. The gardens make you think you are in the tropics and a path meanders down to the Truckee River. It is magical and Yeliz and her crew are so helpful and love sharing the Gardens with their guests. Yeliz from Hytch is a consummate event professional. She is always so in tune to what is going on, communicative with all the various professionals and bridal party members, and a fantastic hostess at Sierra Water Gardens. Always an exceptional experience there! Twist Flowers had created beautiful arrangements for the Garden and the accent on the arch was just perfect. I set up on a small deck overlooking the chairs full of guests and played a beautiful instrumental of Alan Jackson's "Remember When" for the bridal party. And when it was time for Addie to come down the aisle, I played "Turning Page" by Sleeping at Last. Two things struck me the most. First the look of utter determination on the little flower girl's face as she made sure to evenly distribute petals prior to Addie's walk... she was taking her job so seriously! But even more perfect was the reaction of Tyler when he saw Addie coming towards him. There is nothing like it in the world- I still remember like it was yesterday when my wife appeared with her dad. I am so glad that, with the love they share, he'll have that moment ingrained in his memory forever like I do.

Their friend and officiant Justin did a great job and Tyler and Addie had some sweet and fun vows. I also liked that Addie and Emma recited a family prayer that was special to them. Indeed, as you walked into Sierra Water Gardens, pictures of relatives who were not able to be there, who had passed on, welcomed you to their special Day. You felt their presence and love throughout the day and evening.

The newlyweds exited the ceremony to Eli Young Band's "Crazy Girl" and lots of bubbles powered by their happy guests. Most of us who didn't rate pictures made our way to the reception while family and the bridal party stayed with Ashleigh Marie for photos in that beautiful garden (I saw some of her photos at the reception- stunning! She captures her couple in a way truly befitting them and the Garden...).

Whitney Peak is a great space and it was decorated so beautifully for the evening. The people there from the wait staff to the coordinators to the bartenders are top-notch. Addie & Tyler had lots of special touches that made the night and the space their own.

Cocktails were held in an anteroom right outside the ballroom, and when it was nearing dinnertime the walls were folded away and the guests found their seats inside. I loved that Yeliz, though she was at this point officially a guest, got up and helped to organize the bridal party for their Grand Entrance. She is such a great coordinator and friend to Addie and I welcomed the help- I told her I wished she could be a guest at all of my events lol. Soon the bridal party and then Tyler & Addie entered to Panic at the Disco's "The Greatest Show" which was perfect for the moment. The newlyweds then welcomed and thanked their guests for being there for them that night, and throughout their lives. Everyone then sat down to plated salads while a buffet line opened up in another corner of the ballroom space. 

Toasts were led off by Addie's sister and Maid of Honor Emma, who really set the tone with a fantastic toast that culminated in the lights being turned down and "Rewrite the Stars" being played. Such a special moment! The Best Man Tyler then gave a great toast with some insight into the groom followed by their moms Karen, and then Ann (who sang some new lyrics to a favorite song of theirs) and finally Addie's dad Kevin finished off the official toasts with a heartfelt welcome to Tyler into the family and a touching tribute to his daughter. Not a dry eye on the third floor!

I then welcomed Addie & Tyler onto the dance floor and played their song, "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran and Beyonce. Sometimes you get a couple that is ready to move on after a couple of minutes or seem a bit wooden- not these lovebirds! They soaked up the moment and each other like the world disappeared  around them and they were alone in their own world. To see that love manifested between them during their first dance as husband and wife reaffirmed the reason why I love my job so much. It brought me back to my own first dance with my wife so many years ago, and made me so grateful to have her, to have love, and to be able to witness Addie & Tyler's moment when time stopped for them like it did for us. Did I mention that I love what I do?

Addie then danced with her dad Kevin to Tim McGraw's "My Little Girl" and then Tyler with his mom Karen to Kenny Chesney's "Don't Blink" and then the open dancing started. What an enthusiastic crowd! I played a huge variety of songs and maybe thirty requests and each one seemed better than the last. I love when the bride and groom love to dance, and this night was no exception. Tyler especially lived up to my early prediction- he must have requested 8-10 songs himself and each time he was right in the middle of all the action. So many great moments out on the floor- it was a DJ's dream come true.

We only stopped the dancing a couple of times. The first was to cut their gorgeous cake to the accompaniment of Flo Rida's "Cake" (of course!). Tyler got the worst of the cake exchange (see Ashleigh Marie perfectly capture that moment on her social media) and then guests dived into the cake and cupcakes from Delicious Designs and glazed donuts from Krispy Kreme. The absolute best of both worlds!

Later we briefly stopped the dancing again for the tosses. Addie tossed her beautiful bouquet to "Where Them Girls At" by David Guetta. I have to say, the flowers were exceptional- they seemed to frame the decor and Addie's amazing dress so well. I was very impressed with Twist Flowers. They bridged the wild beauty of Sierra Water Gardens with the soft elegance of the room at Whitney Peak seamlessly and beautifully. Probably not an easy thing to do but just gorgeous!

They danced the rest of the night away without any care. I was so happy to be doing what I love best: spinning tunes that keep the floor full and everyone happy. But I probably could have played Gregorian chants or polkas all night and this crowd would have still rocked them lol. They were so happy to be celebrating with their friends and loved ones, and oh so happy for Tyler & Addie.

Tyler & Addie picked a last dance, "Can't Stop This Feeling" by Justin Timberlake to end their epic night. Everyone, I mean everyone got up and joined them. They danced in the middle of a circle of their family and friends and then everyone got one last chance to get in the middle and show off their moves.  

Thanks to all the people that went so far and above for a bride who does the same: Yeliz from Hytch and Sierra Water Gardens- you truly rock!  Ashleigh Marie- so freaking talented and so fun to work with! Delicious Designs, Whitney Peak, and Twist Flowers- you all are at the top tier of your respective professions. And finally Addie & Tyler. You really knocked it out of the park! I enjoyed your friends and family so much, and I was truly honored to be a small part of an utterly fantastic day and evening. Here's to you two: congratulations and may you have lots of love, laughter and music for the rest of your lives. Oh, and lots of tee times ;)

Rebecca & Jeff at Model Farm Event Center

Traveling north on Pyramid Highway beyond Spanish Springs you quickly leave suburbia behind as the horizon opens up before you, and the possibility of seeing a wild horse, burro or even an antelope grows exponentially (especially passing the BLM Wild Horse Facility lol). Taking a narrow county road turnoff through alfalfa fields and grazing cattle you drive through a browning landscape for four or five miles until an oasis of greenery appears off to your right and as you approach you see a mixture of barns, outbuildings and gardens that lets you know you have arrived at the ceremony and reception spot, the Model Farm Event Center.

Rebecca and Jeff knew the place through a loved one who lives nearby, and decided that it would be the perfect spot to tie the knot and to celebrate their love with their friends and family... and they were  absolutely right. I've been to many venues that share certain aspects of the Model Farm Event Center, but none of them are as consistently charming or as filled with wildlife as Model Farm. A farmhouse converted from a barn centers the property. Decks and patios spill into gardens and pathways where flowers bloom and fountains bubble. Arches and trellises point you in different directions to explore. Century-old cottonwoods encircle a large pond/small lake that boasts a bridge, row and pedal boats. Fish and frogs entrance the little guests, while ducks, mergansers, and geese glide on top. Bird feeders attract song and blackbirds while swallows nest and dart under the bridge. The ceremony site overlooks the water, and across the way there is a large nest featuring some owlets just about ready to fly. Add in a steady supply of puppies (several litters worth) that the kids and bridesmaids seemed to be all holding, and you have an animal refuge inside a garden inside a magnificent valley. What a unique place for a celebration!

The weather cooperated nicely- distant thundershowers could be seen to the south- but they never intruded on Jeff and Rebecca's big day. Fabulous welcoming cocktails and Fat Tire on tap kept the arriving guests hydrated and happy as they found their seats. The bridal party walked down to Jurassic Five's Canon in D, followed by Rebecca and her dad Roger accompanied by John Legend's "All of Me". Ricki, Rebecca's sister-in-law then presided over the ceremony with panache was well as heart. My favorite part was her describing the art of compromise through a fantastic Monty Python analogy ("and the counting shall be three"). Brilliant!  Soon the newly married couple was exiting to the Ghostbusters theme and cocktail hour commenced.

The guests loved exploring the grounds of the Model Farm. Some went to look for the owlets. Others found secret spots or pedaled on the pond. There are quaint, homey details everywhere, and lots of spots to lounge or gather or explore together. The care of the owner Julie and her staff is apparent everywhere you look, and they are in the background making sure everything goes smoothly.

Picture-wise, this place must be a photographer's dream. The gardens and pond are one thing, but there are farm implements, colorful outbuildings, an old work truck, and even an Airstream that can be used as a dressing area or lodging. My favorite spot that I saw used for photos was the bridge that spans the narrow side of the pond. Not only the wedding party, but many guests had their picture taken there. When the pictures were all taken, appetizers eaten and cocktails imbibed, we moved the whole shindig across the property to the barn, which had been decked out fantastically and after a Grand Entrance featuring "Space Jam" (that's just how Jeff & Becca roll!) a delicious Famous Dave's buffet dinner was enjoyed by all.

Very heartfelt and well-thought out toasts followed and then a fabulous cake was cut and cake, cupcakes, and a very well-stocked candy bar was enjoyed by all. We all sang to two guests who were celebrating their birthdays at Becca & Jeff's wedding, and then the newlyweds had their first dance, "Die a Happy Man" by Thomas Rhett. Roger then danced with his daughter to "Return to Pooh Corner" by Kenny Loggins and Margie danced with her son Jeff to "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts.

Dancing ensued and did not stop except for a pause during a couple of tosses (bouquet & garter). What a freaking fun crowd! Eighties and Nineties music was huge... some newer stuff and Motown also kept the dance floor hopping. I even got on the floor for a couple of my favorite songs which were requested by this super-fun crowd. A group like this is what a DJ lives for :)

Thanks to Julie and her fantastic Farm! What a great new venue! Thanks to Ricki for her fine work and friendly words during the ceremony and afterwards. Thanks to Roger and all the family and friends who worked so hard getting the all the decorations and details so perfect. Thanks to Famous Dave's for not only great food but great service. And finally, thanks to Jeff and Rebecca for entrusting the music and emceeing to me for their Big Day. You two are the best! Congrats!

Prom!

King & Queen!

Until recently, I hadn't done a high school prom in over 25 years. Not that I have anything against them, but it usually involves lighting and trusses that I just don't usually use. I helped out a friend a few years back and they probably had $30,000 worth of lights, monitors, trussing etcetera that would be overkill at my usual weddings and corporate functions. They even had a videographer and video tech for live streaming. Very cool, but four people (five with me) and a full day's worth of setup is a bit beyond my mission statement. Not that I don't have the sound mind you- I do regular parties each year for 1200+ people and my speaker setup rocks, but I just thought I'd stick with what I excel at: weddings and company parties.

But when my daughter's high school recently asked if I'd consider deejaying their prom, I said yes.  Why, you may ask? I'll tell you my reasoning...

First, their deejay last year, in their words "just plain sucked".  It's a small school, so their budget wasn't enormous, but come on!

Second, my daughter was attending as a junior. I wanted it to be a phenomenal experience for her, and a huge plus: she could help me spin tunes and make announcements :)

Finally, I had the full support of the administration and of the student committee. Having experienced a poor deejay, they wanted to make sure that this prom was perfect. I had the students pick out songs and was in constant communication with them throughout. Nothing is worse in a teenage setting than not getting their music right.

Good looking bunch!

When the day arrived, their venue, Hidden Valley Country Club was decked out far beyond what I expected to see. Dedicated teachers and students had spent all day decorating and it showed. It is a small school but they have more heart than their size would indicate.

Soon juniors and seniors began to arrive, decked out and ready to party with their classmates. Hidden Valley, doing exceptional work as always, put out a nice buffet and soon the kids were eating and getting their portraits taken and class pictures out on the veranda.

When the dancing began in earnest, it really never stopped. I love this generation! They love new music, but are just as comfortable with older stuff from the 90's & 2000's and lots of other songs that have become famous just because of memes. I projected several memes on the walls, which just fired them up even more!  I mean, it's a little unreal when you play a John Denver song that my hippie 2nd Grade teacher played on his dulcimer back in the '70s and all these high schoolers know the words and sing along at the top of their lungs! Very fun crowd!  And since a third of the school is hispanic, I was able to delve deeply into a variety of latin music- everything from Banda and Cumbias to contemporary stuff. A big shout out to Felipe Leon for educating me in a lot of the songs that were requested and played. He is the premier Latin DJ in Northern Nevada and a helluva DJ for us jueros as well ;)

My daughter Rickrolling her class!

It was great seeing my daughter take control, making announcements and reading the crowd. But I spun the majority of the music so she could be out on the floor dancing with her classmates and friends. When the King & Queen were announced, they "Danced on a Cloud" like my brides and grooms do for their first dance. And while my lighting might not be enough for 1000-person proms at the Convention Center, it filled Hidden Valley and then some.

Moral of the story: don't be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone. I went out of mine, had an absolute blast, and they said it was the best prom the school had ever had. Can't wait for next year!

My Top 5 Love Songs on this Valentine's Day

As this day dedicated to love winds down, I was thinking about love songs that make my heart skip a beat. As a DJ who has been collecting music for over 40 years and who probably owns 10,000+ slow songs these are my favorite top five:

#5  “Love’s Holiday” by Earth, Wind & Fire

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW8Or4BPDQo

This album was the first I ever purchased with my own money back in ’77. As a middle-schooler the musical intricacies were immediately apparent, but it took a few years for experience and true love to fill in the blanks of the lyrics. Maurice White’s voice is at its finest and his brother Verdine drives it all with a fantastic bassline. Add Phillip Bailey’s background punctuations and an almost deliberate spacing that mimics a sweet natural… ahem… rhythm, and it is a song that evokes intimacy at its finest level.

#4  “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c

I have versions by George Jones and by David Allan Coe, but they both are eclipsed by countless other love songs, but then Chris Stapleton put out his cover and I was immediately enthralled. It’s the perfect late-night, headed-home-shortly-to-make-love song and it always packs my dance floors and cuts through genres and people’s predispositions. Stapleton slows the song down by at least half, making it easy to dance to, giving it time to develop, and giving the dancers time to ignite or reignite. It’s the best newer slow song in a long time in my humble opinion…

#3  “South City Midnight Lady” by the Doobie Brothers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxfKYhvgDPI

This was a minor hit in the early ‘70s but it appeals to me on a deeply spiritual and cerebral level that is completely different but just as satisfying as the previous two songs. While Stapleton evokes the anticipation of making love, and EW&F the act itself, this song is a celebration of that feeling of being happy to be alive and in love. It’s a summation of an entire relationship and fulfillment that only comes with maturity and life experience. The lyrics are simple and heartfelt and the dreamy music complements it perfectly. I love to play this song late at night, thankful for my wife and the life we have made together.

#2  “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xl7Hd2r0LOs

This is by far the most popular and commercially successful of my picks. Written by Clapton about Pattie Boyd while she was getting ready for a party, it strikes chords on so many levels. Pattie Boyd must be a special woman, as she is also the inspiration for Harrison’s “Something”, in my opinion the best slow song the Beatles ever made. Not to mention, she was also the inspiration for Clapton’s “Layla”. But this song is nothing like the raw longing on “Layla” or the grasping for the reasons of love in “Something”. No, this song is about the little things that really make up the biggest part of love. The way a woman that you love looks when doing the smallest things. The deep communication that goes beyond a just a few spoken words. The satisfaction of being in the moment, of loving someone for whom they are, and they loving you for whom you are. Still fills the dancefloor.

#1  “Sea of Love” by the Honeydrippers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BoUzzFXuVU

This comes from an EP that Robert Plant, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Nile Rodgers, and lots of great session musicians like Paul Shaffer made in the ‘80s as a tribute to their boss Ahmet Ertegun. It is a cover of a 1959 hit by Phil Phillips and it has been covered many times since, most notably by Cat Power, whose version I have played several times as a First Dance in the past few years. But more importantly to me, the Honeydrippers cover was our own First Dance back in 1987 J.

Why did we pick the Honeydrippers? It seemed to perfectly encapsulate our relationship at that moment and our hopes for the future. In the years since, it has taken us right back to that rainy March evening when, despite 150 people watching us, we were completely alone up there on the dance floor. Time stopped for three minutes. Time still stops when we dance to it now. That’s the epitome of a First Dance. Time stops. A moment is etched indelibly on your mind. And just by simply playing or hearing it again, you are right back in that moment.

I wish you and yours much love on this Valentines Day.

Lucy & Sid at The Grove at Southcreek

My first wedding of 2019 happened to be on the first day of the year, and it set the tone for what will surely be a phenomenal year of weddings!

Sid and Lucy have grown and almost-grown children. They have grandchildren. They both were doing well as successful single parents when they met and sparks flew. Sparks, heck! More like Fourth of July fireworks! I get to work with so many fantastic couples, many so very deeply in love with one another, but I think Sid and Lucy topped that parameter. When we met they were so aware of each other. It's like their consciousness exceeded themselves and included each other. There are constant touches, both conscious and unconscious. When one is across the room the other seems to know instinctively where the other is and how they are. It is so special to be a part of a celebration of two people, whom after spending perhaps half their lives apart, raising exceptional children and excelling at their professions, experience the love of their lives. They are living proof that true romance is alive and well and out there for those who seek it, no matter where you are in life.

They contacted me rather late last year. The whole thing was conceived and put together quickly- they were just going to elope, but thought better of that, and after meeting their families and friends I can see why. They wanted to share one of the happiest moments of their lives with the people they love. No better motivation than that.

They decided on The Grove at Southcreek. No better choice. Gigi and her staff are the best in Reno, maybe the best in NoNV/Tahoe, and speaking to Gigi and Ruthie prior to the event, I could tell that they looked forward to Lucy & Sid's day as much as I did. It was an intimate gathering, with the ceremony at the far side of the room, with me opposite near the roaring fireplace. The day was clear and sunny- if you didn't know the date you'd think it was 75 degrees outside instead of a crisp 30 degrees. Jen was the Grove's coordinator that day, and she and her crew did a wonderful job, as always. No finer group to work with.

Mark Frady was their officiant. Mark is an exceptional wedding professional. He loves what he does. He is devout but not zealous. He truly believes in the sacred nature of marriage and tries to imbue some of his copious wisdom to the couple standing before him, all with a friendliness and air of someone who tries not to take himself too seriously. Every time I witness a ceremony that he performs, I glean a little nugget or two that I can apply to my marriage. In other words he set a tone that was perfect for their moment. I am always happy to work with Mark.

The guys came in with Mark as "Waitin' on a Woman" by Brad Paisley played in the background. Then Lucy appeared. She was resplendent (you don't hear that word often lol) in a sleek golden dress: absolutely beautiful on her wedding day. Sid looked like he had a tear or two in the corner of his eye as she walked down the aisle accompanied by her sons. In the midst of the ceremony they recited personal vows that got everyone a little teary. I, for one, felt enormously privileged to witness this public assertion of their love, so tangible and powerful. After their vows, Mark had all of their children and their two moms stand up with them, showing the two families uniting into one. Lucy had a bouquet that split into two parts, which she presented to her and Sid's moms. So special and unique!

Soon they were kissing, Mark was introducing, and I played them down the aisle to the Beatles' "All You Need Is Love"- especially fitting, I thought.

Immediately a Bloody Mary/Mimosa Bar opened up, with specially crafted cocktails for the thirsty guests and participants, and the efficient Grove staff removed the chairs and put a brunch buffet line in its place. Sid's brother Todd then gave an invocation and shortly after that people were enjoying a fabulous Grove brunch (did I mention that their food is extraordinary?) along with their mimosas and vodka-tomato concoctions.

Bless the Broken Road

The toasts were free-form and many in number. Heartfelt. Happy. Then I started up Rascal Flatt's "Bless the Broken Road" and introduced the newlyweds fr their first dance as husband and wife. Both of them had told me that the lyrics of the song really struck a chord with their lives and their romance and while they danced, oblivious to the gazes of all us onlookers, Sid softly sang the words to Lucy and Lucy to Sid. A love is so magnificent, so powerful, and so tangible.

A family dance ("Unforgettable" by father and daughter Cole) ensued where Sid danced with his daughter and Lucy with her sons, and all the sons and daughters and mothers and fathers came out to share the song and the moment. True emotion witnessed yet again on this magical day.

Dancing ensued and it was great to see such enthusiasm in the early afternoon. I played lots of country and threw in some rock and pop here and there, everything from Cash to Strait, Lincoln Brewster to Alison Krauss, Van Morrison to Tim McGraw. An Anniversary Dance followed a fun group photo op and the celebration continued for several hours.

For their last dance I found another version of "Bless the Broken Road" on a Christian CD by Selah and Lucy and Sid had one last dance to sing to each other. Magical.

When all was said and done, hugs exchanged, personal items gathered up, I watched as Sid and Lucy approached every single person working their event- the photographer, the wait staff, bartender, kitchen staff and Jen and myself to personally thank them for helping them on their wedding day. Such a classy gesture from such a thoughtful and happy couple. What a way to kick off 2019!

Thanks to Mark Frady and Jen and all of the Grove staff for the excellent job you did! Thanks to the friends and family that made the day so special and fun. And thanks, of course, to Sid and Lucy for allowing me to be a part of their wedding and celebration. People like you make me a better DJ and reaffirm why I do what I do. All the best to you and yours and Happy New Year!

One more dance

Brett & Cameron at Silver Legacy's Grande Exposition Hall

There are weddings and there are weddings. I've been fortunate to have deejayed at nearly 900 now, and every wedding has had something special about it- about the couple, about the crowd, about the venue, about the events and moments celebrated within it. The list goes on. As a DJ privileged to witness these moments, I have many favorites but it's hard to pick, say, the top five weddings ever. Well, if I were to have to pick my top 5, Brett & Cameron's evening last weekend would easily fall into this category. That is really saying something- that is roughly the top half of one percent of all the weddings I've played at, and my brides and grooms are already a notch above so that is really saying something! What, do you ask, made Brett & Cameron's wedding so special? Everything!

First and foremost there is the happy couple. Brett is a college educator and highly organized, energetic and opinionated. Opinionated in a good way. He knew what he wanted down to the smallest detail. His vision was extensive and inclusive, and his enthusiasm would not be deterred. On our original meeting, I was just amazed at his ideas and thoughtfulness, his sense of humor, and his love for Cameron. On our next meeting, I met Cameron as well, and he seemed the perfect ying to Brett's yang. He is a peace officer and has a solidity and serious nature that is a perfect mix to Brett's impetuous energy. He lets Brett be Brett with a twinkle in his eye and an all-consuming love. His sense of humor and kindness must make him an extraordinary first responder- someone I'd want in my community. They are so natural together. I knew it would be an extraordinary night and I was so happy to be a part of it.

They chose the Silver Legacy as their venue. Most of their friends and family would be coming from Oroville, the Central Valley and the Bay Area and they wanted them to have a magical weekend, not just a magical night. They even had a couple they had met in Japan come across the Pacific to share in their day! This attitude, where they were always thinking of their family and guests, permeated their planning and manifested in so many ways that night.

The Silver Legacy is a favorite venue of mine. In a city of casinos, The Silver Legacy and their associated properties consistently rise above and beyond the norm. I am always amazed at their professionalism and their ability to make whatever their clients dream come to fruition. I've deejayed in the Silver Baron Ballrooms many times and I spin tunes for thousands in the Reno Ballroom for several large events, but I had never deejayed down in the Grande Exhibition Hall. This modern set of adjoining ballrooms can be made into a huge space for conventions and concerts, and indeed the evening before Cameron & Brett's Big Day, a Phillip Phillips concert took place there. Brett & Cameron wanted a club-like atmosphere, so they enlisted Eric, the main audio/visual guy for the Silver Legacy, to be their lighting tech that night. My mind was spinning! What fixtures would be available? Could I tap into their sound? It was a DJ's fantasy come to life!

I have a very credible set of lights and my JBLs kick butt acoustically, but Eric just smiled and said that Brett & Cameron could have the concert setup that Phillip Phillips and company used the night before. All I had to do is plug my board in and spin! Think of a top-of-the-line nightclub and multiply the lighting and sound by ten. It still gives me goosebumps! But I'm getting ahead of myself...

The evening quickly approached. I worked closely with them and we had put together music and an ambitious, spectacular timeline that would punctuate their evening perfectly. Everything they did was unique, classy, and most importantly, said "Cameron & Brett" through and through.

The guests enter...

The soon-to-be-married couple greeted and welcomed each of their guests as they came into the Hall. They would hug and talk with each guest, get a portrait photo against a backdrop with them, and then give them a gift bag that also told them which table they were assigned to. I thought this whole idea was genius. I know there are old traditions of not seeing your spouse before the Big Moment, and I respect that. I vividly remember seeing my wife when she appeared at the door of the church as I awaited her on the altar. I get it. But on the other hand, that reinforcement of their appreciation of their guests coming and sharing in their most special day just set a fantastic tone that never diminished an iota the rest of the evening. The guests would then find their tables, visit the bar, and had an opportunity to watch a slideshow of Cameron & Brett playing on a huge screen. When the last guest had been welcomed inside, the Silver Legacy began their dinner service.

Swag!

Cameron & Brett had a special menu that night: their favorite finger foods and appetizers. Their guests piled their plates with all sorts of goodies and the Silver Legacy folks had everyone through the three buffet lines in no time at all. B&C had a chance to eat some of the delicious offerings and then Eric, running his lighting boards behind me, played a cool movie trailer on the screen that featured Brett & Cameron and their upcoming adventures together (of course created by the happy couple).

When the trailer ended and the applause subsided a bit, I played "Eye of the Tiger" and introduced Cameron like he was a heavyweight champion coming into the ring "All the way from Oroville CA, weighing in at 160 lbs." etc... He ran down to the stage, illuminated by an industrial spotlight from Eric, ready to defend his championship belt and the audience responded with cheers and applause! I then faded out Survivor and brought up the Theme from Rocky and similarly introduced Brett. The crowd, already loving the spectacle, went wild!

They then grabbed microphones I had placed nearby and again welcomed and thanked their guests and family. They had planned several different entertainments and they started by calling up some of their best friends and closest family for a fun and festive game of musical chairs- Brett's team vs. Cameron's. When that was through several rows of chairs were set up on the dance floor and we gave everyone a five minute warning- the ceremony was about to begin!

Everyone took their seats and their officiant Carol Baisinger-Criddle, their officiant took the stage. I had not worked with her previously but she knocked it out of the park. Brett & Cameron had designed the ceremony to not only reflect them but also to start and end at specific times. It was a tall order, in the chaos that sometimes befalls the best-laid plans, to start and end at a specific time, but it started right on schedule. At 7:57pm, a two-minute video started playing, a humorous yet sweet prelude to what was about to happen. Again the preparation of these two! At 7:59 sharp Carol explained that while the two grooms would come down the aisle as individuals, they would leave together, unified in love.

Brett chose Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" and walked down the aisle and joined Carol up on the stage and waited for his husband-to-be to join them. Train's "Marry Me" then accompanied Cameron as he walked down the aisle, perfectly punctuating the moment. Looking around at the family and guests watching them unite up on stage, I was filled with pride and had to thank God for the opportunity to witness this ceremony. For everyone watching was aglow, looking on the two men who stood before them to profess their love and cement their bond together. It was a perfect moment. I teared up a bit, because what was on display was pure love. In the eyes of both families and all of their friends was an expression of joy that was not clouded by outdated ideas of gender or discrimination. Love is love is love and whenever I am privileged to deejay a same-sex reception it always seems bigger than the couple and the marriage- it's an acknowledgment that the world is changing for the better and that more love in the world is always better than less.

Vows...

The ceremony continued on. I became nervous. The clock was ticking and lots of words were said, and it was getting closer and closer to 8:18pm. Why the fixation on 8:18? We'll get to that in a moment, but just then Cameron took a mic and said his personal vows to Brett. All clock watching was forgotten as his funny yet poignant words encapsulated his journey with Brett and his hopes for the future. As people cheered for his words, Brett took the mic. His vows were just as fitting- he didn't pull any punches with their journey up that point and with how he felt about Cameron. Then he headed over to their sweetheart table and further punctuated his vows with props and visual aids. It was funny, sweet, unexpected, and again so unique.

Carol finished up the ceremony, pronounced them husband & husband, and then said my cue: "You may kiss the groom!" At that moment I started "Love Me Like You Do" by Ellie Gould at 3:08 into the song which perfectly framed their kiss and triumphant walk back down the aisle as a married couple. Fantastic. And I looked down at the time: 8:18. Brett and Cameron had timed it perfectly. Eric and I kinda looked at each other and nodded our heads and smiled. Perfect. It was 8-18-18, and they probably had kissed right about 18 seconds into that minute. Imagine that!  Married at 8:18 and around 18 seconds on 8-18-18.  So unbelievably awesome.

Cameron & Brett headed out to the foyer to take a moment and sign their marriage license and then I introduced them for their first dance, "Say You Won't Let Go" by Boyce Avenue, accompanied by the "Dancing on a Cloud" effect from my Nimbus. Magical. Eric had spots washes perfectly set up for their dances and everyone started to get a small taste of what dancing would look like in a few minutes :)

Mother-Son Dance

The happy couple then took the microphones and toasted everyone present and then made a special toast to their families- especially their mothers. They then invited their moms up to the dance floor and I played "You Raise Me Up" by Josh Groban as Cameron danced with his mom Stephanie and Brett with his mom Annette. After a minute or two they switched and other family members joined them dancing. It was another fabulous moment in a night filled and still to be filled with fabulous moments.  After they finished to applause and wet tear ducts, I announced that their Money Dance would soon follow. I told everyone that it would be quite different than other Money Dances that they may have experienced before :)

Indeed, the two of them had taken it upon themselves to give their guests a night they'd remember, many of those touches already in evidence. But the Money Dance should maybe have been called the "Money Dance Off" because with Beyonce playing in the background, Cameron challenged his new husband and Brett eagerly accepted. Two money jars were placed on either edge of the stage- one for each groom, and Brett lead off with some very enthusiastic lip syncing to "Formation" which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone packing the dance floor to watch. Cameron then followed with some slick moves to Drake's "In My Feelings"- the crowd went wild!

Not to be outdone, Brett followed that up with "7/11" by Beyonce and had a hundred fifty people waving their hands in the air in unison. I even saw one of the Silver Legacy ladies bussing tables with one of her hands up. So awesome! The crowd was in a frenzy by now. Then Cameron went into Apache mode as Sir-Mix-a-Lot's "Jump On It" played. (That was my favorite, but I'm Old School). It was a tight race!

The third and final round started with Brett doing a very good Bruno Mars impression to "Uptown Funk." By this time most of the audience were dancing, but everyone was jamming when Cameron's last choice, "Bring em Out" by TI came on. He was joined by Brett and everyone else and then we went into the Wobble and the dance floor never cleared from that moment onward. Brett and Cameron were on the dance floor all night long, which always makes for a fun night, and Eric behind me, on his thousands of dollars worth of video boards, used all kinds of effects, gobos and washes to create best lit dance floor I've ever been a part of, and I used to DJ clubs back in the day.

I have to give kudos to the grooms. They didn't have to go that extra mile for the lighting and sound. But they did, thinking that they wanted to have a party that would be the one that everyone always looks back on in wonderment; the one everyone compares any future reception or party to.  Brett & Cameron: mission accomplished! Eric was phenomenal. He wasn't just a bored tech. He enthusiastically worked his magic on several dozen moving heads, washes, spots and a couple of hazers. And the sound from the two concert-level arrays hanging from the ceiling was unbelievable. The lighting itself probably was worth at least $100,000 and I don't even venture to guess what the arrays cost. Fantastic. Great grooms, enthusiastic crowd, and phenomenal sound and lightshow... basically a DJ's dream.

We had some neat dancing moments. "Livin' on a Prayer" followed by "Don't Stop Believing" had everyone singing. Brett led everyone in a 10 minute Beyonce mix (his favorite artist). Latin songs were super popular- stuff like "El Za Za Za", "Suavemente" and '"Sabor a Mi", and 90's hip hop along with current hits and a wide variety of requests filled the evening. The dancing briefly stopped while they cut their cake, fittingly to "Cake" by Flo-Rida. Those Central Valley people really know how to party and midnight came and we still had a large crowd. I played a few into the morning and then everyone packed up and hit "The Row".  Party of parties, check!

I want to thank Carol Baisinger-Criddle for her great officiating and fantastic attitude. It is clear she enjoys what she does and is great at it. Thanks to the outstanding captains, waiters, and bartenders from the Silver Legacy. Top notch as always! And of course thanks to Eric. His technical knowledge and enthusiasm for his job was such a asset to an incredible night. He wanted to go above and beyond for Cameron and Brett, and he did.

Finally thanks to Cameron and Brett. Two nicer and more genuine newlyweds I can't recall. The night was all about you two, and you worked hard to make it just as much about your guests and family. So unselfish, yet still you were the stars of the evening. Shining stars at that. Thanks so much for letting me be a part of your celebration! I'll remember it for as long as I live. Much love and happiness together!

Cameron, the DJ, and Brett at the end of the evening.

Morgann & Danny at Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp with Chloe Ramirez Photography

I really get to deejay for the the best brides and grooms at the best places. Take this past weekend's couple for example: Morgann & Danny.

Morgann is a first grade teacher and has a gift for organization that really shone all throughout the planning process. She had a very clear vision of what she wanted for their most special of days and it was spectacular. When certain venues didn't quite fit her dream, she continued to search and found a beautiful mountain retreat that she, Danny, and their guests could have all to themselves: Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp.

This camp was started in the twenties by civic leaders from Stockton California as a refuge from the hot Central Valley summers. It is a 10 minute walk from Silver Lake, sits behind another, more commercial camp, and has nothing beyond it but National Forest land. Some forty rustic cabins and a dining hall make up the bulk of the camp and when you are a guest there, the staff does all the cooking. The staff, headed by Ron and with Chuck as bartender, were super helpful and friendly. They had had only one other wedding there prior to Morgann & Danny, and they were happy to share their little corner of mountain paradise with Morgann & Danny and their guests. They had done a welcome BBQ the night before and had scheduled a farewell breakfast for the next morning, so it was a wedding weekend, not just a wedding day. It really is a great vibe when your guests don't have to depart after the reception or can come early and spend extra time with everyone else. Morgann's vision was coming into focus.

The wedding site was another outstanding choice. A meadow gradually merges with Silver Lake about a quarter mile from SLSFC leaving a breathtaking view of the water and the surrounding Sierras. Chairs and a white runner were set up but there was no need for an altar or arch- a large slab of granite rises up from the meadow making a perfect focal point and vow area.

I set up under a large pine and waited for the nuptials to commence. A generator was required as, in the middle of this natural splendor, there weren't any plugs within 500 yards or so ;)  My Honda 2000 again performed flawlessly and provided me with the ability to mic their officiant David and play music for the pre-ceremony and ceremony.

I loved their musical choices! They wanted reggae for the seating period before the ceremony, so I had a great time picking choices that just put an exclamation point on their fantastic setting. Many of the guests could be seen enjoying the music and a fun, yet unique tone was set. The wind then came up a bit, as it is apt to do in the mountains at times, and the white runner that Morgann was due to shortly walk down on became twisted up. Several guests jumped up and became an instant 'Honor Guard' of sorts, keeping the runner in place. It was a great example of everyone pitching in to make sure that everything goes smoothly. When Danny and David were situated on their granite dais, a decorated electric golf cart pulled up with Morgann inside. She had picked a perfect and unique song for her processional, "Impurity" by Kaizen which she had practiced walking down the aisle to a couple times previously. She got out of the cart, fixed her dress and timed her walk perfectly. The 'Honor Guard' faded back as she approached, having done their jobs with distinction, and the tempo of the song continued to grow as she came closer and closer to that slab of granite holding David and her husband-to-be. I was so happy that all of her effort and planning had blossomed into the perfect processional. 

David then took over and performed a wonderful ceremony, highlighted by some very personal readings and vows that Danny & Morgann had chosen. When all was said and done, kisses were exchanged, and they recessed triumphantly to "Easy Love" by Sigala. They then turned and everyone got in a group drone shot, which framed by the lake and mountains must be a spectacular photo.

Photography (and drone shots) were aptly taken care of by Chloe of Chloe Ramirez Photography out of SAC. I'm sure they are 1000% better than these iPhone shots of mine ;)  She and her second shooter were very professional, fun, and easy to work with all throughout the day and evening. It is always a pleasure to work with professionals and she was top-notch. She tirelessly worked to document the entire event and I'm sure her photos will be amazing.

Ron, the head honcho at the Silver Lake Stockton Family Camp, was also fantastic to work with all day and evening. He and his crew worked tirelessly all evening and they do it for the benefit of their non-profit camp so that people can continue to enjoy the mountains and the traditions that have been kept up there for nearly one hundred years. Hopefully it will still be here in another hundred years, and will have been the scene of many happy wedding celebrations. It's a venue where you know that your dollars directly fund the camp so that families and children who might not ordinarily be able to enjoy the Sierras can do so. It's a win-win.

Morgann & Danny came back from photos and had a grand Grand Entrance. Chloe had everyone come out on the broad steps below the hall and, with the drone hovering above, the newlyweds entered to "With You" by Dirty South. After a little while longer, everyone moved to the opposite side of the hall and sat amongst the pines and enjoyed a dinner prepared by Ron & Co.

When dinner plates were pushed aside and champagne and cider glasses filled, Danny started the toasts, thanking all the many people who had helped to make this weekend come to pass, especially his new wife who had really knocked it out of the park. More toasts were then offered up and then, under the trees and surrounded by their friends and family, they danced to their first dance as husband & wife, "Danny's Song" by Loggins and Messina. I heard so many compliments about the appropriateness of the selection- I mean obviously the title and the groom's name match but even beyond that. The lyrics seemed to encapsulate them perfectly.  As the song ended and the cheering died down, I began "Just the Way You Are" by Billy Joel.  Morgann stepped out with her dad Gerhard and Danny with his mom Nikki, and again the musical selection seemed ideal- their moment transcendent. I am so unbelievably honored to witness moments like these.

Dancing followed inside with more reggae, current hits and hip-hop as well as some electronica. It was a fun crowd and I had lots of requests. James Taylor did interrupt the dancing for a bit ("How Sweet It Is") while M&D cut their delicious cake. As the dancing continued, people would slip out, head to their cabin, and slip back in wearing more comfortable clothes and shoes. Indeed, a blazing fire-ring down below the steps complete with s'mores added to the rustic charm, and as the last dance was played people made plans to meet beside the fire and continue the evening.

Such a fantastic afternoon and evening spent with a fun bride & groom and their crowd. Thanks to Chloe Ramirez for her stellar work and coordination. Thanks to Ron and Chuck and the SLSFC crew- so great to work with and talk to. And finally, thanks to Morgann & Danny and their friends and families for making it so memorable and fun for me. As I've said in the past: I love my job and whom I get to do it for :)