I feel honored every time I am chosen to provide entertainment at a couple's wedding. It is a big responsibility not only to emcee and keep everyone informed about what is happening or about to happen, but also to help plan the events and music, and above all keep the dance floor hopping when the dancing begins. When I initially spoke to Tim and Arlene about their upcoming wedding and how I could help them realize their vision for their day, I couldn't help being impressed with their ideas, questions for me, and their overall level of organization. It turns out that Tim used to DJ and Arlene used to photograph weddings. To be chosen to be a part of their day was an honor, doubly so because they were living in Vegas and we were able to meet only by Skype and phone, but over a few sessions we hammered out the music selection and reception events and I really looked forward to their day up at Lake Tahoe.
Cal-Neva is a historic property located right on the California-Nevada state line. It overlooks the Lake and you can envision Sinatra and Jack Benny walking down the halls, visiting the bar, entertaining guests in the Showroom or at a banquet in the Indian Room. Arlene & Tim had their ceremony at the gazebo, a gorgeous spot with expansive views of the Lake and plenty of seating and room for all their guests. The bridal party entered to "Titanium/Pavani" by the Piano Guys and Arlene came down the aisle to a version of "Canon in D" mixed by Tim (how cool is that!?!). Their ceremony was unique and heartfelt and included a poem by Robert Fulghum called "Union" which everyone liked very much, including yours truly. After they kissed and were introduced, they recessed to "You Make My Dreams" by Hall & Oates... such a fun song! The families remained at the gazebo for pictures while the guests moved to a shady, tented pavilion just outside the Indian Room for cocktails and conversation.
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| My view of their first dance |
The Indian Room is a one-of-a-kind banquet room where wooden beams and rock dominate the architecture and a line painted down the middle of the fireplace and the room denotes the border of the two states. I was told by a staffer that back in the '20s they would have gambling before it was legal and drinking (during Prohibition) in the room, and depending on which state's police force was raiding them they would just move the gaming tables and/or bar to the other side of the room! Lots of cool anecdotes about the property really makes it a unique venue. When Tim & Arlene were done with photos, I ushered everyone into the Indian Room for dinner and their Grand Entrance (with "Power of Love" by Huey Lewis emphasizing their entry). A delicious dinner was then served which was followed by some truly well-thought-out toasts. Thanks go out to Sharon & her very capable staff at Cal-Neva for all their hard work and friendly assistance throughout the night.
Again Arlene & Tim's vision for their day came to the forefront when, to start the dancing, Arlene began with her stepdad Rick, dancing to "Beth" by Kiss. Shortly thereafter her dad Art stepped in and we faded into "November Rain" and finally Tim, after a minute or so, stepped in and the Bridal Dance began- one of my favorites, "I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz. Following thunderous applause, we started open dancing and the dance floor never emptied the rest of the night. Tim & Arlene had a great Money Dance and then cut their zombie cake (very cool!) to "Moondance" by Van Morrison. As dancing began again, "Thriller" kept the zombie vibe going and lots of fun requests kept everyone happy. "Conga" was huge as were Daft Punk, MJ and David Guetta amongst others. Their musical tastes are varied, as were those of their guests so it was fun to play stuff like Johnny Cash and Santana and Jive Bunny as well as the newer stuff. Very cool crowd! So fun to talk and interact with them all day and night!
But my favorite moments of the night revolved around the last couple of dances that Tim & Arlene picked out. Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" got every person up singing at the top of their lungs as Tim & Arlene danced in their midst and finally, the final song was a perfect choice, "Swing Life Away" by Rise Against. I was unfamiliar with it prior to planning with Arlene & Tim, and I have to say, seeing Tim & Arlene, with their bridesmaids and groomsmen hugging and swaying and singing to it was an absolute perfect way to end an absolutely perfect day and evening. Congrats to Tim & Arlene and thanks once again for sharing your day with me!
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