For my first wedding back in 2021 the couple ended up dancing behind my as I played the rest of their guests out. I'd played from doorway to the ceremony room to let one extra person be seated in the ceremony room, so it meant I was part way into the library. As a result the couple had a beautiful intimate moment just after getting married, dancing in private in the library. Gorgeous.
I love making live music part of real lives: holding a space and giving an important sense of ritual. We have been playing music to each other, for each other, for millenia.
Write everything down! Spreadsheet, notebook - whatever works best for you. It helps me a lot to to keep a diary for long projects that I need to space out over time. That way I can walk away knowing I can catch up where I left off next time.
1, Checking that I am available for you and getting your date in my diary
2, Discussin the details and make sure we're both happy: music, length of set, location (indoor / outdoor), any other details
3, Getting a contract and deposit in place to protect both of us
4, Sorting any details and final payment two weeks before your wedding - including me checking in with your venue
5, Playing beautifully for you on your day!
For ceremony clients I offer a music consulation where you can hear different pieces on my harp. If you have a request for me to learn I will often play it here.
When playing for drinks receptions, people always ask me about the Jurassic Park Theme!
Penguin Cafe Orchestra: beautiful, heartfelt, eclectic.