We had a wonderful, and windy time performing for Felicia and Elliot's wedding outdoors at Ravine Vineyard. The site the couple chose for the ceremony was beautiful--rolling hills with vines galore. The only issue was the wind, which was strong enough to blow our music stands over when we first set them up! This was one of the windiest weddings if not the windiest wedding ceremony that we have ever performed at. Despite the weather, we were able to offer a great performance, with several guests commenting to us about the performance.

The couple's music choices worked great with the venue: Pachelbel Canon was the perfect choice for the long-ish walk from one of the main buildings to where the officiant and groom were standing at the front. Jesu Joy and Bittersweet Symphony rounded out the ceremony, and we also performed a number of other songs as the guests exited the ceremony site. Despite the weather it was a beautiful ceremony!

Music Selections:
Bridesmaids and Bride Processional: Pachelbel Canon in D
Signing: Bach: Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring
Recessional: The Verve: Bittersweet Symphony

Vendors:
Ceremony musicians: Duo d'Amore-violin and cello duo duodamore.com
Venue: Ravine Vineyards ravinevineyard.com
Wedding Planner: Kassandra at Ravine events@ravinevineyard.com
Flowers: Mimosa Flowers mimosaflowers.com

We performed at another interesting wedding today. No matter how many ceremonies or receptions we perform at it always amazes me how different they can be and how essential everyone’s job is on the big day. Florists, the officiant, the musicians, everyone has a big impact on the outcome of the event.

Phil and Ester’s wedding was nicely tailored to fit their style, especially regarding the music. For the prelude as the guest were entering and being seated, we performed a mixture of music with a sort of French café feel to it. Selections included La Vie En Rose, made popular by Edith Piaf and the Theme from Moulin Rouge as well as other unique songs from our catalogue of custom arrangements.

As Ester walked in, we performed another special arrangement of the song Will the Night, which went over very well and switched to Pachelbel Canon for the signing. The recessional was Disney/Pixar’s Theme from Up.

Because the Church is such an intimate venue, we are able to use this to our advantage in arranging the music. We made good use of pizzicato or plucking for some of the cello parts, and explored some interesting keys (B Major in particular.) There is also something special about playing an a wooden Church, and the rich sound of B Major seemed to resonate and sound much richer with the violin and cello.

The Church pews were decorated with very attractive floral arrangement from Van Noort Florists in Niagara on the Lake, and the ceremony was officiated by Kip Philip of Enduring Promises.

Venue: Balls Falls Historical Church
Officiant: Kip Philip
Florist: Van Noort Florists
Ceremony musicians: Duo d’Amore- string duos, trios and quartets

This venue was a complete and utter surprise for Duo d’Amore—it was our first time performing here, and we can’t wait to be back. I encourage our readers to look at their website (www.bissellshideaway.com) as this venue is not only great for a wedding or event but for spending time with the family.

The music for this wedding was as varied, exciting and interesting as the beautiful outdoor wedding. Congratulations to Julie and Brent!

Processional: Top Gun Anthem

Processional: Beatles: Here Comes The Sun

Signing: U2: All I Want Is You and Cohen: Hallelujah

Recessional: Journey: Don’t Stop Believin’ and Coldplay: Viva la Vida

Wedding Ceremony Music: Duo d’Amore-string duos, trios and quartets