"Here Comes the Groom" event on March 30, 2007

Bridal Academy2007 presents... “Here Comes the Groom”

Friday, March 30, 2007
7pm-8pm
at The Wedding Place - 4618 Speedway Drive

Topics for the Groom include:
“Sharp-Dressed Man”
“Say it with flare” -toast & speech tips
“Boutonnieres ~ the finishing touches”
“You’re no dummy...social skills for your big day”

Why come to this event?
1. Impress your new wife, family, in-laws, and friends
2. Surprise your new wife, family, in-laws, and friends
3. Astound your new wife, family, in-laws, and friends
4. Amaze your new wife, family, in-laws, and Mends

Grooms -Feel free to bring your Father, your Mother, your Best Man, or your Fiancé
Make your reservations today for this limited seating FREE event
Call The Wedding Place at 260-482-1250

Sponsored by the Bridal Academy Committee including The Wedding Place, Megasound, The Monogram Shoppe, and a deveraux film

What is important to you in planning a wedding reception?

How do you determine what is important in planning a Wedding Reception?
What is essential to you about your wedding reception? Rate the following areas on a scale from 1 to 10. The scale is as follows: 1 being very low or no importance; 5 being medium importance; and 10 being extremely important. Once you have completed the rating, then you are able to determine where your planning focus must occur. Below, Wedding Reception Entertainment is broken down as an example of the many components to take into consideration.

Basic Wedding Reception Elements:
1. Venue _____
2. Food _____
3. Beverages _____
4. Cake _____
5. Decorations _____
6. Flowers _____
7. Entertainment _____

Wedding Reception Entertainment:
Music (overall)
1. Control over sound volume _____
2. Control over musical content _____
3. “No-play” list followed _____
4. Master of Ceremonies _____

Music (up through the traditions)
1. Cocktail/Dinner music at a lower volume so guests may talk _____
2. Dinner music (appropriate to match the formality of event) _____
3. Traditional songs meaningful _____
4. Announcements made for specific events _____

Music (after traditions are completed)
1. Overall tone of celebration (_______________________) _____
2. Music ONLY that the Bride and Groom want to hear _____
3. Wide variety of music available _____
4. Mixture of guest’s requests and Bride & Groom –pre-requests _____
5. “No-play” list guidelines _____
6. Party facilitator/interaction _____
7. Guest participation songs (ex. Chicken Dance, YMCA, etc) _____
Components of a Wedding Reception Notes
1. Cocktail (hour) _____
2. Introduction of Bride & Groom _____
3. Introduction of Wedding Party _____
4. Prayer/Blessing before meal _____
5. Dinner _____
6. Toasts _____
7. Cake Cutting _____
8. First Dance _____
9. Wedding Party Dance _____
10. Bride/Father Dance _____
11. Groom/Mother Dance _____
12. Bouquet Toss _____
13. Garter Removal/Toss _____
14. Anniversary Dance _____
15. Dollar Dance _____
16. Other Traditional Dances _____
17. Party Music _____
18. Closing/Ending Songs _____

1-19-07 Bridal Academy session update results

Bridal Academy 1-19-07 -- Friday night went rather well for the first Bridal Academy. Brides, mothers, and their friends attended this first monthly session. The brides received goodie bags filled with all sorts of wedding planning information and other give-a-ways. All attendees got the experience of wedding information and stories from four local wedding professionals.

Dawn Quick – Owner of the Wedding Place started the evening off with 6 tips on selecting a bridal gown. This was very enlightening for all as some of the brides still were searching for “their special” dress.

Sara Keltsch – Owner of the Monogram Shoppe shared comprehensive information about the ever expanding world of invitations. Gone are the days of white invitations with black lettering. Sara shared visuals on the range of colors and styles available today for “Save the Date” cards and Invitations alike. Sara also gave tips on correct terminology for invitations.

David Chandler-Gick – Owner of a deveraux film bribed attendees with “jewelry.” He also let the brides know about the 3 essential areas of hiring a photographer.

June Hoffman – Of Megasound and the Official MC (Master of Ceremonies) of Bridal Academy concluded the evening with the mindset that planning a reception is about more than just picking out some songs. June gave the fundamental elements that make up the “biggest event/party that most women will ever plan.”

All and all, the brides and their guests were treated to an evening of learning and helpful information. Many brides already asked to be a part of the February session of Bridal Academy when new wedding related topics will be presented.

The next session of Bridal Academy will be held on Friday, February 23, 2007 at 7pm. Call 260-482-1250 to make your reservations today for this FREE event. See you there!

HOW TO AVOID THE 7 MOST COMMON MISTAKES WHEN HIRING A DJ

Erik Michaels of Megasound wrote the following article. The points are very solid and as with any decision on hiring any entertainer (disc jockey or band), much thought must go into place before signing on the dotted line.

COMMON MISTAKE #1

CONTRACTING A DISC JOCKEY BASED ON PRICE ALONE.
What a huge mistake! The musical entertainment is one of the most important elements in the success (or failure) of your engagement.
An exceptional entertainer satisfies you and your guests AND he or she leaves you with great memories of your engagement. Base your decision to hire an individual or company on what features they offer you, not on price alone. The "best price" is not always the "best value."

COMMON MISTAKE #2

WAITING TOO LONG TO HIRE THE ENTERTAINMENT.
Time is of the essence when locating and hiring your entertainment. No one has unlimited resources. If your engagement is scheduled for April, May, June, July, August, September, October, or December, you need to book your entertainment much earlier than the rest of the year. Entertainment for weddings, high school proms, homecomings, reunions, and holiday parties is much more in demand during these months. In addition, the best entertainers usually get hired first which makes them unavailable for a given date much earlier than others.

COMMON MISTAKE#3

NOT DETERMINING THE EXPERIENCE LEVEL OF STAFF FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT.
Determining the actual experience level of your entertainer is quite important. Knowing this will help you understand how well your engagement will be handled when unexpected problems arise as well as the overall atmosphere of your event. Look for an individual or company with at least five years in the disc jockey industry. Specifically ask if they have the type of experience that you expect for your event. If you are hiring a DJ for a wedding, 10 years of experience is recommended. Weddings are more complicated than a backyard party or high school dance. Making certain that your wedding DJ is proficient as an MC is also important. DJs who can officiate ceremonies will naturally also perform better at the basics.

COMMON MISTAKE#4

NOT CHECKING ON BACKUP EQUIPMENT.
Backup equipment needs to be on-site, hooked up and ready to go for each and every event-especially yours! Make certain that your event will not "end early" due to equipment failure with no way to get the show back up in under 5 minutes. Also, make sure that your entertainer will not back out of your engagement because of equipment failure. See (#5) below for more equipment information.

COMMON MISTAKE#5

SELECTING AN ENTERTAINER WHO DOES NOT USE PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT.
Professional equipment is a must. An entertainer who uses home stereo equipment puts your party at risk of unexpected breakdowns-blown loudspeakers, amplifier shutdowns, and improperly operating equipment. Home stereo equipment was never designed for heavy-duty use, constant transportation, and the other range of variables such as temperature, humidity and dust. Although professional equipment is not indestructible, it is designed to withstand this type of use as well as being designed for larger venues.

COMMON MISTAKE#6

NOT CHECKING THE ENTERTAINER'S CREDENTIALS.
This is a HUGE mistake. Check your local Better Business Bureau concerning the individual or company you are considering. Another source of information regarding credentials is your local Chamber of Commerce. If the entertainer that you are considering has had complaints made against them to the BBB, you could be the next person who hires that entertainer and receives unsatisfactory service. Keep in mind that many "moon-lighters" are not even on file with the BBB, but still may do a good job. However, if an entertainer that you are considering has NO file with the BBB AND NO listing in your local yellow pages, watch out! These charlatans do not take this business seriously and many times lack necessary experience, insurance requirements, business licenses or certificates of compliances, and/or other areas of concern (such as proper ethics). If you are interested in locating a good entertainer, look in the yellow pages of a five or six year old telephone book (which can be found in your local library) to cross-reference the entertainers which appear in the current telephone book. You will discover names in the first book which are missing in the second book, and vice-versa. Another great source of reference is to check with the manager at the facility you are renting or other professionals such as photographers.

COMMON MISTAKE#7

BELIEVING THAT A PARTICULAR SETUP WILL BE THE SETUP AT YOUR ENGAGEMENT.
Most DJ's or companies use different equipment from the equipment you saw in their office, at a bridal show, or at a particular engagement. The setup at your show could be considerably different from how it looked before. Ask for pictures or video footage before hiring anyone. Your particular reception hall may be too small or too large for a given setup. If the setup is too small, find out if the entertainer offers larger equipment. Few companies offer standard equipment (this is where all the entertainers from a given company all use the same basic setup). Make certain that enough room is available at your party hall for the setup; conversely, if the setup is quite small, it may be too small for your particular event.

THIS INFORMATION IS PUBLISHED COURTESY OF MEGASOUND AND IS NOT INTENDED TO DISCREDIT ANY INDIVIDUAL OR COMPANY. ITS SOLE PURPOSE IS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION OF CONCERN TO CONSUMERS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

How to Survive the Bridal Show Whirlwind

How to Survive the Bridal Show Whirlwind

He asked you to marry him. You said yes (of course). Now what? Wedding planning causes stress and it is an activity that many people dread. When are you going to find the time to read every wedding planning book on the market and make educated wedding planning decisions? One of the smartest wedding planning miracles appeared in the late 1980s. The Bridal Show is an excellent opportunity for you to talk to a wide variety of wedding professionals as well as gather information, prices, and new ideas all in one place.

Bridal Shows also create overwhelming feelings in many Brides. The following tips will provide you with helpful answers on how to survive any Bridal Show and make the most out of the experience.

1. Most Bridal Shows run from 3 to 5 hours. Plan to spend a minimum of 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours at the show. This will vary based on your planning needs.

2. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Most facilities only have space to sit while viewing a fashion show. Keep in mind that you will spend most of your time walking, standing, and talking.
3. Ask key people in your wedding planning process to attend the show with you. It is good to have Mom, your fiancé, and/or your bridesmaids to bounce ideas off of and keep things in perspective.

4. Most Bridal Shows charge admission. Listen to local radio stations and check out newspapers, the internet, or local wedding vendors for possible discount coupons or offers. Many vendors offer discounts for purchasing their products or services the day of the bridal show, so it may be wise to ask if you aren't sure.

5. Car pool to the show if possible. Very few Bridal Shows offer FREE parking.

6. If you must bring children with you to the show, ask someone to accompany you who can watch the children as you visit the booths.

7. Bring a roll (or sheet) of pre-addressed name and address labels. Many shows as well as vendors offer FREE registration for door prizes and give-a-ways.

8. Bring a swatch of material or ribbon in your wedding colors. This will give both you and the vendors a better visualization of your wedding ideas.

9. Register for any/all prizes that interest you. Keep in mind that by you registering for these prizes you are granting permission for those vendors to contact you (via phone, mail, or email).

10. Most shows supply the vendors (present at the show) with a Bridal listing (of those who attended the show) after the event. You may receive information from vendors who you did not actually register for a prize or talk to.

11. Pick up a Vendor listing or Vendor map when you enter the show. This will help you make notes about those professionals you talked to at the show.

12. Take the time to look at all booths and not just those vendors that you think you need services or products. You will gather many new ideas as well as helpful hints in many cases.

13. Focus on getting as much information from wedding providers for the services/products that you need to most.

14. Pace yourself. You will only have a short amount of time to talk to the wedding professionals in the areas where you need assistance. Get as much information in writing as possible. Find out when you can schedule a private appointment or consultation.

15. Bring a date book or calendar so you can schedule appointments with specific wedding vendors.

16. Do not make decisions the day of the show unless you previously talked to that vendor. Any vendors who offer show specials should offer a deadline after the show date.

17. Some retail specialized vendors may offer wedding items (cards, veils, etc.) for sale at the show. Ask about return policies if you are unsure that the item will match your wedding plans.

18. Ask if the show price is available if you purchase within the next week of the show.

19. Unless you already have all of your bridal and wedding party attire purchased (or rented), plan to attend the Fashion/Style Show.

20. A Bridal Show Style/Fashion show offers more than just wedding dresses. In many cases you will see bridesmaid’s dresses, shoes, tuxedoes for the guys, flower girl dresses, formals for Moms, flowers, etc. You will probably also hear music and possibly see MCs (Master of Ceremonies) work.

21. Take notes at the Fashion Show. Also, most shows allow picture taking, so bring your camera or camera phone. Photos will help you remember more details.


22. If a deal sounds too good to be true, then it most likely is just that. Get all specifics in writing so you can review them prior to committing to a wedding service or product.

23. Wants and needs are very different. Keep your wedding budget in mind and be realistic when looking at specific areas. In service specific areas such as DJs, photographers, etc., keep in mind that you only get one chance to "do it right." A cheap price usually equals cheap service.

24. Have your wedding vision in mind when you are talking to vendors. Bring photos or drawings if possible. Be open to new ideas. Be wary if a vendor is not listening to you or tries to pressure you in a different direction. Make sure to ask if and how the vendor will accommodate your needs if you hire them.

25. Try samples at the show. This is a good road test for cakes, punch, appetizers, and more. Vendors are at the show to attract business. Most present their best tasting or most popular samples to Brides.

26. Take time to look at Photographers' sample books and Video Artist video montages. These will give you great examples of those professionals' styles. The dresses and flowers may be pretty in the photos, so try to focus on the styles themselves.

27. If a particular service or product is not represented at the show ask questions and/or get information from vendors who may have a similar service/product. They may offer those options or be able to direct you to a professional in that particular area.

28. If you feel many products or services are not represented at the Bridal Show, mention this to the show manager.

29. Ask vendors if they offer in-store workshops or classes on their specialty after the show. This will give you additional opportunities to learn as well as see how committed vendors are to their clients and potential clients.

30. Take advantage of vendor’s FREE try-ons. Many shows offer hair styling, mini makeovers, veil and tiara fittings, ring cleaning, dance lessons, and more.

31. Make sure to pick up a FREE wedding planner. Most shows offer one of their own or vendors may supply the books to the Brides.

32. Many shows offer small bags to carry your information. Bring your own bag just in case. You will have a lot of information to carry.

33. If you like a particular person at a vendor booth; be sure to get their business card or write their name down for future reference.

34. Be prepared for vendors to tell you that your date is booked. Ask them who they would trust to provide that service for their wedding or their child's wedding. Then check out that vendor.

35. If a vendor says that your particular times are unavailable ask them if their services are available earlier or later on that date. Some vendors are able to do multiple events on the same day.

36. If a vendor says that they are a member of the Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, or other professional group, take note and follow up after the show.

37. Be ready for wedding vendors to ask you if you need their services/products. Be honest with them if you have already hired someone. Saying,” I’m not sure," means (to them) that you have not hired someone.

38. If a vendor sounds overpriced, ask them what you will get for the fees that they charge. Service is a key difference between many companies. Ask for other package prices if you are interested in the vendor's services/products.

39. Put extensive education into areas of your wedding that you really love.
If the dress is important, but not the tux, have the guys wear suits.
If you want a great entertainer, then you may want to forego the surf and turf dinner. People will remember whether they had fun or not, but may forget what they ate during your wedding.
40. If your favorite facility is booked for your date, you may want to change the date.

41. Ask vendors up front for a list of optional or hidden fees.

42. If having a Master of Ceremonies (MC) at your wedding reception is important to you, be sure to ask entertainers if they offer that service at no extra charge and find out how much experience they have.

43. Take time to make a second trip around the Bridal Show. Try to go in the opposite direction that you went the first time. Seeing things at a different angle or perspective will help you get a whole picture of the vendors at the show. This will also give you a chance to talk to vendors that were very busy the first time that you went around the show.

44. Be sure to fill out any exit survey that the Show Manager may offer. This will help make improvements for future Brides as well as let the Show Manager know what was good or bad about the show.


Take your accumulated information, notes, and photos home. Go through these items within a couple of days of the Bridal Show. You will have the clearest thoughts soon after the show rather than weeks or months later.


A side note: You may need to attend more than one Bridal Show before your planning is completed. Just think that you are now an experienced Bridal Show attendee. You have your tools and you can plan your wedding with less stress.

Services

I thought about the services that Megasound offers...that I offer to each one of my clients and I am amazed.

Megasound offers the following services:

1. Master of Ceremonies (MC)
2. Event Coordinators
3. Wedding Specialists (Ceremony and Reception)
4. Lighting and Special Effects Coordinators
5. Music Specialists
6. Facilitators and Motivators for all Events
7. Voice Over Work

Now of course the "voice over" work is not really used during weddings although you would think that you might need it sometimes. I am hardly just a "plain disc jockey." I much more prefer to be called a "problem solver." Most people who hire me have a "situation" for which they need assistance. As for weddings, who can do all of the things that I can do? I love working with other wedding professionals so I know that their roles are very important as well. I just know that the full "role" that I play at a wedding can only be filled by me and what I do.

How do I encompass all that I do down to just 30 seconds? I guess that I have to say that I provide solutions.

History of the Wedding Connection

The "Official History of the Wedding Connection." is a brief overview of how the group got started, where we have been, and where the group is going.


History of the Wedding Connection (Established officially 2003)

In the summer of 2002, Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound attended the “Worth Tour” Disc Jockey Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. Upon returning to Fort Wayne, Erik and June worked with a handful of disc jockeys in Fort Wayne to see if other disc jockeys in the local and surrounding area wanted to form a local chapter of a national disc jockey organization. A mass mailing and contact calls went out in the area. In the fall of 2002, representatives from only six DJ companies attended the initial meeting of what was to be DJs coming together to raise the standards and levels of entertainment service to wedding clients.

Both Jim Gabbard of Henri’s Photo and David Chandler-Gick of Backyard Productions (now a deveraux film) were local photographers with a passion for quality service and products. Both were members of professional networking groups and trade associations. Both knew the value of people coming together for similar goals.

In the late fall of 2002, Erik, June, Jim, and David met to talk about the possibility of opening “what was originally to be a disc jockey group” up to all types of wedding professionals. Because of the number of years in the wedding industry each person knew several other wedding professionals who would benefit from a group coming together for common goals.

2003 started off with the establishment of what became the “Wedding Connection.” Companies from all facets of the wedding market made up the newly formed membership—photographers to formal wear and shoes to disc jockeys, venues and more. 2003 began the many months of establishing guidelines, voting, and membership criteria for the not-for-profit, educational group.

The Board of Directors for 2003 included:
President—Jim Gabbard of Henri’s Photo
Vice President—June Hoffman of Megasound
Secretary—Laura Simerman of Premiere Bride
Treasurer—John Veltum of Summit City Sound

2003 ended on a celebratory note with the Wedding Connection holiday party at the Marriott. Food, music, dancing, and door prizes donated by members rounded out the event.

2004 was a growing year for the Wedding Connection. Meetings were held at various locations to spotlight the different venues in Fort Wayne. Many meetings consisted of learning about other members in the group as well as outside informative guest speakers. Education is a strong cornerstone in the Wedding Connection foundation and there was a great deal of learning in 2004.

In 2004, Dawn Quick of the Wedding Place and June Hoffman of Megasound won their proposal to the History Center for a month long wedding oriented history exhibit. “Something Old, Something New ~ the Wedding Experience” gave Wedding Connection members the opportunity to assist in sponsoring the three events throughout the exhibit which ran in October 2004. Over 60 exhibits from Dawn Quick’s (of the Wedding Place) personal collection of vintage wedding apparel and accessories were on display. Other period pieces were on loan from Wedding Connection members and previous brides as well.

The 2004 Board of Directors included: President— Erik Michaels of Megasound
Vice President— Jim Gabbard of Henri’s Photo
Secretary—Laura Simerman of Premiere Bride
Treasurer—John Veltum of Summit City Sound

2004 concluded with an informal holiday gathering at The History Center. This was the History Center’s kickoff event to a new traveling exhibit.

2005 proved to be the year of change for the Wedding Connection. Members decided that it was time for the Wedding Connection to make a stand in the Fort Wayne area and let brides and others know that the group existed. “Knot Your Ordinary Bridal Show” planning started from scratch. The goal was to offer brides a show that was anything other than ordinary. Outside the regular meetings, the show committee spent many long hours together getting the ground work completed for “KYOBS” at Ceruti’s newest facility at Summit Park.

The 2005 “KYOBS” Planning Committee consisted of:
Sheila Dean—Shoe of a Different Color
Sara Keltsch—the Monogram Shoppe
David Chandler-Gick—a deveraux film
Michelle Kyrou—Kyrou Music Studio

“Knot Your Ordinary Bridal Show” was a splashing success on November 4, 2005. This was the first Friday evening bridal show in Fort Wayne. Wedding Connection members, show vendors, and participants were all excited about the results of the event. The Wedding Place and Shoe of a Different Color in conjunction with bloom fine flowers and Megasound presented two fashion shows that evening. Brides and their grooms also enjoyed wonderful food selections, a vendor’s panel, expert financial advice, dance instruction and more. Guests “came for the show” and some “stayed for the party” afterwards.

The 2005 Board of Directors included: President— Jim Gabbard of Henri’s Photo
Vice President—Larry Shinaberry of LDS Photography
Secretary—Dawn Quick of the Wedding Place
Treasurer—John Veltum of Summit City Sound

Wedding Connection members ended 2005 on a loud interactive note at the Marriott’s newest club addition—Rum Runners.

2006 began with thoughts of growing the Wedding Connection membership as well as how to make “Knot Your Ordinary Bridal Show” even better for 2006. Awareness and discounted buying power were also key areas of group interest.

The Wedding Connection designed and purchased folders for group information that would be passed out at bridal shows as well as high traffic vendor locations. Wedding Connection photographers submitted “bridal related” photos for the first folder cover. The group voted on the “sassy bride” photo taken by David Chandler-Gick of a deveraux film to represent the first Wedding Connection folder.

Folder stuffing “parties” gave Wedding Connection members the opportunity to include their information for bridal couples. These sessions also gave members the opportunity to get together outside of the monthly meetings and keep current on wedding trends and information.

In 2006, the Wedding Connection was a sponsor of the Lincoln Museum traveling “Wedding Exhibition.” Many vintage gowns and displays from Dawn Quick’s (of the Wedding Place) personal collection were on loan to the Lincoln Museum. The Wedding Connection sponsored a reception event for brides and guests to view the exhibit for free.

With the need to expand the “Knot Your Ordinary Bridal Show,” the event date changed to Friday, September 29, 2006 for warmer weather. A tent became home for the KYOBS Fashion show thus allowing extra room in the main area of Ceruti’s Summit Park for additional vendors. Once again, the Wedding Connection provided unique experiences for brides and grooms alike with a fashion show (under the tent) courtesy of the Wedding Place and Shoe of a Different Color as well as floral arrangements by bloom fine flowers and music and MC by Megasound. Brides experienced more vendors for their assistance as well as wonderful food options; and to round out the evening, dancing was provided courtesy of the Answer Band.

The 2006 “KYOBS” Planning Committee consisted of:
Sheila Dean—Shoe of a Different Color
Sara Keltsch—the Monogram Shoppe
David Chandler-Gick—a deveraux film
Michelle Kyrou—Kyrou Music Studio
Jaclyn Meyer—Simply Elegant
Brian Quick—the Wedding Place
June Hoffman—Megasound

Also during 2006, the Wedding Connection Board members negotiated group advertising discounts with magazine groups such as Business People Magazine (publishers of PYW-Planning Your Wedding), Providence Communications (publishers of Fort Wayne Woman Magazine), and Fort Wayne Direct Publishing Group (publishers of Fort Wayne Magazine-Weddings).

Not an ounce of dust had settled on the 2006 “Knot Your Ordinary Bridal Show” when plans were announced to find a larger venue for the event. Board members and KYOBS planning committee members spent most of October and November 2006 on the phone, sending email, and/or visiting possible show locations. President-Sheila Dean of Shoe of a Different Color announced at the November 2006 meeting that the Wedding Connection in conjunction with Fort Wayne Woman Magazine would be sponsoring the first ever “Brides Night Out.” After extensive talks with Geoglein’s Catering, an agreement was reached to hold “Brides Night Out” on Thursday, June 21, 2007 (5pm-9pm) at the Scottish Rite Center.

Several members of the Wedding Connection were approached about assistance in creating the magazine cover shot for Fort Wayne Woman Magazine’s 2007 wedding issue. The bridal gown, accessories, and tuxedos that grace the cover were courtesy of the Wedding Place and bloom fine flowers provided the floral arrangements.

The 2006 Board of Directors included: President— Sheila Dean of Shoe of a Different Color
Vice President—Sara Keltsch of the Monogram Shoppe
Secretary—Dawn Quick of the Wedding Place
Treasurer—Michelle Kyrou of Kyrou Music Studio

Wedding Connection members rounded out 2006 with a holiday gathering at the Marriott—Red River Restaurant. Some of the members and their guests even continued the holiday spirit at Rum Runners following their dinner.

2007 ushered in the largest folder stuffing “party” to date. Even before the first official Wedding Connection meeting of 2007; members, their spouses, siblings, co-workers, and friends all pitched in to stuff over 700 folders that would be passed out at the 2007 Bridal Spectacular, ACD Bridal Show, and at many member businesses.

Fort Wayne Direct Publishing Group contacted The Wedding Place for assistance on their Fort Wayne Magazine-Weddings cover. A bridal dress and accessories appear front and center for all brides and readers to admire.

Fort Wayne Magazine-Weddings 2007 issue also featured several articles about the Wedding Connection including two full articles, a short article, the Wedding Connection mission statement, and a “Meet the Wedding Connection” area. Several other articles in the magazine highlighted Wedding Connection members and photography such as Jaclyn Meyer of Simply Elegant, the Marriott, Sara Keltsch of the Monogram Shoppe, Kari Geary of bloom fine flowers, Dawn Quick of the Wedding Place, Sheila Dean of Shoe of a Different Color, and David Chandler-Gick of a deveraux film.

The New Year holds a great deal of opportunities for the Wedding Connection and its membership. “Here is a toast to making wonderful memories in 2007 and beyond.”

Bridal Academy 1-19-07

The first session of Bridal Academy is this Friday at Latitudes 7pm. I am quite excited about this event as it is on my part over three years in the making. I know that the Wedding Place has been working on this type of event for over ten years.

I will be the Master of Ceremonies (MC) of the event so that is a great experience in itself. I know that helping brides plan their wedding is one of the most fulfilling experiences that I get to be a part of.

January Topics include:
The Perfect Wedding Gown by Dawn Quick, The Wedding Place
Custom Invitations by Sara Keltsch, The Monogram Shoppe
3 Steps to Choosing your Photographer by David Chandler, a deveraux film
More Than Just Music by June Hoffman, Megasound

I am excited to share the results after the event so I hope to post that by Saturday.

All Brides in their planning stages would benefit from the different informational events so I am adding the registration information. Seating is Limited to the Bride and her GuestCall 482-1250 to Register.

Bridal Academy

January kicks off the start of a new experience for local brides. "Bridal Academy" starts next Friday evening. Megasound is working in conjunction with the Wedding Place and other local wedding professionals to offer brides a unique opportunity to learn more about their wedding planning on a one on one basis.

Megasound and the Wedding Place have presented similar events with the Allen County Public Library in the past two years. This is the first time that though that brides will have access to other professionals as well for a variety of topics.

Bridal Academy will then be once a month with new and interesting professionals and wedding topics.

Bridal AcademyJan. 19,2007 (Friday Evening 7:00-8:00)at Latitudes 538 E. Dupont Rd.

Topics include Selecting the Perfect Wedding Gown, Custom Invitations, Choosing Your Photographer, More Than Just Music. Get to know local wedding professionals and feel free to ask questions in this informal setting!

Appointments required. To schedule yours call: (260) 482-1250. This is a FREE planning seminar for the bride and one guest. Reservations required. Refreshments will be provided. Make your reservations today by calling The Wedding Place (260) 482-1250, space is limited! Call for future dates and subjects.

Love Songs though the Decades

One of my favorite research projects was "Love Songs Through the Decades." I compiled popular song titles dating back to the 1890's as many older couples did not have wedding receptions or first dances like so many of newly married couples do today.

I found that so many titles and songs have been re-done over the years. Songs that we may think are "new" today are many times just a "new" version of a classic or not so classic song. I often thought that this cyclical method of recording songs was artists laziness. More so now after much reading I found that many artists remake their favorite songs or songs that touched them and made an impact on their life.

Many of the "older songs" are not even available to listen to on record or tape. I collect some sheet music and it is sad that we will never "hear" a recording (in any format) of songs from when our grandparents and great-grandparents fell in love and were married. At least we have the beauty of what these songs were and they will not be lost. Maybe some day an artist or musician will pick up some old sheet music and create their own version of some beautiful love songs.

Love Songs through the Decades

1890’s
-My Wild Irish Rose
-When you were Sweet Sixteen
-Sweet Rosie O’Grady
-Ailie Bain O’ the Glen
-The Sign of the Bonny Blue Bell
-The Banks of the Roses
-Bells of Aberdovy


1900’s
-By the Light of the Silvery Moon
-Fascination
-Sweet Adeline


1910’s
-Let Me call You Sweetheart
-When Irish Eyes are smiling
-You Made me Love You (I didn’t want to do it)



1920’s
-Stardust
-Hawaiian Wedding Song
-Someone to Watch over Me
-It Had to be You
-Always
-What is this Thing called Love?





Love Songs Through the Decades Continued…

1930’s
-All of Me
-I’m Getting Sentimental over You
-My Funny Valentine
-Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
-I only Have Eyes for You
-In a Sentimental Mood
-The Very Thought of You
-Moonlight Serenade
-I’ve Got You Under My Skin
-I’m in the Mood for Love
-The Way You Look Tonight


1940’s
-String of Pearls
-Some Enchanted Evening
-Sentimental Journey
- (I Love You) for Sentimental Reasons


1950’s
-Blue Velvet
-Love Me Tender
-Misty
-Young At Heart
-Three Coins in the Fountain
-Mona Lisa
-Autumn Leaves
-Unchained Melody
-Fly Me to the Moon
-Unforgettable
-Only You


Love Songs Through the Decades Continued…


1960’s
-Can’t Help Falling in Love
-Happy Together
-Stranger’s in the Night
-What a Wonderful World
-When a Man Loves a Woman
-At Last


1970’s
-How Deep is Your Love?
-Sometimes when We Touch
-You are so Beautiful
-Just the Way You Are

1980’s
-Candle in the Wind
-Endless Love
-Every Breath You Take
-Almost Paradise
-Take My Breath Away
-Up where we belong
-Wonderful Tonight
-Wind beneath My Wings
-I’ll stand by you
-In Your Eyes
-Sweet Love
-You’re the Inspiration







Love Songs Through the Decades Continued…

1990’s
-Always
-Always and Forever
-Beautiful in my Eyes
-Have I told You Lately?
-Here and Now
-A Whole New World
-My Heath Will Go On
-How Do I Live
-Because You Loved Me
-I Swear
- (I Do) Cherish You
-I Finally Found Someone
-I’ll be
-I’ll Always Love You
-I Knew I Loved You
-Cross My Heart
-Could I have this Dance?
- (Everything I do) I Do It for You
-From this Moment On
-Keeper of the Stars
-It’s Your Love
-I Could Not Ask for More
-Spend My Life with You
-Heaven
-I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing
-Breathe
-Sea of Love

The New Millennium—2000 and beyond
-Amazed
-When you say nothing at all
-When I said I Do
-A Moment like This
-All My Life
-Truly, Madly, Deeply
For the Wedding Ceremony

The Prelude Music is selections played prior to the starting of the wedding ceremony. Popular Prelude Music includes:

Canon in D by Pachelbel
Jesu Joy of Man’s Desire by Bach
Greensleeves by Williams
Sheep May Softly Graze by Bach
Ava Maria by Schubert or Gounod
Four Seasons by Vivaldi

Processional Music consists of one piece of music selected for the Brides journey to the altar to meet her Groom. This selection should be stately and regal and last only the duration of the Brides walk down the aisle:

Wedding March from Lohengrin by Wagner
Arrival of the Queen of Sheba by Handel
Trumpet Voluntary (Prince of Denmark’s March) by Clarke
Hornpipe from Water Music by Handel

Recessional Music is played after the Bride and her Groom are announced as Husband and Wife and start the journey on their new life together. Recessional Music is generally upbeat and spirited to signify celebration.

Traditional Recessional Music selections include:
Wedding March from a Midsummer Night’s Dream by Mendelssohn
Trumpet Voluntary (Prince of Denmark’s March) by Clarke
Overture from the Marriage of Figaro by Mozart
Hornpipe from Water Music by Handel

Note: When selecting music for your wedding ceremony at a House of Worship, check with the officiator for guidelines and rules. Many secular (non-sacred) music selections are not allowed during religious ceremonies.

If your wedding ceremony is being held outside of an official house of worship, your musical options are greater. Appropriateness and timing are important in selecting Ceremony Music.

Junior Acheivement

Great news from Junior Achievement:

Erik and I will get to go back to North Side High School for the 3rd and 4th quarters of this school year. Another JA volunteer backed out at the last minute, so we are helping out with this 3rd quarter.

Junior Achievement has always been a wonderful opportunity for us to give back to our community. As Erik graduated from North Side, this is a great way to give back to his school as well.

Working with Mr. Nordlin is a joy. Whether we get his honors class or regular Economics class, we can tell that he is a caring teacher. He is a pleasure to work with and learn from.

We should be able to share quite a bit about the DJ and wedding industries as well as business in general.

Great Bridal Show the past weekend

The January Bridal Spectacular show is over. The four fashion shows went very well and mostly without incident. The whole disco-themed motif went over well and guests seemed pleased. The models did well to keep each show between 40-45 minutes. The staff at the Wedding Place and Shoe of a Different Color selected some hot and stylish fashions for the brides to see as well.

A great deal of work goes into planning and executing a fashion show. Many people do not see the details that make a show great. I have a lot of respect for Dawn (tWP) and Sheila (SoaDC) and being able to coordinate and pull off a successful show time after time.