Newly Engaged or Planning Your Wedding? Visit the Fort Wayne Bridal Spectacular

Congratulations to all the the guys who proposed to their girlfriend over the holiday and congratulations to all of the newly engaged brides to be. To get your wedding planning off to a great start, plan to stop by the Fort Wayne Bridal Spectaular this weekend at the Allen County Memorial Coliseum from 12pm-4pm.


Erik Michaels and June Hoffman from Megasound will be on site at the Wedding Connection booth talking to everyone about the upcoming bridal dinner theater production of “Staycee’s Dream Wedding”.

June Hoffman will be working with the Wedding Place and One of a Kind Events as the MC for the New York style fashion show on Saturday at 2pm with an encore presentation on Sunday at 2pm. Bridal Spectacular tickets are available at the door both days.

If you are ready to start your 2010, 2011, or 2012 wedding planning, be sure to read our previous entry on “How to Survive the Bridal Show Whirlwind”. These timeless suggestions will save you a lot of time, money, and effort and help you to have a pleasurable bridal expo experience. Hope to see you this weekend at the Fort Wayne Bridal Spectacular.

Day #25: 25 of the 31 First Dance Songs from Megasound and Planning Your Wedding (PYW) Magazine

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Merry Christmas to everyone!!


We have a special present for all brides and grooms today...here are 25 of the 31 first dance songs from the article titled, The First Dance in the current issue of the "Planning Your Wedding" (PYW) magazine. June and I compiled these wonderful first dance selections from real Fort Wayne weddings.

1. "At Last" by Etta James
2. "Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler
3. "(Everything I do) I Do It For You" by Bryan Adams
4. "I Cross My Heart" by George Strait
5. "What A Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
6. "Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion
7. "Love Of A Lifetime" by Firehouse
8. "Unforgettable" by Natalie and Nat King Cole
9. "All My Life" by Kaci and JoJo
10. "When A Man Loves A Woman" by Various Artists
11. "It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
12. "When You Say Nothing At All" by Alison Krauss
13. "You Are So Beautiful" by Joe Cocker
14. "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers
15. "Amazing Love" by Hillsong
16. "Song For You" by Michael Buble
17. "More Than Words" by Extreme
18. "We've Only Just Begun" by The Carpenters
19. "Bless The Broken Road" by The Rascal Flatts
20. "Making Memories Of Us" by Keith Urban
21. "Halo" by Beyonce
22. "Lucky" by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat
23. "Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis Presley
24. "Amazed" by Lonestar
25. "Wonderful Tonight" by Eric Clapton

If you would like a complimentary copy of the current “Planning Your Wedding” magazine or if you need additional song ideas for your first dance (or wedding party dance), give us a call today! We hope that you have a wonderful holiday and we are looking forward to sharing an awesome 2010 with you!

Day #24 Music To Eat With at Your Wedding Reception

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Happy Christmas Eve to you and your family! This is always a very special time for us as it is to so many people. Occasionally, we have been asked to do weddings during the holidays. These weddings become extraordinary memories simply because of the timeframe they were held in (but of course ALL our weddings become special memories for one reason or another). Here's hoping you and your family have some unique and exceptional memories of your own this season!

As a part of our “25 Days of Christmas: Megasound-style”, we wrote about cocktail music and how it is different from dinner music. Sometimes, couples request the same type of music for the cocktail hour and the dinner time. Also, not every couple has a cocktail hour. So, today we will discuss dinner music and what makes this particular music so important for brides and grooms and their guests.

Dinner music generally should be kept rather quiet. Compared to cocktail music, dinner music should be toned down a bit volume-wise. The important factor here is to create a most relaxing atmosphere for you and your wedding guests. It is important that guests sitting at the same table are able to talk and hear each other without yelling across the table. Aside from volume, another important factor in dinner music is to play music that is memorable for one reason or another. For instance, if you remember hearing big band music at your grandparents' house or your parents played light adult rock at various points, you could utilize those types of music for your dinner hour at your reception. Jazz is still one of the most popular types of music played for dinners and when brides and grooms ask for suggestions, we recommend this type of music (as you will have your highest number of older guests during your dinner time).

Many couples like to include adult contemporary selections for dinner music. we even had one couple who asked that we play 80's "Hair Band" music for dinner. That was interesting and memorable as we grew up in the 80's. Almost any type of music will work provided it is slower music. Music that is too fast (too many beats per minute) may cause indigestion, especially in older individuals. Generally, older individuals will leave earlier than younger people anyway, but you don't want to "push" them out the door with obnoxious music or music that is too fast for the atmosphere you want to create.

As always, should you have a question about your wedding; whether it is about dinner music or other areas of your planning, CALL MEGASOUND!

Day #23: Get the Tips for Wedding Toasting

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Presenting a toast at a wedding reception is an honor and a privilege for a best man or maid or matron of honor. We wanted to share some of the key points for preparing and presenting a wedding toast. We even included some things “not” to do/use in a toast.

Toast and Speech Basics:

1. Keep it brief (3-5 minutes)
2. Keep it simple
3. Keep it decent
4. Make it entertaining
5. Keep it meaningful
6. Keep the sentiment from the heart

Preparing Your Toast:

1. Start writing at least two to three weeks prior to the wedding.
2. Make notes—polish and remove anything irrelevant keeping in mind the 5 minute time limit.
3. Personalize
4. Practice/rehearse ahead of time


When giving a Wedding Toast or Speech:

1. Try to memorize what you want to say or have note cards with key points
2. Use a microphone if available and be aware of your distance from the microphone.
3. Speak so that the back of the room can hear you.

4. Speak clearly and look around at guests

5. Remember to breath

6. Remember to toast the Bride and Groom

7. Use words that are natural for you

The “DO-NOTS” of Toasting:

1. Do not apologize for not being a natural public speaker

2. Do not use vulgarities or risqué stories

3. Do not over-indulge in alcohol prior to the toast

4. Do not monopolize the toast time (especially if there are multiple people presenting toasts).

5. Do not reference previous “exes” or marriages

If you need assistance in writing or preparing your toast or just need some additional tips for presenting a wedding toast or speech, call Megasound. We are happy to assist you.

Day #22: Planning Tips on Planning Your Wedding

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Christmas is only a few days away. Girls: your Christmas present may be a beautiful engagement ring and with your answer of “yes” comes the challenge. First, take a few hours or days to bask in the glow of being engaged to avoid the frenzy (of planning your wedding).

When you are ready to start your wedding planning, here are a few tips to help you create your dream wedding.

- Set aside a time to talk with all of the “key” money players. Be realistic about how much money you have available for a full ceremony and reception.

- Consider the time between the ceremony and reception. A ceremony at 11:30am and a reception at 7pm would be too much time between these events (unless you have alternate activities planned for out of town guests). Your ceremony should be no more than a couple of hours before your reception unless you have a completely different guestlist for both events.

- Research (internet, bridal shows, and referrals) and interview (private meetings or consultations) your wedding professionals before signing contracts (and yes, written contracts ARE important).

- Use a wedding planning guide (download or wedding planning book or binder) so you have written notes and ideas when you need them.

For more wedding planning tips, contact Megasound today!

Day #21: Cocktail Music At Your Reception

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Some people think of cocktail music and dinner music as the same thing. While there is nothing wrong with playing the same type of music for your cocktail hour as for your dinner hour, your dinner music should be slightly more relaxing than the music played for the cocktail hour. You want your guests to enjoy their dinner and be ready for fun and (usually) dancing afterwards.

Cocktail music can be almost any type of music, although I believe that upbeat jazz is probably the most popular type generally played. "Rat Pack" type music (Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, etc.) is featured fairly often for cocktail music, but other types of jazz also work well. Utilizing older types of music will impress your older guests and generally bring back memories for them. Another idea which can be used for your cocktail hour is to play old TV themes. If you want your wedding to be memorable, that will definitely do the trick! Just imagine peoples' expressions as they hear "The A-Team" theme! There are so many different styles of music one can use for the cocktail hour because there aren't any particular traditions going on at this point and people generally are not ready for dancing yet. Since there isn't much structure at this point, almost any type of music will fit the bill. You can use a single type of music or you can spice things up by choosing music of all different types. Themed music such tropical, heritage, and others work well here also.

Basically, the only rule of thumb for cocktail music is to have fun with it! Since dancing is not generally featured during the cocktail hour, other types of "listening" music can also be played during this time which would not fit in well later in the evening. Many couples generally have at least one song that just isn't "danceable" but which they want played at some point during their reception. This song would fit in very well during the cocktail hour. Keep in mind, of course, that the wedding party is not usually at the reception yet. This time is generally reserved for the photographer to take pictures of the couple, their wedding party, and the immediate families.

If you need examples of cocktail music, call Megasound TODAY!

Day #20: Rehearsal Tips To Save The Day

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Wow, here we are almost to Christmas!! Today, we will focus on tips to help you avoid troubles during your wedding rehearsal. “Practice makes perfect”, as they say. Rehearsals are all about practicing; and proper planning ahead of time will eliminate potential issues the day of both your rehearsal AND your wedding. Here are the top ten tips for your rehearsal:

1. Ask all attending the rehearsal to arrive on time. This would include all members of the wedding party. It is helpful to have the musician(s) or DJ to attend as well as any readers, ushers, and parents so cues and timing can be coordinated for the event.

2. Know in advance of the rehearsal any logistical obstacles (wedding arch, planters, urns, bodies of water).

3. If possible, have a few chairs to represent the front row. This will show the amount of space needed as well as give a chance for your Ushers to practice seating mothers for the ceremony.

4. Bring a mock bouquet and veil/train (if wearing them) to the rehearsal. This will help showing the girls all about carrying a bouquet as well as how things will look for the ceremony.

5. If there is to be an aisle runner, decide ahead of time who will put out the runner as well as when. Traditionally, the aisle runner is for the Bride’s walk down the aisle. Be sure to note if tape is needed (or some other type of adhesive or fasteners) to secure the runner to the ground. You never know when a strong gust of wind will happen during an outdoor wedding.

6. Decide if you want the groomsmen to enter with the Groom or with the Bridesmaids. If the wedding party is to walk in pairs, try to pair couples for height as well.

7. Consider practicing the lighting of the Unity candle. Each Unity candle and holders are configured slightly differently. Having the wicks pre-lit reduces the wick size and, in turn, the amount of time to actually light the Unity candle during the ceremony. If you are using an alternate “Unity” tradition (sand or others), know where placement will be for this part of the ceremony. Knowing where other traditions will take place is also important in case your Officiant has to step out of the way for you to get to the setup.

8. You will generally want to go through the steps of the ceremony two or three times. This will give everyone a good feel for the actual ceremony. It should only take two times with an all adult wedding party and possibly three times with younger children involved in the ceremony.

9. If you are including any special presentations that are a surprise for the recipient(s), plan on just the Bride and Groom remaining after all others have left to practice that part of the ceremony. One example is a presentation of a rose to the Mothers.

10. If you haven’t already given your Officiant your marriage license, bring your marriage license to the rehearsal. Traditionally, the Best Man is responsible for remembering this detail.

Feel free to contact us with any questions on your wedding rehearsal.

Day #19: Great Closing Songs for Your Wedding Reception

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

We wanted to share five “closing” songs for your reception as well as fourteen ways to “say goodbye” to your guests at the end of the wedding celebration.

Among the many songs that one may use to end the evening, one song tends to make the list time and again with Fort Wayne brides and grooms. "Closing Time" by Semisonic has been the overwhelming recent favorite and one of the most popular closing songs over the past decade. Another song which has hit favorite status is "Goodnight Sweetheart" by The Spaniels. However, there are many songs which fit the bill of being good closing songs. Another great song to use for the last song is "Save The Best For Last" by Vanessa Williams. Two more songs which have hit the Megasound "Top Five" are "I've Had The Time Of My Life" by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes and "The Party's Over" by Nat King Cole.

Just for fun, we included fourteen different “ways” to say good night to your guests as well. These are: “so long”, “arrivederci”, “sayonara”, “ciao”, “good night”, “bye, bye”, “so long”, “farewell”, “see you later-alligator”, “in a while-crocodile”, “say goodnight”, “auf wiedersehen”, “bon voyage”, and “aloha”.

For more great closing songs, call Megasound now!

Day #18: Fun Reception Introduction Songs

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Here are 18 suggestions of music for your introduction. For a more dramatic feel, use one song for the wedding party and a separate song for just the two of you! The bride and groom are the focal point of the reception, so have fun with it.

"20th Century Fox Theme" from the Original Soundtrack
"David Letterman Theme" by Paul Schaffer
"Finally" by Ce Ce Peniston
"I’m So Excited" by the Pointer Sisters
"Let’s get Ready to Rumble (Pacer’s theme)" by Michael Buffer
"Living in America" by James Brown
"Love and Marriage" by Frank Sinatra

"Me & My Gang" by Rascal Flatts

"Mission Impossible Theme" from the Original Soundtrack

"Peter Gunn Theme" from the Blues Brothers Soundtrack

"Pulp Fiction Movie Theme (Misirlou)" by Dick Dale

"Pump It" by The Black Eyed Peas

"Strike It Up" by Black Box

"Tonight Show Theme" by Doc Severinsen

"Vogue" by Madonna

"Walkin’ on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves

"White Wedding" by Billy Idol

"World Championship Team (Chicago Bulls Theme)" by Alan Parsons Project

For more ideas on introduction music, call Megasound today!

Day #17: Are You Ready for Bridal Boot Camp?

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

A “Bridal Boot Camp” can be a fitness-oriented program or a series of educational events focused on preparing for your wedding. Informal educational events are sometimes part of local bridal shows.

Megasound is one of the sponsors (as well as the MC for each event) of “Bridal Academy” here in Fort Wayne. Bridal Academy is made up of local wedding professionals who want to help brides plan their dream wedding. Most Bridal Academy sessions are in the spring and fall and are about an hour to hour and a half long.

Why attend a Bridal Academy session?
-Various wedding planning topics are presented in a relaxed setting without any sales pitches or pressure.
-Brides receive a wealth of wedding information (along with awesome goodie bags and great savings opportunities).
-Sessions are generally custom-tailored to brides' feedback (from surveys and previous event evaluations).
-One-on-one time with various experienced wedding professionals (without the rush and hassle of a bridal show).
-Most Bridal Academy sessions are still complimentary.

To get more information about upcoming Bridal Academy sessions or request a specific wedding-related topic, contact Megasound today.

Day #16: Parents Dances at Your Reception

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Traditionally, some time after the first dance, the bride dances with her father and the groom dances with his mother. This can be done to separate songs or some couples enjoy using one song to combine the parents' dances. In this time of ever-changing traditions and second (and sometimes third) marriages, some couples (brides and grooms) want to dance as parents with their children (from a previous marriage) rather than dance with their parents.

As an idea to include your guests, ask your DJ/MC to announce about half-way through the dance for all fathers to bring their daughters (or all mothers to bring their sons) to the dance floor. This suggestion is very helpful if parents of the bride and groom or even the bride and groom themselves are uncomfortable with dancing or being in the limelight on the dance floor.

We will break down a few dance combinations with the following sixteen song suggestions:

Bride dancing with her Father (or in some cases, Stepfather):
“Daddy’s Little Girl” by Al Martino
“My Girl” by the Temptations
“Sunrise, Sunset” from the Fiddler on the Roof Soundtrack
“Daddy’s Hands” by Holly Dunn
“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
“Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle

Groom dancing with his Mother (or in some cases, Stepmother):
“Through the Years” by Kenny Rogers
“Unforgettable” by Nat “King” Cole
“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
“Have I Told You Lately” by Rod Stewart
“Can I Have This Dance” by Anne Murray

Bride and/or Groom dancing with their children:
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
“Let Me Call You Sweetheart” by Lawrence Welk
“In My Daughter's Eyes” by Martina McBride
“You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker
“Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” from Various Artists

For more suggestions of songs to share with parents (or children) at your reception, contact Megasound today!

Day #15: Why Would You Want An MC (Master of Ceremonies) For Your Wedding?

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound


First and foremost, one reason in particular you want an MC is so that you have someone responsible for actually providing all of the necessary announcements, playing music throughout the reception, and actually "running" (facilitating) the details of your reception from start to finish. There IS a difference between an MC and a DJ; and this is a very important difference. A "DJ" is a disc jockey. DJs will be able to play music for your reception and many will be able to "feel out" the crowd by playing music your guests want to dance to. However, just because someone knows how to "DJ" an event does NOT mean that he or she knows how to "MC" an event! Your wedding is not a backyard party, so there are many things in a wedding that a typical DJ may not understand that are part of his or her job for your wedding. An MC realizes that he or she is representing you and that he or she is responsible for making certain that everything goes according to your plans so that you can relax and enjoy the festivities.



Many people have talked about using an Ipod for a wedding. Ipods are great for personal listening pleasure, but will not function well as a DJ OR MC. Likewise, some DJs are also not suitable for weddings. There are many different types of DJs, such as radio DJs, nightclub DJs, and karaoke DJs. Make certain that the DJ you select for your wedding is a wedding DJ and familiar with the role of being an MC. Selecting another type of DJ for your wedding may provide you with music, but will you and your guests be impressed with the results of your reception AFTER the fact? Will you feel that you received value and service for the money you spent? The best advice I can give you is this: Do not hire your wedding MC/DJ based on price alone. Keep in mind that this decision will affect the outcome of your reception more than any other element. Therefore, it won't make any difference how much or how little you spent if you aren't happy with the service provided.

One last difference and another reason that you really want an MC for your reception over "just a DJ" is the passion an MC gives. We (at Megasound) are very passionate about what we do and we care about our brides and grooms (and they are more than just “clients”). We want to know about YOUR wedding so that we can make it the way you want. We will be honest with you if we think something may not work the way you want it to, but we will still do it your way if you choose. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that everything is under control and taken care of for your big day of celebration!

If you want to know more about MCs and your wedding, give us a call TODAY!

Day #13: Do You Need Wedding Insurance?

from June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

We are over half way through the "25 Days of Christmas-Megasound-style" and my how time flies.

Through all of the decisions that take place in planning a wedding, most couples think little on the possibility that “something” might happen to delay, postpone, or even cancel their wedding. Even though the percentage is low, “things” do happen and in Indiana, the list is rather short on examples of natural problems (including power outages, rain, tornadoes, blizzards, and floods). A few Fort Wayne couples have had to postpone their dream wedding due to military deployments, family deaths, and financial hardships. And even fewer Indiana couples have cancelled their wedding for various reasons (including infidelity, arrests, and cold feet).

Keep in mind that once you sign a contract with a professional, you have reserved their products and/or services especially for your wedding date. The professionals who deal in perishable items (food, cakes, flowers, and other edible specialties) can not simply do “something” else with those consumable items if you cancel your event a couple of days before the wedding. If you postpone or cancel two or three weeks before your wedding, your band, DJ, church, photographer, videographers, and other can not simply call another bride that they turned away in the past and "refill" the date.

Of course, these are only a few examples if you (as the purchaser) delay, postpone, or cancel your wedding. Wedding insurance covers a lot more scenarios. Consider checking with your personal insurance for a rider on your policy (for wedding event insurance). Another company which specializes in wedding insurance is Wedsafe.com. Keep in mind that your wedding professionals' liability insurance only covers limited areas and does not cover claims where you postpone or cancel your wedding (even if it is beyond your control).

Day #14: Do You Have a Back Up Plan?

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Having backup plans for your wedding ceremony and reception are very important. Even the best-laid and most comprehensive planning cannot preclude unforeseen problems. Most of the time, these problems are small and insignificant and most people won't notice anyway. However, there ARE things which have a possibility of happening that your guests may not just notice, but actually drive them away from your special day. Having backup plans is important because last minute changes don't usually turn out as well as changes which have already been planned beforehand.

Ceremony location - It is important to choose a location that reflects your vision and ideas. If your ceremony is located outside, it is advisable to have a backup location for your ceremony. This could be inside a tent or inside a building of some sort. If the weather doesn't cooperate, at least then you will have laid the foundation for the ceremony to go on as planned without incident.

Ceremony traditions - With some traditions such as the lighting of the unity candle, doing so depends once again on the weather cooperating if you are having an outside ceremony. A windy day will make lighting a unity candle almost impossible, so choosing a different tradition or having a backup tradition such as the blending of the sands will allow for your ceremony to flow smoothly without much trouble.

Ceremony music - Once again, for outside weddings, one needs to consider the type of music which will be played. On a breezy day, classical music may be difficult to hear on soft parts of songs. With all of the difficulties presented with doing an outside ceremony, one might think an outside ceremony just too risky to plan. However, most outside weddings go without incident and the beauty and aura of an outside wedding is difficult to beat. Simply by having alternate plans, you can plan an outside ceremony easily; and as long as you have the proper backups in place in case problems pop up, you won't have to experience the pitfall of not having a plan at the last minute when you need one!

Electricity - This is an absolute necessity for almost every wedding. Without electricity, there will not be air conditioning (or heat if it is cold), lights, amplification of sound (music), and on and on. Having a backup plan such as a generator or power inverter is very well-advised. *Here at Megasound, we actually have a package called Power Failure Insurance which provides either a generator or power inverter for our sound systems and lightshows during ceremonies and/or receptions. Most receptions nowadays are a very expensive part of a wedding. Having backup power ready can mean a HUGE difference in how your reception goes. Most people can do without hot food and air conditioning, but without music and lighting of some sort, most people will tend to leave fairly early. Not having power at a particular venue is a rare occurrence, but one which has dire consequences.

Day #12: Questions to Ask a Potential DJ

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Here are just a few questions to ask when interviewing disc jockeys for your wedding reception in Fort Wayne or other areas.


-How many years of wedding experience do you have as a DJ (disc jockey)?
-How are you different from other disc jockeys?
-What type of attire do you perform in?
-What types of planning assistance do you give before the wedding?

Check out Megasound's “Key Questions” page for additional information and questions for prospective DJ’s!

Day #11: Do You Like Your Wedding Officiant?

from June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Your answer is hopefully “yes”.


Due to various reasons, many couples must “search” for an Officiant to perform their wedding ceremony. Even though this is the one “legal” portion of the wedding ceremony, couples should still “like” their Officiant. Whether the wedding is taking place in a church or at an alternate location, the ceremony is important and the person performing the ceremony should reflect who you are as a couple.

Some points to selecting a “likeable” Officiant for your wedding ceremony:

1. Male or female? – Unless you are totally set on a male or female Officiant, be open to the idea of having either a male or female perform your wedding.

2. Professional—Determine that the Officiant has performed many wedding ceremonies and is willing to customize your ceremony. An experienced professional will help you create a meaningful ceremony that you will cherish.

3. Cookie-cutter—Will the Officiant take the time to get to know you as a couple? A personalized ceremony is more than simply filling names into a pre-written outline.

4. Provide on-going support—Will the Officiant be available to talk about the ceremony at the different planning stages? Planning a wedding is stressful. The Officiant should be able to offer suggestions on wedding readings, vows, and music. They also should make you feel comfortable with the planning process.

5. Coaching—Will the Officiant work with you on logistics and run the wedding rehearsal? A true professional will offer ideas to simplify your ceremony or to overcome other obstacles.

6. Voice—Ask the Officiant to read a sample ceremony. Does their passion, voice inflection, and tone meet your expectations or vision for the ceremony?

7. Licensing—Is the Officiant licensed in the state where you are holding your ceremony? Be sure to ask and look at their credentials. You do not want to find out in the future that your marriage is invalid due to improper or nonexistent licensing.

8. Rules—Ask about “rules” for the photographer and video and how the Officiant interacts (or could be distracted) by other wedding vendors during the ceremony.

9. Fees—Ask for a detailed list of what is included in the fee being charged by the Officiant. This is important in case you need to acquire additional services (pre-meetings, travel, music, phone time, etc).

10. Appearance—How will the Officiant be dressed for your ceremony? Check out photos or video as well as asking about options. This is important if you are having a themed wedding or other level of formality for your ceremony.

11. Over-all Likeability—Make sure that you both (bride and groom) meet the Officiant before hiring them for your wedding. Both bride and groom should be happy with their selection and feel that the Officiant will be the best for their wedding.

At Megasound, we offer free, no-obligation consultations so that our Officiants can learn more about your wedding. You have an opportunity to interview both male and female Officiants and ask your wedding questions. Call us to set up your appointment today!

Day #10: Must-Have Announcements at Your Wedding Reception

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Much of your reception is planned out ahead of time and only a few select people will know what is going on at any given time. Announcements are important so that your guests know “what” is going on and if they have to participate in an activity. Your MC or DJ should review the announcements that you want to include at your wedding reception. Make sure that your DJ has the correct pronunciation of all names (ahead of time) for the introductions.

The Introduction – This should at least be the bride and groom (as the reception is in their honor). Many couples like to include wedding party members, ushers, any flower girls, and ring bearers. Occasionally, the parents of the bride and groom are introduced (prior to the wedding party and generally they simply stand up where they are seated). One couple even asked that we introduce as a special honor, four sets of grandparents in attendance (as all were still living and still married to their respective spouse).

Prayer/Blessing/Welcome (before dinner) – The prayer or blessing can be done by your pastor or minister (if they are attending the reception) or even a parent or grandparent. A “welcome” is generally given by the parent(s) hosting the reception (in most cases, the bride's parents are the hosts). A "welcome" can also be done immediately prior to the toasts.


Dinner – Your MC (or DJ) should discuss ahead of time (with the banquet manager or caterer) the order of “how” dinner will run at your reception. A dinner announcement is generally made so that all guests know how they will receive their meal (whether the meal is served plated or buffet style). Many full-service caterers have a well-defined dinner plan that works best for their facilities and will make your dinner run smooth and orderly.

Toasts – Whether you are having a full champagne toast or some variation (with signature drinks or no alcohol), drinks should be poured before the toast. Generally, the Best Man leads the toasts to the new bride and groom and then is followed by the Maid/Matron of Honor. Your MC should introduce those individuals you want to perform a toast. Toasts should be short (no more than five minutes each) and tasteful. If allowed to run unchecked, toasts can get out of control and cut into your reception time. If you have a lot of people who have prepared toasts, consider having the toasts after the salad and rolls are served, but before the start of dinner.

Cake Cutting – The cake cutting is the transition from meal time to celebration time. Many of your guests will want to take photos so your MC should include this announcement.

Traditions – Things like your first dance, wedding party dance, bouquet and garter throws should all be announced as well. This allows your guests to be aware of the fact that, "We are now doing "X," come on up and join us!" You will want your guests to be an integral part of your festivities so that they don't get bored and want to leave. One of the MC's jobs is to keep your guests having fun so that they will stay to celebrate with you. This is also why having an "I-pod" wedding doesn't work very well. Having announcements and someone to "run the show" is just as important as having music at your reception!

Closing – Signaling the end of your reception, the closing lets your guests know that it's time for the last dance and for them to congratulate the bride and groom before leaving.

For more ideas on must-have announcements, please feel free to contact us!


Happy Planning!!

Day #9: Nine Songs that Might Make Your “No-Play” List

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

“No-play" lists are common and even encouraged for wedding receptions. In many cases, the “no-play” list is almost as important as the songs that need to be played at a wedding reception. We (as disc jockeys) would rather not play a song that a bride or groom feels is inappropriate or vulgar or has some other bad or improper meaning. Of course, we could easily come up with a small book's worth of songs that most people would rather not hear (especially at their wedding reception). The following nine songs may be some reader's personal favorites (so please do not take offense to a song being listed here as a “no-play” song). We selected these nine musical creations for a wide variety of reasons (some of which are self-explanatory by their titles).

--"We Built This City" by Starship
--"The Final Countdown" by Europe
--"Cop Killer" by Body Count
--"Achy Breaky Heart" by Billy Ray Cyrus
--"Oops, I Did It Again" by Britney Spears
--"Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" by Dr. Elmo
--"Knockin' On Heaven's Door" by Guns and Roses
--"Muskrat Love" by Captain and Tennille
--"Throw Some D’s" by Rich Boy

Day #8 Girls, Get Ready to Toss...Your Bouquet

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Calling all single ladies as it is time to catch that bridal bouquet. The following are eight song suggestions for the tradtional bouquet toss. Brides; remember to take a couple of minutes to enjoy the excitement. Hold on to the bouquet until the MC (or disc jockey) counts to three. This will also give your photographer ample time to line up the best shot for the photos.

Enjoy!

8 bouquet toss song suggestions:

1. "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" by Beyonce
2. "Evacuate The Dancefloor" by Cascada
3. "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper
4. "Chapel of Love" by The Dixiecups
5. "Barbie Girl" by Aqua
6. "Ladies Night" by Kool and the Gang
7. "All I Wanna Do" by Sheryl Crow
8. "Don't Cha" by the Pussycat Dolls

Day #7: Family Dynamics and Your Wedding

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

One of the biggest things to remember (about planning your wedding) is that you will NOT please everyone with every decision that you make for your wedding. With that being said, we would like to offer Fort Wayne brides and grooms seven ways to incorporate your family in your wedding (without driving yourself crazy).

1. Ask a parent or sibling to walk you down the aisle. If you have older children, ask them to be your escort. This is an honor that they will remember for a lifetime.

2. Ask brothers from both sides (brides and grooms) to act as ushers. The general rule of thumb is one usher for every fifty guests. It will speed up the seating process (as well as releasing guests after the ceremony) to have more escorts.

3. Teenage nieces and nephews are good choices for guest book attendants and greeters (to distribute programs) at the ceremony. They would also be able to hand out bubbles and/or flower petals (if allowed by ceremony location) directly after the ceremony.

4. Only ask family members who are comfortable with public speaking to share a special reading or Bible verse during the ceremony.

5. Older nieces, nephews, or children could assist guests with locating place cards at the reception.

6. Ask a grandparent, aunt, or uncle to lead the prayer before the meal. Be sure to let your DJ/MC know this person’s name ahead of time so they can be introduced before dinner.

7. Before the reception, ask family members who love dancing to be party-motivators or dance instructors. Of course, request that they do this tastefully as you want excitement and celebration, not chaos and embarrassment.

When asking family members for help with your wedding, be sure to take into consideration age, proximity, maturity, and willingness.

Happy Planning!

Day #6 Offers Exciting Suggestions for Traditional Garter Toss

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Calling all single guys! Whether you are in Fort Wayne or elsewhere, get ready, as here are 6 song suggestions the traditional garter removal and toss. Enjoy the wedding reception!

6 garter toss suggestions for the guys:

1. The Stripper by The David Rose Orchestra

2. Hot, Hot, Hot by Buster Poindexter

3. Oh Yeah by Yellow

4. Legs by ZZ Top

5. Jump Around by House of Pain

6. Another One Bites The Dust by Queen

Day #5 Offers Processional and Recessional Selections

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

We are on "Day 5" of our "25 days of Christmas (Megasound style); so fittingly, here are 5 song suggestions to use for your ceremony processional and 5 suggestions for your recessional! (Please keep in mind that these are traditional classical song suggestions. Some of our brides and grooms are using more contemporary music for their ceremonies.)

Wedding Ceremony Processional Song Suggestions:

1. "Canon in D" by Pachelbel

2. "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" by Handel

3. "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" by Bach
4. "Trumpet Tune and Air" by Purcell
5. "Bridal Chorus from 'Lohengrin'" by Wagner

Wedding Ceremony Recessional Song Suggestions:

1. "Trumpet Voluntary" by Clarke

2. "Wedding March from 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'" by Mendelssohn

3. "Hornpipe in D from 'Water Music'" by Handel

4. "Now Thank We All Our God" by Karg-Elert

5." Toccata" by Widor

Happy Planning!!

Day #4 - Four Unique Ways to Include Guests in Your Wedding

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Your wedding is the celebration of you and your fiancé tying the proverbial “knot”. You invite your closest friends and family (and sometimes a few more people) to share in this unique experience. Here are fours ways to involve your guests in your wedding (more than just as spectators).

1. Create a Bouquet – ask your ushers to distribute roses (or other flowers) to the guests seated closest to the middle of the aisles. As you walk down the aisle, collect the flowers from your guests. Either have your maid of honor tie the flowers together with a ribbon when you hand them to her or have a vase available near the alter area to place the flowers in.

2. Unity Sand – as guests arrive for the ceremony, have the guest book attendant ask guests to add a pinch (or spoonful) of sand to a clear glass container. During the “unity” ceremony, have the Officiant (or other special guest) pour the “guests” sand into the "unified" container in which both bride and groom are pouring their sand.

3. Wedding Photos – ask guests to either bring or send you a copy of their wedding photo (or one of their parents or grandparents). Incorporate the photos in varying sizes and unique frames at the wedding reception. This can be done at the reception entryway or on each table as a part of the table décor by assigning someone to make certain that they have each frame put together on each table. Of course, it will be easier to have the photos ahead of time so you can put together all the frames beforehand so that they can be placed on each table at the reception during your decoration time.

4. Sparkling Departure – for evening receptions, have your DJ/MC announce (about a half an hour before the end of the reception) for guests to line up outside the reception hall. Have groomsmen distribute unlit sparklers (either short ones or a bit larger specialty size) to the guests. Then have the groomsmen light the guests sparklers as you and your groom exit and you will have a sparkling departure to a waiting limo or car. An afternoon alternative is to replace the sparklers with a helium balloon release.

Of course, there are other unique ways to involve your guests in your wedding. Just keep in mind logistics, cost, time, and having someone else available to organize things for you so that, as the bride, you can enjoy your wedding.

Happy Planning!!

Day # 3 - Unique Ceremony Locations Around Fort Wayne

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Many people are familiar with the Bridal Glen at Foster Park, Lakeside Rose Gardens, and the Botanical Conservatory being top spots for Fort Wayne weddings. But have you thought of alternative locations to hold your wedding ceremony? Fort Wayne offers many different locations in and around the area that may be "just the answer" for YOUR wedding ceremony!

Almost any park has space which can be utilized for an intimate wedding ceremony; and most Fort Wayne parks have areas which can be reserved for your ceremony. Quite a few locations also offer pavilions for your reception as well. Many county parks present beautiful areas for your ceremony. Some locations do not have pavilions and can only be used if the weather cooperates, so make sure that you have an adequate backup plan if you decide to use an area where you don't have access to something with a roof such as a tent, pavilion, or gazebo. Keep in mind that your backup plan should be at approximately the same time as your main plan (reserving separate times will cost considerably more with some vendors).

For a rural feel; two county parks in particular, Metea and Fox Island, provide facilities to accommodate almost any type of ceremony. Just to the east of State Road 1 near Leo-Cedarville is a park along the St. Joe River with new adjoining cabanas perfect for river-inspired weddings! Another gem just outside Allen County is the covered bridge in Spencerville; although since it is still open to traffic, one would have to obtain a permit to hold a ceremony on the bridge. The old barn at Salomon Farm is another cool location that gives you the country feel while still close to Fort Wayne. The Cedar Canyons area has its own appeal to brides with beautiful vistas and a multitude of natural areas.

Fort Wayne boasts the Foellinger Theater at Franke Park as a unique location to hold a “theatrically” inspired wedding ceremony and seating, bathrooms, and overhead coverage is already part of the package! Other exceptional locations that offer charm and distinctive backdrops include Headwaters Park, Old Fort Wayne (across the St. Mary's River from Headwaters Park), the new Japanese pavilion at Swinney Park, Parkview Field, and a multitude of locations along our Rivergreenway trail system. The old (uncovered) Wells Street bridge IS closed to traffic and gives a rustic, yet urban charm. Freimann Square offers a fountain backdrop making this a refreshing location for a wedding ceremony (minus restroom facilities). Contact the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation department or the management offices of these facilities for full details and pricing.

Do you like a lot of privacy? If so, look for a more enclosed type of setting. If being in the public eye doesn't bother you at all, then almost any location might work. Megasound has the ability to provide our services at ANY location regardless of whether the location has electricity or not. This means that we can perform your ceremony literally ANYWHERE!! Happy planning!!

Day #2 - Two Sets of Wedding Vows

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Did you know that there are TWO sets of vows in most wedding ceremonies?

One of the sets, the wedding vows, is the set that is required in order for a wedding ceremony to be a wedding ceremony. The other set of vows, the ring exchange vows, is more of a formality and not actually legally required for a wedding ceremony. Without wedding vows, a wedding ceremony is actually just a ring exchange ceremony to which a marriage license cannot be signed.


With Megasound, you get to choose your own wedding vows AND ring exchange vows - OR you can write your own! With our options, you can choose vows which are repeated after the minister or recited from memory. In addition, you also get to choose your own other elements of the ceremony, including your own traditions. Megasound makes it EASY for you, offering a wide range of ceremony options in addition to musical options. Combine this with our ability to perform wedding ceremonies ANYWHERE with or without electricity, and you have the perfect answer for your wedding ceremony!

Happy planning!!