Today was our first wedding at the delightful Holbrook Manor in Somerset. This was our first visit for a wedding at Holbrook Manor although we have previously played for an open day there. It was also a chance to meet up the Sam the Celebrant who we had previously met at a different open day at The White Barn in Somerset. Not that we go to many open days as technically we don’t! Anyway today’s wedding was for another lovely couple Megan and Melanie.
The Wedding
Megan and Melanie
Holbrook Manor, Somerset
Friday 2 September 2022
The Wedding Ceremony
Prior to the ceremony Jules was asked to play some music on the grand piano in the reception of Holbrook Manor. Fortunately, this instrument is reasonably in tune and playable! You would be surprised what we come across at some venues.
After twenty minutes or so we moved into the ceremony room as we had a few songs to play prior to the ceremony whilst guests arrived and took their seats. Megan and Melanie had requested Fun, uplifting, contemporary pop songs (lady Gaga, Britney, Spice Girls, Jennifer Lopez – anything pop that people might recognise!
Ceremony Music
Bridal Entrance
Dancing Queen – abba (slow version)
Signing
I don’t think we will be signing a register
Exit
You’ve got the love – Candi Staton
Both for the entrance and exit we had specifically been asked to arrange ‘slow versions’ based on a few you tube tracks which Melanie had sent us. We are always happy to adapt our arrangement and performance style to match in with a bride’s request particularly when it is for something as important as the bridal entrance or couple exit.
Sam the Celebrant
About a year ago we met Sam the Celebrant at an open day held at the white barn in Somerset as she had the stand next to ours. Despite the number of weddings we do it has taken this long to actually meet her at a wedding!
In her own words….
“I am a fun loving, open minded, modern celebrant who is ready to kickstart your big day with a bang!
I create unique ceremonies that ooze personality, love and warmth. Ceremonies that truly reflect who you are as a couple. I believe life is all about love and celebration – and your day should absolutely be all about you.! “
You can find out more about Sam the Celebrant by visiting her website.
Wedding Drinks Reception
After the ceremony we moved outdoors for a drinks reception in the grounds of Holbrook Manor.
Music for the drinks reception
The brief today was ‘anything pop’ with the following list supplied as an indication of the Bride’s taste!
Britney – Toxic, Hit me baby one more time
Mystical – Shake your ass
Lasy Gaga – bad romance
Beyonce – Crazy in love / anything!
Jennifer Lopez – anything!!!
Ariana Grande – No tears left to cry
Ellie Goulding – Figure 8
Taylor Swift – Shake it off
Shania Twain – anything!!
Candi Staton – Young hearts
Whilst none of these songs are on our ‘listen’ page this is absolutely not a problem. We can (and did) play anything and it’s always good finding new songs to play.
We really enjoyed being part of Megan and Melanie’s wedding and wish them both every happiness in their married live together.
