At JAM Duo, every wedding we are part of is a story told through music – and Emma and Graham’s celebration at The Grand in Southport was one of those wonderful occasions where each moment flowed beautifully into the next. From the carefully chosen ceremony music to the uplifting soundtrack for the drinks reception and wedding meal, their day was full of love, laughter, and melody.
The Grand, Southport – A Venue with Elegance and Character
Southport’s Grand is a striking Art Deco landmark, lovingly restored and now a premier wedding destination in the North West. The venue combines 1920s glamour with modern luxury, offering a range of versatile spaces for every part of the day.
- The Princess Grace Suite, with its chic décor and refined atmosphere, was where Emma and Graham held both their ceremony and wedding breakfast. It provided a fitting backdrop for moments of great emotion and joy.
- The Rooftop Bar, with its sweeping views across Southport and a terrace that brings the sea air into the celebration, was the setting for the drinks reception. Light, stylish, and buzzing with energy, it perfectly complemented the more intimate and heartfelt atmosphere of the ceremony.
The movement between these spaces gave the day a natural rhythm, and as musicians, we were delighted to adapt our music to match each moment.
The Ceremony – Music with Meaning
The wedding ceremony is always the emotional heart of the day, and Emma and Graham’s choices reflected both their personal story and their love for music that stirs the soul.
Pre-Ceremony Playlist
As guests gathered and took their seats in the Princess Grace Suite, we performed a set of songs that balanced romance with personality. These included:
- Africa – Toto
- Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
- Girls Like You – Maroon 5
- Ordinary – Alex Warren
- My Way – Frank Sinatra
- Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
This mix of classics and contemporary songs created a relaxed and warm atmosphere while guests awaited the bridal procession.
Bridal Entrance
The entrance was truly special and carefully choreographed. The procession began with the bride’s two young boys, followed by her two daughters, then two older bridesmaids, and finally Emma herself, escorted by her father.
The soundtrack was a beautiful blend of “How Long Will I Love You” and “A Thousand Years”, seamlessly woven together by Jules on piano and Anne-Marie on cello. This medley perfectly captured the emotion of the moment – tender, timeless, and deeply moving.
Signing of the Register
During the signing, we played:
- Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
- Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now – Starship
Both songs are romantic staples, instantly recognisable and much loved by guests. They provided a gentle yet joyful backdrop to this pivotal moment.
Couple’s Exit
For their grand exit, Emma and Graham chose Always Be My Baby – a celebratory and upbeat choice that sent the newlyweds and their guests into the next stage of the day with smiles and applause.
The Drinks Reception – Music in the Rooftop Bar
Following the ceremony, guests made their way up to the Rooftop Bar for the drinks reception. While many stepped out onto the terrace to enjoy the views and sunshine, JAM Duo performed inside the bar to ensure the music carried through the space.
The atmosphere here was buzzing – laughter, chatter, and clinking glasses set against a carefully chosen playlist:
- As It Was – Harry Styles
- Chandelier – Sia
- Dance Monkey – Tones and I
- Together in Electric Dreams – Philip Oakey & Giorgio Moroder
- Halo – Beyoncé
This selection brought a mix of contemporary energy and soulful vibes, keeping the mood light and celebratory. Guests loved the combination of upbeat rhythms and familiar melodies – the perfect transition between the ceremony’s emotion and the meal’s festivities.
The Wedding Breakfast – A Soundtrack for Celebration
After drinks and photographs, we moved back downstairs to the Princess Grace Suite, where the room had been transformed for the wedding meal. Emma and Graham opted for a selection of songs that balanced romance, fun, and a touch of nostalgia.
The playlist included:
- All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
- Another Love – Tom Odell
- Golden Hour – JVKE
- Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles
- Pink Pony Club – Chappell Roan
- Strangers in the Night – Frank Sinatra
- New York, New York – Frank Sinatra
- Can You Feel the Love Tonight – Elton John (The Lion King)
- Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
- Dancing in the Moonlight – Toploader
- Selections of Phil Collins classics
The mix of timeless Beatles tracks, emotional ballads like Another Love, and singalong favourites such as Brown Eyed Girl gave the meal a soundtrack that guests instantly connected with. Sinatra numbers added glamour and a nod to the golden age of swing, while modern hits kept the atmosphere fresh and contemporary.
For us, the highlight was the range: from the soaring romance of Golden Hour to the energy of New York, New York, the variety reflected Emma and Graham’s eclectic taste and ensured that every guest found a song they loved.
Music as the Thread of the Day
What struck us most about Emma and Graham’s wedding was how music acted as the golden thread linking each stage of the celebration.
- The ceremony had music carefully woven into every moment, guiding the procession, signing, and exit with meaning.
- The drinks reception leaned into fun and vibrancy, reflecting the excitement of friends and family coming together to celebrate.
- The wedding meal allowed for a wider exploration of their musical personalities, with everything from heartfelt ballads to lively classics.
This progression created a natural journey for guests, with the music always enhancing the mood without overpowering conversation or atmosphere.
The Bride and Groom
Emma looked radiant in her gown, and the bridal procession – with her children leading the way – was particularly moving. It was a moment that blended family, tradition, and personal significance, and we were honoured to provide the live soundtrack.
Graham, smiling throughout, brought warmth and joy to the day, and it was clear from the speeches and laughter during the meal how loved this couple are by their friends and family.
Thank You from JAM Duo
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Emma and Graham for inviting us to be part of such a wonderful celebration. From the first notes of Africa to the closing moments of the wedding meal, it was a joy to perform for you and your guests.
As always, every arrangement was performed 100% live by Jules on piano and Anne-Marie on cello – no backing tracks, no compromises, just live music tailored to your day. Every song was chosen with care, arranged by us, and brought to life in the moment.
Emma and Graham’s wedding was everything a celebration should be – full of love, family, laughter, and unforgettable memories. We were honoured to play our part and wish them every happiness in their married life together.
JAM Duo – Bringing Your Wedding Music to Life
If you are planning your wedding and want music that adapts seamlessly to your day, JAM Duo would love to help. With hundreds of recordings available for inspiration and a repertoire that spans classical, pop, rock, film, and jazz, we can create a soundtrack that is unique to you. Whether it’s a romantic ceremony, a vibrant drinks reception, or an elegant wedding breakfast, our live performances bring atmosphere and emotion to every part of the celebration.
Emma & Graham, thank you for choosing JAM Duo. Your wedding at The Grand in Southport will always remain a highlight for us, and it was a privilege to be part of your story.
