The stunning vista of the city of Birmingham provided the backdrop for Bridget and Jeremy’s May 30th wedding at Vulcan Park. And it truly was a beautiful, unique wedding. Bridget’s ceremony music was carefully chosen to reflect her fun-loving and caring personality. As a result our Dolce Duo provided a mix of traditional music and special arrangements of favorite songs for the bride and groom. Bridget’s cousin, Lane, possesses a beautiful voice and her rendition of Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning” was fittingly exquisite. Neki Garrett of Engaging Celebrations was on hand to see that all aspects of the ceremony and reception went smoothly. Floral arrangements and decorations were provided by Vince Gray of Flower Stems. Cafe Iz offered delicious food and drink and Simply Bloom Photography captured the special day for couple’s new family album. We were delighted and honored to have been a part of this memorable and wonderful wedding!
Lauren and PJ’s Wedding
Lauren and PJ’s wedding was one of the happiest occasions ever! We had been contact by Lauren in late 2008 to assist her in the selection of the music for her May 31st wedding at Hoover’s Aldridge Gardens. After reviewing the various options, Lauren decided upon our Dolce Duo to provide the music for both the ceremony and reception. Lauren and PJ’s vows were held outside at the front of the Aldridge’s estate. Following the nuptials, guests moved indoors for the afternoon reception. Lauren (who was the most easy-going and relaxed of brides!) opted for traditional ceremony music with a mix of pop, jazz and classical sounds for her reception. The couple made their first dance as husband and wife to the melody of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and appropriately, Lauren and her father danced to “Wind Beneath My Wings.” We loved this couple and their wedding at beautiful Aldridge Gardens!
Independence Day 2009
Fireworks and music go together like….well, apple pie and ice-cream. Or perhaps Silver Queen corn on the-cob and southern barbecue! We were happy to experience all of the above as a part of this year’s Fourth of July celebrations. Our Rosewood Trio entertained the attendees of festivities at Greystone Golf Club. Elsewhere, “one-man-band” musician Joe Breckenridge provided pool-side entertainment at Mountain Brook Club. A member picnic also hosted at the club featured the very American Rock-A-Billy sounds of The Martini Shakers. We offer thanks and appreciation to our talented musicians and gratitude to events managers Melia and Joshua their trust and confidence!
Elizabeth and Nicholas’ Wedding
What a great pleasure it was to work with Elizabeth Hawkins and her mother Ann in the planning of this most beautiful April 25th wedding! At every turn, mother and daughter both showed exceptional grace and thoughtfulness. Their consideration and elegance was highly evident in the evening ceremony held Saturday at Birmingham’s historic First United Methodist Church.
From our first conversation in the late fall of 2008, it was clear that music was to be of upmost importance to Elizabeth and her family. Many of their guests were coming from long distances to attend the wedding and it was essential that the music be of the highest quality.
We were very honored that our Dolce Duo was chosen to perform. Selections from Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons,” various Bach Cantatas and other classics were offered. We were also able to call upon two very fine vocalists, Melanie Williams and Chipper Janes, to perform Schubert’s “Ave Maria” and “The Lord’s Prayer.”
A number of our favorite colleagues helped in the creation of Elizabeth’s ceremony. Elizabeth’s gorgeous gown was from Carolyn and Cathy Kelly’s The White Room. The sanctuary of FUMC was beautifully decorated with floral arrangements by Vince Gray of Flower Stems. Frank Carnaggio was on hand to document the festivities through his camera’s lens.
The music and coordinating staff at FUMC was most helpful in working out details for the ceremony (Thanks Nonna!) And through the planning process Neki Garrett of Engaging Celebrations was of great assistance.
This was one of our favorite weddings. We extend special thanks to the Hawkins family for including us in this very special day. Best wishes Elizabeth and Nick!
Jenna and Christopher’s Wedding
The pavilion at Hoover’s Aldridge Botanical Gardens offered a tranquil setting for Jenna and Chris’ April 25th afternoon wedding.
We had been assisting Jenna and her mother Debbie in the music planning of the ceremony since December of 2008 so it was a delight to see their plans come to fruition. From the various instrumental options available, Jenna chose our Dolce Duo to provide her ceremony music.
Jenna and Chris were surrounded by friends and family for their very special day. The bride’s uncle, Reverend Michael Northcutt, led the couple through their vows. The service was touching and reinforced for the couple the love and support shown by those in attendance.
Aldridge Gardens is treasure nestled in the midst of the city of Hoover. The former estate of Kay and Eddie Aldridge abounds with signature hydrangeas and a wide variety of native trees and plants. Perfect Events Music has provided entertainment for a number of events at this lovely venue. We are always impressed by the professionalism of the gardens’ staff and the meticulous care taken in the landscaping and upkeep of the house and other facilities.
We would like to express our gratitude to Jenna and Chris for including Dolce Duo in this most important day in their lives. Best wishes for a long and happy marriage!
Amy and Dustin’s Smith Lake Wedding
After months of happy anticipation, Amy and Dustin’s beautiful wedding took place this past Saturday at Clear Creek Park on Smith Lake. Our Dolce Duo was honored to be included in this lovely couple’s big day.
Although the bride and groom are now living in the Atlanta area, it was fitting that the Amy and Dustin’s ceremony was held nearer to their families and hometown of Jasper, Alabama. Indeed, it was evident through the day that both Amy and Dustin’s families are very important to them and will remain so through the years to come.
Amy was a pleasure to work with during the months prior to her festivities. Her sunny personality, confidence and optimism showed through at every turn! She also was a most efficient planner. From the outset, her desire was to create a wedding of simple elegance. In this, she truly succeeded.
The backdrop of Amy and Dustin’s ceremony was the beautiful and peaceful Smith Lake itself. With barely a brush of wind, the lake’s surface acted as a mirror, reflecting the shoreline’s brilliant green leafing hardwoods.
The herb rosemary, the symbol of remembrance, held a prominent place in the ceremony. Decorations and flowers echoed the muted colors of rosemary throughout. It was all tastefully done, allowing guests to delight in the beauty of the bride and the serenity of the surroundings.
It was such a pleasure to provide music for this wonderful wedding. We offer very best wishes to Amy and Dustin in their new life together!
The Redstone Spring Formal & Dolce Duo
Our Dolce Duo made a return visit to Birmingham’s Mountain Brook Club on Friday for the Redstone Spring Formal. After hearing Dolce perform at February’s Krewe Ball, planners made a special request for Dolce, to which we were happy to oblige! Music offerings included jazz renditions along with sultry Latin tangos, a bit of pop and even some classical favorites. It was great to be back at Mountain Brook Club and to see familiar faces from the Krewe Ball event. Thanks so much to Dana and Melia at Mountain Brook Club for their fine work and for making our job all the easier!
Melissa and Sammy’s Santa Rosa Beach Wedding
Images by Lauren Carroll Photography
I first had the pleasure of meeting Melissa at the 30-A, Florida icon of coffee shops, Miss Lucille’s at Gulf Place. Along with discussion of the details of her wedding, I was delighted to hear about her life in New Orleans, her professional goals and her and Sammy’s plans for their future. Melissa and Sammy’s wedding took place this Easter weekend at The Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club. It is a venue that seen our Dolce Duo perform often over the last seven or so years.
Melissa’s prayers were answered for beautiful weather on her wedding day. Temperatures were in the low-70’s, the skies were clear azure and a gentle breeze kissed bride, groom and guests.
The bluff-side club house, under the tending eye of wedding and events coordinator Christine Walker was beautifully decorated echoing the simplicity of the bamboo and orchid altar that had been installed on the beach. 
As guests gathered on the beach for the ceremony, Dolce Duo played music of Bach, Faure and others. Reverend Troulles guided Melissa and Sammy through their vows with a wonderful mix of warmth and humor that emphasized the depth of love and commitment the bride and groom share for each other.
At the conclusion of their vows, guests were asked to participate in a shell ceremony showing support for the new couple.
It was truly a pleasure to be a part of Melissa and Sammy’s beautiful wedding!
Ali and Brett’s Wedding
Ali and Brett’s April 4th wedding was perfect example of Southern grace, style and hospitality! Held at the Ashland, Alabama home of Ali’s parents, the planning of the festivities began mid-year 2008 and took shape with the assistance of wedding planner Alene Gamel of I Do, I Do Wedding Planning. Alene’s expertise was a great asset as Ali was planning her wedding long-distance from her home in Oklahoma. Perfect Events Music has had the opportunity to work closely with Alene over the last few years and have been most impressed by her attention to details. She is truly committed to helping brides’ personal visions of weddings come true. Certainly this was the case with Ali and Brett’s beautiful wedding!
Perfect Events Music provided a trio of string musicians for the wedding ceremony. Thanks to Marilyn, Anne and Avi; members of The Shades Creek Chamber Players. The pool-side ceremony offered prelude selections by Vivaldi, Mozart and Handel. The bridal party entered to Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” and Ali’s walk up the aisle was accompanied by Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”. Following the completion of their vows, Ali and Brett exited as husband and wife to the joyous sounds of Handel’s “Queen of Sheba” March.
Perfect Events Music also worked with Ali in an area that often doesn’t get much attention: sound amplification. Our technician (Infinity Sound) provided microphones and sound equipment for the string trio and minister. An important detail!
Kozmic Mama was the featured entertainment for the reception celebration. The band was a great hit with family and guests and was described as “fabulous!” Lead singer Carla is the Kozmic Mama! Her dynamic vocals and personality inspired SO many of Ali and Brett’s guests to hit the dance floor. It’s difficult to imagine a more fun celebration.
Congratulations Ali and Brett! It was a pleasure working with you.
John and Lauren’s Wedding Reception
During the past eight months, Perfect Events Music has had the great pleasure of working with Lauren in the planning of entertainment for her April 4th wedding reception.
After listening to audio demos, reviewing song lists and discussing the various musical options, Lauren chose the Ray Reach Quartet to provide music for her festivities. The venue was The Club, Inc., atop Birmingham’s Red Mountain. The stunning views of the Birmingham skyline made a perfect combination with Ray’s renditions of classic favorites by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Harry Connick Jr. and others. After their introduction, John and Lauren’s first dance as husband and wife was to the tune of Michael Buble’s “Everything.” Lauren’s father-daughter dance was to the tune of Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable.”
Our very best wishes go out to John and Lauren as they begin their new life together!
Ashley and Gary’s Wedding
Ashley and Gary’s ceremony took place this past Saturday…a beautiful, warm, spring afternoon in Oneonta.
The festivities were held at the lovely Twin Oaks at Heritage golf course. This was Perfect Events Music’s first experience with Heritage and we were quite impressed by the setting and the facilities. The course is nestled in a mountain-surrounded valley with numerous spring-fed lakes throughout the grounds. This is the height of the blossom season and the dogwoods and azaleas did not disappoint! Guests gathered on the club-house terrace for Ashley and Gary’s ceremony, and then recessed indoors for a celebration featuring heavy hors d’ouvres.
Ceremony music was provided by our Dolce Duo. Vocal selections included “Surely the Presence,” “How Beautiful,” “When God Made You,” and “I’ll Be There.” Vocalists Lisa, Mary Beth, Jordan and Jackson all did a great job! The family was seated to Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” The three bridesmaids made their entrance to Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and Wagner’s Bridal Chorus accompanied Ashley’s walk to the altar.
We enjoyed the service as presented by Reverend Tony Jones. A technical note here: I think everyone in attendance appreciated the fact that they could actually hear Reverend Jones’s words, the couple’s vows and the music! Microphones and a sound system are especially important for an outdoor service! We are pleased that that Ashley and Gary had considered this during their wedding planning.
Ashley and Gary looked so very happy on their special day! We wish them the very best in their new journey as husband and wife!
Ashley and Jeff’s Wedding
Ashley and Jeff’s garden wedding was held on March 21’st at Mathews Manor in Springville, AL. Perfect Events Music had the pleasure of working with Ashley and her mother Sheila in the selection and coordination of the Ray Reach Trio for wedding reception’s entertainment.
It was a gorgeous Alabama spring day for Ashley and Jeff’s festivities. Following the outside ceremony, guests moved in to Grace Hall to celebrate. The band, in tuxedo attire, was set-up and ready to go on the chapel’s stage. 
The couple chose a Sinatra/Jazz theme for their music. Thus, following their first dance (Can’t Help Falling in Love), favorite songs by Ole Blue Eyes, Nat King Cole, and others were offered.
According to Sheila, “The band was wonderful!”
We very much appreciate the compliments and are proud to have been a part of this most important day in Ashley & Jeff’s lives.
**Our special thanks to Ann Wade Parrish Photography for sharing their beautiful images with us!
Donna and Mike’s Wedding
Photography by Meredith Rowlan
During the past few months Perfect Events Music had the great pleasure of working with the one of the most delightful and beautiful brides to be! Donna’s wedding reception was held March 21st in the Ridgely Ball Room at the historic Tutwiler Hotel in downtown Birmingham. The band she chose was our very own Deja Blue Band.
Donna gave us a most positive review: “Deja Blue was excellent! There are no words to describe how much fun we had. Tina, the vocalist, was a doll and could sing like you cannot imagine. It was wonderful to see (the band) read the crowd and conduct their music accordingly instead of just staying with a ‘playlist.’ We have been told by so many that it was the best party they have ever attended!”
As so often is the case with brides, Donna didn’t have much opportunity to eat, but by all reports the food (provided by The Tutwiler’s Icon restaurant) was excellent. 
We’ve had the opportunity to provide music for many events at the Tutwiler, including wedding ceremonies, receptions, and more. In doing so, we naturally have a lot of interaction with their primary “point person,” Patricia Conrad. In the role of do-it-all events manager, Patricia does an excellent job of planning, overseeing catering, set-up, and coordinating. We’re lucky to count her as a colleague! 
For the new couple Donna & Mike: Best wishes for a long and happy life together!
Katie and Ryan’s Wedding
Rain showers couldn’t detract from the happiness of Katie and Ryan’s March 14th wedding at The Sonnet House. In fact, The Sonnet House (in Leeds, AL) is quite suited to accommodate wedding functions in the case changing weather conditions.
The venue hosts many ceremonies at its outdoor pavilion. But, aware that weather doesn’t always cooperate, owners Jared and Corey have built a chapel for indoor nuptials. And it was in the chapel that members of The Blue Galaxy String Quartet offered music of Bach, Purcell, and Pachelbel for the couple and their guests.
Following their vows, a reception for the newlyweds was held in the historic Sonnet House, again with music by the Blue Galaxy players.
Katie tells me that they received many complements on the music…that it was “perfect” for her day. Congratulations Katie and Ryan!
Crawfish Boil at Greystone
Greystone Golf and Country Club hosted their annual Crawfish Boil this past Saturday night with entertainment provided by Perfect Events Music and our Chankayrie band.
Guests were greeted at the door by Greystone’s Joshua Harvey who directed them to the sumptuous tables of red beans & rice, jambalaya, peel & eat shrimp and of course…boiled crawfish! All expertly prepared by Greystone’s Chef Mooney.
Chankayrie is one the region’s top Cajun bands. Several years ago they were known by the name La Nuit Blanche, after slight personnel changes the group took on the name Chankayrie. (News is, that an easier to pronounce name may be forthcoming!) The five-member band plays traditional French Cajun music with a little bit of swamp-pop thrown in for fun.
Some 100 guests attended and had a great time. Apparently even Flat Stanley did a bit of dancing and sat in with the band! According to Joshua, the event was “Fantastic!”
Our New Blog!
I wish we’d started sooner! In the last 15 years Stan and I have personally performed (as Dolce Duo) for hundreds of events and weddings. And we’ve been graced to provide ceremony musicians, bands and entertainment for an equal number of other very special events. Through the years, getting to know our clients and working closely with our musicians, vendor colleauges and venues has been a true pleasure. I’ll try to play “catch-up” and chronicle as many of these events as I can. In the meanwhile, I hope to hear from you… the wonderful people that have helped to make this all possible!
Magic City Art Connection
In the past few weeks, I’ve received a number of calls from musicians concerning the status of music at this year’s Magic City Art Connection.
Perfect Events Music been the primary provider of entertainment for the annual art show for ten+ years. It’s an impressive show. Held annually in downtown Birmingham’s Linn Park, it’s one of the largest and most successful in the Southeast. The festival’s director, Eileen Kunzman deserves credit for this. She started it all as a back-yard festival at her home.
During my associations with the festival I’ve had the great pleasure of arranging performances by the musical greats of our area: bluesman Willie King, guitarist Eric Essix, Hunter Bell’s Khasma, Just A Few Cats (I want you at my party), chanteuse Marian McKay, The Martini Shakers (hot rock-a-billy!), The Connection Band, AfterClass, Chankayrie, the Herb Trotman Band, Blue Galaxy String Quartet, SO MANY OTHERS!
But musically speaking this year is different…budgetary issues…the economy, “etc…”. It’s possible that the MCAC ‘s music will be back on more solid ground next year, but who knows! So for now, I’m concentrating on business at hand. And despite the economy, “etc…” there’s a lot of it.
If you’re one of my MCAC musicians, thanks for all you’ve given the Magic City Art Connection (and me). Let me hear from you. I so very much appreciate all you’ve contributed.
Wedding Preview Day at Cates House
Sunday afternoon’s Bridal Show at Alabaster’s Cates House was deemed a success by all who were involved.
For many years, the Cates House was reknowned as the Meadowlark Restaurant. Recently, Kingwood Church in Alabaster bought the facility and is now offering it as a venue for garden weddings, corporate meetings and other special events.
Our Dolce Duo has had the pleasure of providing music for a number of weddings at Cates House and with each meeting, our admiration, respect and affection for executive director Brenda Lee continues to grow. Brenda is professional, warm, and genuinely caring towards her clients and vendors.
And what a great group of vendors it was on Sunday! Having worked on past weddings together I so enjoyed speaking again with Gary of Rush Video. And it was a pleasure to get together once more with Stacie and Dana of Stacie Collins Photography. Tiffany’s floral arrangements (Studio Flowers) were as creative and charming as ever and Charles Side’s displayed photography was impressive. Ron Marko (Vintage Auto), along with his latest purchase (Rolls? Bentley?) was on hand to talk cars. Personally, I’m dreaming for a ’57 T-Bird. Mr. Burch’s groom’s t-shirts were a big hit. Hair styling and make-up were being offered by Amy Ledford, Candy Gonzales and Denise West.
When all was over…we ate! What wonderful food…attractive and tasty. For dessert: decadent cakes (chocolate ganache and white almond) by Amanda Combs. A nice day.
Thank-you so very much Brenda!
Flashback and The Vanities
“One of the Best Parties…Fabulous…Exactly what we wanted!” These were the words describing The Vanities’ dinner dance this past Saturday night featuring the band Flashback.
Hosted by Mountain Brook Club, the evening touched on slow dances and lively music from the ’50’s, ’60’s and ’70’s. According to Alice S., “more people danced than ever!”
A little bit about Flashback: although the band is “recently formed” it’s actually an smaller (4-piece) incarnation of the popular band Streetkar. Lead vocals by Mark Custer are expertly backed up by the Streetkar rhythm section and instrumentalists. Perfect Events Music has been working with these musicians since our inception in 1988. We’re delighted to have such loyal and long-term relationships with our crew.
Tara and Joey’s Wedding
The Carraway-Davie House’s fantastic view overlooking the Cahaba River was the backdrop for Tara and Joey’s wedding this past Saturday.
Out-door nuptials can be a risky, but in this case, the weather couldn’t have been better! Storms cleared just in time to leave behind a stunningly dramatic cloud structure and lighting that was a photographer’s dream.
And certainly the handsome couple deserved the camera’s eye! It was great to see Vann Cook (CAM Video) and our other colleagues recording the beautiful occasion for the history of the new family. Our special thanks to Amber Ford of Amber Ford Photography for sharing her wonderful shots! Dr. Joe G. officiated over the ceremony and music was provided by vocalist Kim M. and our Dolce Duo.
We really enjoyed working with Tara in her wedding planning…she was a delight! Best wishes to the new couple!