Melinda-and-Eric - MN Science Museum
08/09/08 21:27
Karl and I arrived at
the Science Museum 2 hours before guests were due. It
is a nice setup. You pull up to a gate for deliveries
and someone asks through a moniter for you to
identify yourself and they open the gate. We had a
trailer attached to the Tahoe so we got to leave our
vehicle in thet back, gated parking lot. Very
convenient. If we hadn't had the trailer we would
have had to move our vehicle to the parking
ramp. We pulled up to the loading dock and the
Science Museum had large carts for us to load our
equipment on. 3 vendors showed up at the same time
but we all got carts and people to take care of
us. I was very impressed with the staff at the
Science museum. We were escorted to the Discovery
Room and began setup.
I was really looking forward to this reception because Melinda & Eric were so wonderful to work with. I felt a great connection with them and felt fortunate to be working with the couple. Every Vendor I spoke with that day said the same thing about this couple. They were so sweet and easy going and happy. They made you happy to be in their presence.
The reception did not disappoint. The family and friends were friendly, kind and ready to celebrate. Karl was behind the rig in the beginning and I was out and about greeting and helping with things here and there. People kept thinking I worked for the Science Museum. I didn't mind but always told them I was one of the DJ's with Collective Sound. I met many wonderful people that night. These are definitely people I would like to run into again.
The Grand Entrance was the Theme Song from Star Wars. Fitting because the Star Wars Exhibit was there at the time. I worked some Star Wars Jargon into the introductions and it worked very well. The First Dance was SecondHand Serenade, Fall For You. Father/Daughter was The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra and Mother/Son was What A Wonderful World by Louie Armstrong.
The Bride, Groom and guests liked a wide variety of music and danced to everything. The dance floor was packed most of the evening.
Guests were allowed to check out the exhibits but the Star Wars exhibit was extra. The food was wonderful. I had told Melinda not to worry about giving us dinner but one of the caterers brought us food anyway. At the end of the evening she asked for a business card and told us we were the best DJ's she had ever seen at a wedding and she works them all the time. I was very flattered and gave her a couple cards.
Melinda, Eric and their parents came up and thanked us many times and said the reception was better than they had even hoped. Melinda's parents asked for some cards and said they would refer us to coworkers, friends and anyone who needed a DJ. It was a wonderful evening and I felt very blessed. Seeing Melinda and Eric laughing, dancing and enjoying themselves was the best part!
The whole evening was FUN & ROMANTIC!
Best wishes Melinda and Eric! Have a wonderful, happy life together and thanks for letting us be your DJ's. You were a dream to work with!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
I was really looking forward to this reception because Melinda & Eric were so wonderful to work with. I felt a great connection with them and felt fortunate to be working with the couple. Every Vendor I spoke with that day said the same thing about this couple. They were so sweet and easy going and happy. They made you happy to be in their presence.
The reception did not disappoint. The family and friends were friendly, kind and ready to celebrate. Karl was behind the rig in the beginning and I was out and about greeting and helping with things here and there. People kept thinking I worked for the Science Museum. I didn't mind but always told them I was one of the DJ's with Collective Sound. I met many wonderful people that night. These are definitely people I would like to run into again.
The Grand Entrance was the Theme Song from Star Wars. Fitting because the Star Wars Exhibit was there at the time. I worked some Star Wars Jargon into the introductions and it worked very well. The First Dance was SecondHand Serenade, Fall For You. Father/Daughter was The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra and Mother/Son was What A Wonderful World by Louie Armstrong.
The Bride, Groom and guests liked a wide variety of music and danced to everything. The dance floor was packed most of the evening.
Guests were allowed to check out the exhibits but the Star Wars exhibit was extra. The food was wonderful. I had told Melinda not to worry about giving us dinner but one of the caterers brought us food anyway. At the end of the evening she asked for a business card and told us we were the best DJ's she had ever seen at a wedding and she works them all the time. I was very flattered and gave her a couple cards.
Melinda, Eric and their parents came up and thanked us many times and said the reception was better than they had even hoped. Melinda's parents asked for some cards and said they would refer us to coworkers, friends and anyone who needed a DJ. It was a wonderful evening and I felt very blessed. Seeing Melinda and Eric laughing, dancing and enjoying themselves was the best part!
The whole evening was FUN & ROMANTIC!
Best wishes Melinda and Eric! Have a wonderful, happy life together and thanks for letting us be your DJ's. You were a dream to work with!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
|
Zach and Jolene - MN Zoo - 7/12/2008
07/12/08 21:22
Karl and I have DJ'd at
the Zoo before. Twice down in the Discovery Bay. Last
night, we were in the Tropics. I was wondering how
that would go. I love the Minnesota Zoo and just
being there puts me in a great mood. I think all the
guests must have felt the same way. People really
enjoyed walking along the Tropics and Minnesota
Trails before dinner.
We had soft classical music playing for the social and dinner hours. We did not want to upset the gibbons and the lemurs, or any of the animals. The Zoo staff monitors the volume so the animals do not get distressed. We had no problems with that. The dinner tables were set up at the entrance to the Tropics and we set up our DJ table out on the Minnesota Trail. That way when it was time to dance, the doors to the tropics would be closed and the animals would not be disturbed. It worked out really well.
The Bride and Groom, Zach & Jolene, held a receiving line down by the Saltwater Reef and when they were finished the wedding party all lined up at the exit to the Tropics. That is where we introduced everyone for the Grand Entrance. We had the grand parents stand up at their table and everyone applauded, then the parents, wedding party, Zach and Jolene were introduced and they walked into the dining area.
We had a blessing and cake pictures, then salad was served. Lancer catering did what it does best and the food was both beautiful to look at and delicious. The staff was very kind and helpful.
During dinner, as an alternative to simply Clinking For A Kiss, I read questions about Zach and Jolene. With the first clink, they got a free kiss from the bride and groom, then I explained how things would work. When the guests would clink. I would ask them a question. If they got it right, Zach and Jolene would kiss. This went very well. The guests knew a lot about Zach & Jolene and answered every question that was prepared. This activity allows guests that might not be as knowledgeable about the couple, a chance to get to know them better.
It was a great way for me to interact with the guests. I got to go around and talk to people and get comfortable with them. I think it helps make the DJ more approachable and connected to the guests. At one point the Lemurs and an unspecified animal acted up and were quite vocal. One of the tables suggested that Zach & Jolene should have to kiss when the animals made that noise. Zach & Jolene told that table that if the animals made that noise again, the table could answer a question and they would kiss. Right after that the Lemurs made a commotion and I asked the table a question, they got it right, Zach & Jolene kissed and the Lemurs settled down. It was kind of funny.
Dinner went very well, then the photographer took Zach & Jolene out for a sunset photo. Right after that, there were toasts. The Maid of Honor was the little sister of the Bride and started her speech with I've known Jolene since the day I was born. It got a big laugh. Cake was served and then I told everyone that the first dance was going to be held on the Minnesota Trail and they all came out into the hall to see. The doors were closed. Zach & Jolene danced a tango. They looked like they had been practicing. They looked like they were having fun with it and the guests cheered.
We did parents dances, wedding party, Grandparents dedication/60th Anniversary dance, then the Hokey Pokey. Open dancing after that. Dollar Dance about an hour later followed by Bouquet Toss and what was suppose to be a Garter Toss. I have never had this happen before, it was so funny. The Groom looked at me and said "I think we forgot the garter". Well I feel bad because usually I remind couples about things like the toss bouquet and garter, I felt responsible. All of a sudden, Karl comes out from behind the DJ table with the rubber band thingie I just took out of my hair and gives it to the groom. So I invited all the single guys out , and there were a lot of them, and the groom tossed the rubber band. I warned them it would be small and it was black and the lights were low. Zach tossed it and they scrambled for it and 2 minutes later a guests named Patrick claimed it. I was cracking up and I never got my hair tie back. They were good sports. You know from now on I will always remind clients at the final meeting to bring a garter.
More open dancing. People were requesting lots of oldies, Electric Slide, Cha Cha Slide, some hip hop. There were only a couple slow songs. It was pretty high energy all night. I did play No One by Alicia Keys dedicated to the groom from the bride and after they danced a minute alone on the dance floor everyone came in and circled them and showed a lot of love. I followed with What A Wonderful World and everyone stayed out and slow danced.
At the end of the evening, Zach and Jolene asked us to announce that guests could take the flowers off the tables. Everyone grabbed some because they were quite beautiful. Jolene loves flowers and actually did the flowers, with the help of some family and friends. She had flower names for the tables and put that type off flower on the same table. I learned a little bit more about flowers last night. Having such a variety was quite beautiful and she did a really nice job. The people loved getting to take them home too.
People were not quite ready to go home but the zoo told us when we had to play our last song so we did not really have a choice. When Karl and I said goodbye everyone clapped for us. That is always a great feeling. People came up and told us we did a nice job.
I hugged Zach & Jolene goodbye and told them again how jealous I was that they were about to spend 16 days in Europe. They will begin in Paris and celebrate Bastille Day there and end in Vienna.
I wish Zach & Jolene all the best. I know they are going to have many wonderful experiences together.
Thanks for having us at your reception!!! That was a wonderful experience for us!!!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
We had soft classical music playing for the social and dinner hours. We did not want to upset the gibbons and the lemurs, or any of the animals. The Zoo staff monitors the volume so the animals do not get distressed. We had no problems with that. The dinner tables were set up at the entrance to the Tropics and we set up our DJ table out on the Minnesota Trail. That way when it was time to dance, the doors to the tropics would be closed and the animals would not be disturbed. It worked out really well.
The Bride and Groom, Zach & Jolene, held a receiving line down by the Saltwater Reef and when they were finished the wedding party all lined up at the exit to the Tropics. That is where we introduced everyone for the Grand Entrance. We had the grand parents stand up at their table and everyone applauded, then the parents, wedding party, Zach and Jolene were introduced and they walked into the dining area.
We had a blessing and cake pictures, then salad was served. Lancer catering did what it does best and the food was both beautiful to look at and delicious. The staff was very kind and helpful.
During dinner, as an alternative to simply Clinking For A Kiss, I read questions about Zach and Jolene. With the first clink, they got a free kiss from the bride and groom, then I explained how things would work. When the guests would clink. I would ask them a question. If they got it right, Zach and Jolene would kiss. This went very well. The guests knew a lot about Zach & Jolene and answered every question that was prepared. This activity allows guests that might not be as knowledgeable about the couple, a chance to get to know them better.
It was a great way for me to interact with the guests. I got to go around and talk to people and get comfortable with them. I think it helps make the DJ more approachable and connected to the guests. At one point the Lemurs and an unspecified animal acted up and were quite vocal. One of the tables suggested that Zach & Jolene should have to kiss when the animals made that noise. Zach & Jolene told that table that if the animals made that noise again, the table could answer a question and they would kiss. Right after that the Lemurs made a commotion and I asked the table a question, they got it right, Zach & Jolene kissed and the Lemurs settled down. It was kind of funny.
Dinner went very well, then the photographer took Zach & Jolene out for a sunset photo. Right after that, there were toasts. The Maid of Honor was the little sister of the Bride and started her speech with I've known Jolene since the day I was born. It got a big laugh. Cake was served and then I told everyone that the first dance was going to be held on the Minnesota Trail and they all came out into the hall to see. The doors were closed. Zach & Jolene danced a tango. They looked like they had been practicing. They looked like they were having fun with it and the guests cheered.
We did parents dances, wedding party, Grandparents dedication/60th Anniversary dance, then the Hokey Pokey. Open dancing after that. Dollar Dance about an hour later followed by Bouquet Toss and what was suppose to be a Garter Toss. I have never had this happen before, it was so funny. The Groom looked at me and said "I think we forgot the garter". Well I feel bad because usually I remind couples about things like the toss bouquet and garter, I felt responsible. All of a sudden, Karl comes out from behind the DJ table with the rubber band thingie I just took out of my hair and gives it to the groom. So I invited all the single guys out , and there were a lot of them, and the groom tossed the rubber band. I warned them it would be small and it was black and the lights were low. Zach tossed it and they scrambled for it and 2 minutes later a guests named Patrick claimed it. I was cracking up and I never got my hair tie back. They were good sports. You know from now on I will always remind clients at the final meeting to bring a garter.
More open dancing. People were requesting lots of oldies, Electric Slide, Cha Cha Slide, some hip hop. There were only a couple slow songs. It was pretty high energy all night. I did play No One by Alicia Keys dedicated to the groom from the bride and after they danced a minute alone on the dance floor everyone came in and circled them and showed a lot of love. I followed with What A Wonderful World and everyone stayed out and slow danced.
At the end of the evening, Zach and Jolene asked us to announce that guests could take the flowers off the tables. Everyone grabbed some because they were quite beautiful. Jolene loves flowers and actually did the flowers, with the help of some family and friends. She had flower names for the tables and put that type off flower on the same table. I learned a little bit more about flowers last night. Having such a variety was quite beautiful and she did a really nice job. The people loved getting to take them home too.
People were not quite ready to go home but the zoo told us when we had to play our last song so we did not really have a choice. When Karl and I said goodbye everyone clapped for us. That is always a great feeling. People came up and told us we did a nice job.
I hugged Zach & Jolene goodbye and told them again how jealous I was that they were about to spend 16 days in Europe. They will begin in Paris and celebrate Bastille Day there and end in Vienna.
I wish Zach & Jolene all the best. I know they are going to have many wonderful experiences together.
Thanks for having us at your reception!!! That was a wonderful experience for us!!!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Greg & Jenny - Cantebury Inn - Shakopee
07/02/08 13:48
Hi All,
I had been looking forward to Jenny & Greg's wedding ever since we met. My friend Mary referred her niece Jenny to us. Mary is the sweetest, kindest woman and I wondered if the rest of her family could be as nice as her. Turned out they could. Her sister Ellen, mother of the bride, was so easy to work with and so helpful. Greg and Jenny knew what they wanted and made us laugh, working with them was a blast.
Their wedding reception was at the Cantebury Inn in Shakopee. We got there early and set up, no problem. We were on the second floor. Fortunately there is an elevator and we had been in this room before so it was all familiar and a fairly easy load in. While Karl finished putting up the equipment I practiced the grand entrance one more time and made sure all was in order.
People started to arrive, we greeted them, tried to be helpful and answer any questions and find out a little bit about the guests. The guests were so open and warm. I felt connected instantly. There was a lot of joking around and playfulness. Lots of love for the young couple and their families.
When the wedding party arrived Karl cued up the music and I introduced them. We planned it so during the song, Fly Me To The Moon, Jenny and Greg would hold hands, when Frank Sinatra sang "In other words, hold my hand", and then he would take her in his arms and kiss her, right when Frank Sinatra says "in other words, baby kiss me". It was a genuine kiss and all the guests cheered and stood up and clapped. Then Greg took the microphone and thanked everyone for coming. Dinner was served.
There was a small problem. Hate to say it. They were having photographer issues. The photographer was supposed to be at the reception and she did not show. They told me, I told Karl, he got out his camera and he took pictures of the cake cutting, some pictures of Greg & Jenny's hands to show the rings. Many, many more pictures through out the night. The photographer did show up at one point because they called her but she didn't stay long. That might have been a problem for Jenny and Greg but Karl is a great photographer and they had confidence in him. Karl pulled double duty that night. He did it all with a smile.
I just loved the
music everyone was requesting. It was off the beaten
path and stuff I personally love. We were on the same
page. They danced every song and did not want the
party to end. I felt the same way even though I had
to be on the road at 4 in the morning. At the end of
the night a bridesmaid informed me that Jenny, the
bride is a fabulous singer and is known to sing a
certain Jewel song. We asked her if she wanted to and
she said ok. She had a wonderful singing voice and
everyone came out to dance with her while she sang.
They were holding up lighters and cell phones and she
sang flawlessly.
Peter and Nicole are a future bride and groom that we will be DJing for in August. They were at Jenny & Greg's wedding. They came up during the evening and told us that they were so happy they hired us, everything was going so well. I was ecstatic. Already looking forward to their celebration and knowing I will see a lot of the same people there.
Below is an email we received from Jenny & Greg, days after their wedding.
Carol & Karl,
The first word that comes to mind to describe your service is WOW! You guys are a great team and truely made the night special to both of us. We had many comments from our guests as to what a great job you two were doing. Carol you were amazing keeping the guests involved and helping out wherever needed. I even heard you were taking drink orders
And Karl thank you so much
for the lovely pictures. We are so glad
that we have some nice photos of the reception.
I don't know what we would have done
without you guys. We appreciate all that
you have done for us. We look forward to
seeing you again in a few months. You will
definatly get referrals from us. (unlike the
photographer). Once again thank you so
much. I can't even describe how valuable
you two were!!!
Thanks,
Greg & Jen Wisher
Thank you Greg and Jennifer for having us at your wedding. We are looking forward to seeing you both at Peter and Nicole's wedding. Take care of each other and we are here if you need us.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
I had been looking forward to Jenny & Greg's wedding ever since we met. My friend Mary referred her niece Jenny to us. Mary is the sweetest, kindest woman and I wondered if the rest of her family could be as nice as her. Turned out they could. Her sister Ellen, mother of the bride, was so easy to work with and so helpful. Greg and Jenny knew what they wanted and made us laugh, working with them was a blast.
Their wedding reception was at the Cantebury Inn in Shakopee. We got there early and set up, no problem. We were on the second floor. Fortunately there is an elevator and we had been in this room before so it was all familiar and a fairly easy load in. While Karl finished putting up the equipment I practiced the grand entrance one more time and made sure all was in order.
People started to arrive, we greeted them, tried to be helpful and answer any questions and find out a little bit about the guests. The guests were so open and warm. I felt connected instantly. There was a lot of joking around and playfulness. Lots of love for the young couple and their families.
When the wedding party arrived Karl cued up the music and I introduced them. We planned it so during the song, Fly Me To The Moon, Jenny and Greg would hold hands, when Frank Sinatra sang "In other words, hold my hand", and then he would take her in his arms and kiss her, right when Frank Sinatra says "in other words, baby kiss me". It was a genuine kiss and all the guests cheered and stood up and clapped. Then Greg took the microphone and thanked everyone for coming. Dinner was served.
There was a small problem. Hate to say it. They were having photographer issues. The photographer was supposed to be at the reception and she did not show. They told me, I told Karl, he got out his camera and he took pictures of the cake cutting, some pictures of Greg & Jenny's hands to show the rings. Many, many more pictures through out the night. The photographer did show up at one point because they called her but she didn't stay long. That might have been a problem for Jenny and Greg but Karl is a great photographer and they had confidence in him. Karl pulled double duty that night. He did it all with a smile.
Peter and Nicole are a future bride and groom that we will be DJing for in August. They were at Jenny & Greg's wedding. They came up during the evening and told us that they were so happy they hired us, everything was going so well. I was ecstatic. Already looking forward to their celebration and knowing I will see a lot of the same people there.
Below is an email we received from Jenny & Greg, days after their wedding.
Carol & Karl,
The first word that comes to mind to describe your service is WOW! You guys are a great team and truely made the night special to both of us. We had many comments from our guests as to what a great job you two were doing. Carol you were amazing keeping the guests involved and helping out wherever needed. I even heard you were taking drink orders
And Karl thank you so much
for the lovely pictures. We are so glad
that we have some nice photos of the reception.
I don't know what we would have done
without you guys. We appreciate all that
you have done for us. We look forward to
seeing you again in a few months. You will
definatly get referrals from us. (unlike the
photographer). Once again thank you so
much. I can't even describe how valuable
you two were!!!
Thanks,
Greg & Jen Wisher
Thank you Greg and Jennifer for having us at your wedding. We are looking forward to seeing you both at Peter and Nicole's wedding. Take care of each other and we are here if you need us.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Sarah & Ken - Wildcat Lanes
07/02/08 13:43
HELLO WISCONSIN!!
23 years ago I lived in Madison, WI and had been dating Karl Morgan for 3 years. I was starting to wonder why he had not asked me to marry him yet. We went out bowling in Verona WI with some friends one night around Thanksgiving,1985. I had a little liquid courage in me and challenged Karl to a bowling game. The challenge was simple, if I won we would get married, If I lost, he could remain a free man, for a little longer anyway. He accepted and I did win. The scores were very low. Not sure what to think of that. The next morning I told him I would not hold him to the promise of the evening before but he said he still wanted to marry me. WooHoo! It was on. I bring this up because last Saturday, Karl and I returned to this bowling alley and DJ'd for some friends of the family. Very romantic and nostalgic trip for us.
Sara the bride and my daughter Becky have known each other for years. When Sarah got engaged her mother Deb called me right away and asked us to DJ for them. I was thrilled because I know there are many great DJ's in Wisconsin they could have asked and I felt honored that they chose us. Many of her guests asked if they needed a DJ referral and she told them there were some Minnesotans coming down to do the job. My kids were coming along so I was planning to use them as back up dancers. They always end up helping out.
The bride, Sarah and the Groom. Ken love country music. The Grand Entrance was Friends In Low Places and Hillbilly Deluxe. They came in with attitude, ready to party. Sarah's father Bob gave the blessing. Dinner was served and the food was really good. Toasts were made and the best man made a special presentation with music and comedy to entertain everyone.
The first dance was Like Red On A Rose, Tim McGraw, Father/Daughter, Butterfly Kisses, Mother/Son was What A Wonderful World, Louie Armstrong then the Wedding Party Dance was Yeah by Usher. A little bit into Yeah we invited others onto the dance floor and things started with a bang!
We played all kinds of music, oldies, eighties, disco, lots of country, line dances, pop and hip hop. Very well rounded. There were a lot of really talented dancers. I learned some new moves that night.
There was a video right before the dancing started that was worth mentioning. The videographer taped the wedding party and family getting ready for the event earlier in the day. She then edited the footage in her vehicle and presented it to music while cake was being served. It was rather entertaining. I heard a lot of people complimenting the video and the fact that this lady put it together so quickly and had really good footage was commendable. She was a professional.
The cakes were worth mentioning too. The decorator was local and very talented. The brides cake was simple elegance with all while fondant and a satin, pale, pink ribbon around each flawless layer. The grooms cake was a deer. Red velvet inside, rice krispie head and antlers. Looked like a real deer. Yes Ken is a hunter. He even had camaflauge tuxedo vest on. The guests were very outgoing and made lots of requests. They kept coming up saying we were doing a great job.
It was a lot of fun being back in that bowling alley again after so many years, watching my friends daughter dance with her new husband. I really enjoyed meeting all the family members and friends. There were 300 so it kept me busy all night. I was very pleased with the way the reception turned out and Sarah and Ken thanked us and said they would not have wanted any other DJ.
Here's to young love and to us old people that appreciate what we have.
Best wishes to all of you!!!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
23 years ago I lived in Madison, WI and had been dating Karl Morgan for 3 years. I was starting to wonder why he had not asked me to marry him yet. We went out bowling in Verona WI with some friends one night around Thanksgiving,1985. I had a little liquid courage in me and challenged Karl to a bowling game. The challenge was simple, if I won we would get married, If I lost, he could remain a free man, for a little longer anyway. He accepted and I did win. The scores were very low. Not sure what to think of that. The next morning I told him I would not hold him to the promise of the evening before but he said he still wanted to marry me. WooHoo! It was on. I bring this up because last Saturday, Karl and I returned to this bowling alley and DJ'd for some friends of the family. Very romantic and nostalgic trip for us.
Sara the bride and my daughter Becky have known each other for years. When Sarah got engaged her mother Deb called me right away and asked us to DJ for them. I was thrilled because I know there are many great DJ's in Wisconsin they could have asked and I felt honored that they chose us. Many of her guests asked if they needed a DJ referral and she told them there were some Minnesotans coming down to do the job. My kids were coming along so I was planning to use them as back up dancers. They always end up helping out.
The bride, Sarah and the Groom. Ken love country music. The Grand Entrance was Friends In Low Places and Hillbilly Deluxe. They came in with attitude, ready to party. Sarah's father Bob gave the blessing. Dinner was served and the food was really good. Toasts were made and the best man made a special presentation with music and comedy to entertain everyone.
The first dance was Like Red On A Rose, Tim McGraw, Father/Daughter, Butterfly Kisses, Mother/Son was What A Wonderful World, Louie Armstrong then the Wedding Party Dance was Yeah by Usher. A little bit into Yeah we invited others onto the dance floor and things started with a bang!
We played all kinds of music, oldies, eighties, disco, lots of country, line dances, pop and hip hop. Very well rounded. There were a lot of really talented dancers. I learned some new moves that night.
There was a video right before the dancing started that was worth mentioning. The videographer taped the wedding party and family getting ready for the event earlier in the day. She then edited the footage in her vehicle and presented it to music while cake was being served. It was rather entertaining. I heard a lot of people complimenting the video and the fact that this lady put it together so quickly and had really good footage was commendable. She was a professional.
The cakes were worth mentioning too. The decorator was local and very talented. The brides cake was simple elegance with all while fondant and a satin, pale, pink ribbon around each flawless layer. The grooms cake was a deer. Red velvet inside, rice krispie head and antlers. Looked like a real deer. Yes Ken is a hunter. He even had camaflauge tuxedo vest on. The guests were very outgoing and made lots of requests. They kept coming up saying we were doing a great job.
It was a lot of fun being back in that bowling alley again after so many years, watching my friends daughter dance with her new husband. I really enjoyed meeting all the family members and friends. There were 300 so it kept me busy all night. I was very pleased with the way the reception turned out and Sarah and Ken thanked us and said they would not have wanted any other DJ.
Here's to young love and to us old people that appreciate what we have.
Best wishes to all of you!!!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Kris and Jene - Little Log House Pioneer Village 06/07/08
06/12/08 18:49
We arrived at
the Little
Log House Village Hall in Hastings @ 2 pm
yesterday. The weather was sunny and getting
pretty warm, upper 70's with humidity. It had been
raining a lot these past few days and I am sure
Jene and Kris were thrilled to have the sun as a
guest on their special day. I helped Karl unload
into the Village Hall. Easy load in. It was one
great room, all wood floors and walls, high beamed
ceiling with rustic chandeliers. We were on a
stage. The only down side was our stage was very
small and there seemed to be a big dip in the
middle. I was definitely afraid to move around up
there. If I was going to dance I would do so on
the dance floor.
While Karl went to work setting up the system for the reception I headed over to the St. Bonafice Church. It is an old, beautiful church with lots of stained glass, sculptures and original wooden pews that brought back a lot of memories from my childhood. I was going to be in charge of the ceremony music so I wanted to be sure and familiarize myself with the equipment. The wedding party and family were assembled in the church with the photographers. I saw Kris up on the alter and she gave me a big smile. I am always happy to see Kris. She is a fun loving, easy going and a very kind person. I couldn't speak to her at that time because she was having her pictures taken but I found my way upstairs to the equipment. There I met Stacy. She was going to be singing during the lighting of the unity candle. Between Stacy, Beth, the personal attendant and myself we figured out the music and the system and were ready to roll. I went back to the village hall to check on Karl. He already had everything set up and didn't really need my help. I think I put some cases away for him.
Karl looked very handsome last night. I love a white shirt, tie and black pants on him. He looks so professional and clean cut. I guess thats my type. So back to the church. I mingled with the family and friends and felt very good about how things would go. Everybody was in such good spirits and ready to have a great time! I went over the cues with the officiant and wedding party then went back upstairs. We were playing O'Neill Brothers music for the ceremony. I basically just had to start and stop and push the button on the right cd player. Still kind of nerve racking until it is all finished. The Officiant, Groom and Best Man entered, my cue to start mothers processional. The mothers were seated and that was my cue for the wedding party song. Then the white carpet was rolled out and the flower girl and ring bearer came down the aisle to the alter, my cue for the Bridal Processional. All went well. The officiant told me after the exchanging of rings there would be a short prayer and then I was to play the song for the soloist. That also went well and Stacy has a beautiful voice.
Then the recessional and back to he Village Hall for the party. The bride and groom went for a carriage ride and then some of the other wedding party and family went for a ride. When they got back a few more photos then we did a Grant Entrance, that I thought went very well. I had practiced it several times. Jene & Kris chose the "About Us Game" for the clincking of the glasses. They did not provide a basket of names so we improvised. When we saw someone clinking we would go to them and they would have to stand up and say something about the bride and groom (share a story or experience or how they knew them) before Jene & Kris would kiss. Sometimes there were more than one person, of course, clicking but we got to pick who we wanted or who was closest or pick more than one person.
The dinner was buffet style and everyone was saying how good the turkey was. There were toasts by Best Man and Maid of Honor. After dinner some of the wedding party wanted to take some cars back to the hotel. We ended up having to wait quite awhile for them so we started open dancing before the First Dance, etc.. When the people from the wedding party returned we started the formal dances. It was kind of fun breaking it up and doing it later like that. After the First Dance, Kris danced with her father to My Little Girl, by Tim McGraw. Jene's mother is in a wheel chair but got up to dance for the Mother/Son dance, In This Life by Collin Ray. I was almost in tears again. The Mother/Son dances have been affecting me lately. Someday that will be me. Jene's mother had to rest before the song was over and his new mother-law-in stepped in and finished the dance with him. Then the wedding party danced a slow song but it was immediately followed by Rascal Flatts version of Life Is A Highway and that got the party started again!
There was a lot of country music last night, old and new. The other well received genres were eighties and classic and eighties rock. Played a few current hip hop and nineties funk as well. I tried to learn a new dance from one of the young men who had some great moves but ended up making a fool of myself. He could really move. I think I got an A for effort though. At one point the Bride pulled Karl onto the dance floor and a bunch of ladies danced with him. It might have been to Love Shack. The Bride, Kris, told us later that many of her guests commented that we, the DJ's, were a lot of fun and played great music all night. I gave her a big hug. She also told us she was going to refer us anyone who needed a DJ. I felt like things were going well all night and that people were happy but when the Bride and Groom come up at the end of the night and tell you exactly that you know you did your job and you did it well. I reminded Kris that Northfield was not that far from Savage and we should get together another time and she agreed.
I had told Karl before we left for the wedding that if things went really well, he would get a back rub when we got home. Well, I fell asleep on the car ride home so needless to say he did not get a back rub. He just reminded me of that and I am going to go keep my promise right now.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
While Karl went to work setting up the system for the reception I headed over to the St. Bonafice Church. It is an old, beautiful church with lots of stained glass, sculptures and original wooden pews that brought back a lot of memories from my childhood. I was going to be in charge of the ceremony music so I wanted to be sure and familiarize myself with the equipment. The wedding party and family were assembled in the church with the photographers. I saw Kris up on the alter and she gave me a big smile. I am always happy to see Kris. She is a fun loving, easy going and a very kind person. I couldn't speak to her at that time because she was having her pictures taken but I found my way upstairs to the equipment. There I met Stacy. She was going to be singing during the lighting of the unity candle. Between Stacy, Beth, the personal attendant and myself we figured out the music and the system and were ready to roll. I went back to the village hall to check on Karl. He already had everything set up and didn't really need my help. I think I put some cases away for him.
Karl looked very handsome last night. I love a white shirt, tie and black pants on him. He looks so professional and clean cut. I guess thats my type. So back to the church. I mingled with the family and friends and felt very good about how things would go. Everybody was in such good spirits and ready to have a great time! I went over the cues with the officiant and wedding party then went back upstairs. We were playing O'Neill Brothers music for the ceremony. I basically just had to start and stop and push the button on the right cd player. Still kind of nerve racking until it is all finished. The Officiant, Groom and Best Man entered, my cue to start mothers processional. The mothers were seated and that was my cue for the wedding party song. Then the white carpet was rolled out and the flower girl and ring bearer came down the aisle to the alter, my cue for the Bridal Processional. All went well. The officiant told me after the exchanging of rings there would be a short prayer and then I was to play the song for the soloist. That also went well and Stacy has a beautiful voice.
Then the recessional and back to he Village Hall for the party. The bride and groom went for a carriage ride and then some of the other wedding party and family went for a ride. When they got back a few more photos then we did a Grant Entrance, that I thought went very well. I had practiced it several times. Jene & Kris chose the "About Us Game" for the clincking of the glasses. They did not provide a basket of names so we improvised. When we saw someone clinking we would go to them and they would have to stand up and say something about the bride and groom (share a story or experience or how they knew them) before Jene & Kris would kiss. Sometimes there were more than one person, of course, clicking but we got to pick who we wanted or who was closest or pick more than one person.
The dinner was buffet style and everyone was saying how good the turkey was. There were toasts by Best Man and Maid of Honor. After dinner some of the wedding party wanted to take some cars back to the hotel. We ended up having to wait quite awhile for them so we started open dancing before the First Dance, etc.. When the people from the wedding party returned we started the formal dances. It was kind of fun breaking it up and doing it later like that. After the First Dance, Kris danced with her father to My Little Girl, by Tim McGraw. Jene's mother is in a wheel chair but got up to dance for the Mother/Son dance, In This Life by Collin Ray. I was almost in tears again. The Mother/Son dances have been affecting me lately. Someday that will be me. Jene's mother had to rest before the song was over and his new mother-law-in stepped in and finished the dance with him. Then the wedding party danced a slow song but it was immediately followed by Rascal Flatts version of Life Is A Highway and that got the party started again!
There was a lot of country music last night, old and new. The other well received genres were eighties and classic and eighties rock. Played a few current hip hop and nineties funk as well. I tried to learn a new dance from one of the young men who had some great moves but ended up making a fool of myself. He could really move. I think I got an A for effort though. At one point the Bride pulled Karl onto the dance floor and a bunch of ladies danced with him. It might have been to Love Shack. The Bride, Kris, told us later that many of her guests commented that we, the DJ's, were a lot of fun and played great music all night. I gave her a big hug. She also told us she was going to refer us anyone who needed a DJ. I felt like things were going well all night and that people were happy but when the Bride and Groom come up at the end of the night and tell you exactly that you know you did your job and you did it well. I reminded Kris that Northfield was not that far from Savage and we should get together another time and she agreed.
I had told Karl before we left for the wedding that if things went really well, he would get a back rub when we got home. Well, I fell asleep on the car ride home so needless to say he did not get a back rub. He just reminded me of that and I am going to go keep my promise right now.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
School Dance at Convent of the Visitation School
04/13/08 11:15
Last night Karl and I
did something different. It was like dueling DJs. We
had a blast and so did the kids. This was our second
time DJing for Visitation School. A while ago we did
the winter dance for the older students and last
night was the 9th graders turn.
Karl decided to surprise me and sets up two computers and we would play off each others songs. He used the black Apple and I used the white Apple computer. Good vs Evil I assumed. He was trying to out rock me. Every time he played a song that got the kids super pumped he rubbed it in my face even if the one I had played got just as good a reaction. To tell you the truth it was fun competing with Karl, it was a neat twist. The kids benefited because we were both trying so hard to get the best reaction. Kept us on our toes. We took some requests, keeping it clean. The students were well rounded and enjoyed music from many eras and genres. The students and adults at this school are a pleasure to work with. They are so kind and respectful to us. Each time we finished a show with Visitation, Karl and I both end up talking about what great kids go there. They help organize the event they do the decorating they help clean up. Very respectful to adults. The teachers and parents must be so proud.
At the end of the night when we had played the last song, and said goodnight, the kids chanted for one more song. We had just played Don't Stop Believing by Journey (they knew all the words), so we waited a bit to make them think we were just packing it up and then we played Piece Of Me by Britney and they screamed! It was so cool!
The kids were thanking us and telling us we ROCKED IT! The parents and teachers had enjoyed the variety of music as well and thanked us for not just playing hip hop all night. Even the Police Officer came up and complimented us on our music choices. A good time was had by all, especially this DJ. Can't wait for the next show!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Karl decided to surprise me and sets up two computers and we would play off each others songs. He used the black Apple and I used the white Apple computer. Good vs Evil I assumed. He was trying to out rock me. Every time he played a song that got the kids super pumped he rubbed it in my face even if the one I had played got just as good a reaction. To tell you the truth it was fun competing with Karl, it was a neat twist. The kids benefited because we were both trying so hard to get the best reaction. Kept us on our toes. We took some requests, keeping it clean. The students were well rounded and enjoyed music from many eras and genres. The students and adults at this school are a pleasure to work with. They are so kind and respectful to us. Each time we finished a show with Visitation, Karl and I both end up talking about what great kids go there. They help organize the event they do the decorating they help clean up. Very respectful to adults. The teachers and parents must be so proud.
At the end of the night when we had played the last song, and said goodnight, the kids chanted for one more song. We had just played Don't Stop Believing by Journey (they knew all the words), so we waited a bit to make them think we were just packing it up and then we played Piece Of Me by Britney and they screamed! It was so cool!
The kids were thanking us and telling us we ROCKED IT! The parents and teachers had enjoyed the variety of music as well and thanked us for not just playing hip hop all night. Even the Police Officer came up and complimented us on our music choices. A good time was had by all, especially this DJ. Can't wait for the next show!
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Visitation School Dance at the Bloomington Hilton
04/05/08 11:43
Hi Y'all,
Karl and I worked at the Bloomington Hilton a few Saturdays ago. This was a winter dance for Visitation Convent School. We have worked for Catholic schools before and we know to be careful with the playlist, however, this time the students made the playlist for us and it was approved by the school and ourselves. At first I thought this would not work so well. I should backtrack a little and tell you that the students found us, met with us and decided to hire us. Might have been for a class project but we have had this experience with other schools and organizations like Girl Scouts before. It is a good experience for the students to hire a DJ. So far, these types of events have always been very successful. I think the students really like having a say in who performs and in choosing the music.
So I received this very long list. Obviously more than the 3 hours we were needed. I was told I could arrange the music anyway I saw fit. That was fabulous. They had picked many great songs and few questionable that I thought were a little risky, I stuck to the great ones that were not risky. The adults involved, that I met the evening of the dance, expressed concern about lyrics and dancing. I was sensitive to this. I tried to make both sides happy. That can be a little tricky.
From the second the guests arrived they were on the dance floor. Within a half an hour there was no space left on the dance floor and people were dancing everywhere. It was a huge turnout. Here is the amazing thing. I only had about 3 individuals come up and make a request. One of the songs was on the playlist so that was fine but the others were too risky and I couldn't play them. Out of about 500 guests only 3 came up to make a request. That is highly unusual for us. Most students love requesting songs. I am aware that they told them about the list and got their help in making it, but there were young men from St. Thomas there I thought they might make a lot of requests. They just kept dancing. They were having so much fun and getting closer and closer to our equipment with every song. We often find that the dance floor has moved closer to us after shows like this.
The King and Queen were crowned and then we played a slow song, Everything I do by Brian Adams (off the list). Then danced the rest of the night. The grownups were pleased. They saw the kids had a great time and no bad lyrics were played. I got a call a few days ago from Visitation and they want us to do another dance. Rene said the students are still talking about that dance and how much fun they all had. What a wonderful thing to hear. I love feedback especially feedback like that. Every event is important to me. A 3 hour dance or an all day wedding, I am going to give my all.
I am looking forward to working with Visitation again.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Karl and I worked at the Bloomington Hilton a few Saturdays ago. This was a winter dance for Visitation Convent School. We have worked for Catholic schools before and we know to be careful with the playlist, however, this time the students made the playlist for us and it was approved by the school and ourselves. At first I thought this would not work so well. I should backtrack a little and tell you that the students found us, met with us and decided to hire us. Might have been for a class project but we have had this experience with other schools and organizations like Girl Scouts before. It is a good experience for the students to hire a DJ. So far, these types of events have always been very successful. I think the students really like having a say in who performs and in choosing the music.
So I received this very long list. Obviously more than the 3 hours we were needed. I was told I could arrange the music anyway I saw fit. That was fabulous. They had picked many great songs and few questionable that I thought were a little risky, I stuck to the great ones that were not risky. The adults involved, that I met the evening of the dance, expressed concern about lyrics and dancing. I was sensitive to this. I tried to make both sides happy. That can be a little tricky.
From the second the guests arrived they were on the dance floor. Within a half an hour there was no space left on the dance floor and people were dancing everywhere. It was a huge turnout. Here is the amazing thing. I only had about 3 individuals come up and make a request. One of the songs was on the playlist so that was fine but the others were too risky and I couldn't play them. Out of about 500 guests only 3 came up to make a request. That is highly unusual for us. Most students love requesting songs. I am aware that they told them about the list and got their help in making it, but there were young men from St. Thomas there I thought they might make a lot of requests. They just kept dancing. They were having so much fun and getting closer and closer to our equipment with every song. We often find that the dance floor has moved closer to us after shows like this.
The King and Queen were crowned and then we played a slow song, Everything I do by Brian Adams (off the list). Then danced the rest of the night. The grownups were pleased. They saw the kids had a great time and no bad lyrics were played. I got a call a few days ago from Visitation and they want us to do another dance. Rene said the students are still talking about that dance and how much fun they all had. What a wonderful thing to hear. I love feedback especially feedback like that. Every event is important to me. A 3 hour dance or an all day wedding, I am going to give my all.
I am looking forward to working with Visitation again.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Dakota Hills Middle School Dance
04/05/08 11:11
This year Emma called and asked for a list of songs that I would have available for the event. Not the whole list but a few. She advertises the parties with posters and always gets a big turn out. They give away gift cards from drawings all night too. They also decorate so creatively. They pick a theme and spend a little cash decking out the cafeteria.
This year I got approval for some songs that I knew might be requested. I know the kids hear them on KDWB and B96 but like to get approval from the adults that hired me. I don't want to get in trouble for playing the wrong song. No problems there, we stuck to the approved list and a good time was had by all. There are two parties, one for the 7th & 8th graders and one for the 5th & 6th. They are usually a week apart on Thursday or Friday nights. I enjoy these events because they start early and I get to work but go home and have the evening to do something with Karl and my kids.
The 7th & 8th grade party was very successful. The children were fun and respectful which I always appreciate. When you have hundreds of kids in one room you expect the unexpected. These kids are great and picked great songs. I especially enjoyed watching them sing along to Bohemian Rhapsody. They also loved Sandstorm and Paint It Black.
Apparently, Guitar Hero has been a big influence on our young kids and they are now downloading and requesting a lot of the classic rock I grew up to. I haven't played Guitar Hero yet but I intend to someday. I really want that Rock Band. I got the opportunity to get on the dance floor and lead them through the Electric Slide. I love doing that. I love to dance. The kids always add fancy new moves to it though. I end up trying to imitate them. We ended the night with Good Riddance by Greenday and the kids picked up paper and trash off the floor as they exited.
The 5th & 6th Grade party was very similar. Might have been more kids. They requested the same type of music but the playlist was a little different because they are younger. The principal and Emma came up after the event and thanked us and said we did a great job! I am very impressed with this school and the great job they are doing with the kids. I hope to continue DJing their dances for a long time.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Jamie and Jake - Gale Mansion 01/25/2008
01/27/08 16:18
We had two meetings with Jamie/Bride and I left each meeting with great feelings of what was to come. She had booked us off of Bethany's wedding (Great Party!!) and Bethany was going to be the matron of honor. Bethany's husband John was going to videotape so we got to work with a former groom on a professional level. We had a lot of fun joking around with John now that we were not working for him.
Starting with the rehearsal, we were providing the music and mics for the ceremony so we went to the rehearsal like we always do. It was our 4th time at the Gale Mansion and I was looking forward to working there again. I love that place! If you have never been there you should or at least check out their website www.galemansion.com. Jamie had two of her songs picked out for the ceremony and she wanted help with the rest so we set up the computer and while they practiced walking down the aisle I played some songs we had picked out. Meanwhile Karl is chatting with John/former groom and family members. They liked the songs we chose and Jamie told me later that her mother was so relieved and happy that Jamie chose us for her wedding because she really liked our music choices and felt confident that we would do a good job. What a great compliment! That evening was the first time I met Jake and I was so impressed with him. He so obviously loves Jamie, he is a marine with a big heart, about to go to school for law enforcement. My father is a retired police officer so I have a lot of respect for people in that line of work. We ran through the ceremony a couple times and then everyone left for Rehearsal Dinner.
I spent the rest of the week working on a playlist for the reception based on the info Jamie had given us and conversations we had with others at the rehearsal. I was really looking forward to this wedding, Jamie was a pleasure to work with and I could not wait to see her in her wedding dress and getting married. Also, I love the Gale Mansion and the people who work there treat us so wonderfully. I was just full of anticipation and couldn't wait to get started.
Friday came and we loaded up and headed north to Minneapolis. Load in was fine but the setting up was made a little difficult because of the circumstances. The ceremony was in the room where dinner would later be and we were in another room where they were stashing the tables so they could set up faster after the ceremony. It made it harder to move around but everyone got their stuff done with minimal problems, mostly space related. That is just how professional everyone was. We were even joking around about it. We got all set up or I should say Karl did because I did him a favor and stayed out of his way. I think he appreciated it.
The wedding party and families were arriving at the same time as we did. They went upstairs to get dressed and some of the family members were busy with last minute touches. The cake person was there at the same time too. It was Buttercream and once again I love this bakery! I have had their wares a few times now and have never been disappointed. Their frosting is so refreshing. Not icky sweet. Jamie & Jake had cupcakes on a beautiful stand instead of the traditional tiered wedding cake. This made a beautiful display. The stand was glass or plastic and there were about five levels and bottom level widest to smallest on top. There were Raspberry cupcakes with fresh raspberries on them, there were carrot cupcakes and almond.
We set up and soon all the guests started to arrive and were quickly ushered to their seats. The wedding party was right on time, lining up for the ceremony. I could not believe it. I did not have to go and remind or hurry anyone, they were very punctual. So we began the ceremony and we played Forever Love, Instrumental by O'Neil Brothers for parents entrance, went into Enya, Only Time for the wedding party procession, Canon in D for the bridal procession, To Make You Feel My Love Instrumental version for unity candle, Wedding March, by Mendohlsson for the wedding party recession/exit. It was very beautiful and Jamie, always so quick with a kind word, commented right away that she thought it was very lovely and that we did a good job.
All the guests were then escorted out to the lobby area for a brief social time. The bar was out there so most people got a drink. In the meantime the staff of the Gale Mansion quickly turned the ceremony room into a dining room with amazing speed and accuracy. We were all impressed by this transformation and the speed which it occurred. I heard many guests commenting to the manager how wonderful the tables looked.
After opening the doors again and inviting all the guests into the dining room we lined up the wedding party for the grand entrance. Jamie chose It Had To Be You by Harry Connick Jr. for wedding party entrance and At Last by Etta James for the bride & groom entrance. It was very romantic and fit right in with the atmosphere at the mansion.
Then Dave the officiant (great guy, very funny too!) gave the blessing and salads were served. It was a buffet style dinner so the head table and reserved family tables went first. Then Karl released the other guests tables but he made them work for their supper. Jamie & Jake had given us a list of questions about themselves and Karl asked these questions to the guests. They had to get a correct answer before they could eat. Don't worry the questions were easy and only one table got it wrong. They were still going to the buffet within 5 minutes. It was an entertaining way to release tables and I would recommend it to anyone. The guests got to learn a little bit more about Jamie & Jake and had some fun with it too.
Then I was smelling all this wonderful food but we had told Jamie we did not need dinner. The manager came by after everyone had eaten and said please, there is extra food go ahead and eat. What a blessing because I was starving for some reason. Maybe she could tell. Jennine was so kind to us all evening, she was really looking after us and helping in any way possible. I intend to send a thank you card because she was incredible. Then there were toasts and cupcakes and Jamie and Jake walked around to each table, thanking their guests for coming. There had been a receiving line out in the lobby, after the ceremony but they just added this little special touch. I think guests really liked this extra time with the them.
Around 9:00 we started the first dance. They picked the classic Can't Help Falling In Love With You by Elvis. This took place in the dance room off of the dining room. We had a speaker in both rooms so everyone could hear music and announcements. Of course the speaker in the dining room was not up as loud as in the dancing area.
We then invited Jamie's father Jim to dance with his daughter, What A Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong and Kenny G. They did some fancy footwork at the end and some spinning, very entertaining. Next we invited Jennifer to come out and dance with Jake for the mother and son dance. This was A Song For Mama by Boys 2 Men. I actually started to cry during this dance. Here is this big, strong, handsome Marine dancing with his mom and she is crying and he is hugging her and you could just tell how much he loved his mom and how special she felt to be having that dance with her son. Very emotional. I know I am going to cry when I dance with my son at his wedding. He better not elope.
Then we started off the dance. We only had about 2 and half hours for the dance and no requests so as DJ's we had to decide which songs were going to work the best for this group of people. We had input from Jamie and some from family and so we began. Not trying to brag but the dance floor was packed all night. There was crazy energy all night and I think we could have gone even longer. They liked the 90's club music, some of the artists we played were Haddaway and Daft Punk later in the evening. We started out with classic oldies like Beatles (Bride loves the Beatles) Jackson 5, Aretha Franklin etc.. and Jamie had picked out some lovely slow ones like Fade Into You by Mazzy Star and Sweet Jane by the Cowboy Junkies, Stand By Me by Ben E. King. We were told all evening and while we were tearing down that we had played amazing songs and did a fantastic job. Jamie & Jake came up at the end of the night hugged us and said it went better than even they thought it would. I cannot tell you how high I was feeling. I did not want it to end. The family members told us they would refer us to everyone and the venue said they would refer us as well. As a DJ you cannot ask for more. It was like they were handing me bags of gold. I was elated. The whole evening was charmed and people left feeling very good, including us. I had a hard time getting to sleep when I got home because I felt so happy.
Jamie & Jake had a wonderful wedding and reception to start off their marital journey and I know many wonderful things will come to them. They are good people. I also think they are strong enough to handle any hardship that might come their way.
Best wishes Jamie & Jake, thank you so much for letting us be part of your wedding day.
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Girl Scout Sock Hop - 01/18/2008
01/19/08 16:28
Hi everyone,
We have been working with this group of Girl Scouts for several years now. I have to say, Girl Scout parties are so much fun! These girls are so helpful and really know how to have a good time. They sing Karaoke like rock stars and Dance like there is no one watching. I love how polite and kind they are to me and to each other. The parents and leaders who run this event are a pleasure to work with too. I am always excited to do this show because I know it is going to be spectacular and a great turn out no matter what weather we are having. One of the key things is they are good at communicating and they let us know exactly what they want. Also, having done this show for the past 4 or 5 years we have a lot of experience with them and that always helps.
Our son Jim and his girlfriend, Sarah (DJ's in training) came to help us. Even though this show is always fun it is a lot of work. We have to set up everything in one hour because there is kids club in the cafeteria till an hour before the show. The extra help was appreciated and we were all set up in 45 minutes.
There are so many kids, which is a good thing and they make lots of requests for Dance music and Karaoke. I happened to be in the Karaoke room this time around. Karl did the dance and played a lot of Hannah Montanna (Mylee Cyrus) and Jonas Brothers for sure. He played a lot of the classics from the fifties and sixties. The dance floor was packed the entire evening, there were the occasional free cookie announcements that sent Girl Scouts running.
I have never really been the DJ in the Karaoke room all by myself, Karl always did that job and it is a good thing I asked my son and his girlfriend to come because we had 150 song requests in 2 hours, I kid you not. It took some management skills and coordination to keep this under control and not have any disappointed Girl Scouts. I did make announcements that we had all the requests we could handle and that I wasn't taking anymore requests but that didn't stop them from trying. The most popular songs were ABC - Jackson 5, Sk8ter Boi - Avril Lavigne, Girls Just Want To Have Fun - Cindy Lauper and YMCA - Village People. At the end of the night there were still quite a few girls that wanted to sing so I invited all of them up on stage and put on I Love Rock & Roll by my idol Joan Jet. The adults had a blast taking pictures of their kids on the stage and the kids sang that last song with all their heart. Their young voices made it sound so cute. When it was all done there were scraps of paper all over the place. I turned around and started to take down my equipment and when I turned back around all the paper was picked up. Jimmy and Sarah had a hand in that but also the Girl Scouts picked it up. I did not even have to ask. That is so cool.
I forgot to mention John the custodian at the school, this guy always goes above and beyond to help us. He is so nice and remains available if we need him throughout. He even gave us his pager number so we could always find him. Everything went so well! I only wish it could be a longer event so more people could sing because they obviously love to do so.
We took down the equipment loaded up in the frigid air. Did I forget to mention the below zero wind chill, silly me. I really didn't feel the cold when carrying the equipment out but I would not have liked to have been outside for more than 10 minutes straight. It was just too darn cold. Today it is suppose to get to 20 below. Time to hibernate.
When we got home, Karl, my manly man took care of the trailer and I ran in the house and put on a fluffy robe. I hate to get cold. I am so lucky he does that for me. If he asked for my help I would help him. Ok, when it is not 20 below, I promise to ask him if he wants my help. I could learn a thing or two from the Girl Scouts.
Best Wishes
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
We have been working with this group of Girl Scouts for several years now. I have to say, Girl Scout parties are so much fun! These girls are so helpful and really know how to have a good time. They sing Karaoke like rock stars and Dance like there is no one watching. I love how polite and kind they are to me and to each other. The parents and leaders who run this event are a pleasure to work with too. I am always excited to do this show because I know it is going to be spectacular and a great turn out no matter what weather we are having. One of the key things is they are good at communicating and they let us know exactly what they want. Also, having done this show for the past 4 or 5 years we have a lot of experience with them and that always helps.
Our son Jim and his girlfriend, Sarah (DJ's in training) came to help us. Even though this show is always fun it is a lot of work. We have to set up everything in one hour because there is kids club in the cafeteria till an hour before the show. The extra help was appreciated and we were all set up in 45 minutes.
There are so many kids, which is a good thing and they make lots of requests for Dance music and Karaoke. I happened to be in the Karaoke room this time around. Karl did the dance and played a lot of Hannah Montanna (Mylee Cyrus) and Jonas Brothers for sure. He played a lot of the classics from the fifties and sixties. The dance floor was packed the entire evening, there were the occasional free cookie announcements that sent Girl Scouts running.
I have never really been the DJ in the Karaoke room all by myself, Karl always did that job and it is a good thing I asked my son and his girlfriend to come because we had 150 song requests in 2 hours, I kid you not. It took some management skills and coordination to keep this under control and not have any disappointed Girl Scouts. I did make announcements that we had all the requests we could handle and that I wasn't taking anymore requests but that didn't stop them from trying. The most popular songs were ABC - Jackson 5, Sk8ter Boi - Avril Lavigne, Girls Just Want To Have Fun - Cindy Lauper and YMCA - Village People. At the end of the night there were still quite a few girls that wanted to sing so I invited all of them up on stage and put on I Love Rock & Roll by my idol Joan Jet. The adults had a blast taking pictures of their kids on the stage and the kids sang that last song with all their heart. Their young voices made it sound so cute. When it was all done there were scraps of paper all over the place. I turned around and started to take down my equipment and when I turned back around all the paper was picked up. Jimmy and Sarah had a hand in that but also the Girl Scouts picked it up. I did not even have to ask. That is so cool.
I forgot to mention John the custodian at the school, this guy always goes above and beyond to help us. He is so nice and remains available if we need him throughout. He even gave us his pager number so we could always find him. Everything went so well! I only wish it could be a longer event so more people could sing because they obviously love to do so.
We took down the equipment loaded up in the frigid air. Did I forget to mention the below zero wind chill, silly me. I really didn't feel the cold when carrying the equipment out but I would not have liked to have been outside for more than 10 minutes straight. It was just too darn cold. Today it is suppose to get to 20 below. Time to hibernate.
When we got home, Karl, my manly man took care of the trailer and I ran in the house and put on a fluffy robe. I hate to get cold. I am so lucky he does that for me. If he asked for my help I would help him. Ok, when it is not 20 below, I promise to ask him if he wants my help. I could learn a thing or two from the Girl Scouts.
Best Wishes
Carol Morgan
www.collsound.com
Carlton College Great Hall - Northfield
12/31/07 10:11
Event Date: 12/22/2007
Location: Carlton College Great Hall - Northfield
Couple: Sunshine and Doug
This wedding was booked at the last minute. The 22 was the only Saturday in December that we had not booked and we were pleased when Sunshine and Doug emailed us to meet. A photographer we had just worked with a month or so ago referred us to them. They were going to go without a DJ, like an Ipod wedding kind of thing, I think. Then, at the last minute they changed their minds and met with us. They did not sign right away. They waited the weekend and then called early in the following week. I was not sure they wanted a DJ from the initial meeting, however, Karl and I laid out what we do for our clients and I think in the end they decided they would like the help. I always tell people that want their family to take care of the music that their family could be there having a good time and not worrying about anything. Let us take care of everything so you and your family can just celebrate. Sometimes money is a factor, however, one should never skimp on the entertainment. Cut something else out.
They called and said they thought we could definitely bring something to the mix and wanted to hire us. We were thrilled. A full December is a blessing. Sometimes things slow down for a DJ in the winter months but that just did not happen this year. We went to the Great Hall at Carlton College the night before the wedding to observe the rehearsal because we were going to do the ceremony as well. I really liked their ceremony music choices. They needed a lot of input from me on this and I was glad to help. The bride had picked the Ingrid Michaelson song, The Way I Am for the unity candle and Canon in D for her entrance but needed help for the rest. We showed up at six like we agreed. We had to call a security guard to let us in the room because it is a college campus and things were closed for the evening. The guard let us in and I loved the room. Big lounges/couches against the walls. High tables in the back. Huge, High ceiling, massive fireplace. Christmas tree and decorations everywhere. It was a very inviting room. Bride and Groom were an hour late to hour meeting because they stopped at a wake.
When they showed up things happened quickly. We met the family and wedding party and got a good feel for how the next day would develop. They wanted a lounge feeling, more of a party then a wedding. We have done this before and it can work extemely well. We picked out the rest of the ceremony music, I asked the rest of the questions I had written down and felt very good about the upcoming nuptials and party to follow.
We showed up early on Saturday got setup and tried to be helpful to staff or wedding party if needed. They ended up using our black duct tape for the brides dress. Oh I should tell you the bride was in a beautiful, pink gown and the bridesmaids were all in white w/black belts. I have seen this before but not a lot. It actually made the bride stand out more if that was possible. She was beautiful, she had her red hair up and her hot pink dress was shoulderless. She looked like a princess. The guys were in jeans and black shirts with white ties except the groom who had a hot pink tie on.
So we got everyones mics on and were all ready when the pastor asks where is the unity candle. We go in the back and ask the bride and she says someone is at Target right now buying it. So the wedding started a little later then expected but went off beautifully. The guests loved the Ingrid Michaelson song. There was just a nice, comfortable feeling during the wedding. Lots of love and goodwill floating around.
Soon the reception began. Social hour was out in the hallway while they took down all the chairs used for the wedding. We put an extra speaker in the hallway for this. All the guests came back in after about half an hour and we did a Grand Entrance, it was high energy and a lot of fun, they hammed it up. Then the bride and groom thanked all for coming and invited them to eat. It was not a sit down, it was hor deaurves. We played Rat Pack music mixed with some easy listening current stuff. I like Colby Collait, Michael Buble and Jack Johnson to name a few. The mood was anticipation and excitement. Groom takes the mic and tells everyone his gift for his bride. The week before the wedding he had not been very available to his bride-to-be and this frustrated her to no end. Turned out he had been working on/tricking out a Yamaha motorcycle for her for a wedding gift and yes it was pink. She was so surprised and thrilled. A real good move on the grooms part. I played Born To Be Wild for them at this point. The bride also did not know what the first dance was, the groom picked it out and surprised the bride with it. It was a Clint Black song. The bride and groom really liked country but the group as a whole were all over the place. They requested Tom Petty, Eddie Money, Outfield, Matchbox 20, The Darkness etc... It did have a loungy feel to it. People really dance to the typical wedding dance music I usually play. We played the Bride and Grooms favorite songs which were mostly country.
I helped cut the cake because there was no one there who wanted to do it. The Pastor helped me because I got behind. There was a chocolate coating on the exterier and I was trying to cut the pieces thin enough for the cake to go around and it was hard to cut that chocolate exterier and not have the cake separate. We finally got it all served up and they did not run out of cake so we cut it ok. At the end of the night The Bride and Groom gave us a big hug and said nice things to us about our performance. Sunshine said her dad was impressed with us which meant a lot to me because he does a similar job to DJing at his church.
It was a GREAT end to a GREAT year! We went out with a bang. I pray 2008 is even better. This little business is really turning into something amazing. My Karl has some mad skills and always finds a way to make things even better. I might think things are fine right now but he will show me how they can be even bettter. He is an expert at the WOW factor. Our customers in 2008 can expect great things from him. He definitely has their best interests at heart. I will do my part and try to improve and be the best I can be. I plan to take some more dance lessons and continue with the Toastmasters. We are also taking some workshops to learn new things that we can offer our clients. I am very excited about the future.
Carol
Location: Carlton College Great Hall - Northfield
Couple: Sunshine and Doug
This wedding was booked at the last minute. The 22 was the only Saturday in December that we had not booked and we were pleased when Sunshine and Doug emailed us to meet. A photographer we had just worked with a month or so ago referred us to them. They were going to go without a DJ, like an Ipod wedding kind of thing, I think. Then, at the last minute they changed their minds and met with us. They did not sign right away. They waited the weekend and then called early in the following week. I was not sure they wanted a DJ from the initial meeting, however, Karl and I laid out what we do for our clients and I think in the end they decided they would like the help. I always tell people that want their family to take care of the music that their family could be there having a good time and not worrying about anything. Let us take care of everything so you and your family can just celebrate. Sometimes money is a factor, however, one should never skimp on the entertainment. Cut something else out.
They called and said they thought we could definitely bring something to the mix and wanted to hire us. We were thrilled. A full December is a blessing. Sometimes things slow down for a DJ in the winter months but that just did not happen this year. We went to the Great Hall at Carlton College the night before the wedding to observe the rehearsal because we were going to do the ceremony as well. I really liked their ceremony music choices. They needed a lot of input from me on this and I was glad to help. The bride had picked the Ingrid Michaelson song, The Way I Am for the unity candle and Canon in D for her entrance but needed help for the rest. We showed up at six like we agreed. We had to call a security guard to let us in the room because it is a college campus and things were closed for the evening. The guard let us in and I loved the room. Big lounges/couches against the walls. High tables in the back. Huge, High ceiling, massive fireplace. Christmas tree and decorations everywhere. It was a very inviting room. Bride and Groom were an hour late to hour meeting because they stopped at a wake.
When they showed up things happened quickly. We met the family and wedding party and got a good feel for how the next day would develop. They wanted a lounge feeling, more of a party then a wedding. We have done this before and it can work extemely well. We picked out the rest of the ceremony music, I asked the rest of the questions I had written down and felt very good about the upcoming nuptials and party to follow.
We showed up early on Saturday got setup and tried to be helpful to staff or wedding party if needed. They ended up using our black duct tape for the brides dress. Oh I should tell you the bride was in a beautiful, pink gown and the bridesmaids were all in white w/black belts. I have seen this before but not a lot. It actually made the bride stand out more if that was possible. She was beautiful, she had her red hair up and her hot pink dress was shoulderless. She looked like a princess. The guys were in jeans and black shirts with white ties except the groom who had a hot pink tie on.
So we got everyones mics on and were all ready when the pastor asks where is the unity candle. We go in the back and ask the bride and she says someone is at Target right now buying it. So the wedding started a little later then expected but went off beautifully. The guests loved the Ingrid Michaelson song. There was just a nice, comfortable feeling during the wedding. Lots of love and goodwill floating around.
Soon the reception began. Social hour was out in the hallway while they took down all the chairs used for the wedding. We put an extra speaker in the hallway for this. All the guests came back in after about half an hour and we did a Grand Entrance, it was high energy and a lot of fun, they hammed it up. Then the bride and groom thanked all for coming and invited them to eat. It was not a sit down, it was hor deaurves. We played Rat Pack music mixed with some easy listening current stuff. I like Colby Collait, Michael Buble and Jack Johnson to name a few. The mood was anticipation and excitement. Groom takes the mic and tells everyone his gift for his bride. The week before the wedding he had not been very available to his bride-to-be and this frustrated her to no end. Turned out he had been working on/tricking out a Yamaha motorcycle for her for a wedding gift and yes it was pink. She was so surprised and thrilled. A real good move on the grooms part. I played Born To Be Wild for them at this point. The bride also did not know what the first dance was, the groom picked it out and surprised the bride with it. It was a Clint Black song. The bride and groom really liked country but the group as a whole were all over the place. They requested Tom Petty, Eddie Money, Outfield, Matchbox 20, The Darkness etc... It did have a loungy feel to it. People really dance to the typical wedding dance music I usually play. We played the Bride and Grooms favorite songs which were mostly country.
I helped cut the cake because there was no one there who wanted to do it. The Pastor helped me because I got behind. There was a chocolate coating on the exterier and I was trying to cut the pieces thin enough for the cake to go around and it was hard to cut that chocolate exterier and not have the cake separate. We finally got it all served up and they did not run out of cake so we cut it ok. At the end of the night The Bride and Groom gave us a big hug and said nice things to us about our performance. Sunshine said her dad was impressed with us which meant a lot to me because he does a similar job to DJing at his church.
It was a GREAT end to a GREAT year! We went out with a bang. I pray 2008 is even better. This little business is really turning into something amazing. My Karl has some mad skills and always finds a way to make things even better. I might think things are fine right now but he will show me how they can be even bettter. He is an expert at the WOW factor. Our customers in 2008 can expect great things from him. He definitely has their best interests at heart. I will do my part and try to improve and be the best I can be. I plan to take some more dance lessons and continue with the Toastmasters. We are also taking some workshops to learn new things that we can offer our clients. I am very excited about the future.
Carol
Earl Brown Heritage Center - Minneapolis
12/30/07 10:05
Event Date: 12/15/2007
Location: Radisson - Plymouth
Couple: Ashley and Josh
There were past brides at this wedding. The matron of honor/sister of bride was a past bride. There was a cousin there as well that we had worked for. The staff was very friendly and helpful. One lady said I looked like Marie Osmond and I told Karl and he laughed. I didn't mind, I like Marie and think she looks great. It was the kind of wedding where there would be some last minute detail changes. We can handle these now that we have so much experience. Use to stress me out in the early days. I have definitely learned through the years that the timeline is just and approximation and be ready for anything. My biggest memory is of the crowd making a train to C'mon Ride The Train by the Quad City DJ's. They had a very long train going.
The bride was very beautiful and so was her sister and cousin. Must run in the family. There were almost 300 people there and they fed us dinner. We ate behind a large screen that had been set up in front of our rig for the video. That suited us fine. The food was good and that is always appreciated, however, we do not require to be fed. Some different kinds of songs were requested like Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours. Haven't had that one in awhile. Good song. There were a few more requested from that era but they are escaping me right now. I just enjoyed playing something different and it didn't train wreck the dance floor.
All in all a very nice evening. Ended with a small group requesting a lot of hip hop and then the parents and some other couples came out in the end to dance a few slow ones. Oh, I left out the part where I played Piano Man and they formed a circle and some guys pants fell down around his ankles. Boxers for all you who are wondering. I don't think that constitutes a flash but it was pretty close. He left them down for the duration then hiked them back up. He requested the song so I don't think it was a protest. That particular young man was a very good dancer.
Tear down went smooth. Karl drove me home and I fell asleep in the car. I can feel the year winding down. Not just for me. One more show left in 2007 and I am ready for 08.
Carol
Location: Radisson - Plymouth
Couple: Ashley and Josh
There were past brides at this wedding. The matron of honor/sister of bride was a past bride. There was a cousin there as well that we had worked for. The staff was very friendly and helpful. One lady said I looked like Marie Osmond and I told Karl and he laughed. I didn't mind, I like Marie and think she looks great. It was the kind of wedding where there would be some last minute detail changes. We can handle these now that we have so much experience. Use to stress me out in the early days. I have definitely learned through the years that the timeline is just and approximation and be ready for anything. My biggest memory is of the crowd making a train to C'mon Ride The Train by the Quad City DJ's. They had a very long train going.
The bride was very beautiful and so was her sister and cousin. Must run in the family. There were almost 300 people there and they fed us dinner. We ate behind a large screen that had been set up in front of our rig for the video. That suited us fine. The food was good and that is always appreciated, however, we do not require to be fed. Some different kinds of songs were requested like Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours. Haven't had that one in awhile. Good song. There were a few more requested from that era but they are escaping me right now. I just enjoyed playing something different and it didn't train wreck the dance floor.
All in all a very nice evening. Ended with a small group requesting a lot of hip hop and then the parents and some other couples came out in the end to dance a few slow ones. Oh, I left out the part where I played Piano Man and they formed a circle and some guys pants fell down around his ankles. Boxers for all you who are wondering. I don't think that constitutes a flash but it was pretty close. He left them down for the duration then hiked them back up. He requested the song so I don't think it was a protest. That particular young man was a very good dancer.
Tear down went smooth. Karl drove me home and I fell asleep in the car. I can feel the year winding down. Not just for me. One more show left in 2007 and I am ready for 08.
Carol
Radisson - Plymouth
12/09/07 09:53
Event Date: 12/07/2007
Location: Radisson - Plymouth
Corporate Holiday Party - Priority Envelopes
I flew home and changed clothes and put on some makeup and started driving in rush hour to Plymouth from Savage. It took about 45 minutes. We thought we had to be set up by 5 but we really did not start till 6. We worked from 6 till 11 and had a wonderful time. These people were real easy to get along with and their company was doing well this year so they were all in great spirits. The owners gave away tons of gifts and they were good gifts too like flat screen tvs and video game systems and lots of other kinds of toys. It was an academy awards theme instead of christmas because there were many different ethnic and religious people there and we did not want to exclude or offend anyone. I did not play one christmas song and no one requested any. They did not mob the dance floor but they did dance. They liked the eighties, classic rock and lots of funky hip hop. Some country was requested and received pretty well. I got the best response to reggae. We were playing all kinds of music that night. Dinner music had a lot of songs from academy award winning movies. When I spoke on the microphone I tried to sound like I was at the academy awards and I made up categories for people and was very dramatic. We even did a grand entrance for the owners who came up and acted like they were receiving an academy award for best producers of a holiday party. They were so cute.
Carol
Location: Radisson - Plymouth
Corporate Holiday Party - Priority Envelopes
I flew home and changed clothes and put on some makeup and started driving in rush hour to Plymouth from Savage. It took about 45 minutes. We thought we had to be set up by 5 but we really did not start till 6. We worked from 6 till 11 and had a wonderful time. These people were real easy to get along with and their company was doing well this year so they were all in great spirits. The owners gave away tons of gifts and they were good gifts too like flat screen tvs and video game systems and lots of other kinds of toys. It was an academy awards theme instead of christmas because there were many different ethnic and religious people there and we did not want to exclude or offend anyone. I did not play one christmas song and no one requested any. They did not mob the dance floor but they did dance. They liked the eighties, classic rock and lots of funky hip hop. Some country was requested and received pretty well. I got the best response to reggae. We were playing all kinds of music that night. Dinner music had a lot of songs from academy award winning movies. When I spoke on the microphone I tried to sound like I was at the academy awards and I made up categories for people and was very dramatic. We even did a grand entrance for the owners who came up and acted like they were receiving an academy award for best producers of a holiday party. They were so cute.
Carol
Somerby Golf Club - Byron, MN
12/02/07 09:44
Event Date: 12/01/2007
Location: Somerby Golf Club - Byron, MN
Couple: Linnea and John
This Saturday we went down south to a town called Byron, MN. It is near Rochester. The weather was ridiculous. It was the snowiest, iciest it has been in quite awhile and wouldn't you know it would happen on a day we had to drive so far. We left super duper early and got a room in a hotel in Kasson which was close to the place where we would be working. Summersby Golf Club, I might have spelled it wrong. Very upscale, fancy, beautiful place. We arrived several hours early to rule out not arriving at all. This evening we were just dinner music, mc, doing the special dances and then out of there by 9pm. It was a different kind of show for us but the bride and groom had hired a band and the band did not want to do those other things, so they ended up hiring a band and a dj. First the band arrives to find out that the sound guy from LaCross is not going to show. He snowed out. They asked us if they could use our equipment. We only had the Bose towers and were not really equipped to handle this big band also did not even know what to charge if we did stay and rent our equipment. We asked them to find another sound guy. Miraculously they did. Out of 300 or so guests invited, about 270 showed up. We were amazed by this as the weather was horrible.
This bride and groom were very loved. Their family and friends braved some nasty weather to celebrate with them.
We did our job and saw familiar faces and took care of the Wedding party and guests and all the special events plus a little open dancing that lead up to 9pm. At 5 the new sound guy was suppose to be there but was not. We were getting worried. Then around 6:30 they showed up and surrounded our DJ table which had been so nice and neat, with 15 or more speakers and tons of cords and other sound equipment. Bands use a lot more equipment. The band was pretty awesome and it was fun meeting them. Bunch of young, cute, very talented musicians. I can see why they wanted them for their wedding. We tore down at 9pm loaded our equipment and headed to our hotel. Well the roads were still crappy but we made it. We stopped at the Subway for some dinner. They fed the band but forgot about us little ol DJ's. Karl prefers that anyway. He doesn't like to be fed at the events. We grabbed some food and went back to the hotel. Did I tell you it was a suite. My husband got us a room with a jacuzzi right next to the bed and a fireplace and surround sound and I was pretty impressed. We fell asleep and left the fireplace on all night and we were probably poisened by it. It was so warm when we woke up. We had to get back on the road to the Twin Cities as we had a DJ booking meeting at the MOA at 1pm.
When we went down for the free breakfast, I tried a little of everything and Karl hardly ate anything. The hotel was so charming, very country and rustic. I really liked it.
Well Linnea and John are in Naples by now. They got to escape the winter wonderland. I wish them all the best and I know they are surrounded by love.
Carol
Location: Somerby Golf Club - Byron, MN
Couple: Linnea and John
This Saturday we went down south to a town called Byron, MN. It is near Rochester. The weather was ridiculous. It was the snowiest, iciest it has been in quite awhile and wouldn't you know it would happen on a day we had to drive so far. We left super duper early and got a room in a hotel in Kasson which was close to the place where we would be working. Summersby Golf Club, I might have spelled it wrong. Very upscale, fancy, beautiful place. We arrived several hours early to rule out not arriving at all. This evening we were just dinner music, mc, doing the special dances and then out of there by 9pm. It was a different kind of show for us but the bride and groom had hired a band and the band did not want to do those other things, so they ended up hiring a band and a dj. First the band arrives to find out that the sound guy from LaCross is not going to show. He snowed out. They asked us if they could use our equipment. We only had the Bose towers and were not really equipped to handle this big band also did not even know what to charge if we did stay and rent our equipment. We asked them to find another sound guy. Miraculously they did. Out of 300 or so guests invited, about 270 showed up. We were amazed by this as the weather was horrible.
This bride and groom were very loved. Their family and friends braved some nasty weather to celebrate with them.
We did our job and saw familiar faces and took care of the Wedding party and guests and all the special events plus a little open dancing that lead up to 9pm. At 5 the new sound guy was suppose to be there but was not. We were getting worried. Then around 6:30 they showed up and surrounded our DJ table which had been so nice and neat, with 15 or more speakers and tons of cords and other sound equipment. Bands use a lot more equipment. The band was pretty awesome and it was fun meeting them. Bunch of young, cute, very talented musicians. I can see why they wanted them for their wedding. We tore down at 9pm loaded our equipment and headed to our hotel. Well the roads were still crappy but we made it. We stopped at the Subway for some dinner. They fed the band but forgot about us little ol DJ's. Karl prefers that anyway. He doesn't like to be fed at the events. We grabbed some food and went back to the hotel. Did I tell you it was a suite. My husband got us a room with a jacuzzi right next to the bed and a fireplace and surround sound and I was pretty impressed. We fell asleep and left the fireplace on all night and we were probably poisened by it. It was so warm when we woke up. We had to get back on the road to the Twin Cities as we had a DJ booking meeting at the MOA at 1pm.
When we went down for the free breakfast, I tried a little of everything and Karl hardly ate anything. The hotel was so charming, very country and rustic. I really liked it.
Well Linnea and John are in Naples by now. They got to escape the winter wonderland. I wish them all the best and I know they are surrounded by love.
Carol
University Club - St. Paul
11/04/07 09:28
Event Date: 11/03/2007
Location: University Club - St. Paul
Couple: Valerie and Steve
WOW, WOW, WOW!! What an awesome show. I will try to put the video on the website at collsound.com. This Bride and Groom were so creative, beautiful and energetic. Everyone loved them, including us. I wish I could make every show like this but not all couples are as outgoing or like to dance so much. They were talented and liked to perform which made their guests quite happy, all eyes were on them most of the evening because they were so charismatic and entertaining. I know I was suppose to be the entertainment but they are really there for the Bride and Groom and this couple took that to heart. The grand entrance was very unique as was the first dance. They were so good to us and I hope we can keep in touch. Great family! I know I always feel this way after a wedding but it is honest and true. I feel lucky that I got to work for them. I think God is looking out for me. All you brides and grooms out there, if you want to make your wedding reception unique and memorable, give me shout. Kudos to the staff at the University Club as well. They treated us like royalty and I would love to work with them again. If you want to see the video please contact me. Valerie and Steve, take care of each other and always appreciate each other. You have something very special!
First dance video: http://www.collsound.com/Clients/ValerieSteve-110307/
Carol
Location: University Club - St. Paul
Couple: Valerie and Steve
WOW, WOW, WOW!! What an awesome show. I will try to put the video on the website at collsound.com. This Bride and Groom were so creative, beautiful and energetic. Everyone loved them, including us. I wish I could make every show like this but not all couples are as outgoing or like to dance so much. They were talented and liked to perform which made their guests quite happy, all eyes were on them most of the evening because they were so charismatic and entertaining. I know I was suppose to be the entertainment but they are really there for the Bride and Groom and this couple took that to heart. The grand entrance was very unique as was the first dance. They were so good to us and I hope we can keep in touch. Great family! I know I always feel this way after a wedding but it is honest and true. I feel lucky that I got to work for them. I think God is looking out for me. All you brides and grooms out there, if you want to make your wedding reception unique and memorable, give me shout. Kudos to the staff at the University Club as well. They treated us like royalty and I would love to work with them again. If you want to see the video please contact me. Valerie and Steve, take care of each other and always appreciate each other. You have something very special!
First dance video: http://www.collsound.com/Clients/ValerieSteve-110307/
Carol
KofC - Faribault, Wildwood Lodge - Lake Elmo
11/02/07 09:21
Event Date: 10/26/2007
Event Date: 10/27/2007
Location: Wildwood Lodge - Lake Elmo
Location: KofC - Faribault
Couple: Jennifer and Craig
Couple: Amy and Rich
We have been receiving a lot of monetary tips lately. That surprises me only because I feel like we are in a recession and these people are being so generous. The two weddings went great! The brides were beautiful and the grooms were charming. I feel lucky that we got to be at their receptions. I would do it again in a minute. Really had a lot of fun! Best wishes to Amy and Rich and Jennifer and Craig! Be good to each other. Now I have to get ready for tomorrows wedding. I will let you know how it goes.
Event Date: 10/27/2007
Location: Wildwood Lodge - Lake Elmo
Location: KofC - Faribault
Couple: Jennifer and Craig
Couple: Amy and Rich
We have been receiving a lot of monetary tips lately. That surprises me only because I feel like we are in a recession and these people are being so generous. The two weddings went great! The brides were beautiful and the grooms were charming. I feel lucky that we got to be at their receptions. I would do it again in a minute. Really had a lot of fun! Best wishes to Amy and Rich and Jennifer and Craig! Be good to each other. Now I have to get ready for tomorrows wedding. I will let you know how it goes.
Holiday Inn - New Ulm
09/23/07 00:52
Event Date: 09/22/2007
Location: Holiday Inn - New Ulm, MN
Couple: Paige and Justin
Wedding was
great! The people were very friendly and warmed up to
us quickly. They liked to dance which is always a
plus. We played some great tunes. Not your ordinary
stuff. I did fat finger once but I think I redeemed
myself. I wish Paige and Justin all the best.
Thats Justin and one of his posse on the dance floor.
Carol
Location: Holiday Inn - New Ulm, MN
Couple: Paige and Justin
Thats Justin and one of his posse on the dance floor.
Carol