An Aldie Mansion Wedding and Shuffle-fest
During our busiest seasons there are instances where events can blur together and every song can sound the same. However, more often than not, each event has a unique spark that cannot be duplicated and makes that evening stand out from all the others. The spark on this night was provided by cheese-heads, booty bumping and one fun and silly couple. Stacey and Jay shared their nuptials at the historic Aldie Mansion in Doylestown, Bucks County on June 17, 2011.
Immediately following our wrap-up meeting I knew that this evening would be full of memories, but more importantly, it was full of laughs. From the very beginning it was evident that this couple was ready to begin their new life together and they were going the distance with smiles’ on their faces. The joy was evident during introductions as the parents danced into the room to ‘Surfin’ USA” (Beach Boys); after the bridal party entered to “Pump It” by the Black Eyed Peas, Jay and Stacey “shuffled” their way to the floor to “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO. The simple notion that our Bride and Groom had a specific cue-point in mind for their intro song –one that builds the momentum of the moment- told me that they know the difference between “planning a reception” and “throwing a party”.
The rest of the night was a blend of romance and hilarity. Dinner and formalities –except for the Garter removal/toss, which was quite silly- were handled with the utmost care and serenity. Then the cake’s came out…that’s right, “cake’s”. Although it is traditional for the Bride and Groom to cut a piece of their cake and feed one another, it has become commonplace to have a secondary “groom” cake. The second cake is usually a symbol of a mutual interest between our newlyweds; I’ve seen everything from family-oriented to movie-themed confections. Tonight, it was the sports-themed cake. In a room filled with football fans, Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers to be exact, the ideal choice was a cake that fit those interests…except, they leaned toward the direction of the current champs. As a surprise to Jay, Stacey had a cake designed in the shape of the Green Bay Packers logo and placed the ceremonial “cheese-head” hat onto his head. It was a fun moment that everyone got a kick out of.
Our dance marathon took up the remainder of the party as we played a song list custom made for Stacey and Jay, which was a mix of 80’s dance, 90’s hip-hop and current Top 40. Even some gone, but not forgotten, tracks (“Jump” by Kris Kross and “Faded” by Soul Decision) made their way into the air. The crowd danced, laughed and sweated ‘til the night was through. This was a dancing-crowd, which always makes the DJ’s job easier. Like I tell each couple I’ve had the honor of working with; I’m the guy who brings a second pair of shoes to dance in, tonight was the first time I’ve been dragged –okay, so you can’t really “drag” someone to a dance floor who lives to be on one – to the floor by a bride. Thank you Stacey for making me part of the party and not just the “MC”.
Thank you to the staff at the Aldie Mansion for all of your assistance in creating a smooth and flawless event.
Thanks to Neil Van Niekerk for the images. You gracefully captured a wonderful experience.
Congratulations Stacey and Jay on your wedding! It was a pleasure joining you on your perfect day.
Everyday I’m shufflin’…
~Brian
Images Courtesy of Neil Van Neikerk