When Marisa was looking for a musician for her ceremony, she wanted someone who was versatile enough to play the traditional pieces, but also have some more contemporary options available. The harp is the perfect instrument if you want a mix of classical and popular music, and I have a wide repertoire of both!
The ceremony took place on the Sunrise Deck at Starved Rock State Park in Northern Illinois (near LaSalle, Utica, & Peru). After days of high temperatures, they were blessed with a much milder day, and a beautifully serene backdrop to their ceremony (and an occasional visit by the local wildlife!).
As guests arrived, I played a variety of popular love songs from the 1950’s through today. One special request was the Jason Mraz song “I’m Yours.” We switched to traditional for the processionals: “Canon in D” for the wedding party followed by “Bridal Chorus” (“Here Comes the Bride“) for Marisa’s entrance.
The bride and groom were obviously having a good time and were excited to be getting married! The vows that the couple wrote were spoken first in French (which actually drew applause from the guests!), and then in English. Marisa said that she knew that she and Alexis were meant to be together from the first moment they met, but it didn’t hurt that he’s French and plays the guitar!
There was a lot of laughter and joy in this ceremony, but my favorite moment was just prior to the ring exchange. The ring bearer had the rings tied to his pillow, and brought them to the bride and groom during the service. Alexis attempted to untie them, but they were stuck! It took the bride pulling hard and breaking the ribbon to get them free. She gave the ring bearer a kiss on the cheek, which he promptly wiped off!
For the sand ceremony, they requested “Come Sail Away” by Styx. Yes, I can play that on the harp! The recessional was another unexpected song: “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses. Several of the guests stopped by as I was playing the postlude to say how much they enjoyed the music. The kids always want to see the harp up close, too.
From traditional wedding music to rock ballads, the harp can provide all of the music for your wedding ceremony. Visit my website, Northern Illinois Harpist, or call 1-574-344-9401 for a custom quote for your event!
