St. Peter on the Prairie is a country church located about fifteen minutes south of Madison, South Dakota. The church was built in 1948 from stones local farmers brought in from their fields. Although no longer an active parish, it is maintained to use for weddings and other events. It was here that Jodi and Chris hosted their Alice in Wonderland-themed wedding!
It had snowed earlier in the week, so the surrounding fields were gleaming in the sunshine. The roads were another matter, but the harp and I made it (we always do – and leave plenty of time for any delays, weather or otherwise!). Family and friends of the couple were encouraged to come in costume, and several did. We had everything from the Mad Hatter to the Caterpillar in the sanctuary!
As guests arrived and found seats, harp music filled the church. The prelude included classical music and popular selections, such as “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, “A Groovy Kind of Love,” and “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz.
“Only Time” by Enya was the song chosen for the wedding party processional, followed by “Trumpet Voluntary” for the bride’s entrance.
As the couple lit the unity candle, I played “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” After the newly-married couple was presented to their assembled guests, they recessed back down the aisle to “Great Day,” a fantastic harp solo full of glissandos.
I play for weddings in Madison, Sioux Falls, Mitchell, Brookings, Yankton, and throughout Eastern South Dakota. If you are looking for a beautiful and unique addition to your wedding, please contact me for availability and rates by visiting my website: South Dakota Wedding Harpist.