Wedding Blog // The Wedding Singer - James Barlow

First Dances Available To Be Sung Live - January 2012

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:38:00 +0000

Here is my updated list of first dance songs that are available for me to sing live. Don't forget if there's nothing in my current repertoire that you'd like, as long as it is within my vocal range and there is backing track available, you can request one song for me to learn for your day. Contact me if you want me to look into a song.

Everything -     Michael Buble
To Love Somebody -     The Bee Gees
Have I Told You Lately -     Van Morrison / Rod Stewart
One Day Like This -     Elbow
Me & Mrs Jones -     Michael Buble / Billy Paul
Make You Feel My Love -     Adele
Better Together -     Jack Johnson
Truly Madly Deeply -     Savage Garden
Stand By Me -     Ben E. King
Rule The World -     Take That
Three Times A Lady -     Lionel Richie & The Commodores
You Are The Sunshine Of My Life -     Stevie Wonder
Glow Old With You -     Adam Sandler (from 'The Wedding Singer')
Greatest Day -     Take That
Easy -     Lionel Richie & The Commodores
My Girl -     The Temptations
These Are The Days Of Our Lives -     Queen
The One -     Elton John
Under The Boardwalk -     The Drifters
Lego House -     Ed Sheeran
How Deep Is Your Love -     The Bee Gees
She's The One -     Robbie Williams
Just The Way You Are -     Billy Joel
Wonderful Tonight -     Eric Clapton
Amazed -     Lonestar
Crazy Love -     Michael Buble
Angels -     Robbie Williams
She -     Elvis Costello
Hero -     Enrique Inglesias
Let There Be Love -     Nat King Cole
Can't Take My Eyes Off You -     Andy Williams
Crazy Little Thing Called Love -     Michael Buble
The Way You Look Tonight -     Michael Buble
That's Amore -     Dean Martin
Come Fly With Me -     Frank Sinatra
It Had To Be You -     Harry Connick Jnr
You To Me Are Everything -     The Real Thing
The Wonder Of You -     Elvis Presley
My First, My Last, My Everything -     Barry White
Happy Together -     The Turtles
When You Say Nothing At All -     Ronan Keating

If you are still stuck for ideas, have a look at my top ten first dances post.

Emma & Chris Wankling at The Riverbank Restaurant, Nottingham

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:45:00 +0000

The Riverbank Restuarant & Bar is situated on Trent Bridge in the West Bridegford area of Nottingham, and has stunning views of the Riverside and Embankment. The Riverbank have an excellent, ultra modern, upstairs 'Gallery' function room', where Chris and Emma held their reception on 25th November.

We were set-up and ready to go for 5pm when guests started arriving. Instead of a traditional wedding breakfast, the guests were treated to a superb hot and cold buffet served up at 5.30pm - I can confidently say it was superb as we were invited to tuck in! I sang a selection of rat pack / swing classics including: Beyond The Sea, Ain't That A Kick In The Head, Sway and Mac The Knife, as everyone dined. Whilst the music was only at background level so everyone could chat through the buffet, I still had a few guests out of their seats up on the dance floor, including Emma who had succesfully rounded up her bridesmaids onto the dance floor!

After speeches, and after a few extra guests for the evening had arrived, it was first dance time. Chris and Emma had requested The Bee Gees' 'To Love Somebody' which I sang for them. Guests packed out the dance floor until midnight when I sang a song specially requested by Chris and Emma to finish the evening - Elbow's 'One Day Like This'. All the guests made a big circle around the bride and groom, and managed to sing as loud if not louder than me (with my sound syetem!) to concluded the evening and send the bride and groom on their way.

Chris and Emma sent me the following comments just before Christmas:

"Just to say a quick thank you for making our wedding reception at The Riverbank, Nottingham that bit more special. The DJ sets where exactly right for our guests and evolved with them through the night. The singing was even better especially our first dance "To Love Somebody" and Elbow's "One Day Like This" which was enjoyed by everyone. Had so many comments on how the night flowed from your swing set through to the final dances and how well you gauged the guests with the music selection.

When we were first trying to decide on a DJ or a Singer we had no idea we would find someone who could do both so excellently and for such a reasonable price.

We would not hesitate to recommend you to any bride and groom to be"

-----

Best wishes to Chris and Emma!

Rachael & Matt at Nork Community Centre, Surrey

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:13:00 +0000

I sang for Rachael and Matt at their wedding party in the picturesque village of Nork in Surrey in October.

The guests were a very lively and the majority of the large hall ended up being filled with dancers for most of the evening!

A lovely couple and a great group of people, everyone particularly enjoyed the cheesier tracks played!

Rachael and Matt have sent me a fantastic testimonial:

Thank you so much for an amazing night I had the best time ever and so many people commented on how fantastic you were! We wanted to thank you for being so accommodating and professional. Communication prior to the night was excellent and everybody agreed that your singing was fantastic.

You are an expert at getting all age groups up dancing and we wouldn't change a thing about the evening!

We will definitely be recommending!

Best wishes to Matt and Rachael. I gave out quite a few business cards on the day so I'll hopefully see you again soon!

// NEW SONGS ADDED - NOVEMBER 2011 //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:50:00 +0000

I've added several songs to my live song list over the past couple of months. A combination of first dance requests and some more up to date chart additions:

Dean Martin - That's Amore

A 1952 #1 Billboard chart song originally sung by Dean Martin, featured in the film 'The Caddy'. Especially learnt and very much appreciated for a recent Italian wedding, a great sing a long song!

Elbow - A Day Like This

Probably the band's most well known track becoming particularly popular after their 'Best Band' win at the 2009 BRIT awards. This song works particularly well as a last dance with the bride and groom in the middle of a big circle of guests singing as loud as they possibly can!

Adele - Make You Feel My Love

A track originally written and sung by Bob Dylan and performed by many artists since, the most well-known version to date probably being Garth Brooks'. This version was released by Adele in 2008 reached number 4 in the UK charts. Becoming a popular first dance choice and great for those looking for something more up to date to start the evening off with.

The Killers - Mr Brightside

Has long been a dance floor filler at my weddings, now available sung live. A massive hit in 2004, continues to be popular and has become an essential part of any singer or DJ's indie / rock repertoir.

Kings Of Leon - Sex On Fire

Kings Of Leon's classic sing a long hit, originally released in 2009, it still makes regular appearances in the top 40! Always proves popular on the dance floor, now available to be sung live.

Cee Lo Green - Forget You

Cee Lo Green's biggest hit of last year. A guaranteed dance floor filler loved by people of all ages, helping me bring my live sets up to date.

Dean Martin - Always Gentle Of My Mind

Originally written and performed by John Hartford in 1968, also well known as being sung by country singer Glen Campbell, the Dean Martin verion was the most successful. Can be included in my Rat Pack / Swing set should you wish.

Check out the song list page for my complete list of live songs available

Wendy & Nick at Kettering Park Hotel, 29th October 2011

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:30:00 +0000

It was my first time at the Kettering Park Hotel, entertaining for Wendy & Nick's celebrations on 29th October.

Wendy & Nick booked the Standard Package with Dinner Music add-on, so we arrived and set-up between their ceremony and wedding breakfast to be set-up and ready to play background music whilst everyone ate.

The venue's built-in LED lighting sytem was able to match the day's colour scheme: blue and provided stunning colour wash throughout the room as guests dined.

As a surprise for those doing speeches, Wendy concocted a plan to play short excerts of songs before each speech. Wendy's Dad stood up to a short burst of 'My Girl', for Nick we had Kylie's 'I Should Be So Lucky' and for the best man we had a chorus of 'Whatta Man' by Salt 'N Pepa!

As we progressed to the evening reception we added our lighting to the set-up and I was able to match the blue colour wash of the venue matching the dance floor witht the rest of the room for the evening. The venue also had a large star cloth curtain which was drawn across behind our set-up making the dance floor end of the room stunning.

A short video of the lighting set-up with bubbles!:

I sang Take That's Greatest Day for Nick & Wendy's first dance which was follwed by non-stop dancing right up until 1am! They booked the extra Rat Pack / Swing set so I sang for 2 hours in total and DJed in between.

Wendy & Nick sent me the following testimonial over the weekend:

Thank you so much for making our wedding day so special, your choice of music for the wedding breakfast was perfect, along with the silly intros to the speeches I requested! The evening music was fantastic, you sang our first dance song beautifully, so much so some of the guests thought it was Take That singing properly! Your entertainment throughout the evening was brilliant with everybody up on the dance floor all night!! With the guests commenting on how brilliant your singing was. My mum was delighted that you played the scottish dance music she was in her element!

We can not thank you enough for making our special day so perfect! We will be recommending you to everybody. I have attached a photo of us doing the first dance and yourself in the background with the bubbles.

Thank you once again and all the best for the future. You made the day and night perfect!

All the very best to Wendy and Nick and thank you to all the staff at Kerring Park Hotel, I hope to be back soon!

Vicky & Greg at Wicksteed Park, Kettering. 3rd September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:06:00 +0000

I sang for Vicky and Greg last month at Wicksteed Park in Kettering.A big open air concert was also taking place in the park where world famous Abba tribute band, 'Bjorn Again' were performing. Luckily my sound system was more than a match to the Swedish sound alikes so we couldn't hear them once the dancing began!

It was a really fantastic evening with lots of singing, dancing and bubbles! Vicky and Greg's first dance was the ever popular 'Amazed' by Lonestar which I sung live for them.

The happy couple have recently sent me the following testimonial. Thanks Vicky & Greg for letting me be a part of your big day!

We would just like to say a massive thanks to you for helping to create such an amazing evening for our wedding reception. Your singing was incredible on the day. We have constantly had guests both during and after the wedding telling us what a good performer you were. The first dance in particular was amazing, many commented it was even better than the original. From when we first booked you, to the night of our wedding, your friendliness and helpfulness has been second to none. If we did it all again tomorrow, we would book you again straight away!

Anna & Paul in Old Brampton, Derbyshire. 10th September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:24:00 +0000

Anna and Paul's big day was on 10th September 2011 at Anna's parent's home, 'Busty Fields' in Old Brampton, a lovely part of rural Derbyshire on the outskirts of the Peak District.

They had erected a magnificent marquee on the lawn and 150 guests danced the night away as the sun set.

Guests were also treated to a set by the excellent Birmingham Blues Brothers who performed at 9pm after my first singing set. Anna booked this as a special suprise for Paul who is a big Blues Brothers fan.

Toastmaster Mike Hyman did an excellent job at officiating events throughout the day, I also got chatting to him about his charity 'Kids 'n' Cancer', helping young people with cancer to gain access to Proton Therapy.

Anna and Paul sent me some really nice comments this morning:

I just wanted to say you a massive thank you for providing such great entertainment at our wedding reception on the 10th September 2011. My biggest wish for the day was that all our family and friends have an excellent party and we owe that in large part to you for your brilliant vocals and DJ-ing. We had a few hiccups on the day with other things so I was really grateful that I never had a single worry where you were concerned and that I could completely leave it with you. I had guests commenting to me after that when they heard a song they liked playing that they went up to dance and realised you were actually singing it, amazing! It's a sure sign of a great time when guests don't want to get off the dancefloor! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you to any future bride and groom for their big day. Thank you so much again.

Very best wishes to the new Mr and Mrs Beresford!

Gareth & Sarah at The Renaissance Hotel, Manchester City Centre

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:57:00 +0000

A fantastic night at The Renaissance Hotel, Manchester City Centre for Gareth & Sarah's reception. A really great crowd up for a good time and LOTS of dancing!

"James, you were fab abd our evening reception was fantastic, everyone was talking about how good you were. You got the crowd going and everyone enjoying themselves"

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Manchester

Top ten first dance songs 2010 / 2011

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:24:00 +0000

Struggling for first dance ideas? Here is a list of my 10 most popular first dance choices over the past 12 months. All songs are available either sung live or played pre-recorded.

1) Amazed - Lonestar
2) Have I Told You Lately - Rod Stewart / Van Morrisson
3) Can't Take My Eyes Off You - Andy Williams
4) Rule The World - Take That
5) Everything - Michael Buble
6) Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
7) I Swear - All 4 One
8) First Time Ever I Saw Face - Roberta Flack
9) Hold On - Michael Buble
10) Greatest Day - Take That

James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

// IMPORTANT INFORMATION IF YOU HAVE BOOKED THE DINNER MUSIC ADD-ON //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:51:00 +0000

I wanted to re-iterate a few points highlighted in the info sheet you received with your booking pack, mainly to make sure your venue are aware of what we are coming in to do on the day so that everything runs as smoothly as possible. Apologies if you are already aware of these points or if some of it sounds obvious but I've had a few problems at venues over the past few months so I just wanted to clarify everything with you all.

Dinner Music add-on to the Standard Package

If you have booked the Standard Package and the Dinner Music add on, where we will come in and set-up before you sit down for your wedding breakfast and play some background music whilst you dine, again, it is important to let your venue know that we are doing this. Whilst we always try to get as much of the set-up completed before the wedding breakfast, a very small system can be set-up during your meal if space is at a premium; the set-up can be as small as 1metre x 1metre if required. If only a minimal set-up is possible during your meal, 30 - 45 minutes will be required afterwards to complete the set-up and add lighting for the evening.

If you have also booked the bubble machine as part of your package please note that some venues do not allow the use of bubble machines so it important that you get their permission. The bubble fluid used is a special (and very expensive!) 'non-wetting' formula to prevent the bubbles causing a slippery dance floor (mostly what venues are concerned about), so it might be worth mentioning this your venue if you have your heart set on bubbles and they need some persuading!

This is all about making the day run smoothly and all the information here and within the booking pack you received when you booked is given to you in order to make the day as successful and hassle free (for us all!) as possible.

If you have any questions or problems with any of the above or want to alter your package, feel free to give me a call. Also, if your venue have any questions about set-up, space, bubbles etc they are also very welcome to contact me.

// IMPORTANT INFORMATION IF YOU HAVE BOOKED THE DELUXE PACKAGE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:39:00 +0000

Deluxe Package

If you have booked the Deluxe Package (all day wedding singer & DJ) it is important that your venue are aware that we will be setting equipment up before you sit down for your wedding breakfast. The space required for set-up during your meal for this package is a minimum of 2metres x 2metres. This space must be in the same room and same area of your room as the evening set-up. I often move around the room whilst I am singing but I largely perform from where my set-up is situated. Therefore it is essential that I am in the same room as yourselves and all of your guests! I know this may sound a bit obvious but think about this particularly if your room is going to be sectioned off during the day or you are dining on a mezzanine floor.

Also regarding set-up location, the set-up can be dragged a few metres or so after you have finished eating to prepare for the evening reception but there is not enough time to set-up at one end of your room, dismantle after the wedding breakfast, relocate and set-up again at the other end.

// NEW SONGS ADDED //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 17:05:00 +0000

There have been some additions to my live song list over the past few months. Mainly resulting from special first dance requests, the following are now available in my live sets:

Me & Mrs Jones - Michael Buble / Billy Paul

A number one single, orginally released in 1972 and performed by Billy Paul. It also remains one of Michael Buble's most popular songs, featuring on his third studio album, Call Me Irresponsible.

You are The Sunshine Of My Life - Stevie Wonder

Stevie's 1973 hit gave him his third US number 1 and is one of his most popular songs to date. As testiment to its populirty, the song has been covered by artists all over the world no less than 25 times!

Greatest Day - Take That

A superb first dance choice, proving very popular. Take That's 11th number one single, taken from the album The Circus.

You Do Something To Me - Paul Weller

One of Weller's most popular solo offerings taken from his 1995 album Stanley Road peaking at number 9 in the UK charts.

She's The One - Robbie Williams

A cover of the World Party song, She's The One became Robbie William's second number one. As popular as ever after reuniting with take that, this is one of several Robbie Williams songs available as a part of my singing sets.

She - Elvis Costello

Originally recorded and released in 1974 by Charles Aznavour and Herbert Kretzmer, the Elvis Costello version was popularised by its feature in the hit film, Notting Hill where it featured in both the opening and closing credits.

For a full list of songs available, go to James' wedding song list page.

Wedding Singer North West -

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 11:03:00 +0000

James Barlow - Wedding Singer North West - is available to provide wedding entertainment throughout the North West of England.

James is one of the UK's most experienced wedding singers providing wedding music for over 70 receptions each year throughout the UK. From swing, rat pack and soulful classics whilst you dine to the latest pop, chart and motown and soul dance floor fillers to party away the evening. Also an experienced wedding DJ, James is able to provide you with a full evening's entertainment from as little as £575. His all day packages start from just £750.

James has entertained in some of the North West's most prestigious venues including: Haigh Hall, Knowsley Hall, Meols Hall, Armathwite Hall, Leighton Hall and West Tower Country House.

We would just like to say a big 'thank you' for the fantastic job you did at our wedding. We have had a lot of positive feedback from our guests and we all enjoyed the music. I can't believe people continued dancing right until the end of the night, and I even saw our 80-year old grandmothers hit the dancefloor which was impressive!

Overall, the service you provided was very professional and flexible; we are very pleased that we hired you and would have no hesitation in recommending you to others.

Laura & Richard Dimelow
Married at The Stanneylands Hotel, Wilmslow. Cheshire on 15th May 2010

Listen to James now on his wedding music samples page!

New Demos In Post-Production

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:52:00 +0000

I spent a really enjoyable afternoon on Sunday recording two new tracks to feature on the web site and demo CD.

I've always shyed away from professional recordings, prefering 'live' demos to give a more accurate idea of how I will sound on your big day. But, with many of my fellow singers producing more professional recordings, I felt it was time to step into the studio. In the new year the new look demo CD will contain a mixture of both recorded and 'live' tracks giving you the best of both worlds - some 'polished' tracks and a few more 'rough and ready' selections recorded at various venues throughout the UK.

The first two studio tracks are currently in post-production and should appear on the web site
over the next couple of weeks.

There is exciting news ahead, including a TV appearance in the New Year, so keep checking back on the blog for all the latest updates!

For more information about James Barlow - Wedding Singer visit his web site: http://www.theweddingsinger.uk.com

Appear on LivingTV's Four Weddings!

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:02:00 +0000

I have recently been contacted by one of the production team from Living TV's popular show, 'Four Weddings'. The team are currently filming season 3 and are looking for brides to be to take part. Every show features four weddings. Each wedding will be scored on the venue, the food, the overall experience and of course, the dress. The couple that score the highest will win the luxury honeymoon of their dreams!

The show is on the lookout for weddings taking before November this year. If you are interested, gt in touch and I will pass your details on, or visit: http://www.livingtv.co.uk/shows/four-weddings/apply-for-season-three.php for more info.

James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

// NEW SONGS ADDED //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 11:27:00 +0000

I have made two new additions to my live song list over the past month:

You Are So Beautiful - Joe Cocker

Cocker's 1975 hit, originally recorded by Billy Preston a year earlier. The song has since been recorded by several other artists including Westlife in 2006.

'You Are So Beautiful' is an ideal first dance song. A simple piano / vocal arrangement, particually suited to those not wanting to do anything too complex in terms of dancing!

Grow Old With You - Adam Sandler

As featured in the film, 'The Wedding Singer'. Originally written and sung by Adam Sandler as, 'Robbie Hart' he seranades love interest, 'Julia' on-board a packed aeroplane (see video below!)

Again, ideally suited as a first dance - couples are enjoying having this sung by their own Wedding Singer!

James Barlow - Wedding Singer

// STAFFORDSHIRE NEWSLETTER ARTICLE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 09:08:00 +0000

Earlier this year, I was featured in my local newspaper the Staffordshire Newsletter.
They interview a prominent local person every week and wanted to know all about my life as a wedding singer.

You can read the interview on their web site here:

http://www.staffordshirenewsletter.co.uk/staffordshirenewsletter-news/displayarticle.asp?id=476720

// GIG REVIEW - JUDITH & STEVE, THE YELLOW BROOM RESTAURANT - 9TH JANUARY 2010 //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:26:00 +0000

I was Judith & Steve's wedding singer for their reception on 9th January 2010.

Judith & Steve held their wedding reception at The Yellow Broom Restaurant, near Holmes Chapel in Cheshire. They booked the Standard Package with Rat Pack add-one giving them a singer and DJ package available from 7pm until 1am with an extra 30 minute Rat Pack/Swing singing set for an extra £50.

The wedding took place at the height of the recent snowy period, an extra 45 minutes was allowed on top of our journey for any snow-related eventualities! Luckily we ran into little trouble, and although our job of unloading and setting up was rather slippy one, we set-up with plenty of time to spare in Yellow Broom's conservatory area.

After a period of background music as the bride and groom welcomed their evening guests, I sang Michael Buble's 'Everything' as Judith & Steve danced their first dance as husband and wife. I then continued immediately after with my Rat Pack/Swing set and sang songs such as, Beyond The Sea, Ain't That A Kick In The Head & Mac The Knife. Quite a few guests were keen to dance straight away and I managed to get even the more reluctant guests to at least sing along and wave their arms at me!

After the swing set, I continued with a DJ set featuring a selection of upbeat songs to get more people involved on the dance floor. Dancing continued throughout the evening as I sang and DJed my remaining sets. A particular highlight was a very lively rock/indie section with guests particularly enjoying themselves dancing to The Killers' 'Mr Brightside' very enthusiastically!

Judith & Steve kindly sent me a thank you card with the following comments:

Dear James. A small card containing a large 'thank you' for being our wedding singer on 9th Jan.

Everyone of our guests without exception commented on how wonderful you were.

Your live sets were excellent as was your treatment of our guests; we could not have asked for more.

May we wish you continued success in your career.

You were wonderful!

Best wishes to the new Mr & Mrs Yeates!!

// WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:27:00 +0000

As we enter a new year and after the chaos and expense of Christmas, I find that the beginning of a new year is the most popular time for couples to start thinking about booking up wedding suppliers. I always find the start of the year to be a very busy time for taking new bookings. Couples begin to panic that they have a venue booked, often for the coming summer, and still need to source photographers, caterers, musicians etc. I have the unfortunate task (usually at least a couple of times a day) of having to say that a date is already booked, and needing to suggest alternative suppliers.

Added to this there is lots of talk within the wedding industry that 2011 is going to be one of the busiest years in recent history, as a result of the recent economic climate many couples postponed or cancelled their 2009/2010 celebrations. The trend in my bookings certainly supports this with 2011 looking much busier than 2010 did this time last year.

So, with this in mind it is even more important to get yourselves organised and make sure you are getting everything booked up with plenty of time to spare so you can make sure you secure that particular supplier on which you have your hearts set.

Obviously, you will all be at different planning stages and some of the following steps you will already have covered, but here is a rough guideline of when you should start thinking about all the things that need doing before your big day.

As soon as possible, ideally 18 to 24 months in advance:

Decide upon a wedding date.

Decide on your budget.

If you are getting married in church you will need to agree on the arrangements with your local minister.

If you are getting married in a register office, you will need to give notice to the Registrar

Book the wedding reception

Book musicians, wedding singers, band or DJ for the wedding reception

Book the caterers

Book the photographer and videographer

Book the wedding transport

Book the florist

Book the toastmaster if you intend on having one.

Book the honeymoon and apply for a new passport (i.e. The bride may wish to travel under her married name, but be prepared to be unable to travel until your wedding date, as your old passport will be invalid).

Order the cake.

Book an over night stay in a hotel room/bridal suit.

Start looking for your wedding dress. Decide whether you want it handmade, a designer or ‘off the peg’ dress.

Decide on your bridesmaids and ushers.

Decide on your ‘Best Man’.

Confirm all bookings in writing.

6 months before:

Attend initial fitting for the wedding dress

Choose the bride's wedding shoes and accessories

Choose the wedding attire for the groom, best man, bridesmaids, fathers, mothers and ushers

Choose the brides and grooms wedding rings

Order your wedding favours.

Notify your bank, Building Society and relevant authorities that you intend on changing your name and as of what date it will take affect.

Order the wedding invitations and other stationery.

Take out wedding insurance, if required.

Arrange to see your hairdresser or barber about what hairstyle you want on your big day. Brides should take along a picture of the dress and veil or headdress and other accessories to help the hairdresser create a hairstyle that will compliment and finish off the look.

Book a beautician for your wedding day, if required

3 months before:

Buy your Marriage licence from the registrar

Send out the wedding invitations

Decide upon your wedding list, and make it available to all your wedding guests

Advise your guests to book any overnight accommodation now while there is still availability

Confirm your ceremony details with either the registrar or the minister

Decide upon your chosen wedding music or hymns

Arrange for the ‘Order of Service’ sheets to be printed

Buy gifts for the best man, ushers and bridesmaids

Discuss the seating plan with the caterer

Arrange to have any vaccinations done, if required

Start to plan your hen and stag party

If you have a Will get it updated to ensure it remains active after your marriage.

1 month before:

Arrange for a final fitting of your wedding dress.

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with the reception venue.

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with the caterer.

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with the florist.

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with the photographer and videographer

Reconfirm the wedding arrangements with the company supplying the wedding transport.

Reconfirm the honeymoon arrangements.

Reconfirm all your entertainment.

Have the hen and stag night.

Finalise the seating plan with the caterer.

Arrange a date for a wedding rehearsal, if required.

Send out thank you cards to all guests who have responded to your invitation.

Telephone any guests who have not yet responded to your invitation.

Organise a date when you can pick up you’re wedding party outfits.

Write the wedding speeches ( groom, best man, father of the bride).

Clearly these are just guidelines and nothing is set in stone. The basic rule, as with most things in life, is to be as organised as you possibly can. It is beneficial to get as much of your planning out of the way at the earliest opportunities.

Above all try to enjoy your planning. Don't forget that your suppliers have done this 100's or 1000's of times before and they will be more than happy to help you along the way.

Good luck!!

Compiled by James Barlow - 'The Wedding Singer'
in association with weddingchaos.co.uk

// MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE WEDDING SINGER!! //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 10:17:00 +0000

I just wanted to write a quick post to you all to wish clients, past and future and all family and friends a very happy Christmas and a fantastic New Year.

Thank you for all your support throughout 2009. It's been a great year - we've sang, danced and celebrated together and I've met some great people in all corners of the UK. 2010 is looking set to be just as good with bookings throughout 17 different counties and counting!

Best wishes to everyone over the festive period and I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming months.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from The Wedding Singer!!

Wedding Singer Northampton

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:13:00 +0000

Northamptonshire is one of the many areas of the country I cover in my work as a wedding singer & DJ.

I have been professionally singing at wedding receptions for ten years and have performed in over 300 venues throughout 42 UK counties.

I am available to provide you with a range of paackages for your wedding reception throughout Northamptonshire, all featuring my live singing and DJ-ing.

I have performed extensively throughout Northamptonshire at venues such as:

* Crockwell Farm, Daventry
* Derngate Theatre, Northampton
* Elizabeth Hotel, Rockingham. Corby
* Fawsley Hall, Nr. Daventry
* Hellidon Lakes Hotel, Golf & Country Club, Daventry

Here is a recent testimonial from a Northamptonshire bride and groom:

Absolutely fantastic - the guests had nothing but praise for your performance. Very professional despite a rather alcohol fuelled evening!

Would not hesitate to recommend and we are likely to book you for our 40th birthday celebrations next year.

Steve & Tasha Bridgen
Married at Fawsley Hall, Nr Daventry. Northamptonshire

For more information visit the Wedding Singer Northampton page of the web site.

For more information, call us for free on: 0800 61 22 995

// GIG REVIEW - LISA & DAMIAN, EASTWOOD HALL - 31ST OCTOBER 2009 //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:15:00 +0000

I was booked as wedding singer & DJ for Lisa and Damian's wedding reception on 31st October 2009.

Lisa & Damian held their reception at the fantastic Eastwood Hall in Nottinghamshire. They opted for the Standard Package but as they did not sit down for their wedding breakfast until 6pm, I was happy to set-up before they sat down and to shift the package timings forwards giving them a 6pm - Midnight package.

Throughout the meal I played a selection of Dinner Jazz, Swing and Love Songs. When the wedding party were ready for speeches, my radio mic was made available so all could be heard. Throughout the three excellent speeches I learnt that not only was the groom called Damian (getting married on Halloween) but it was also his birthday - spooky indeed!!

Lisa & Damian danced to Elvis Costello's 'She' to get the evening underway, they were immediately joined by several guests on the dance floor. I sang for my usual 3 x 30 minutes with DJ-ing in between. A superb lively crowd, I think we got everyone on the dance floor at some stage during the evening! A special point during the evening was a dedication to Lisa Grandma, Alice Walker, who sadly could not be there on the day. I was asked to do a special rendition of 'Angels' by Robbie Williams especially for Alice.

Lisa & Damian have sent me the following testimonial:

James you where absolutely fantastic and I couldn't have wished for anyone better. You're singing was fab, but what I appreciated most was you making it such a stress free arrangement. You are a true expert and any nervous bride needs you!! You made me feel confident that the evening would go well and it was one less thing to worry about. I would recommend you time and time again, in fact your details have already been passed on!! Many thanks again, and especially for your patience as the speeches went over.

Best wishes to the new Mr & Mrs Lloyd!

WEDDING SINGER BERKSHIRE

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:53:00 +0000

One of the many areas of the UK I cover as a weddi ng singer and DJ is Berkshire.

I am available to provide singer and DJ package for your afternoon or evening reception anywhere in Berkshire for as little as: £575!

I have been entertaining at weddings since the age of 17 and have performed at wedding receptions in over 300 venues throughout 45 UK counties.

I have performed at some of Berkshire's top venues including:

* Copid Beech Hotel, Bracknell
* Elvian Conference Centre, Ascot
* Hilton, Bracknell. Berkshire
* Inn On The Green, Cookham Dean
* Sir Christopher Wren Hotel, Windsor
* The Swan, Streatley on Thames
* Wokefield Park, Reading

For a full list of venues I have performed in visit the wedding entertainment venues page.

A testimonial from a recent Berkshire couple I performed for:

Thank you so much again for singing at our wedding. You were so great and we
really enjoyed it.

You really made our night enjoyable and my husband loved
the MC Hammer dance off track!!

Leila and Alan Hearne
Married at Sir Christopher Wren Hotel, Windsor. Berkshire.

For more information about my services, feel free to visit the main web site or contact me by phone: 0800 61 22 995

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Berkshire

WEDDING SINGER ESSEX

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:06:00 +0000

If you are looking for a wedding vocalist in Essex, you will be pleased to hear that this is one of the many areas of the UK I regularly find myself working in.

As a professional wedding singer & DJ, entertaining at over 70 weddings each year throughout the UK, I am available to provide a full evening's entertainment anywhere in Essex for as little as £550.

I sing some of the best songs from the last 40 years encompassing many different genres including: Pop, Rock, Disco, Soul, Love Songs & Swing and am available to sing during your wedding breakfast as well as your evening reception.

With an impressive sound and light show I aim to provide you with a perfect evening to remember forever!

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Essex

// NEW DEMOS ADDED TO WEB SITE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:05:00 +0000

I have added two new song demos to the web site - 'That's Life' by Frank Sinatra & 'Ain't That A Kick In The Head by Dean Martin.

These are two of the songs featured in my rat pack / swing set which can feature either during your Wedding Breakfast if you book the Deluxe Package or at the start of your evening reception if you add the Rat Pack / Swing set to your Standard Package.

You can listen to the demos now by clicking the links below.

That's Life (listen) // Ain't That A Kick In The Head (listen)

For more demos, visit the Wedding Song List page on the web site.

Enjoy!