Wedding Blog // The Wedding Singer - James Barlow

// NEW LIGHTING - EQUINOX NEBULA LASER //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:12:00 +0000

Continuing with my Autumn / Winter equipment upgrades, I have purchased a Equinox Nebula Laser.

It is a very unique laser effect. Comparable to a traditional mirror ball it produces over 1000 green, yellow and red coloured beams from a pin-sized aperture that rotate in a smooth motion.

I testing the new effect out at a wedding reception in Nottingham at the weekend. The coverage of the beams is amazing with the ability to cover the entirety of even the largest of reception rooms. It's an especially nice effect for during the start of the evening as your guests are arriving, giving the room just the right amount of atmospheric light.

Watch the video demo to see the effect in action.

James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

WEDDING SINGER WALES

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:02:00 +0000

As one of the UK's top wedding singers, one of the areas in which I am available to provide wedding entertainment is Wales.

As The Wedding Singer I provide wedding entertainment for over 70 receptions each year throughout the UK. I sing some of the greatest songs from the last 40 years. Also, an experienced wedding DJ, I am able to provide you with a full evening's entertainment throughout North & South Wales for as little as £550.

Here is a recent testimonial from a wales wedding where I provided entertainment:

Everybody who attended our reception commented what a fantastic time they had and were extremely impressed with the standard of "The Wedding Singer". We both would like to thank you very much for attending and contributing to the special time we both had.

Hannah and Darren Stevens
Married at Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel, Llangybi. Usk. Monmouthshire. South Wales

For more information visit the Wedding Singer Wales page or call: 0800 61 22 995

// DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS NOW ACCEPTED //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:18:00 +0000

We now have our debit / credit card payment processing facility in operation. You can now pay your deposit or any remaining balance with any of the following:

Maestro
Solo
Mastercard
VISA
Mastercard Debit
VISA Debit
VISA Electron

There is a 2% surcharge for credit card transactions. Debit card transactions are free of charge.

If you are paying your remaining balance by credit/debit card, we would recommend you do so no later than 10 days before your wedding date.

If you want to make a deposit or remaining balance payment you can do this at any time by calling: 0800 61 22 995.

Payments can also still be made by cash or cheque.

James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

// GIG REVIEW - IAIN & EMMA, LODORE FALLS HOTEL - 12TH SEPTEMBER //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:37:00 +0000

On 12 September I provided wedding entertainment for Emma & Iain at the fantastic Lodore Falls Hotel in the Lake District.

A little different from a regular job, Iain & Emma are good friends of mine. Both school friends, particularly Iain who I have known literally since birth. In fact there's a picture of us, both a few months old looking rather cute - I won't post it here though!

I also had the great honour of not only being Emma & Iain's wedding singer, but a guest as well. Unfortunately, I didn't make it in time for the actual ceremony - I had a very busy couple of days beforehand - South Wales on the Thursday, and Leicestershire the night before. So, after a fantastic wedding breakfast (a special mention goes to the sticky toffee pudding!), I set-up ready for the arrival of evening guests.

Emma & Iain danced to 'What The World Needs Now' by Dionne Warwick before I started my first singing set. It's always more nerve-racking singing in front of all your friends, but at least they are a good crowd and always up for lots of enthusiastic dancing!

We took a break part-way through the evening and all assembled outside for a surprise firework display. To the soundtrack of Take That's - Rule The World, we watched a very impressive display before going inside to continue the dancing.

Continuing with more singing and DJing, a particular highlight was the invasion of some OAP wedding crashers! They were all very enthusiastic dancers and displayed some particularly impressive moves to my rendition Robbie William's Rock DJ!

I finished the evening with a sung reprise of 'Rule The World'. We all circled the new Mr & Mrs Shannon and sent them off on their way to the honeymoon destination - Singapore.

Emma & Iain have sent me the following testimonial to add to the web site:

We wanted to say a HUGE thank you for the fantastic job you did at our wedding. We left the playlist in your capable hands and you got everyone up and dancing including the 'OAP gatecrashers' they had a great time! All of our guests since have been commenting on your great performance and your fabulous voice. We loved that you sang our requested last song- Take That's Rule The World- and everyone sang along. It was the perfect end to our perfect day.

We would highly recommend you, thanks for everything.

I big thanks to Emma and Iain for letting me part of their day!

For past gig reviews click here

Photography by Jane Fox Photography

// THE CHOREOGRAPHED FIRST DANCE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:27:00 +0000

The bride and groom's first dance is often met with much fear and dread. I am commonly told, moments before the happy couple take to the dance floor, that they feel that this is most nerve-racking part of the whole day!

Whether you are unsure of your dancing skills, of what kind of movements to make on the dance floor, or just hate the idea of getting up in front of your nearest and dearest - one way of alleviating your fears is by spending some time choreographing a first dance. Not only will the preparation help you achieve a level of comfort with your dance but a dance teacher will be able to suggest some simple, yet effective moves suitable even for the most incapable of movers!

A common trend of late is to learn something a little more elaborate. Often dramatic, often funny, the popularity of more and more extravagant dance routines appearing on YouTube, many gaining millions of hits, has only served to make learning something a little different for your first dance ever more popular. Also, to add an element of surprise, I am increasingly being given mixes of several songs fused together, often starting with a more traditional, slow track, then surging seamlessly into something much more upbeat, giving the bride and groom opportunity to break-dance, body pop, corkscrew, knee drop etc etc!

There are many companies that have appeared in the last few years offering first dance lessons. Two of the bigger, nationwide companies are: First Dance UK & Dances4U offering one to one tuition for as many or as fewer hours as you need to perfect your moves!

If you are stuck for first dance ideas, I have lots of suggestions - from traditional, popular choices to more upbeat, unusual suggestions to give your guests something a bit more of the unexpected. Feel free to get in touch or take a look at my Top Ten First Dance Songs article.

So, to finish off - I'd like to show you one of my favourite ever choreographed first dance videos. This is actually my friends Jon & Hannah who got married in April. This was a complete surprise to all the guests on the day and, as you can see they have chosen a lively, upbeat track - Queen's Don't Stop Me Now, and very much gone for a comical, light-hearted feel! They actually had no professional lessons in preparation for this, just a few run throughs in their front room - which I think, makes it all the more impressive. Watch out for the knee slide (he lost the deposit on his wedding trousers!)

Enjoy!

Written by James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

// FOLLOW THE WEDDING SINGER ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:40:00 +0000

In a continued effort to improve my services and in an attempt to become more active in my communication with potential and existing clients, I have now set-up Twitter and Facebook accounts.

Fully synchronised with this blog, you can now add The Wedding Singer on Facebook and Twitter and receive regular updates including details of: new services/equipment/package add-ons, repertoire additions, demo updates, gig reviews and advice about all things wedding-related to help your big day go as smoothly as possible.

Click on the Facebook & Twitter logos to the right to add me to your feed now and feel free to Tweet, Facebook, blog comment, e-mail or phone me if you have any questions!

James

// RAT PACK / SWING PACKAGE ADD-ON NOW AVAILABLE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:17:00 +0000

I have a new package add-on available. I can now offer an additional 30 minute Rat-Pack / Swing set when you book the Standard Package. The set features all the great Rat Pack / Swing songs such as: Come Fly With Me, Ain't That A Kick In The Head, Fly Me to The Moon, That's Life, Mr Bojangles, Can't Take My Eyes Off You and more! The perfect way to kick off your evening reception.

The Rat Pack / Swing add-on is available for just an extra £50 and can be added on to you existing package if you have already made a booking. Call or e-mail for more details.

James Barlow - The Wedding Singer

// WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT OXFORDSHIRE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 09:22:00 +0000

As one of the UK's top wedding singers I often find myself providing wedding entertainment in Oxfordshire.

Based in Stafford, I am more than happy to travel south and provide entertainment anywhere in Oxfordshire.

As 'The Wedding Singer' I sing some of the best pop, disco, rock and soul songs from the last 40 years. Also, an experienced wedding DJ, I am able to provide a full evenings entertainment, anywhere in Oxfordshire for as little as £525.

I have provided wedding entertainment in some of Oxfordshire's top wedding venues including:

* Ardington House, Wantage
* Barcelo Hotel, Oxford
* Bear Hotel, Wantage
* Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
* Didcot Civic Hall, Didcot
* Weston Manor Hotel, Weston-on-the-Green

Here is a recent testimonial from a happy Oxfordshire couple:

Both Simon and I just wanted to drop you a line to say a huge thank you to you! Everyone was raving about you and thought that you were brilliant! The atmosphere was fantastic and they loved your live performances. Once again, a big thank you. I know that you had a long way to travel, it was really appreciated

Victoria & Simon Calcutt
Married at Ardington House, Wantage. Oxfordshire on 25th April 2009

For more information visit my Wedding Entertainment Oxfordshire page or call now on: 0800 61 22 995

// NEW LIGHTING - EQUINOX MICRO BAR //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:27:00 +0000

I am constantly improving and updating my equipment and have, this week, bought some new lighting to add to The Wedding Singer set-up.

My light show is split into two distinctive sections: My 'stage' lighting - to light myself up during my singing performances so guests can see what I'm up to(!) and my 'effects' lighting - lighting for the dance floor that paints patterns / shapes all around the room to encourage people up on the dance floor.

The new lighting has replaced my old stage-type lighting which has replaced my old par 56 lighting cans with a new Equinox LED System. The old style lighting was heavier, larger and used a great deal more power. The new system also gives off no heat - it wasn't uncommon for my stage area to hit 30 degrees! So, you can expect considerably less perspiration from your wedding singer from now on!

Being powered by LEDs also means that the new system is a lot more flexible in the colours and chase patterns that are available. The LEDs can also seamlessly fade from one colour into another giving some excellent atmospheric lighting before the dancing begins at the start of the evening and during some of the slower songs towards the end.

Here is a video of just one set of the lights in action. I have two sets as a part of my set-up. This is a video made by the manufacturer, not myself, so excuse the shocking choice of music!!

If you have any questions about The Wedding Singer lighting system or any other aspect of my set-up, feel free to get in touch!

// JANE FOX PHOTOGRAPHY - SUPPLIER SHOWCASE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:07:00 +0000

As a professional wedding singer, I often bump into the same wedding suppliers time after time. One of those is a Staffordshire based photographer, Jane Fox who I have worked with on numerous occasions.

Jane fox is a wedding photographer based in Stone, mainly covering venues around Staffordshire and Cheshire, but in some cases travelling far and wide over the country to capture couples magical days.

Jane takes a contemporary approach in her style of shooting, aiming to capture the mood of the day by photographing people unaware as they are enjoying themselves having a glass of champagne or are swinging around on the dance floor! This reportage photography also enables the bride and groom to enjoy their day, spending more time with their guests and taking in every moment that their day has to offer. Jane also understands that 'Great Auntie Ethel' may want a more traditional image for her mantle piece, so staged images of family can also be popped into the day if requested by the bride and groom.

Please go to http://www.janefoxphotography.co.uk/ to view more of Jane’s work or to email her directly for a quote.

// WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT BIRMINGHAM //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:05:00 +0000

As one of the UK's top wedding singers, one of the many areas of the country in which I provide wedding entertainment is, Birmingham.

Based in Stafford, I am ideally situated to provide wedding entertainment throughout Birmingham and the West Midlands.

As, 'The Wedding Singer' I sing some of the best songs from the last 40 years with the option of additional rat pack / swing sets during your wedding breakfast. Also, an experienced
wedding DJ, I am is available to provide you with a full evening's entertainment from as little as £525!

I have provided wedding entertainment at some of the West Midlands premier wedding venues including:

* Clarendon Suites, Birmingham
* Copthorne Hotel, Dudley
* Gables Hotel, Solihull
* Hogarth's Hotel, Solihull
* Moxhull Hall Hotel, Sutton Coldfield
* Marston Farm Hotel, Sutton Coldfield
* Mill Hotel, Alverley
* Paragon Hotel, Birmingham
* New Hall Hotel, Sutton Coldfield
* Plough & Harrow Hotel, Birmingham
* Ramada Hotel, Solihull

Here is a recent testimonial from a happy West Midlands couple:

We just wanted to express our thanks for helping to make our big day so special. The music you played really got our guests going, the dance floor was packed all evening. Everyone has commented how great the entertainment was, when you sang a Michael Jackson number, several guests didn't realise it was actually you singing!! We wanted something different than the usual wedding disco, and you certainly delivered and exceeded our expectations. We wouldn't hesitate in recommending you to anyone looking for a professional and entertaining function.

Thanks again.

Emma & Terry Naisbett
Married at Marston Farm Hotel, Sutton Coldfield. West Midlands

Wedding Entertainment Birmingham

// CAVERSWALL CASTLE - VENUE SHOWCASE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:43:00 +0000

I have provided wedding singer / DJ services at Caverswall Castle a number of times.

Caverswall Castle is a 13th Century castle is naturally hidden by mature oaks and lyme trees, and is set in over 35 acres of private grounds.

Now privately owned, the Castle has undergone complete restoration. The grand Medieval and Jacobean architecture has been combined with modern luxuries, making Caverswall Castle an ideal setting for a wedding reception. Just as royal visitors have done in years before, you can relax and entertain your guests with style, imagination and freedom.

Caverswall Castle is not a hotel and is only available on an exclusive basis, with a choice of wedding packages.

So, just imagine a place which brings the past back to life, with awe-inspiring splendour and a greeting to make your guests feel immediately welcome.

Champagne and canapés are taken in the ornate courtyard overlooking the moat, or for the more adventurous, the Castle battlements, with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. Fairytale locations for your wedding photographs are plentiful….whatever the weather.

For your Wedding Breakfast, two adjoining dungeons, seat up to 90 guests and provide an atmospheric baronial setting. For smaller parties, the Dining Room seats up to 22 guests and the Ceremonial Hall, up to 50 guests.

Caverswall Castle can accommodate a maximum of 150 guests for your evening wedding reception and dancing/entertainment is permitted until midnight.

Guests also have use of the castle grounds, games room with its magnificent 19th century billiards table and our reception rooms, steeped in history.

Guests dancing at Gareth & Sarah Reynolds' wedding reception in the Castle Dungeons at Caverswall Castle. For a review of my performance at this wedding reception, click here

For more information about Caverswall Castle, visit their web site: http://www.caverswall-castle.co.uk or call: 01782 393 239.

// GIG REVIEW - CHERYL & KEVAN, RIDGEMONT HOUSE - 19TH SEPTEMBER 2009 //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:12:00 +0000

I was wedding singer for Cheryl & Kevan Seddon a couple of weeks ago at the fantastic Ridgemont House in Horwich, Lancashire.

They sat down for a late Buffet Wedding Breakfast at 6, so they were able to book the Standard Package and I was happy to shift my 7pm - 1am timings forwards and be set-up and ready for 6pm and finish music at Midnight. After some short speeches I played a pre-recorded selection of Jazz, Swing and Love Songs as guests dined.

I officiated Cheryl & Kevan's cake cutting and 8.30 and then they did their first dance immediately afterwards. I sang Take That's Greatest Day, for which Cheryl & Kevan had learnt a specially choreographed dance routine! 'Greatest Day' was not previously a part of my repertoire so I learnt the song especially for them.

After the first dance I sang my first singing set, getting everyone involved on the dance floor. The dancing continued as I DJ-ed and sang my second and third sets - I think we had everyone up on the dance floor at some point during the evening!

Towards the end of the evening there was a surprise in store for everyone. Cheryl had secretly organised a pair of Naked Balloon Dancers to entertain everyone. Even Kevan was unaware and looked as surprised as everyone else as the naked dancers jumped on to the dance floor!

Cheryl & Kevan have sent me the following testimonial from the day:

A big thanks to you James for helping make our wedding day so special, all our guests loved you and commented how good you were. You sang your heart out all night and did a wonderful 'Take That - Greatest Day' for our first dance. All our guests were up dancing all night and the bubbles look fantastic on our photos (very romantic ones of our first dance!)

I hope we didn't shock you too much with our surprise Streaking Balloon Dancers, they certainly ended the night with a bang!!

Thank you with lots of love from Mr & Mrs Seddon xx

So, best wishes to the new Mr & Mrs Seddon and I hope to return to Ridgemont House again soon!

// NEW SONG ADDED TO REPERTOIRE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:06:00 +0000

I have recently added a new song to my repertoire, Michael Buble's 2007 hit - 'Everything'.

It was a special first dance request last weekend. A great first dance song lyrically with the words:

"And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, you make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything."

So, 'Everything' is now available to be sung live for your first dance. It would also be a great song to accompany your wedding breakfast if you have booked the Deluxe Package.

James Barlow - Wedding Singer

// WEDDING SINGER MANCHESTER //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:56:00 +0000

As one of the UK's top wedding singers, one of the many areas of the UK I regularly cover is Manchester.

I sing some of the best songs from the last four decades. Also, a highly experienced wedding DJ, I am able to provide you with a full evening's entertainment, including his live singing and disco sets for little more than the cost of many stand-alone mobile discos, making me perfect to provide wedding entertainment for your reception in Manchester.

Here is a recent wedding testimonial from a couple I was wedding singer for in Manchester:

A huge thanks for making our wedding day even more wonderful. The music you chose for both the wedding breakfast and the evening reception was excellent, many of our guests commented on how good you were and and they all loved the types of tracks you played and sang. We would definitely recommend you to all our friends and family. .

Zoe & Steve Mort
Married at Mottram Hall Hotel, Prestbury. Manchester

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Manchester

// NEW FREEPHONE NUMBER //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:10:00 +0000

You can now contact The Wedding Singer by phone for free!

Our new freephone number is:

0800 61 22 995

Alternatively, if you are calling from a mobile and want to make use of your inclusive minutes, our geographical phone number is:

01785 604803

You may have also noticed the design changes here on the blog, these will also be migrated over to the main site within the next couple of months. Also look out for new video, audio and picture updates in the very near future.

I look forward to speaking to you all soon!

James

// MARQUEE WEDDING GUIDE //

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 10:11:00 +0000

A marquee can be a specatular setting for your wedding reception and a temporary structure has the benefit of being located anywhere you choose. As a wedding singer and DJ I have entertained on many marquees - on the grounds of wedding venues, on village greens, at farms and even in large back gardens!

When planning your own marquee wedding there are some important things to bear in mind when booking your wedding entertainment:

1) Layout

Whilst devising your table plan, think about your evening reception. Is there space for your dance floor to be assembled before you sit down for your Wedding Breakfast or will this need to be added after your meal? If you need to re-arrange tables after your meal and lay the dance floor, make sure you allow enough time for this in your schedule.

Also, think about where your DJ, singer or band will perform. They will need adequate space to set-up. My requirements are a minimum of 4m x 2m. Think about where to locate your entertainers. Make sure you leave adequate space between the wall off you marquee and the dance floor in which to accomodate your musicians or DJ

2) Flooring

Your entertainers will have equipment, most probabaly stand-mounted speakers and lighting. For health and safety reasons it is essential that the ground in the designated area for their set-up is suitably hard and flat. The last thing you want is heavy equipment up high on a stand on unsteady ground.

3) Power

It is essential that you have an adaquate power supply in your marquee on the day. If you are dealing with a marquee company, managing your electrical supply may be something that is included with your package. If not, I would highly recommend employing the services of a qualified electrician, the last thing you want is to be having music and lighting break downs throughout your evening. The electrical demands from your various suppliers on the day will be larger than you may think. Consider your internal marquee lighting, heating, your caterer's requirements (ovens, grills and hot plates) as well as your entertainment.

For my set-up I require a minumum of 3 seperate, standard plug points. A common mistake, espeically with weddings at private residences, is simply plugging one 3 or 4 way extension into a household plug. This is not adequate for our 20+ items of equipment that need plugging in. If you are dealing with your own electrics and coming from a household supply, power needs to be sourced from multiple sockets.

As I said earlier, for such an important event, I would highly recommend employing the services of an electrician.

4) Noise & Licencing

Again, applying mainly if you are planning a wedding reception at a private residence, local village green etc. Be aware that noise from your evening reception will spread quite readily throughout the surrounding areas. Make sure to notify any neighbours, or even better, invite them along!

You do not need a licence to have music at your wedding reception as it is classed as a private event where you are not charging an entry fee (!) See the Performing Rights Society web site for more information

So, from an entertainer's perspective if all the above are in order, you can expect a trouble-free day. If you have any questions or queries feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail.

James

Me entertaining in a marquee at Ardington House, Oxfordshire. April 2009.

300 wedding venues!

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 13:41:00 +0000

I am proud to have past the milestone of now having provided wedding entertainment in over 300 venues.

I have, at present, sung and DJ-ed in 319 venues in 45 UK counties. I'm sure I could do a miliage calculation but it may take some time!

For a full list of venues I have visited click onto the wedding venues page.

Here's to the next 300!!

Wedding Entertainment Lancashire

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:31:00 +0000

As the UK's top wedding singer & DJ I am available to provide wedding entertainment throughout Lancashire.

A range of packages are available, all featuring live singing and DJ sets - perfect for getting you and your guests up on to the dance floor! My show includes state of the art sound and lighting equipment and I will perform some of the greatest songs from the last 40 years to give you and your guests an unforgettable evening to remember forever.

I am one of the UK's busiest wedding singers providing entertainment at over 70 wedding receptions each year throught the UK. Based in Staffordshire, I am ideally loacted to provide wedding entertainment throughout Lancashire.

I have perfomed at some of Lancashire's top wedding venues, including:

Ashfield House Hotel, Standish
Astley Bank, Darwen
Bartle Hall Country Club, Preston
Clarendon Hotel, Morecambe
Eaves Hall, Waddington
Elizabeth North Euston Hotel, Fleetwood
Farrington Lodge, Farrington
Haigh Hall, Wigan. Lancashire
Haighton Manor, Preston. Lancashire
Harris Park Conference Centre, Preston
La Pergola Hotel & Restuarant, Denshaw
Leighton Hall, Carnforth. Lancashire
Mitton Hall, Whalley. Lancashire
Park Hall Hotel, Chorley. Lancashire
Pines Hotel, Clayton-Le-Woods
Rolls Royce Leisure Centre, Barnoldswick
Scaitcliffe Hall, Todmorden
Shaw Hill, Chorley. Lancashire
Springfield House Hotel, Pilling
St Mary's Chambers, Rawtenstall
Uppermill Civic Hall, Uppermill
West Tower Country House, Aughton
Wigan Cricket Club. Lancashire
Wrightington Country Club, Wigan

A recent testomonial from a Lancashire bride and groom:

Shaun and I just wanted to say thank you for the fantastic job you did for us at our wedding. When we were planning our day we wanted to ensure we created an atmosphere that kept everyone up dancing all night (as we love dancing).

You did the job splendidly! My only regret was that we were all so busy on the dance floor I didn't have much chance to talk to many of my evening guests!

Many of our guests commented on how good your live sets were, and I personally want to thank you for fitting in so many of my favourite songs.

Shaun and I had such a good wedding day we can't wait to do it all again, and look forward to getting you booked for our 10 year anniversary when we are already planning to get everyone together again for us to renew our vows!

Again thank you so much for all you did to make our day so special.

Emma and Sean McInerney
Married at Farington Lodge Hotel, Leyland. Lancashire

James Barlow - Wedding Entertainment Lancashire

Wedding Entertainment Derbyshire

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:53:00 +0000

I am one of the UK's most popular wedding singers. Based in Stafford I am ideally situated to cover the whole of Derbyshire.

As 'The Wedding Singer' I sing some of the best songs from the last 40 years. Also, an experienced wedding DJ, I am able to provide you with a full evening's, non-stop music to keep your guests dancing all night and provide you with an unforgettable evening.

I have provided wedding entertainment in some of Derbyshire's top venues including:

Bear Inn & Hotel, Belper
Breadsall Priory, Morley
Brookfield Manor, Hathersage
Broomfield Hall, Morley
Dove Farm, Ashbourne
Hassop Hall Hotel, Bakewell
Izaak Walton Hotel, Dovedale
Makeney Hall, Milford. Derbyshire
Park Farmhouse Hotel, Isley Walton
The Priest House, Castle Donington
The Sitwell Arms, Renishaw
Yeldersley Hall, Ashbourne

A recent testemonial from a Derbyshire wedding where I provided entertainment:

James did an absolutely fabulous job at keeping our guests on the dance floor, even though my family are renowned for not dancing! He's a fantastic singer and I'd recommend him to anybody.
Nicola and Ben Wilson-Mawer
Married at Marriott Breadsall Priory, Morley, Derbyshire

James Barlow - Wedding Entertainment Derbyshire

Choosing Your Wedding Music

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:14:00 +0000

by James Barlow - Wedding Singer

Your big day is fast approaching, one of the jobs on your 'to do' list is to send your wedding DJ your list of song requests for the big day.

A question often asked by brides and grooms to be is; what exactly do you want from us in terms of music choices?

It is important to initially choose the right wedding DJ and have confidence in their ability to get everyone up on the dance floor. I occasionally hear horror stories from fellow DJs of couples sending through very rigid play lists of many songs that must be played and often in a very specific order. Unless you are an experienced DJ yourself, on the whole, this approach isn't very successful. Yes, you may get to hear all your favourite music, but the chances of the songs you have chosen keeping the dance floor busy all night are slim.

Presumably, you want an evening filled with great music to get everyone up dancing - a bit of something for guests of all ages? But, also you want some on your favourite tracks as well; songs special to you as a couple. Maybe a song that was playing when your eyes first met across a smokey dance floor. Songs you remember fondly from school discos or your university or college years or maybe, songs that were particularly enjoyed during your stag / hen celebrations. I always say, send me as many or as few requests as you want. Either a big list from which I can pick and choose or a smaller list of songs your would definitely like played at some point during the evening. Any experienced DJ will be able to keep the dance floor busy with a combination of your requests and their own selection of music.

Another option that is becoming popular is to slip a note in with your wedding invitations asking your guests to send a couple of song requests back with their RSVPs. You can then compile a request list (after having removed any songs you despise!) to send through to your DJ from which they can pick and choose and, alongside the tracks they know will get everyone up to dance, they can play plenty of your guests' favourites.

Your DJ will do their job of selecting the right track at the right time to get people up dancing and keeping those who are already dancing exactly where they are.

So, as your wedding DJ, I welcome as much or as little input from the bride and groom as they wish. If they have no particular preferences, I am happy to judge the mood and tastes of the guests on the night and create a play list using my choices and requests taken on the day. Or, if the bride and groom have specific ideas for the evening's music, I am happy to mix in some of theirs / their guests' favourite tracks with my own selections to create a successful evening.

Keep checking back on the wedding blog for more wedding song list ideas.

Wedding Singer Merseyside

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:40:00 +0000

As The Wedding Singer I am available to provide entertainment for your reception throughout Liverpool and Merseyside. I perform some of the greatest pop, rock, disco, soul, swing and love songs of all time. Also, an experienced wedding DJ, I am able to provide you with a full evening's music from as little as £500!

I have entertained in many of Liverpool & Merseyside's top wedding venues including:

Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool
Grange Country Club, South Wirral
Haydock Park Racecourse, Haydock
Meols Hall, Southport
Prince Of Wales Hotel, Southport
Suites Hotel, Knowsley. Merseyside
Thistle Hotel, Haydock. Merseyside
The Palm House, Liverpool
Village Hotel, Whiston

Here is some recent feedback I have received from a Merseyside bride and groom:

Just wanted to thank you for doing a wonderful job, I have not danced so much in a long, long time, you just seemed to know what music we liked.

'Put your hands on', what a blast from the past of very good times!

We really enjoyed being entertained by you, you made our night even more memorable.

Once again, thanks James!
Nathan & Helen Luby
Married at Village Hotel, Whiston. Merseyside

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Liverpool

Wedding Singer Shropshire

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:13:00 +0000

Based in neighbouring Staffordshire, I am ideally placed to provide your entertainment as 'The Wedding Singer' throughout Shropshire. Also a wedding dj, I provide complete music packages for your evening reception.

I entertain at 70+ weddings every year and have performed at the following venues in Shropshire:

Albright Hussey Hotel, Shrewsbury
Bear Hotel, Hodnet. Shropshire
Dinham Hall Hotel, Ludlow
Goldstone Hall, Market Drayton
Lilleshall National Sports Centre, Newport. Shropshire
Radbrook Hall Hotel, Shrewsbury
Rowton Castle, Shrewsbury
Ternhill Hall Hotel, Market Drayton
Tong Parish Hall, Tong
Walcott Hall, Lydbury North. Shropshire

Recent feedback by a recent Shropshire bride and groom:

When we booked you for our wedding we'd read lots of excellent feedback on wedding forums and you far exceeded our expectations. So many of our guests have commented on how great you were and had to double-take when you were singing as they thought it was the pre-recorded music!

You made sure everything was perfect from the speeches to the first dance and we had such a fabulous day. Our pictures from the ceilidh dancing are so funny and the best memory for me is that the dance floor was full for the entire evening.

Thank you so much James, you're such a lovely person and a fantastic singer.

We'd highly recommend you to anyone looking for entertainment at their wedding as we couldn't have asked for anyone better!

Kerry and Tom Murfin

Married at Tong Parish Hall & Marquee, Tong. Shropshire

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Shropshire

First dance songs available for live performance

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:54:00 +0000

Having your first dance song sung live by a wedding singer not only makes it that extra bit special but may even divert a few pairs of eyes away you if you are nervous about dancing in front of all your nearest and dearest!

I often get asked for a list of songs that I am able to sing for you that would be suitable for a first dance and thought I would list them here:

Let There Be Love - Nat King Cole
Can't Take My Eyes Off You - Andy Williams
Love Is In The Air - John Paul Young
Rule The World - Take That
It Had To Be You - Harry Connick Jnr
To Love Somebody - The Bee Gees
Happy Together - The Turtle
My Girl - The Temptations
These Are The Days Of Our Lives - Queen
You To Me Are Everything - The Real Thing
The One - Elton John
I Believe In A Thing Called Love - The Darkness
How Deep Is Your Love - The Bee Gees
My First, My Last, My Everything - Barry White
Just The Way You Are - Billy Joel
We Are The Champions - Queen
Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
Amazed - Lonestar
Come Fly With Me - Frank Sinatra
Hero - Enrique Englesias
Fly Me To The Moon - Frank Sinatra
When You Say Nothing At All - Ronan Keating
The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra

If there's a song that you would like to sung as your first dance that is not on this list, I may be able learn it for you. If you get in touch and let me know the track, I will check into its availability.

If you would prefer your first dance song not to be sung and are after some inspiration, see my top ten first dance songs article.

For a list of all the songs in my singing repertoire see the wedding song list page on the web site.

New Songs Added To Repertoire

noreply@blogger.com (James) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:24:00 +0000

I am introducing some new songs into my singing repertoire this week, mainly in the swing / rat pack genre.

They are:

Come Fly With Me, as by Frank Sinatra
Mr Bojangles, as by Sammy Davis Junior
The Way You Look Tonight, as by Frank Sinatra
Fly Me To The Moon, as by Frank Sinatra
Ain't That Kick In The Head, as by Dean Martin
Dignity, as by Deacon Blue

Swing / rat pack type music is an ideal accompaniment for your wedding breakfast - for information about the Deluxe Package, which includes live singing throughout your meal see the pricing page.

My full singing repertoire can be found on the wedding song list page.

James Barlow - The Wedding Singe r