Desiderata
Spoken Word By: Les Crane
1971 Warner Brothers Records
Written by Max Ehrmannn, 1927
Desiderata, Desiderata, Desiderata.
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater
and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble,
it's a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit
to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
© Robert L. Bell 1976
Spoken Word By: Les Crane
1971 Warner Brothers Records
Written by Max Ehrmannn, 1927
Desiderata, Desiderata, Desiderata.
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater
and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble,
it's a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit
to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
© Robert L. Bell 1976
I Am What I Am
(Jerry Herman)
[La Cage Aux Folles]
Dance Version
Sung By: Miss Gloria Gaynor
1984 Chrysalis Records
I am what I am, I am my own special creation.
So come take a look, give me the hook or the ovation.
It's my world that I want to have a little pride in.
My world and it's not a place I have to hide in.
Life's not worth a damn 'til you can say,
hey world I am what I am.
I am what I am, I don't want praise I don't want pity.
I bang my own drum,
some think it's noise I think it's pretty.
And so what if I love each feather and each spangle,
Why not try to see things from a different angle.
Your life is a sham 'til you can shout out loud,
I am what I am.
I am what I am and what I am needs no excuses.
I deal my own deck sometimes the ace,
sometimes the deuces.
There's one life and there's no return and no deposit.
One life so it's time to open up your closet.
Life's not worth a damn 'til you can say,
hey world I am what I am
(Jerry Herman)
[La Cage Aux Folles]
Dance Version
Sung By: Miss Gloria Gaynor
1984 Chrysalis Records
I am what I am, I am my own special creation.
So come take a look, give me the hook or the ovation.
It's my world that I want to have a little pride in.
My world and it's not a place I have to hide in.
Life's not worth a damn 'til you can say,
hey world I am what I am.
I am what I am, I don't want praise I don't want pity.
I bang my own drum,
some think it's noise I think it's pretty.
And so what if I love each feather and each spangle,
Why not try to see things from a different angle.
Your life is a sham 'til you can shout out loud,
I am what I am.
I am what I am and what I am needs no excuses.
I deal my own deck sometimes the ace,
sometimes the deuces.
There's one life and there's no return and no deposit.
One life so it's time to open up your closet.
Life's not worth a damn 'til you can say,
hey world I am what I am
Our Company Team
Resident DJ's & Lighting Techs. Left (Paul Osborn) Right (Tom Spencer)
Far Right (Brenda MC. our Booking Agent and Event Consultant.
Resident DJ's & Lighting Techs. Left (Paul Osborn) Right (Tom Spencer)
Far Right (Brenda MC. our Booking Agent and Event Consultant.
Serving Washington DC, Maryland & Virginia. We are proud to support marriage equality for LGBT communities world wide. We have designed this page to be informative on the subject of gay marriage, wedding receptions and hiring a DJ for your event. It is a long read but it is worth your time and effort.
This page Is Dedicated In Memory Of My Dear Friends Mark Bencho, Timothy Parker And Thomas Todd.
Applying to get married in Washington DC. (for same-sex couples)
Hours of Operation - Mondays-Fridays: 8:30a.m.-5:00p.m.
Address
Moultrie Courthouse
500 Indiana Avenue, N.W., Room 4485
Washington, D.C. 20001
Phone: (202) 879-4840
DC Marriage License Application PDF File
Customized Wedding Receptions with class A service!
When you contact us we will never pressure you into signing on the dotted line immediately and we would rather not take a booking over the phone sight unseen. It is as important to us as it is to you to make sure we are the right DJ service for your event. The first thing we do is invite you to our home studio in Temple Hills, Md. not far from the new National Harbor. At our studio you will meet DJ Tom and my team Public Relations Consultant Brenda and DJ, Sound & Lighting Technician Paul. You will be able to go over all of your plans and desires of how your special day will go with us one on one in a comfortable pressure free environment. While here you can see your sound system and you are welcome to browse our extensive customized music libraries and choose music if you like. You can literally view music the same way we do when entertaining. We are happy to even mix a little for you. Of course we understand not all clients will want to travel to our studio, so we are always happy to meet at a location of your choice. There is so much to talk about and plan so why not give us a call or E-mail us anytime.
A little about Professional DJ Tom Spencer:
I began my career in the super discos of the 70's in Charleston Wv. In those days it was tough on a young gay man trying to make it in the predominantly straight nightclub scene in West Virginia. I gained relief by working some Friday & Saturday nights at the local Gay Bar and super disco "The Grand Palace" formerly "The Downstairs Club" learning from one of the best nightclub DJs in the business Jerry Fletcher. It wasn't long until my services were in high demand at the straight nightclubs and discos where I spent 5 years in the crazy disco scene. Looking back I wouldn't trade the experience for anything.
In 1981 I moved to Maryland and began working for one of a handful of Mobile DJ Services in our area Rosemary Hamilton Enterprises "Private Parties" where I learned the Mobile DJ Industry. Over the years I've worked for Davis Deejays and Washington Talent Agency to name a few. In early 2009 with the anticipation of LGBT Marriage becoming a reality in Washington DC I decided to developed and start my own Mobile DJ Service. My logo and stage name I've used for years "Music For All Of You" became our company name.
After years of playing hundreds of wedding receptions and private parties, I am so happy to finally offer my services to the LGBT community whom for so long has been there for me in many ways. I am proud to be one of the only DJ services in our area to openly advertise LGBT weddings on its website. As far as I know we are the only DJ service in the DC area that has a page like the one your reading. We are constantly learning and our goal is to become leaders in the LGBT mobile DJ wedding entertainment market in the Washington DC Metro Region. Please shop around, look at the other DJ company websites. Call them. Then call or Email us, we will be here when your ready to come to our home studio and meet us in person and see what we have to offer. This is personal class A service.
Gay Marriage or Same-Sex Marriage:
Depending on the province, state and country of residence, gay and lesbian couples might plan a traditional marriage, civil union, domestic partnership or commitment ceremony.
Please keep in mind that the mandates on same-sex marriage are constantly changing on a day-to-day basis, so please check with the government offices in the city you wish to wed for a detailed description of their same-sex marriage rights before you start planning itinerary.
Your ceremony and reception will take at least 5 to 7 hours, not including pictures taken in between the ceremony and reception. Take as much time as you can to discuss your ceremony and reception plans with your partner. Keep a notebook for important information and develop an itinerary of the ceremony day. Share this itinerary with the reception hall, DJ or band, officiate, venue and other people key to the success of the ceremony and reception.
Same Sex Wedding Traditions:
A Wedding ceremony is the celebration of the love shared between two individuals regardless of whether they are of the same or different gender.
Gay marriages and same sex commitments focus on two people pledging their love. They are extremely personal and individual. Just like heterosexual marriages same sex unions reflect the backgrounds of the participants by incorporating traditions and symbols from their cultural and sometimes their religious backgrounds. Although, with most same sex unions the focus is more on the unique human side of their union rather than the religious meaning behind it.
This is why gay wedding ceremonies often feature language that refers to the two individuals getting married as 'spouses' or 'partners' rather than as 'husband' and 'wife'. As well, many gay and lesbian couples prefer to use the words 'partnership' or 'union' rather then 'marriage' when it comes to describing their committed relationship.
The wonderful thing about couples is that they are able to express themselves uniquely in their wedding decorations, wedding reception theme and even their wedding attire. For example, some gay couples will both wear tuxedos at their wedding ceremony; while others will opt to dress in more elaborate garb - such as cowboy hats, feather boas or Hawaiian shorts and shirts. Lesbian couples are also creative with their wedding attire - some dress in traditional bride and groom attire with one partner wearing a bridal gown, while the other wears a tuxedo. At lesbian weddings you may also see two bridal gowns, two suits or tuxedos, two less formal dresses or themed costumes.
Tips For Gay Weddings Things to Consider:
Gay weddings are usually performed in the 'humanist' style. The humanist style of wedding is popular with those who don't have any religious affiliations. The humanist aspect of gay or lesbian marriage focuses on the morals and values taken from human experience rather then from God. This is why a gay wedding can take place anywhere - from a room in your home to a beach in Key West.
Here are some helpful tips for organizing your gay or lesbian wedding:
Legal gay weddings are generally performed by a non-denominational minister or civil register rather then a minister or priest. Commitment ceremonies are a symbolic celebration of love and not legally binding.
Gay weddings should be performed in a place of deep significance to you and your partner - at your favorite restaurant or in the art museum you both love.
To make a lesbian or gay marriage legal the wedding must be registered through your local civil office (contact them for specific details).
Choose a celebrant or minister that will help you create a ceremony that is personal to you and your partner.
If you plan to have your wedding in a public place get permission for music, photographs, decorations etc.
Have fun with your wedding attire - 2 bridal gowns, 2 tuxedos, one of each or even 2 Scottish kilts.
The structure of your gay wedding is up to you. Many gay weddings include readings focusing on commitment, a public declaration of love and the exchange of rings and vows.
14 stories By Bernadette Smith:
We love Bernadette Smith. Her Blog is just incredible. Her website is a must for all couples and wedding professionals. Bernadette is a professional wedding planner. Her website and blog are in my opinion the best source on the web for same sex marriage etiquette, planning and so much more. There is always something new to see, I learn something new every time I visit her site. I guarantee you won't leave her site without spending time reading all she has to offer.
Hire your Disc Jockey with Confidence:
Finding the right DJ is essential to having a great and memorable event, hire the wrong DJ and it can ruin your event. An inexperienced DJ can actually turn your event into a nightmare. So this is a very important decision and should be made very carefully.
People usually opt to use a DJ because it's easier than dealing with a live band and is almost always less expensive. It is usually easy to find quite a few DJs in your area to choose from. They will range from casual men and woman that moonlight and do it on the side to professional and corporate DJ companies as well as independent DJ companies.
Never Hire A DJ Sight Unseen, I cannot express this enough:
You must always pre-interview your prospective DJ over the phone or by E-mail and then when you think you may have found the right one, you set up a meeting in person to make sure they really are the right DJ for you and go over details, and sign the contract. Make sure the DJ you meet and sign with will be the only DJ entertaining at your event. When you live in a large metro area like ours there is never a reason for a DJ to say they cannot meet with you in person.
In fact your DJ should be able to meet with you whenever you like with agreed upon date and time. They should be able to show you there sound equipment. Most engaged couples book their DJ months in advance. Even if you're using the best DJ company on the planet, always check in with them in the months leading up to your event just to let them know everything is still on target, and confirm a month before your event any changes in itinerary. And finally check in one week before your event for any last minute changes and to make sure your DJ is doing well and on track for your event.
Wedding Ceremony & Reception Planning Suggestions:
So you are coordinating and planning your Wedding Ceremony and Reception, but are not quite sure how your Wedding Entertainment should be directed or planned. The following is based on a four or five hour Wedding Reception. It is meant purely for suggestions. All Weddings and Receptions are and should be different. No one Wedding or Reception Event is ever the same when working with a Wedding Entertainment Direction & Planning Professional. The following is a basic structure only.
When we entertain at any event, we arrive an hour or two before guests arrive, for equipment setup and sound check.
It is becoming more and more common for the Wedding Ceremonies to be held at the Reception Venue rather than a Church or Chapel. Often the Ceremony will be held in separate rooms at the same Venue or in the same room as the Reception. In either case the following can apply.
If your Wedding Ceremony is held at a Church or Chapel the following can also apply.
After being pronounced Married , the Newlyweds and their Photographer/Videographer are often the first to leave the wedding ceremony, heading off for pictures together, before arriving at the reception hall.
As family, friends, and guests arrive at the reception hall, if you like, Our attendant/helper can greet your guests. Our attendants/helpers are: Brenda who has many years of experience in public relations, and adds a special touch by greeting everyone with a personal approach, making them feel comfortable. Brenda also works in our office with clients and other business activities. Gilles is Toms long time partner and sidekick who has worked with Tom for over 15 years. Gilles is largely responsible for equipment, music, setup and general organization, he is talented in his own right with a wide music knowledge and technical abilities. If anyone comes up to our sound system with requests or questions one of them are always there to assist, as Tom may be busy mixing music, getting ready for upcoming special events, etc. But in between, he is always happy to talk to anyone.
Newlyweds and Wedding Party Arrival:
Many gay wedding receptions have no formal introductions other than the newlyweds. If your planning a wedding party the following ideas may help you.
As your family, friends, and guests are getting settled in at the reception hall, Your wedding Coordinator or Our Assistant/Helper gathers the Newly Wedded Couple, and Wedding Party together outside of the reception hall entrance, and then arranges them in the order they will be introduced and proceed into the reception hall, making sure all the Wedding Party's names are correct and in order on our Wedding Party announcement list, in the event there was any last minute change to your wedding party that we are unaware of. Once the Wedding Party is in order, Your Coordinator or Our Assistant/Helper will give the announcement list to Tom. He then begins the introduction of the wedding party. Generally, both sets of parents and the wedding party are introduced, followed by the announcement of the Newlyweds for the first time. In many cases, the newlywed first dance will begin as you step into the reception hall and out onto the dance floor after being announced. Alternately, your first dance can wait until after the first course of the meal is served, or when the meal is over.
Cocktails and Dinner:
Cocktails will kick off your reception and will last for at least an hour. During this time, stationary or passed appetizers and drinks are served. This gets people mingling and in the mood. Before dinner you might want to take the opportunity to thank everyone for taking part in your wedding. A family member, often a parent, will say a blessing (depending on the families' faiths). Often a family member or the newlyweds will thank guests for attending and invite everyone to enjoy the celebratory meal. The toasts to the Newlyweds should occur over the course of the celebratory meal. If you're having a seated meal, Tom will play subdued, conversation-friendly background music as the wait staff makes the rounds. If you're having a buffet, your coordinator or Tom will dictate how the rotation will work by calling each table when it's time to head to the front of the line. The newlyweds need to do everything possible to take their seats and eat!
Party Time:
After dinner, the newlyweds should be announced onto the dance floor for their first dance, if this hasn't already taken place upon their entrance into the reception hall. It is also a good idea for the newlyweds to be the first ones on the dance floor, so people know it's time to start partying. Everyone follows the lead of the newlyweds. Throughout the dancing, the music will stop for activities (events) you've planned, such as the father & daughter dances, the mother & son dances, the couples dances, the bouquet toss, the garter toss, the money dance, centerpiece giveaways, or anything else you may think of.
Cake Cutting:
The cake cutting takes place about an hour before the reception ends. The cake cutting often signals to guests it is okay to leave soon thereafter. Be sure not to cut the cake too early, so your guests don't leave before you're ready to wrap up the days festivities. Once the cake is cut, the dancing should resume.
Newlyweds Farewell:
It's time to say goodbye. Here are suggestions on ways to say a final farewell.
Your coordinator or Tom will direct everyone into the foyer or outdoors so that you can make your grand exit from the reception. Family, friends and guest can throw rice, flower pedals or blow bubbles as you leave.
The Farewell Circle is a charming way to end the reception and festivities. A Farewell Circle is formed at the end of the reception. All wedding guests gather in a circle on the dance floor around the Newlyweds.
The music played is a nice selection of slower ballads and easy listening music. The mood should be gentle and loving.
After the guests encircle the wedding couple, the newlyweds each begin working their way around the circle in opposite directions, saying good-bye to each of their guests, and exchanging embraces with these friends and relatives. At one point, the couple will cross each others paths as they work their way around the circle, and then meet up again where they began, so that both of them get the chance to say good-bye to each guest in the circle.
The Wedding Archway can be a quick exit for the Newlyweds. The Wedding Arch is created by the guests standing opposite each other in two rows and holding both arms outwards as the Newlyweds run through. This is a great way for the Newlyweds to exit, especially if they have many guests.
Whichever form of farewell you choose, your guests will appreciate the opportunity to send the newly married couple into the future with a proper good-bye and best wishes for their future.
We hope our suggestions help. We are happy to help with your Ceremony & Reception Planning and appreciate your business.
This page Is Dedicated In Memory Of My Dear Friends Mark Bencho, Timothy Parker And Thomas Todd.
Applying to get married in Washington DC. (for same-sex couples)
Hours of Operation - Mondays-Fridays: 8:30a.m.-5:00p.m.
Address
Moultrie Courthouse
500 Indiana Avenue, N.W., Room 4485
Washington, D.C. 20001
Phone: (202) 879-4840
DC Marriage License Application PDF File
Customized Wedding Receptions with class A service!
When you contact us we will never pressure you into signing on the dotted line immediately and we would rather not take a booking over the phone sight unseen. It is as important to us as it is to you to make sure we are the right DJ service for your event. The first thing we do is invite you to our home studio in Temple Hills, Md. not far from the new National Harbor. At our studio you will meet DJ Tom and my team Public Relations Consultant Brenda and DJ, Sound & Lighting Technician Paul. You will be able to go over all of your plans and desires of how your special day will go with us one on one in a comfortable pressure free environment. While here you can see your sound system and you are welcome to browse our extensive customized music libraries and choose music if you like. You can literally view music the same way we do when entertaining. We are happy to even mix a little for you. Of course we understand not all clients will want to travel to our studio, so we are always happy to meet at a location of your choice. There is so much to talk about and plan so why not give us a call or E-mail us anytime.
A little about Professional DJ Tom Spencer:
I began my career in the super discos of the 70's in Charleston Wv. In those days it was tough on a young gay man trying to make it in the predominantly straight nightclub scene in West Virginia. I gained relief by working some Friday & Saturday nights at the local Gay Bar and super disco "The Grand Palace" formerly "The Downstairs Club" learning from one of the best nightclub DJs in the business Jerry Fletcher. It wasn't long until my services were in high demand at the straight nightclubs and discos where I spent 5 years in the crazy disco scene. Looking back I wouldn't trade the experience for anything.
In 1981 I moved to Maryland and began working for one of a handful of Mobile DJ Services in our area Rosemary Hamilton Enterprises "Private Parties" where I learned the Mobile DJ Industry. Over the years I've worked for Davis Deejays and Washington Talent Agency to name a few. In early 2009 with the anticipation of LGBT Marriage becoming a reality in Washington DC I decided to developed and start my own Mobile DJ Service. My logo and stage name I've used for years "Music For All Of You" became our company name.
After years of playing hundreds of wedding receptions and private parties, I am so happy to finally offer my services to the LGBT community whom for so long has been there for me in many ways. I am proud to be one of the only DJ services in our area to openly advertise LGBT weddings on its website. As far as I know we are the only DJ service in the DC area that has a page like the one your reading. We are constantly learning and our goal is to become leaders in the LGBT mobile DJ wedding entertainment market in the Washington DC Metro Region. Please shop around, look at the other DJ company websites. Call them. Then call or Email us, we will be here when your ready to come to our home studio and meet us in person and see what we have to offer. This is personal class A service.
Gay Marriage or Same-Sex Marriage:
Depending on the province, state and country of residence, gay and lesbian couples might plan a traditional marriage, civil union, domestic partnership or commitment ceremony.
Please keep in mind that the mandates on same-sex marriage are constantly changing on a day-to-day basis, so please check with the government offices in the city you wish to wed for a detailed description of their same-sex marriage rights before you start planning itinerary.
Your ceremony and reception will take at least 5 to 7 hours, not including pictures taken in between the ceremony and reception. Take as much time as you can to discuss your ceremony and reception plans with your partner. Keep a notebook for important information and develop an itinerary of the ceremony day. Share this itinerary with the reception hall, DJ or band, officiate, venue and other people key to the success of the ceremony and reception.
Same Sex Wedding Traditions:
A Wedding ceremony is the celebration of the love shared between two individuals regardless of whether they are of the same or different gender.
Gay marriages and same sex commitments focus on two people pledging their love. They are extremely personal and individual. Just like heterosexual marriages same sex unions reflect the backgrounds of the participants by incorporating traditions and symbols from their cultural and sometimes their religious backgrounds. Although, with most same sex unions the focus is more on the unique human side of their union rather than the religious meaning behind it.
This is why gay wedding ceremonies often feature language that refers to the two individuals getting married as 'spouses' or 'partners' rather than as 'husband' and 'wife'. As well, many gay and lesbian couples prefer to use the words 'partnership' or 'union' rather then 'marriage' when it comes to describing their committed relationship.
The wonderful thing about couples is that they are able to express themselves uniquely in their wedding decorations, wedding reception theme and even their wedding attire. For example, some gay couples will both wear tuxedos at their wedding ceremony; while others will opt to dress in more elaborate garb - such as cowboy hats, feather boas or Hawaiian shorts and shirts. Lesbian couples are also creative with their wedding attire - some dress in traditional bride and groom attire with one partner wearing a bridal gown, while the other wears a tuxedo. At lesbian weddings you may also see two bridal gowns, two suits or tuxedos, two less formal dresses or themed costumes.
Tips For Gay Weddings Things to Consider:
Gay weddings are usually performed in the 'humanist' style. The humanist style of wedding is popular with those who don't have any religious affiliations. The humanist aspect of gay or lesbian marriage focuses on the morals and values taken from human experience rather then from God. This is why a gay wedding can take place anywhere - from a room in your home to a beach in Key West.
Here are some helpful tips for organizing your gay or lesbian wedding:
Legal gay weddings are generally performed by a non-denominational minister or civil register rather then a minister or priest. Commitment ceremonies are a symbolic celebration of love and not legally binding.
Gay weddings should be performed in a place of deep significance to you and your partner - at your favorite restaurant or in the art museum you both love.
To make a lesbian or gay marriage legal the wedding must be registered through your local civil office (contact them for specific details).
Choose a celebrant or minister that will help you create a ceremony that is personal to you and your partner.
If you plan to have your wedding in a public place get permission for music, photographs, decorations etc.
Have fun with your wedding attire - 2 bridal gowns, 2 tuxedos, one of each or even 2 Scottish kilts.
The structure of your gay wedding is up to you. Many gay weddings include readings focusing on commitment, a public declaration of love and the exchange of rings and vows.
14 stories By Bernadette Smith:
We love Bernadette Smith. Her Blog is just incredible. Her website is a must for all couples and wedding professionals. Bernadette is a professional wedding planner. Her website and blog are in my opinion the best source on the web for same sex marriage etiquette, planning and so much more. There is always something new to see, I learn something new every time I visit her site. I guarantee you won't leave her site without spending time reading all she has to offer.
Hire your Disc Jockey with Confidence:
Finding the right DJ is essential to having a great and memorable event, hire the wrong DJ and it can ruin your event. An inexperienced DJ can actually turn your event into a nightmare. So this is a very important decision and should be made very carefully.
People usually opt to use a DJ because it's easier than dealing with a live band and is almost always less expensive. It is usually easy to find quite a few DJs in your area to choose from. They will range from casual men and woman that moonlight and do it on the side to professional and corporate DJ companies as well as independent DJ companies.
Never Hire A DJ Sight Unseen, I cannot express this enough:
You must always pre-interview your prospective DJ over the phone or by E-mail and then when you think you may have found the right one, you set up a meeting in person to make sure they really are the right DJ for you and go over details, and sign the contract. Make sure the DJ you meet and sign with will be the only DJ entertaining at your event. When you live in a large metro area like ours there is never a reason for a DJ to say they cannot meet with you in person.
In fact your DJ should be able to meet with you whenever you like with agreed upon date and time. They should be able to show you there sound equipment. Most engaged couples book their DJ months in advance. Even if you're using the best DJ company on the planet, always check in with them in the months leading up to your event just to let them know everything is still on target, and confirm a month before your event any changes in itinerary. And finally check in one week before your event for any last minute changes and to make sure your DJ is doing well and on track for your event.
Wedding Ceremony & Reception Planning Suggestions:
So you are coordinating and planning your Wedding Ceremony and Reception, but are not quite sure how your Wedding Entertainment should be directed or planned. The following is based on a four or five hour Wedding Reception. It is meant purely for suggestions. All Weddings and Receptions are and should be different. No one Wedding or Reception Event is ever the same when working with a Wedding Entertainment Direction & Planning Professional. The following is a basic structure only.
When we entertain at any event, we arrive an hour or two before guests arrive, for equipment setup and sound check.
It is becoming more and more common for the Wedding Ceremonies to be held at the Reception Venue rather than a Church or Chapel. Often the Ceremony will be held in separate rooms at the same Venue or in the same room as the Reception. In either case the following can apply.
If your Wedding Ceremony is held at a Church or Chapel the following can also apply.
After being pronounced Married , the Newlyweds and their Photographer/Videographer are often the first to leave the wedding ceremony, heading off for pictures together, before arriving at the reception hall.
As family, friends, and guests arrive at the reception hall, if you like, Our attendant/helper can greet your guests. Our attendants/helpers are: Brenda who has many years of experience in public relations, and adds a special touch by greeting everyone with a personal approach, making them feel comfortable. Brenda also works in our office with clients and other business activities. Gilles is Toms long time partner and sidekick who has worked with Tom for over 15 years. Gilles is largely responsible for equipment, music, setup and general organization, he is talented in his own right with a wide music knowledge and technical abilities. If anyone comes up to our sound system with requests or questions one of them are always there to assist, as Tom may be busy mixing music, getting ready for upcoming special events, etc. But in between, he is always happy to talk to anyone.
Newlyweds and Wedding Party Arrival:
Many gay wedding receptions have no formal introductions other than the newlyweds. If your planning a wedding party the following ideas may help you.
As your family, friends, and guests are getting settled in at the reception hall, Your wedding Coordinator or Our Assistant/Helper gathers the Newly Wedded Couple, and Wedding Party together outside of the reception hall entrance, and then arranges them in the order they will be introduced and proceed into the reception hall, making sure all the Wedding Party's names are correct and in order on our Wedding Party announcement list, in the event there was any last minute change to your wedding party that we are unaware of. Once the Wedding Party is in order, Your Coordinator or Our Assistant/Helper will give the announcement list to Tom. He then begins the introduction of the wedding party. Generally, both sets of parents and the wedding party are introduced, followed by the announcement of the Newlyweds for the first time. In many cases, the newlywed first dance will begin as you step into the reception hall and out onto the dance floor after being announced. Alternately, your first dance can wait until after the first course of the meal is served, or when the meal is over.
Cocktails and Dinner:
Cocktails will kick off your reception and will last for at least an hour. During this time, stationary or passed appetizers and drinks are served. This gets people mingling and in the mood. Before dinner you might want to take the opportunity to thank everyone for taking part in your wedding. A family member, often a parent, will say a blessing (depending on the families' faiths). Often a family member or the newlyweds will thank guests for attending and invite everyone to enjoy the celebratory meal. The toasts to the Newlyweds should occur over the course of the celebratory meal. If you're having a seated meal, Tom will play subdued, conversation-friendly background music as the wait staff makes the rounds. If you're having a buffet, your coordinator or Tom will dictate how the rotation will work by calling each table when it's time to head to the front of the line. The newlyweds need to do everything possible to take their seats and eat!
Party Time:
After dinner, the newlyweds should be announced onto the dance floor for their first dance, if this hasn't already taken place upon their entrance into the reception hall. It is also a good idea for the newlyweds to be the first ones on the dance floor, so people know it's time to start partying. Everyone follows the lead of the newlyweds. Throughout the dancing, the music will stop for activities (events) you've planned, such as the father & daughter dances, the mother & son dances, the couples dances, the bouquet toss, the garter toss, the money dance, centerpiece giveaways, or anything else you may think of.
Cake Cutting:
The cake cutting takes place about an hour before the reception ends. The cake cutting often signals to guests it is okay to leave soon thereafter. Be sure not to cut the cake too early, so your guests don't leave before you're ready to wrap up the days festivities. Once the cake is cut, the dancing should resume.
Newlyweds Farewell:
It's time to say goodbye. Here are suggestions on ways to say a final farewell.
Your coordinator or Tom will direct everyone into the foyer or outdoors so that you can make your grand exit from the reception. Family, friends and guest can throw rice, flower pedals or blow bubbles as you leave.
The Farewell Circle is a charming way to end the reception and festivities. A Farewell Circle is formed at the end of the reception. All wedding guests gather in a circle on the dance floor around the Newlyweds.
The music played is a nice selection of slower ballads and easy listening music. The mood should be gentle and loving.
After the guests encircle the wedding couple, the newlyweds each begin working their way around the circle in opposite directions, saying good-bye to each of their guests, and exchanging embraces with these friends and relatives. At one point, the couple will cross each others paths as they work their way around the circle, and then meet up again where they began, so that both of them get the chance to say good-bye to each guest in the circle.
The Wedding Archway can be a quick exit for the Newlyweds. The Wedding Arch is created by the guests standing opposite each other in two rows and holding both arms outwards as the Newlyweds run through. This is a great way for the Newlyweds to exit, especially if they have many guests.
Whichever form of farewell you choose, your guests will appreciate the opportunity to send the newly married couple into the future with a proper good-bye and best wishes for their future.
We hope our suggestions help. We are happy to help with your Ceremony & Reception Planning and appreciate your business.
Entertainment Event's Director, DJ & MC Service
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"Music For All Of You" Media 2011, All Rights Reserved
Website Desiqned By Tom Spencer 2008 - 2011
Website Desiqned By Tom Spencer 2008 - 2011
I WAS BORN THIS WAY
(B. Jones - C. Spierer)
1977 Motown Records
Sung By: Carl Bean
I'm walking through life in nature's disguise
You laugh at me and you criticize
'Cause I'm happy, carefree and gay
Yes, I'm gay
Ain't no fault - it's a fact
I was born this way - yeah
Now I won't judge you - don't you judge me
We're all the way nature meant us to be
I'm happy, I'm carefree and I'm gay
I was born this way
You call me strange 'cause you don't understand
God's role for me in life's overall plan
I've learned to hold my head up high
Not in scorn nor disgrace
Doin' my thing individually
Entwined with this human race
Now I won't judge you - don't you judge me
We're all the way nature meant us to be
You laugh at me and you got the nerve to criticize
If I were you I'd sit down
And consider what you're doin'
Love me and I love you
And together ain't no tellin' what we'll do
Yeah - born I said
From a little bitty bitty boy
I was born this way
I love you, I love you
And even you - born this way - yeah
I'm tellin' y'all one more time
I was born this way, proud to tell it
I was born this way
Gonna shout it, tell the world about it
I was born this way
(B. Jones - C. Spierer)
1977 Motown Records
Sung By: Carl Bean
I'm walking through life in nature's disguise
You laugh at me and you criticize
'Cause I'm happy, carefree and gay
Yes, I'm gay
Ain't no fault - it's a fact
I was born this way - yeah
Now I won't judge you - don't you judge me
We're all the way nature meant us to be
I'm happy, I'm carefree and I'm gay
I was born this way
You call me strange 'cause you don't understand
God's role for me in life's overall plan
I've learned to hold my head up high
Not in scorn nor disgrace
Doin' my thing individually
Entwined with this human race
Now I won't judge you - don't you judge me
We're all the way nature meant us to be
You laugh at me and you got the nerve to criticize
If I were you I'd sit down
And consider what you're doin'
Love me and I love you
And together ain't no tellin' what we'll do
Yeah - born I said
From a little bitty bitty boy
I was born this way
I love you, I love you
And even you - born this way - yeah
I'm tellin' y'all one more time
I was born this way, proud to tell it
I was born this way
Gonna shout it, tell the world about it
I was born this way
We want to thank The LGBT Community and Our Partners for Their support in helping Us become the premier Mobile DJ Service for The LGBT Community in the DC Metro Region.
