Wedding Blog // The Wedding Singer - James Barlow

First Dances Available To Be Sung Live - January 2012

2012-01-26T03:38:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-12T04:45:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-13T09:13:00.000-08:00

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 //

2011-11-29T05:50:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

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

2011-10-19T03:06:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-20T02:24:00.000-07:00

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 //

2011-06-24T01:51:00.000-07:00

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 //

2011-06-24T01:39:00.000-07:00

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 //

2011-06-10T10:05:00.000-07:00

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 -

2011-01-22T03:03:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-22T09:52:00.000-08:00

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!

2010-09-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

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 //

2010-03-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

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 //

2010-03-02T01:08:00.000-08:00

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 //

2010-02-25T05:26:00.000-08:00

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 //

2010-02-02T03:27:00.000-08:00

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!! //

2009-12-24T02:17:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

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 //

2009-12-15T03:15:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-23T03:53:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-20T01:06:00.000-08:00

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 //

2009-11-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

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!

// NEW LIGHTING - EQUINOX NEBULA LASER //

2009-11-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-03T02:02:00.000-08:00

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 //

2009-10-29T04:18:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-26T03:37:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-23T02:27:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-20T02:40:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-16T02:22:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-13T02:27:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-09T06:07:00.001-07:00

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 //

2009-10-08T02:05:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-05T02:43:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-10-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-09-29T02:06:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-09-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

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 //

2009-09-23T09:10:00.001-07:00

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 //

2009-08-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

A marquee can be a spectacular 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 in 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, particularly at a private residence, there are some important things to bear in mind when booking your wedding entertainment:

1) Access

Make sure that we have vehicular access to your marquee and a parking space for our vehicle. We have quite a lot of sound and lighting equipment that will need to be unloaded on the day. The nearer we can get our vehicle to your marquee, the quicker and more efficiently we can complete the set-up. If the distance between our vehicle and your marquee is more than 25 metres or we need to go through a property to gain access to the performance space, please notify me before you book, as more time will be needed for set-up and you will need to plan timings your day accordingly. Think also about varying weather on the day. Will we still be able to safely gain access on foot / in a vehicle in wet conditions, particularly on grass?

2) 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 accommodate your musicians or DJ.

3) Flooring

Your entertainers will have equipment, most probably 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.

4) Power

It is essential that you have an adequate 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 minimums of 3 separate, standard plug points. A common mistake, especially 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.

5) 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

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!

2009-07-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-16T01:53:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-14T01:14:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-13T03:40:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-22T02:13:00.001-07:00

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

2009-06-22T01:54:00.001-07:00

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

2009-06-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

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

Wedding Singer Nottinghamshire

2009-06-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

One of the many counties in which my wedding singer & DJ services are available in is Nottinghamshire.

Based in Stafford I am ideally situated to serve all of the Nottingham / Nottinghamshire area. I have entertained in many of the county's top wedding venues including:

Albert Hall, Nottingham
Canal House Restaurant, Nottingham
Colwick Hall Hotel, Nottingham
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nottingham
Holme Pierrepont Hall, Nottingham
Langar Hall, Nottingham
Romney House, Barnstone
Rufford Park, Ollerton
Sutton Bonington Hall, Sutton Bonington
West Retford Hotel, Retford
Ye Olde Bell Hotel, Barnby Moor

Alison & Edward Plowright enjoying their first dance at a specially erected marquee at Edward's parent's house (Romney House) in Barnstone. If you look carefully, you can see me getting ready to start my first singing set in the background!

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Nottinghamshire

Sample Set List

2009-06-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

I often get asked by couples before the big day, what songs can I expect to hear in your singing sets?

My complete repertoire can be found on the wedding song list page on the web site.

However, below you can see an example of how I might arrange my songs into three sets for an evening reception.

Sets last approximately 30 minutes each.

Set 1: (usually performed immediately after your first dance)

1) Your first dance (this can be either sung live or played pre-recorded)
2) Crazy Little Thing Called Love, as by Michael Buble
3) Let There Be love, as by Nat King Cole
4) You To Me Are Everything, as by The Real Thing
5) Dance The Night Away, as by The Mavericks
6) Stuck In The Middle With You, as by Steelers Wheel
7) All Night Long, as by Lionel Richie

Set 2: (usually performed mid-way through the evening)

1) Valerie, as by Amy Winehouse
2) Relight My Fire, as by Take That
3) Build Me Up Buttercup, as by The Foundations
4) Billie Jean, as by Michael Jackson
5) I'm A Believer, as by The Monkees
6) Shake A Tailfeather, as by The Blue Brothers / Ray Charles
7) Celebration, as by Kool & The Gang
8) Night Fever, as by The Bee Gees
9) Shine, as by Take That

Set 3: (usually performed at the end of the evening)

1) Love Is In The Air, as by John Paul Young
2) Can't Keep My Eyes Off You, as by Andy Williams
3) My Girl, as by The Temptations
4) How Deep Is Your Love, as by Take That
5) Amazed, Lonestar
6) Easy, as by Lionel Richie & The Commodores
7) Wonderful Tonight, as by Eric Clapton

James Barlow - one of the UK's top wedding singers

Wedding Singer Staffordshire

2009-06-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

Based locally in Stafford, I am available to provide wedding singer / DJ packages for your wedding reception throughout the county.

I am one of the country's top wedding singers and provide singing and DJ packages at around 70 weddings every year throughout the UK.

In my 8 years as a professional wedding singer & DJ, I have entertained at the following Staffordshire venues:

Castle Hotel, Tamworth
Caverswall Castle, Stoke on Trent
Chase Park, Cannock
Crown Hotel, Stone
George Hotel, Lichfield
Granvilles Bistro, Stone
Heaton House Farm, Macclesfield
Holy Trinity Centre, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Keele Hall, Newcastle-Under-Lyme
Longton Town Hall, Stoke on Trent
Middelton Hall, Tamworth
Moat House Hotel, Acton Trussell
Moat House Hotel, Stoke on Trent
Mount Country Hotel, Tettenhall. Wolverhapton
Old School House Restuarant, Lichfield
Ramada Newton Park, nr Burton on Trent
Rudyard Hotel, Leek
Stone House Hotel
Tillington Hall, Stafford
The Manor, Cheadle
The Upper House, Barlaston
Walton Inn, Stone
Weston Hall, Stafford

Rachel & Josh Stonier enjoying their cutting of the cake before I entertained them with some singing and DJing at their reception at the Holy Trinity Centre, Newcastle-under-Lyme last year!

See their testimonial and more pictures on the feedback page.

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Staffordshire

Venue Showcase - Langar Hall, Nottinghamshire

2009-06-10T10:51:00.001-07:00

Langar Hall Country Hotel & Restaurant is situated 12 miles South East of Nottingham, in the vale of Belvoir on the Leicestershire border.

The house you see today was built in 1837 on the site of a great 18th Century Hall, the home of Admiral Lord Howe.

Unfortunately that great building was demolished by fire in the early 19th century.

The present smaller house enjoys the similar position of quiet seclusion close to the 12th century village church, overlooking medieval fishponds, gardens and parkland.

Langar Hall is a genuine country house which has gently evolved into a hotel and restaurant. It enjoys the reputation for exceptional hospitality, efficient service, comfortable bedrooms and good food and an interesting wine list.

As a wedding venue, the venue specialises in small and informal ceremonies from 2 to 50 guests and transforms into an excellent 'house party' style venue or for upto 120 guests in their on-site marquee which is linked to the main house.

I have entertained many times in Langar Hall and the venue is one of my most favourite out of the 300+ venues in which I have entertained throughout the UK. Langar Hall really is home from home and wedding co-ordinator - Pascal, is one of the best in the business.

The venue's dining room transforms into a fantastic, intimate room for dancing in the evening and whilst is maybe too small for a full live band is a perfect size to accomodate a wedding singer and our set-up lends itself perfectly to a room of this size.

Visit Langer Hall's web site - http://www.langarhall.com or tel: 01949 860559 and speak to Pascal for more information.

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Nottingham

Wedding Singer Cheshire

2009-06-04T03:52:00.000-07:00

Based in Stafford, I am ideally situated to provide wedding singer / DJ packages throughout Cheshire.

I am one of the country's top wedding singers and provide singing and DJ packages at around 70 weddings every year throughout the UK.

In my 8 years as a professional wedding singer & DJ, I have entertained at the following Cheshire venues:

Belfry House Hotel, Wilmslow
Chester Crabwell Manor, Chester
Cottons Hotel, Knutsford
Cranage Hall, Holmes Chapel
Crewe Hall, Crewe. Cheshire
Crown Hotel, Nantwich. Cheshire
Daresbury Park Hotel, Warrington
Deanwater Hotel, Woodford
Deckers Restaurant, Bowdon
Everglades Park Hotel, Widnes
Holiday Inn, Ellesmere Port
Holiday Inn, Runcorn
Hoole Hall Hotel, Chester
Houldsworth Golf Club, Stockport
MacDonald Craxton Wood Hotel, Chester
Manor House Hotel, Alsager
Mellor & Townscliffe Golf Club
Mere Court Hotel & Country Club
Mere Golf & Country Club, Knutsford
Mottram Hall Hotel, Prestbury
No 15 Wine Bar, Alderley Edge
Paddington House Hotel, Warrington
Peckforton Castle, Tarporley
Peover Golf Club, Knutsford
Rookery Hall, Nantwich
Sandhole Farm, Congleton
Shrigley Hall Hotel, Pott Shrigley
Stanneylands Hotel, Wilmslow
Statham Lodge, Lymm. Cheshire
Tatton Hall, Knutsford
Walton Hall, Warrington. Cheshire
Wild Boar Hotel, Beeston
Willington Hall, Tarporley
Wychwood Park, Weston. Cheshire

Nathan & Katherine Griffiths enjoying their 2nd dance + guests at Rookery Hall, Nantwich last September!

Be sure to check www.theweddingsinger.uk.com for more information about my services.

James Barlow - Wedding Entertainment Cheshire

Top 10 first dance songs

2009-06-04T02:52:00.000-07:00

Choosing what song to have as your first dance can often be a tricky task. To give you some ideas, I have listed the top 10 most popular choices from my last three years of weddings.

The songs in bold are available for me to sing live as your wedding singer.

1) Amazed - Lonestar
2) Heaven (Candlelight Version) - DJ Sammy (Bryan Adams version of Heaven is available sung live)
3) Can't Take My Eyes Off You - Andy Williams
4) Don't Wanna Miss A Thing - Aerosmith
5) When You Say Nothing At All - Ronan Keating
6) Just The Way You Are - Billy Joel
7) My First, My Last, My Everything - Barry White
8) Stand By Me - Ben E. King
9) Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
10) Your Song - Elton John

I will adding more entries to help you with your wedding song list over the coming months.

Alison & Edward Plowright enjoying their first dance in May of last year. You can see me cueing up their secong dance in the background!

Vicky & Simon - Ardington House, Oxfordshire - 25th April 2009

2009-06-02T03:21:00.000-07:00

Vicky and Simon got married at the fantastic Ardington House in Wantage. It was a gloriously sunny day. So much so, that Vicky & Simon's ceremony actually took place outside on Ardington House's very own island!

Vicky & Simon booked the Standard Package (Evening Wedding Singer/DJ) with Dinner Music add-on.

Their reception was in beautiful marquee in Ardington House's grounds. We were set-up and ready to welcome dinner guests as they sat down at 4pm with a selection of pre-recorded dinner jazz, swing and love songs throughout the wedding breakfast. Simon & Vicky also chose to use my radio microphone and sound system for their speeches

After the wedding breakfast had finished and evening guests had arrived, Vicky & Simon danced to Flying Without Wings by Westlife for their first dance.

I then began my singing and DJ-ing sets - I think the whole marquee was on the dancefloor at one point! A fantastic group of people and a very enjoyable day.

Vicky & Simon sent me the following comments following their big day:

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

Best wishes to the new Mr & Mrs Calcutt!

Wedding photography by Brown & Co Photography

James Barlow - Wedding Singer Oxfordshire

Choosing the Right Wedding Venue

2009-05-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

There is so much to plan for when you make that all important decision to get married. There is the wedding dress to start with, invitations to be sent out and prior to that who to invite! The time of year you plan your wedding will have to be given a lot of thought and who will be best man and chief bridesmaid from your many friends? Before any of the decisions can be finalised there is the venue of the ceremony and the reception to consider. Will they be in different places or the same location and how far in advance will you need to book to ensure you get the perfect place?

The wedding venue is the thing you should seek to book first, all your other arrangements can then slot in around this.

As for the type of venue you decide upon, all sorts of places are licenced to perform wedding ceremonies these days. There are the conventional amongst you who go with the traditional church wedding; the adventurous plan their ceremony on an exotic beach, honeymoon included; and then there are the unconventional who like to take a risk and get wed whilst diving, skydiving, in a hot air balloon, in a museum or aboard the HMS Belfast.

You have to consider how many guests you are intending to invite when deciding upon your venue, as it would need to be large enough venue to accomodate all your friends and family. Another factor to consider is whether to choose a single or multi-room venue. The more traditional single-room approach allows you ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening reception all to be in the same room which would also encompass your bar for drinks, evening buffet and your DJ, band or wedding singer. The multi-room approach would allow you to marry in one room, eat in a second and maybe even have your evening reception in a third. There are advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. a subject I will discuss in a future article.

You will find it possible to hire all kinds of historical and beautiful venues for your wedding. Everything from the usual hotel function room, to town halls and clubhouses to parks and dramatic historical castles. What you book will depend on your budget as well as your preference and the type of atmosphere you want to create.

A wedding day is for many people one of the most memorable moments of in life and obviously you would want everything to run smoothly and be perfect. Every little detail has to be taken into account to guarantee there are no problems that might occur. If you are inviting lots of family and friends then you don’t want the location too far from your home town. Check out the accommodation nearby for the convenience of those who are travelling from further afield, and parking facilities for the guests. It is always a good idea to provide a list of suitable, local accomodation in with your wedding invites.

Entertainment for the reception should be geared towards what you like but also what your guests will appreciate. Often, a DJ is an expert at getting everyone up onto the dance floor with a choice of music to suit all ages. Live music is often appreciated, especially if they have old favourites and classics on their song-list. Many of the guests will probably want to dance so make sure the venue offers a dance floor.

The most important thing when booking your venue, as with all your wedding arrangements, is to plan as far ahead as possible and do your research before you pay your deposit. Once your venue is booked keep in regular contact with your wedding co-ordinator and make sure that the staff that will be looking after you on the day know your exact requirements.

Caverswall Castle Wedding, Gareth & Sarah - 22nd May 2009. Pictures to follow...

2009-05-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

I was booked to be Gareth and Sarah's wedding singer & DJ back in April last year. They opted for the Standard Package giving them 3 x 30 minutes of singing and with DJ sets in between.

Their reception was at the fantastic Caverswall Castle in Stoke on Trent. It was my second time at the castle, being there only a couple of months earlier where I entertained at Stoke City captain Andy Griffin's surpise 30th celebrations! A great venue for me as it's only a 30 minute drive from The Wedding Singer HQ in Stafford.

Evening receptions at the venue take place in the castle dungeons. Far from being an oppressive place of torture, the dungeons are quite accomodating - windows, hot and cold running water, a fully fitted kitchen and a bar serving a selection of beers, fine wines and spirits!

The venue staff were accomodating and friendly, as they were back in March and we unloaded and set-up in the dungeon.

Set-up space was fairly limited, as the dancing area of the dungeon(!) is quite small. Our set-up is perfect for smaller spaces as it can be easily adapted for most areas. It is also ideal if your venue has noise restrictions of any sort, as they do at Caverswall Castle which is situated fairly close to a residential area.

Gareth & Sarah picked a fantastic and rarely known song, 'Moonlight Kiss' by Bap Kennedy as their first dance. I then got the rest of guests involved on the dance floor with a non-stop mix of my live singing and DJ sets.

Gareth & Sarah have e-mailed me some fantastic feedback today:

Hi James,

What with the rollercoaster that was the big day, I never had a chance
to say goodnight to you on Friday, nor to say a big thank you for such
a great service.

The entire evening's entertainment was flawless, and your live
performances were brilliant and memorable. Everybody we managed to
speak to was as impressed with you as we were. We're really glad that
we found you and will have no hesitation in passing your name on to
friends and family in the future.

Once again, a great big thanks for everything,

Gareth & Sarah Reynolds

P.S. We'll have our photographs in a couple of weeks. Just let me know
if you want me to email you some snaps from the evening for your own
use - no problem.

So, all the very best to Gareth & Sarah - I wish them every happiness!

I will add some pictures from the day as soon as I have them through - their photographer took a couple of shots VERY close to my face as I was singing. We'll have to see how they turn out - they may not pass my stringent vetting process!!

James

Wedding Singer Staffordshire

WELCOME

2009-05-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my brand new blog!

As well as an excellent way for brides and grooms to be to find out a little bit more about their wedding singer / DJ before the big day, I will be updating with news of new products and services as well as reports from weddings where I have recently entertained.

After 10 years of entertaining professionally at weddings, I have so much knowledge to share. Not just about music, but all things wedding! I shall be sharing some of my experiences over the coming months.

I look forward to embarking on my very first blog and welcome any suggestions, comments or questions.

James Barlow

The Wedding Singer
www.theweddingsinger.uk.com