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Le Chateau

Venue Spotlight: Le Chateau

Venue Spotlight: Le Chateau 1615 1077 adam Michaels

Le Château sits on a tall rolling hill in South Salem, New York. The ballrooms fill with golden natural sunlight which casts an elegant glow onto any amazing event that’s hosted. The venue went through a $10M renovation, which has only further played homage to the stunning views that surround it. The building boasts a roaring history which can be found in all the beautiful ornate details such as the hand detailed woodwork, grand staircases, massive stone fireplaces, and American chestnut. What a beautiful combination of current elegance and a nod to a stunning past with many celebrations throughout the years, many of which we’ve played at! We’re honored to be a longstanding recommended live music vendor of choir by Le Château!

Don’t just take our word for it! Here are some pretty rockin’ reviews from couples who partied at Le Château!

  • The entire staff of Le Chateau; especially our Maitre d’ Debbie, gave us the most perfect wedding we could ever hoped for. We visited a number of venues in making our decision. Had we known then, what we know now; Le Chateau would have been our only choice! God bless everyone at Le Chateau; we cannot thank you enough!!
  • People were so impressed by the gorgeously landscaped grounds, the DELICIOUS food, the attention to detail of all of the staff, and how quickly and thoroughly the runners/bartenders/staff catered to all guest needs. I knew Le Chateau always had my back and truly felt supported 🙂 I will miss speaking with them so regularly! Many of our guests have relayed that our wedding was the best they had ever been to. If that doesn’t say it then I don’t know what will!!! Everyone we came in contact with throughout wedding planning with Le Chateau was fabulous and extremely helpful. They truly helped make our dream wedding a reality!
  • The simplistic beauty of the ceremony garden, the stone staircases around the property, the grand ballroom with statement-level chandeliers. The views, the sunset. The property itself is enough to get married there. The food — Our guests haven’t stopped talking about it. The quality and attention to detail. Home run!
  • Le Chateau made my wedding dreams come true! The venue is beautiful, the team is spectacular, the food is amazing, and everything was perfectly executed throughout the entire day. I also know everyone says this, but all we heard from our guests was how fantastic the food was and I can only hope that I get invited to a wedding there so that I have time to try more of it! If they have availability, I would NOT hesitate at all to host your wedding here… it was a dream come true!

Here’s a highlight of some of our couples who were married at “Le Château’s” favorite songs!

It’s been an honor through the years, to be considered the live wedding band of choice and one of NY’s finest wedding venues! We hope to see you soon and dance with you at Le Château!

Why Couples Are Saying “I Do” to The Glasshouse

Why Couples Are Saying “I Do” to The Glasshouse 1920 1280 adam Michaels

If you’re in the throes of wedding planning (or just love a good venue deep dive—no judgment, we’ve all done it), you’ve probably noticed just how wide the variety is. Modern lovebirds are looking for venues that are as unique as their love stories. At Around Town Entertainment, as the premiere wedding bands in the New York area, we have played a lot of fabulous venues. But for our couples who love a sleek, modern, upscale experience, let us present The Glasshouse—a sleek, sophisticated, and downright stunning venue that’s stealing the spotlight. Let’s break down why couples are flocking to this contemporary gem.

The Views? Unmatched.

Picture this: You’re standing at the altar, your partner’s eyes locked with yours, and behind them? The most breathtaking panoramic view along the NYC skyline. It’s giving “cinematic romance” in the best way possible. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air terrace, The Glasshouse delivers a backdrop that’ll make your wedding photos look like a high-fashion editorial spread. It’s also a perfect hybrid space, allowing for seamless transitions between their connected indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an amazing flow and distinction between the various parts of your big day! 

A Blank Canvas for Your Vision

Some venues come with so much personality – which we love when it perfectly matches yours, but they don’t leave much room for yours. Not the case here! The Glasshouse is a modern, minimalist dream that lets your vision shine. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush, floral wonderland in an industrialist chic space or a sleek, moody vibe with twinkling candlelight, the Glasshouse transforms effortlessly to match your aesthetic.

Space to Celebrate Big Love

Worried about cramming your guest list into a tiny ballroom? Concerned no one will have enough elbow room to successfully cut into their fabulous entree? Not here. The Glasshouse boasts 75,000 square feet of event space—so whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, there’s room for everyone (yes, even your mom’s entire book club). And that’s just the floor space – don’t get us started on the incredible high ceilings, stretching to 27 feet at their highest points, and 17 feet throughout the majority of the space. Plus, the venue’s multiple levels mean you can keep things fresh, from a rooftop ceremony to a chic indoor reception. 

In the last year alone, the Glasshouse hosted an Indian wedding with 400 guests, and an Orthodox Jewish wedding with, wait for it, 700 guests. When we say this place can hold a lot of folks, we mean it; and in a city not exactly known for exceptionally large venues, the Glasshouse really sets itself apart – all without ever feeling cavernous or lacking the intimacy you want on your big day.  

VIP-Level Amenities

Let’s talk perks. The Glasshouse isn’t just pretty—it’s practical. Think state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities, including LED panels and display monitors available onsite, suspended from a grid system to maximize event space. There’s built-in lighting that sets the perfect mood, and even a VIP suite so you and your bridal party can get ready in style. Oh, and did we mention there’s a helicopter landing pad? Because yes, that’s absolutely a thing. Talk about making an entrance your guests will never forget! 

Location, Location, Location! 

Right in the heart of Manhattan, and overlooking the Hudson River at Pier 88, The Glasshouse is easily accessible for local and out-of-town guests alike. Whether your crew is hopping in an Uber or flying in for the occasion, getting to your wedding will be a breeze. Conveniently, the location allows your guests to feel that they’re both in the city, while also having a stunning view of the river, all of which allows for more natural light (especially at sunset), and less noise pollution! The Glasshouse also has two other locations, one located overlooking Bryant Park, and the other in Chelsea, both of which are somewhat smaller than the flagship location. 

Leave it to the Experts

Oh yeah, we said experts. The Glasshouse comes equipped with Venue Producers – talented and highly experienced individuals who are some of the best in the business when it comes to bringing your specific vision to life. They bring a personal touch and hands-on approach to the whole experience, from the planning stages to the big day itself, when you’ll find them onsite, on the floor, coordinating, communicating, and keeping everything flowing smoothly throughout, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

The Takeaway

Couples today want more than just a venue—they want an experience. The Glasshouse delivers that and more, with jaw-dropping views, versatile space, and top-tier amenities. If you’re looking for a wedding venue that blends modern luxury with endless customization, this might just be the one (other than your fiancé, of course).

Now, who’s ready to pop some champagne and start planning?

Inquire about booking your wedding at The Glasshouse by visiting their website and connecting with their team!

Tactics to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor at Your Wedding

Tactics to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor at Your Wedding 650 450 adam Michaels

One of the highlights of your wedding reception will likely be dancing the night away surrounded by your nearest and dearest. A packed wedding dance floor is the ultimate sign of an amazing party—and an empty one is a huge mood-killer. So how do you keep your guests out of their seats and dancing, as opposed to mingling at their tables or, even worse, congregating in the venue lobby or bathroom? We highlight the best secrets to get your guests on the dance floor all night long!

Let the pros control the playlist.

The average wedding reception includes about 40-50 songs—and you don’t have to choose every one of them. Feel free to provide a few important songs to our band whether it’s from Soundcloud or Spotify, give them the freedom to read your crowd and choose songs accordingly. Let the band do what he/she was hired to do.

Manage your expectations.

The size of your guest list will have a big impact on the wedding dance floor. If there are only 50 guests in attendance, the dance floor probably won’t be packed all night long. If there are 500 guests, then there should be people on the dance floor consistently throughout the evening.

Take requests in advance.

Allowing your wedding guests to make song requests may make them more interested in staying on the dance floor. The best way to field requests? Include a section on your wedding website that allows guests to share their song requests. That way, you can review them (just in case your troublemaking cousin tries to add that tune he knows you hate), and pass them on to your music pro.

Don’t interrupt the flow.

Most music pros recommend serving your entire wedding meal (including toasts and speeches) and then having an uninterrupted dance session afterward. In our own experience, we’ve witnessed that breaks in the dancing can crush any momentum. If you want to keep your guests dancing, you may want to skip traditions like the bouquet and garter tosses—which tend to clear the floor quickly.

Start the night off right.

The song that welcomes guests to the dance floor, usually after the first dance or parent dances, is a crucial one. Different music pros have different opinions on the right tune for this moment. Set a good example. The biggest reason why you lose people on the dance floor is that the couple just isn’t there. People pay attention to where the couple is and what they’re doing. Make sure you take your wedding portraits before the reception and greet and mingle with guests during cocktail hour and dinner, so you aren’t taken away from the dance floor for too long (remember, you can take breaks to rest your feet or use the bathroom!). And enlist your wedding party to join you—it’s part of their “job” to have a great time and get their groove on.

Trick ‘em with a group photo.

If you’re worried that guests will be shy about making their move to the dance floor, here’s a secret wedding emcee trick: reel them in by calling for a group photo. After the specialty dances, we see a lot of clients bringing everyone to the dance floor to get a group photo with the couple in front. Then once the photos are taken, our band can drop into a fun song and everyone is already on the dance floor so they usually stay there.

Don’t go overboard on the slow songs.

We recommend keeping the slow songs to a minimum—only playing between one and three slower tunes during the evening. We will say that it will keep everybody on the dance floor more with faster dancing songs than with slow songs.

Consider a “soft closing”

One of the trends we see is the idea of a “soft close” at the end of the reception. Instead of keeping the partying going until the last minute and then abruptly stopping the music, he recommends stopping the raucous music a few minutes early, giving guests time to gather their things, say goodbye, and maybe take a last-minute selfie. It’s all about having that smooth transition to the end of the night

Open the Dancefloor to Everyone After the First Dance

Get people up and dancing as soon as your first dance is complete. This part of the evening should signal the beginning of the party and the opening of the dance floor.

Inviting everyone onto the floor can be done with a quick announcement by your wedding DJ or your bridal party dancing and dragging other guests onto the dance floor.

You should also pick epic party-starter music after your first dance or ask us to play a tried and tested tune that fills the dancefloor.

Be A Good Example

The biggest reason people don’t dance at the reception party for an extended time is that the happy couple is not there. Make sure you are the first ones on the dance floor as soon as your band starts pumping music and the last ones off at the end of the night – of course, you can take breaks to rest your feet.

Greet and mingle with your guests and take wedding group photos during cocktail hour or dinner. That way, you’ll be free to hit the floor and can spend more time with your loved ones there.

 

Bryant Park Grill

Paris meets New York at Bryant Park Grill

Paris meets New York at Bryant Park Grill 2330 1400 adam Michaels

The date was April 23rd, 2022 when Marisa and James came together with all of their guests in celebration of their wedding event!

Marisa and James, now Mr. and Mrs. Miller chose the beautiful New York City wedding venue Bryant Park Grill located in heart of Manhattan.  The Parisian-style dining with the backdrop of the iconic landmark of the New York Public Library made for an eclectic venue and reception experience. The beautiful seasonal patio and roof dining truly made every guest feel like they were on top of the world in the city that never sleeps!

The evening began with a beautiful rooftop wedding. The bride was serenaded down the aisle by the Around Town Entertainment’s string trio playing “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles. The cello, viola, and violin were a great choice by Marisa and James to add a sophisticated and intimate flair to their beautiful ceremony. It was a lovely twist when the trio celebrated after the “I do’s” by sending the bride and groom down the aisle to Aretha Franklin’s “Say A Little Prayer!”

The Around Town Band from Around Town Entertainment was the New York City band the couple had selected for the wedding celebration. The band first provided a jazz trio for their cocktail hour. The trio played a lively mix of jazz and contemporary selections to entertain their guests as the drinks flowed and the perfect ambiance was set.  The trio was a pianist, a bassist, and a guitarist. The combination of the three was just the right blend to not overwhelm the space but still the right touch to create a spirited vibe in the space.  The guests loved the music and the night was off to a great start.

From there the guests moved to the main reception in the Dining Room where they were greeted with the orchestral sounds of a 10-piece band.  The NY wedding band had the guests right through the door and onto the dance floor.  It was an exciting party from the very start.

The bride and groom had a very special first dance to the Otis Redding song, “That’s How Strong My Love Is.” The band of course prepared the requested song for the special moment and performed this live. The bride also had a special wedding dance with her father to the very appropriate song “My Girl” by the Temptations.  The groom then escorted his mom to the dance floor and they had a wonderful moment together dancing to the Van Morrison song, “Crazy Love.”   The guests were moved by the moment and felt compelled to jump in on the next dance song.   The dance floor was full of an excited bunch and the energy in the room was astounding!

The dancing continued and the guests were on their feet for hours as the band played continuous live music throughout the evening.  The Around Town Band was asked to play a few of the couple’s favorite songs, including “Fantasy” by Mariah Carey and “Hold On, I’m Coming” by Sam and Save.

These songs were a huge hit as was the entire evening where the guests danced.  It was the perfect way for Marisa and James to start their lives together.  This was a classic New York wedding-style event with the perfect combination of champagne, dancing, and great company along with the perfect New York Wedding Entertainment.

Around Town Entertainment was honored to be part of the great celebration and we wish Mr. and Mrs. Miller a lifetime of love and dancing!

Chateau on the Lake: Heaven on Earth

Chateau on the Lake: Heaven on Earth 1920 1080 adam Michaels

The hills are alive with the sound of music – though “hills” might be a bit of an understatement when it comes to the Adirondack peaks surrounding Lake George, one of the most picturesque natural lakes on the East Coast. Formed when a glacier receded through the mountains, the lake is crisp, cold, and clear year-round, with the scent of mountain pines keeping the air just as fresh and clear. It’s within this stunning natural beauty you’ll find the Chateau on the Lake in Bolton Landing, NY, sitting right on the edge of the southwestern edge of the lake, tucked behind Green Island, providing some additional privacy to your big day, while still providing a stunning view of the lake. 

 

As New York’s premiere wedding bands, we here at Around Town are no strangers to Chateau on the Lake, and we feel it’s part of what makes us so qualified to talk about why it’s such a perfect venue for your big day. This 19th century lakefront estate sits on a lush one and a half acre great lawn, providing plenty of space and privacy, and is the perfect setting for a couple that wants both an indoor and outdoor celebration. The elegant, lakefront great lawn is surrounded by gorgeous gardens while the crystal clear blue waters of Lake George. As a bonus? The top floor of the estate is a romantic inn, with three different King bedrooms overlooking the lake, so you and your new spouse don’t have to go far at the end of the night! The location is so romantic, it was named one of the Top 100 Romantic in America by Diner Choice, measured against over 20,000 other restaurants nationwide. 

 

With both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Chateau on the Lake beautifully facilitates an event that can flow between both, perhaps with a ceremony and reception outdoors on the lake, and cocktails within the restaurant, or any other combination that suits your vision – the staff are attentive and accommodating, ready to work with you to achieve the wedding you’ve dreamed of! 

 

One thing to keep in mind this far north are the seasons – no, not spring, summer, fall, winter; we’re talking Early Spring, Pre-Summer, Peak Season, Early Fall, and Brr. (Ok fine, the season isn’t officially named “Brr” but trust us, Lake George between November and March can be very simply summed up as “Brr.”) The peak season for any lakefront venue will be during July & August which command higher budgets due to significantly higher demand. The winter months are gorgeous and perfect for those with smaller budgets, resulting in a stunning event for as much as 50% less expensive than peak summer months. 

 

The Early Spring, Pre-Summer, and Early Fall are considered the “shoulder” seasons and will fall in the middle of the budget of peak and winter seasons. You can even take a look here to see how the various price points stack up as you compare your budget to your vision. And don’t worry “Off Season” doesn’t mean your event is any less special – the Chateau on the Lake treats every event with a unique approach and will work closely with you to build a plan to fit your dreams! 

 

Founded by Jen and Buddy Foy, the Chateau on the Lake is a work of love – and their food is a real testament to that! French-inspired, with Italian portions, Jen is a first-generation Italian, and Buddy’s French & Irish heritage bring the perfect combination of food and wine, garnering the attention of the Food Network. Oh yes, serving seafood, organic meat, and lamb, the Chateau on the Lake has been featured on Summer Rush on Food Network – and has been ranked in the Top 100 restaurants nationally – TWICE. Needless to say, the food is a major draw here – if you and your fiancé are looking to prioritize excellent cuisine, we’d send this place straight to the top of your list! 

One of the advantages of the Chateau on the Lake is its privacy and intimacy. The venue is not large and is situated down a lane, away from the main town of Bolton Landing, allowing for uninhibited access to the lake, as well as the ability to really feel as though the venue, and you and your guests are in a world of your own. That said, this venue may not be ideal for couples with guest lists clearing 150 due to its cozier size; but for those couples searching for a smaller wedding, for whom intimacy and privacy are advantages? The Chateau on the Lake is the ideal venue. And as award-winning musicians, we can tell you that the acoustics amidst the trees and on the water are absolutely fabulous. Lake George may be heaven on earth, and the Chateau on the Lake, Around Town, and you are a match made in heaven.

Inquire about booking your wedding at Chateau on the Lake by visiting their website and connecting with their team!

mother son wedding songs

Top Mother Son Wedding Songs to Make Your Dance Unforgettable

Top Mother Son Wedding Songs to Make Your Dance Unforgettable 612 365 adam Michaels

There is no love like a mother’s love, and it is mothers who first teach their sons how to love. Which means there’s rarely a dry eye in the house for this touching moment at your reception. We at Around Town absolutely love a good Mother-Son dance, and it’s why we’ve decided to curate a list of some of our (beloved) band’s favorites! We’ve talked before about songs we specifically recommend not using, (as well as songs for a Mother-Daughter dance) but now let’s get into ones we think are great options! 

Before we do, of course, let’s preface with this: go with your gut and trust your mom if she has a song in mind! Moms tend to be right about these things, after all. Most important of all is to make sure you’re talking to her and picking a song that means something to the two of you! That said, if you’re both feeling stuck, we’re here to help! Without further ado, let’s get into it! 

This moment is all about celebrating the bond between you and your mom, and the right song can make it truly unforgettable. So, here are some timeless and contemporary suggestions that will have everyone reaching for the tissues.

Classic Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong – This timeless classic is perfect for a heartfelt dance that celebrates the beauty of the moment.

“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole – A stunning and timeless duet that honors the special connection between a parent and child, especially since the song is sung by a father and daughter. 

“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra – A sophisticated, charming, jazzy tune that brings a touch of elegance to the moment.

Contemporary Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men – This deeply emotional song is a beautiful tribute to a mother’s love and dedication.

“My Wish” by Rascal Flatts – A song that perfectly expresses a parent’s hopes and dreams for their child’s future.

“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd or Shinedown – A heartfelt song with meaningful lyrics that resonate with both generations.

Sentimental Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban – A powerful ballad that acknowledges the support and inspiration a mother provides.

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion – A tribute to the unwavering love and support that a mother offers.

“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart – A wish for the son’s happiness and well-being throughout his life.

Unique Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” by James Taylor – Joyful, upbeat, and, well, sweet, this song truly captures the happiness of the occasion.

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (acoustic version) – A rock classic – and it can be made tender with an acoustic rendition. Believe it or not, there’s a lot of heart in these lyrics! 

“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys – Beautiful, timeless, catchy, and truly captures the essence of the indomitable nature of a mother’s love. 

Country Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw – A song that imparts wisdom and love, perfect for this special moment – perfect for sons who know their mothers are always right. 

“Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry – A deeply touching tribute to a mother’s love and everything she has done.

“I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack – A hopeful and inspiring song that speaks to the future and conveys the enduring power of a mother’s love. 

While these suggestions are a great starting point, choosing a song with personal significance can make this moment even more special. Consider songs that remind you of shared memories or experiences with your mom! Maybe it’s a song she used to sing to you or one that brings back special memories. Perhaps you had a favorite TV show you watched together during the pandemic, with a meaningful song snuck in, or perhaps you go wild and Rick Roll your guests with Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” – especially spot-on if you and your mom are big Ted Lasso fans. In a similar vein, for the Schitt’s Creek fans, “Always be My Baby” by Mariah Carey is an absolutely perfect pick, as is its rootsy cover by Anderson East. Just remember, it’s the personal connection that will make the dance all the more meaningful. 

If you’re still feeling stuck, head on over to our post about using Spotify to help find the perfect song! You and your mom can create a blend or a shared playlist, where you both add songs that you think are contenders. This is especially helpful if you and your mom don’t live near one another or have pretty different schedules – it’ll provide some extra flexibility to the process of picking the perfect song. Best of all, even after you pick The One, you and your mom now both have a playlist full of songs that make you think of each other!

Top Mother-Daughter Wedding Songs for an Unforgettable Dance in 2025

Top Mother-Daughter Wedding Songs for an Unforgettable Dance in 2025 900 600 adam Michaels

She has been there through many of life’s milestones. She was the first face you saw when you opened your tiny eyes, encouraged you to take the training wheels off your bike, made you soup when you were sick, and then taught you how to make it yourself. 

Through the whole wedding planning process, she has been there every step of the way from asking for guidance to beaming when you found the dress. One way is finding special mother-daughter dance songs to let both of you take the spotlight on your wedding day.

The bond between a mother and daughter is one of the strongest. Mothers are hard workers, sincere, and, most notably, the ultimate role models. Your wedding day will be just as beautiful and emotional for you as it will be for your mother, who is watching her little girl grow up and get married before her eyes. But finding amazing mother-daughter songs to help tell the story especially can be quite difficult. 

It’s up to the bride and mother how much attention they wish to have with mother-daughter songs. Every couple’s music tastes are different. 

When selecting a song to dedicate to your mom, we recommend selecting a song with a special meaning for both of you. Our curated list of mother-daughter songs should help jog your memory or even find a new symbol of your bond.

These songs shouldn’t only be played on special occasions like weddings or Mother’s Day, but they should be played frequently to let your loved ones know exactly how much we appreciate them. 

If you’re just especially close with your mom, you may want to consider dedicating a song to her at your wedding reception. What’s more, dancing with your mom at your wedding—whether it’s for a first dance or an entirely separate number—is a fun and memorable way to capture your unbreakable bond. 

First, you’ll need to pick a mother-daughter dance song that is special, sentimental, and meaningful for both of you. To help get your creative juice

Once you’ve narrowed down your favorite(s) mother-daughter dance songs, contact our wedding band so that we can incorporate your song requests into our band’s set list in time for the big day.

Our Favorite Mother-Daughter Wedding Songs

“I Hope You Dance,” Lee Ann Womack

This Lee Ann Womack song—which has since become an iconic country-pop smash hit—has remained a wedding playlist staple since its 2000 release. The song perfectly conveys a mother’s wishes for her child by encouraging them to take risks, embrace love and live life to the fullest.

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion

This song beautifully describes a mom who supports her daughter through good times and bad (and your wedding-planning journey!). If these lyrics ring true to your relationship with Mom, this Celine Dion classic is an ideal choice as a mother-daughter wedding song.

“I Turn To You,” Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera boosted “I Turn To You” to fame following her 2002 rendition of the emotional ballad. Its stunning lyrics, which depict mothers as a loving and rock-solid support system, make it a must-play at your wedding.

“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac

As a song about the ups and downs of life, and the changes that we all go through as we age, there’s nothing like this hit from Fleetwood Mac to perfectly describe the transformation mother-daughter relationships go through over the years. Stevie Nicks wrote this song to talk about the challenges she was going through in her personal life back in 1974.

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

“Isn’t she lovely?”— a lyric that could perfectly describe both a mother and her daughter. Although Stevie Wonder wrote this to celebrate the birth of his first child, it is a great song that celebrates both mothers and daughters for their inner and outer beauty.

“In My Life,” The Beatles

Music has to power to evoke emotion and offers us a place to reflect on our lives. “In My Life” does this beautifully and simply. The Beatles create this type of musical magic in a seemingly effortless way. The song simultaneously takes you back to your past while making you think about today. It inspires you to think about those you have loved as well as those you love today.

“Mama’s Song” By Carrie Underwood

This wonderful song by Carrie Underwood is something worth listening to. It expresses the mother-daughter love quite accurately in so many words. You will love the emotional lyrics of Mama’s song: “He makes promises he keeps and he’s never gonna leave, so don’t you worry about me, momma!” It’s a must-one for your list of mother-daughter dance songs.

Rockabye’ by Clean Bandit

This is a song about a hardworking mother who ensures that her daughter gets everything that she wants. She doesn’t want her daughter’s life to be hers and takes up all the hardships to make sure that her daughter lives a happy life. The song portrays the selfless love of a mother towards her daughter.

‘I Got You’ by Ciara

The mother wants to tell her daughter that many bad things could happen to her in her life, but her mother will always be there to protect her. In this process, she may have to face many hardships herself, but she will bear it all and stand strong for her child for her daughter.

father-daughter wedding songs

Top Father Daughter Wedding Songs to Make Your Dance Special

Top Father Daughter Wedding Songs to Make Your Dance Special 2560 1833 adam Michaels

You’ve done the hard part – you’ve found your live wedding band! Now comes the fun part: choosing the music. There are so many important songs to select for your special day, but one song can be harder than others: The Father/Daughter dance. 

Your first dance partner. The man who taught you just how high the bar should be for your forever dance partner. Fathers wait from the moment their daughters are born for this most special moment – one that famously brings tears to your guests’ eyes. 

Choosing music for your wedding is important and picking the song to dance to with your dad can be tricky, so we at Around Town have assembled a few simple ways to help you find the perfect song for you and your dad, as well as included some examples to get you started! 

But before we do, just a quick reminder that the Father/Daughter dance should be around 2 minutes long – not the whole song! Since you’ve made the clever choice and booked one of our fabulous bands, you’re already in great hands that will make sure you have a seamless cut of whichever song you choose. That said, keep in mind when choosing your song that it will be shortened; so if you have a favorite verse, don’t be afraid to specify! 

Father-Daughter Wedding Songs To Show Love

Often, brides will take this opportunity to pick a song that sends a message, whether that’s telling their dad just how much they love them, or sharing with their guests how important their dad is to them. Both Natalie Cole & Nat King Cole’s posthumous duet of “Unforgettable,” or John Legend & Cynthia Erivo’s cover of The Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows,” immediately evoke that unique feeling of a Father-Daughter bond. Maybe you want a song from Dad’s point of view – Bruce Springsteen’s “When You Need Me” is a classic, as is James Taylor’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” (For the Disney-lovers, a fun riff on this idea is Randy Newman’s “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.”

A Walk Down Memory Lane 

While your wedding day is certainly about a walk down the aisle to your future, your Father/Daughter dance is a sweet walk into the past. Think about key memories you have with your dad, or special moments you’ve shared. We don’t have suggestions in this category because these memories are specific to you and will lead to choices all your own – but we do have some questions to get you started! 

Maybe he took you to your first live concert – who was playing? 

How about a meaningful sports game? Did your team have “a song”?

Was there a jam he’d play in the car on the way to school to hype you up for a test? 

Do the two of you have a favorite movie with a memorable song on its soundtrack? 

Did a certain song come on at the school Father/Daughter dance that revealed what kind of dancer your dad truly was? 

Was there simply a song you’d dance to together in the kitchen when you were little? 

Is it a Wonderful World or a Boogie Wonderland? 

Tempo changes everything! When choosing a song for your Father/Daughter dance, keep in mind how much the song moves and grooves. Do you want a nice slow song that’s easy to sway to? Consider songs like Nancy Sinatra’s “It’s For My Dad,” or “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Or are you the kind of dad and daughter duo who will choreograph a show stopping musical number? Songs that lend themselves to something more high-energy include ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” The Temptations’ “My Girl,” or Doris Day’s “Papa, Won’t You Dance With Me”

Classic Father-Daughter Wedding Songs

While we don’t actually recommend using MKTO’s “Classic” for your Father/Daughter dance (we sure hope your dad doesn’t want to kiss you like Prince or get it on like Marvin Gaye), we do know that in a day full of so many special moments that it’s sometimes comforting to have something picked out that you know will be a hit. So, we took a look at some of the Father/Daughter dances our bands have played to great success recently and compiled a list of classics for you! 

Stevie Wonder’s  “Isn’t She Lovely” 

Guns n’ Roses “Sweet Child O’ Mine” 

Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight”

Tim McGraw’s “My Little Girl”  

Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” 

Other classics include songs we’ve already mentioned, like “My Girl” and “What a Wonderful World.” 

Save the Best for Last 

Best of all, because you chose to have our live bands play for your special day, if you don’t see the song you want on our list, we’ll learn it! This is our way of guaranteeing that your Father/Daughter dance is as special as your relationship. No matter what song you choose, we’re sure it will be one that shows off the heart and soul of your Father/Daughter relationship – with your signature flair! 

wedding processional songs

Top Wedding Processional Songs to Set the Perfect Tone

Top Wedding Processional Songs to Set the Perfect Tone 2560 1709 adam Michaels

This is it. Your final moments as an unmarried person. All eyes are on you as you process down the aisle on the arm of whomever is “giving you away,” but the most important eyes are, of course, your partner’s. Your soon-to-be spouse is there, waiting for you at the other end of the aisle. Let’s face it, there are some who’ve dreamed about this moment their whole lives and can tell you immediately exactly what song is playing in their minds when they close their eyes and picture it. And kudos to them! We applaud the clarity of their vision!! But what if you close your eyes and you see the moment and you know how you want the music to make you feel or contribute to the ambiance, but you have no idea what song to actually pick for it? That’s where we come in! 

Around Town Entertainment isn’t just here to make sure your reception is the fun-filled dance party of your dreams, we’re here to help ensure that every part of your big day sounds the way you always dreamed it would. So if you’re feeling stuck trying to choose your processional song, we’re here to help make that decision a little easier. 

We’ll kick it off with some fun questions to get the ball rolling on your own creative juices first – after all, the best way to guarantee your day feels as personal as possible for you and your partner is to pick music that’s important and meaningful to you both! But of course, since a game of 20 Questions doesn’t always lead to total consensus, or sometimes just a dead end, we’ve listed a few of our favorite classics at the end. 

So, without further ado, let’s play! 

  • When did you and your partner meet? Was there a song that seemed to play all the time around the time you were falling in love? 
  • Do you and your partner have a favorite movie? Is there a song or part of the soundtrack you particularly love?
  • What about a favorite tv show? Is there a moment in the show that’s perfectly underscored that you both love?
  • Do the two of you have a favorite band or musical artist? Have you been to a concert together? 
  • Is there a song that your partner has told you makes them think of you? 
  • Is there a song that makes you think of your partner? 
  • Do you two just have a song that’s “yours”? Keep in mind that even if the song isn’t originally in a style you think is appropriate for a wedding processional, you have one of our award-winning live musicians – which means that the style of the song can be adjusted so the vibe more closely matches what you’re looking for, all while keeping the emotional impact of a song that’s important to the two of you! 
  • Were you ever in the car together and a certain song came on and you both just belted your faces off to it? Was there a song that brought you so much inexpressible joy to sing (potentially well, potentially horribly) together? 

Admittedly, that wasn’t technically 20 questions, but we hope that it got the ball rolling and some creative juices flowing for you and your partner! Even if nothing is coming to you right this minute, that’s ok – our brains are mysterious places, so don’t be afraid to just take a few days to let these questions simmer in the back of your mind. Play your favorite playlists (even better if you have a shared playlist) and just go about your life – the right song has a funny way of coming up on shuffle when you least expect it. 

Of course, sometimes our own playlists and memories aren’t the answer, or it’s crunch time and you don’t have a few days to think this one over. So the rest of this post is devoted to giving you a quick list of some of our favorite processional songs that consistently knock it out of the park – we promise they’ll have you and your guests feeling all the right emotions as you walk down the aisle! 

Our Favorite Wedding Processional Songs

“Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles 

“Over the Rainbow,” by Israel Kamakawiwo’

“I Choose You,” by Sarah Bareilles

“Rhythm of Love,” by Plain White T’s

“Dawn,” by Jean-Yves Thibaudet (You’ll know this one from 2005’s Pride & Prejudice) 

“A Thousand Years,” by Christina Perri 

“Your Song,” by Elton John

“The Luckiest” by Ben Folds

“Clair de Lune,” by Claude Debussy

“Canon in D,” by Pachelbel (A true classic in the wedding world) 

“Can’t Help Falling in Love,” by Elvis Presley 

“Falling Slowly,” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová (Iconically from Once – the film or the Broadway musical) 

“L-O-V-E,” by Nat King Cole

wedding entrance songs

Top Wedding Entrance Songs to Celebrate the Happy Couple

Top Wedding Entrance Songs to Celebrate the Happy Couple 909 631 adam Michaels

You did it! You got married! You’ve walked down the aisle, exchanged those heartfelt vows, and sealed the deal with a kiss. The cameras have flashed, the guests have mingled (and taken the opportunity to have a cheeky little cocktail and hors d’oeuvre), and now it’s time to eat, drink, be merry, and get your groove on! But in order to do that, you have to actually walk into the room where all your guests are eagerly awaiting that oh-so-special announcement: 

“Now announcing, for the first time, as (insert the description that works best for you and your partner), the new Mr./Mrs. & Mr./Mrs.___!!” 

Doors burst open! You’re there! It’s celebratory! Fun! Magical! THE official start of The Party. 

Please tell us there’s a song playing in your mind as that happens. While some couples choose to enter the room in relative silence, you did the smartest thing ever and hired our live wedding bands to play the most fun, toe-tapping, groove-thang-shaking bops around to get your guests excited and ready to dance the night away in celebration of your love! Which means, of course, that one of the fun moments you get to pick out music for is this: the Reception Entrance Song

Let’s dive into why choosing the perfect reception entrance song is an absolute must. First things first, it’s all about setting the tone. Your entrance song isn’t just some background noise; it’s the opening credits to the blockbuster movie that is your wedding reception. Whether you want to kick things off with a bang, set a romantic mood, or get everyone grooving on the dance floor from the get-go, your song choice sets the stage for the entire evening. Think about it – do you want your guests to feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale romance, a high-energy dance party, or a feel-good celebration of love? Your entrance song sets the tone for the entire night ahead.

Now, let’s talk personalization. This isn’t just any old party – it’s YOUR party. Your reception entrance song is a chance to showcase your personalities, your style, and your love story. Whether it’s a timeless classic that holds sentimental value, a modern hit that gets everyone pumped, or a quirky tune that’s uniquely ‘you,’ your song should scream ‘this is us!’ It’s a reflection of your journey together, your shared interests, and the love that brought you here today. Plus, let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good opportunity to show off their impeccable taste in music?

But hold on, we’re not done yet! Your reception entrance isn’t just about you; it’s about your guests too. Your song choice sets the vibe for the entire room, getting everyone hyped up and ready to celebrate. So why settle for silence when you could have your guests cheering and dancing along from the moment you walk in? Your entrance sets the pace for the rest of the evening, and a killer song choice ensures that the energy stays high and the party keeps rocking all night long.

Now, we know some of you are the “shy and retiring” types who don’t want a big entrance – and we get that! But we have news – on your wedding day, you’re the center of attention no matter what. Your guests are going to be waiting with baited breath for you to enter the reception and all eyes will be on you no matter what. Do you want your entrance to be silent, save for the clapping of your guests, or do you want a song to distract them and get them moving and grooving? Keep in mind, wedding dresses are not typically the lightest or easiest to maneuver in, so for those of you wearing one or walking with someone wearing one: take the time it would ordinarily take you to walk into a room and double it. In great news, Around Town’s live bands are exceptionally clever: for your entrance we’ll generally play the catchiest hook, verse and chorus for whatever song you choose, so the whole moment feels seamless and effortless! 

Of course, we couldn’t possibly leave you hanging without some suggestions to get your creative juices flowing for your epic and magical entrance! Choosing this song is a deeply personal choice, reflecting your unique personalities, preferences, and desired atmosphere for your celebration. So, without further ado, we’ve curated a list featuring both timeless classics and contemporary hits that could serve as fantastic options.

Our Favorite Wedding Entrance Songs

  1. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
  2. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole 
  3. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
  4. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
  5. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
  6. “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
  7. “Love on Top” by Beyoncé
  8. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder
  9. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
  10. “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles
  11. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
  12. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
  13. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves
  14. “I Do” by Colbie Caillat
  15. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

It’s important to consider various factors such as tempo, lyrics, and overall vibe to ensure the chosen song perfectly complements your vision for your entrance. But don’t forget to consider songs with personal significance or that capture the sheer joy and excitement of the moment. Ultimately, the ideal song is one that resonates deeply with both of you, creating a truly unforgettable entrance to your reception.

In short, your reception entrance song is the ultimate mood-setter, the perfect expression of who you are as a couple, and the key to kicking off the party of a lifetime. So don’t leave it to chance – crank up the volume, let the music speak for you, and get ready to make a grand entrance that nobody will ever forget!