Grand Rapids Harpist ~ Wedding at Fallasburg Park

Katy & Jay made some unique and eclectic music choices for their ceremony.  There's no rule that says weddings have to be traditional!  The ceremony took place overlooking the river in Fallasburg Park in Lowell, Michigan (just East of Grand Rapids).  They provided a pop-up canopy for the harp, so that it wouldn't be affected by the sun or any rain that decided to appear.  Fortunately, the storms held off until later that night!

I always allow extra time to get to my weddings, which usually has me arriving quite early.  I read a lot of books!  This time, I also got to chat with the two 6- and 7-year-old ring bearers.  I told them how important their job was, because when they came in, it was my sign to switch to the music for the bride.  They were so excited to be a part of this wedding!

During the prelude, their requests included classical, folk, and popular music:

• Clair de lune
• At Last
• Shine on Harvest Moon
• Autumn Leaves
• O Danny Boy
• La paloma azul
• Greensleeves
• Scarborough Fair
• Kum ba yah
• Earth Angel

As the time got close to begin, the ring bearers ran up to tell me that they were going to go do their jobs now! 

The ceremony started as the judge performing the wedding (he is also a family friend) entered, followed by the parents of the bride & groom.  The bridesmaids, junior attendants, and ring bearers came down the aisle to "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin.  When the ring bearers were in place (they knew that was my cue!), the music changed to "'81" by the British harpist and singer Joanna Newsom.

They had three readings during the ceremony: "I Carry Your Heart with Me," "Litany," and "Where the Sidewalk Ends."  Following the readings was the lighting of the unity candle.  Instead of including their parents, they couple who introduced the bride and groom assisted, as I played "Beautiful Dreamer."  The recessional was "La Vie en Rose" by Louiguy.

In Grand Rapids and throughout West Central Michigan, I love to play the harp for weddings and parties!  Just visit my website, Grand Rapids Wedding Music, or call 1-877-HARP-578 to talk about including live harp music in your plans.