At SouthWestBand, we're lucky enough to perform at some truly incredible weddings, but Harriet and Joe's big day was something special.
Set against the stunning backdrop of York Hospitium, we arrived early to walk around the surrounding gardens and soak up the atmosphere. Even grabbing a cheeky short video of the first dance with our acoustic guitars next to some ancient ruins.
As we set up for the gig, we had the pleasure of meeting the happy couple, who were both decked out in matching green and white hi top sneakers. From the very start, we knew this was going to be a fun and lively celebration.
Once the cake had been cut and the couple was ready, it was time for the first dance. The couple chose "Amazed" by Lonestar, a 90s country rock ballad which we started off slow and stripped back with just guitar and vocals for a romantic moment between the couple and some great photo opportunities. After the first chorus we kicked things up a notch and invited all the guests to join them on the dancefloor. From there, the party really took off! Our first set went down a storm, with great energy from all the guests, lots of singing along and dance moves.
During the DJ set, we had one guest who was the life and soul of the dancefloor. He approached us with a request for "Starships" by Nicki Minaj, which we just happened to have already loaded up and ready to go! The energy was high and the dance floor was packed, and it was time for the much-anticipated bouquet toss. The bride, Harriet, had been eyeing a special someone in the crowd all night, and with her bride squad gathered around her, she took a deep breath and launched the bouquet into the air. As the flowers soared across the room, it quickly became clear that Harriet's aim was slightly off on this occasion, and the bouquet was heading straight for a nearby gentleman who was engaged in conversation and completely oblivious to the proceedings. However, in a moment of pure serendipity, the man managed to catch the bouquet one-handed, without even looking, all while balancing a drink in his other hand. The crowd erupted in laughter and applause at the impressive feat, and it became a hilarious and unexpected highlight of the night. Though it may not have been the outcome Harriet had planned, it was a moment that added even more joy and humour to an already unforgettable celebration.
Our second live set was even more electric, with the whole room bouncing and singing along. During one song one of the bridesmaids even got up onstage, picked up a spare pair of sticks and joined our drummer Luke on the kit for a song!
As the night drew to a close, we took some classic singalong requests, including "Believe" by Cher, which went down an absolute treat and has now made it onto our "A tier" songs list. For the last tune of the night, we usually play the classic "New York" by Frank Sinatra, but tonight Joe had requested "Love Story" by Taylor Swift, which was a brilliant call. The whole crowd went wild for the country number, and the couple danced together for the last song with all their fantastic guests surrounding them.
It was an absolute pleasure to perform at Harriet and Joe's wedding, and we wish them all the best for the future. If you're planning your own wedding and looking for a function band to really get the party started, look no further than SouthWestBand!
First dance video here:
Acoustic first dance video here:
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