On Saturday, May 28th, 2011 I played for my second wedding and reception that day at the Diplomat Hotel and Country Club. I started at the Country club where Allison & Steven Salkeld were married outside surrounded by lush landscaping, tropical fountains, and 100 guests. What a breath taking/picturesque setting for a wedding ceremony. I played Cannon in D for the four bridesmaids and Allison to walk to and then I played something very different for the recessional, a song titled "This Will Be Our Year" by The Zombies! It fit the personalities of the newlyweds, fun & easy going. Everyone was then invited back to the Diplomat Hotel where they were greeted by steel drum music provided by Brian Henry of Eddie B & Company. The cocktail hour took place on the terrace outside the Crystal Room over looking the ocean, and there was a delicious mini buffet with all types of goodies, for the guests to enjoy. Then the real party started. I felt the buzz as everyone entered the room which was accented in Amber uplighting provided by Eddie B & Company. The bridal party was introduced to "It's Your Thing" by Mofro and I must say the entire room was in a festive mood as each couple I introduced did a little dance for their entrance. Allison and Steven then danced to "Hotel Yorba" by White Stripes ( I told you this couple had a unique taste in music), and they brought all the guests to their feet with a special dance routine! The toasts were presented by Melissa Warren (Sister of the bride), and the best man Matthew White. Both were fun and serious and very emotional. The parents dances were also out of the ordinary. Allison danced with her father David, to "Forever Young" by Bob Dylan, and Steven danced with his mother Cynthia, to "Mama Tried" by The Grateful Dead. Again, they both received a standing ovation! After dinner I kicked it up a notch and played everything from Marvin Gaye, Barry White, and Earth, Wind & Fire to Chris Brown, Flo-rida, and the Black Eyed Peas! I enjoyed playing for a group of partygoers that appreciated what I was doing and I rolled the dance floor until 1 AM. The final song, "Friends In Low Places" by Garth Brooks, and the only Country song I played that night. The cake cutting was interesting, with "When I'm 64" by The Beatles playing in the background Allison & Steven decided to get into a little cake smooshing and started chasing one another around the cake table. I want say hats off to the entire staff I had the pleasure of working with that night. Everyone, from the bartenders to the waiters & waitresses, and the banquet staff was very helpful and accomodating towards the guests and the vendors. Five Stars all the way for the Diplomat Hotel! Finally I want to say THANK YOU to Allison & Steven for making me a part of their special day and a night I won't forget. Enjoy your honeymoon in Italy......DJ/MC Eddie B!