Tag: Entertainment

Charlottesville Spring Wedding

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Daisy and Stephen had a beautiful Charlottesville spring wedding with friends and family. April weddings in Charlottesville are gorgeous as we come out of winter weather and the greenery starts showing. The weather couldn’t have been better for Daisy and Stephen. They had a lovely ceremony at Christ Episcopal Church and then a great wedding reception at their private family farm.

big ray and the kool kats bride and groom Charlottesville spring wedding
big ray and the kool kats first dance Charlottesville spring wedding
big ray and the kool kats Big Ray
big ray and the kool kats singers best music band

The farm was transformed beautifully for this Charlottesville spring wedding reception, you could not even tell you were on a farm. Virginia Tent Rental provided an elegant clear frame tent that offered great views of the surrounding area. Decor from MS Events, Festive Rentals, and gorgeous floral designs by Gregory Britt Design brought the tent and Daisy and Stephen’s vision to life wonderfully. Lighting Professors put the finishing touches to the tent by adding romantic bistro lighting and Moravian stars. The lighting was especially spectacular after the sun went down, it was like dancing under the stars

Charlottesville spring wedding big ray and the kool kats
Charlottesville spring wedding big ray and the kool kats va tent rental ms events
big ray and the kool kats blue ridge event production gregory britt floral design meredith coe photography
big ray and the kool kats wedding meredith coe photography

It was wonderful to work with seasoned wedding planner, Hailey Beard Events, and Meredith Coe Photography for this beautiful Charlottesville spring wedding. As we always aim for a great party with every wedding and event we preform, this was a particularly fun one. Daisy and Stephen had friends and family from all over and when it came time to party, the dance floor was never empty! We particularly enjoyed seeing bride and groom dancing all night long and having a great time!

If you liked reading about this Charlottesville spring wedding, check out other weddings we performed for, March Wedding at the Boar’s Head Resort and Luxury Wedding at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards.

Planner: Hailey Beard Events

Photographer: Meredith Coe Photography

Cake/Dessert: Chandlers Bakery

Florals: Gregory Britt Design

Hair & Makeup: A More Beautiful You

Rentals: MS Events, Festive Rentals, Stonegate Event Rentals, Virginia Tent Rental

Lighting: Lighting Professors

Transportation: Camryn Limo

Why You Need the Best Richmond Wedding Band

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bride and groom dancing at wedding big ray and the kool kats

If you’re hiring a band, a great one has already performed at many weddings and can anticipate what you need without needing to ask for it. Hiring the best Richmond wedding band will ensure that you and your guests have the best party! And what better way to create an unforgettable atmosphere than by hiring the best Richmond wedding band? 

bride and groom The Jefferson Hotel
The Commonwealth Club
The Jefferson hotel wedding floral ideas

With exceptional talent, energy, and ability to keep the dance floor packed all night long, a top-notch wedding band will set the stage for a truly memorable celebration. Not only will a professional wedding band elevate the entertainment factor, but they will set the stage for an unforgettable night of dancing, effortlessly transitioning from easy, slow tunes to high-energy tracks that will get everyone on their feet. Whether you’re a lover of classic hits, contemporary jams, or a mix of both, the best Richmond wedding band will cater to your musical tastes, infusing your celebration with their infectious energy and making it a night to remember. With years of experience, an extensive repertoire, and an ability to read the crowd, the best Richmond wedding band will create a dynamic and personalized experience, tailored to your unique vision and taste.

Best Richmond wedding band Big ray and the Kool Kats
Big ray and the Kool Kats best richmond wedding band

With so many wedding bands to choose from, finding the perfect one might seem overwhelming. But with a little research and some careful consideration, you can find a band that aligns perfectly with your style and vision for your special day. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the entertainment can make or break the experience for you and your guests. A talented and professional band will not only play your favorite songs, but also engage with the crowd, read the vibe of the room, and keep the energy high throughout the night. So, if you want a wedding celebration that will be talked about for years to come, don’t settle for anything less than the best Richmond wedding band. 

Read about how we celebrated Bridget and Justin’s wedding at The Commonwealth Club! If you need help finding the perfect Richmond wedding venue check out our blog Richmond Wedding Venues.

Photos by Aaron Watson Photography

Unforgettable Wedding Moments: How the Best Live Band Sets the Tone for an Epic Celebration

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Band playing for crowd at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA

“Every Wedding Planner and Couples Dream

As a Wedding Planner, I get to work with some wonderful talent throughout the year. In September I got to work with one of the best out there. There is nothing that this talented group can not do for their couples and the pros that work beside them. Communication was fantastic and as a planner, most times this can be a challenge…”

When it comes to planning a wedding, couples want everything to be perfect and unforgettable. And one of the key elements that can set the tone for an epic celebration is the choice of entertainment. While DJs are a popular choice, hiring the best live band can truly elevate the experience to new heights. The best live band brings a unique energy and charisma to the event that simply cannot be replicated by a DJ. 

Musicians playing ceremony music at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA
Ceremony on top of mountain at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA

“…Transitions were seamless, sound quality perfection (outdoor reception), energy level from the whole band was perfect…”

Benefits of Hiring the Best Live Band

From the moment your guests arrive to the last dance of the evening, a live band can provide the perfect soundtrack for your special day. With their incredible talent and energy, the best live band can bring your wedding reception to life, no matter what the weather may be! They can play a wide range of music genres, from romantic ballads to high-energy dance hits, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. 

Singers and wedding guests singing at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA

“…That evening reception was frigid, but you would have never known that because they had everyone up on their feet, singing and dancing all night through…”

The Importance of Entertainment at Weddings

A live band adds a personal touch to the wedding. With their ability to interact with the audience and adapt to the mood of the moment, they create a connection that goes beyond just playing music. They become a part of the celebration, engaging the guests and making them feel like they are an integral part of something truly special. So, if you want to create unforgettable wedding moments, consider hiring the best live band. The energy and talent will ensure that your celebration is nothing short of extraordinary.

Singer singing for bride and groom at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA

“…Big Ray & the Kool Kats have jumped to the top of my recommendation list. From a professional standpoint, they check every box that a couple SHOULD BE LOOKING for in a band for their special day.”

Stacy, Burleson’s Big Day Events

This review means so much to us because as a professional wedding band, our goal is not only making sure that the guests have fun, but that working with us is as smooth as possible! 

If you want to learn more about planning a great wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, call Big Ray at 434-960-4595 or email bigrayandthekoolkats@gmail.com.

??Photography| Carly C Photography

Planner & Florals| Burleson’s Big Day Events

Venue & Catering| Wintergreen Resort

Hair & Makeup| Island Glow

Band| Big Ray and the Kool Kats

Rentals| Riverwood Events and Catering, Argent Events

Lighting| Blue Ridge Event Production

Best Motown Songs for Weddings

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best motown songs for weddings

If you are looking for those right tunes for all ages at your wedding to enjoy, Motown music produced a large range of classics that are still loved today! The best Motown songs for weddings are those easily recognizable, upbeat tunes that every generation knows. Motown was originally a record label founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in 1960, in Detroit, Michigan. The name “Motown” is a blend of “motor” and “town,” a nickname associated with Detroit, a huge auto city.

Motown features key combinations of soul, jazz, and blues, marking it with upbeat tempos, catchy rhythms, and iconic lyrics. The best Motown songs for weddings are the ones with upbeat tunes that everyone can sing and dance to. 

My Girl | The Temptations

Released in 1965, My Girl is a fantastic choice for weddings. This song is easily a top favorite for the First Dance or Father/Daughter dance.

Ain’t Too Proud to Beg | The Temptations

Hit single by Grammy Award winner The Temptations, Ain’t Too Proud to Beg is a well-known and well loved crowd favorite. It is a song that is sure to get all on the dance floor.

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough | Marvin Gaye

This happy, high energy vibe song is a must for best Motown songs for weddings. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough is a romantic, danceable song that provides timeless moments with you and your guests.

Sign, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) | Stevie Wonder

You can’t have a list of the best Motown songs for weddings without listing Sign, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) by Stevie Wonder. This song was listed #1 on US Best Selling Soul Singles for a reason. It is a popular choice for many occasions during your wedding. It is a favorite among bridal parties for entrances, bride and grooms for ceremony recessionals, and more!

I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honeybunch) | The Four Tops

One of the most well-known Motown songs of all time and Billboard’s R&B top hit. I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honeybunch) is a spirited and fast-paced tune that is perfect for any wedding reception.

I Want You Back | Jackson 5

Definitely a song that gets people out of their chairs and on the dance floor. I Want You Back is a must have for best Motown songs for weddings. Guests of all ages love it and will dance to it!

If you liked reading this, check out other luxury weddings we performed for, Wedding at The Clifton and Luxury Wedding at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards.

If you want to learn more about planning a luxury wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, call Big Ray at 434-960-4595 or email bigrayandthekoolkats@gmail.com.

Christmas with Elvis

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Matt Lewis as Elvis singing on stage

Christmas with Elvis is a musical performance for all who love live shows and want great entertainment for the holidays with friends and family! This great holiday tour happens every December and is one of the many other exciting events that Big Ray and the Kool Kats perform.

Christmas with Elvis stars Matt Lewis, who was named “Best Elvis in Las Vegas” by USA Today, and features Charlottesville’s own Big Ray and the Kool Kats as The Long Live the King Orchestra. Matt Lewis hails from none other than Las Vegas, Nevada, the live show music capital of the world! 

Matt Lewis and his Long Live The King Orchestra take you on a musical journey through the decades of the life of Elvis Presley. Starting with the early years at Sun Records in Memphis and traveling through to the bright lights of the Las Vegas strip. 

Christmas with Elvis doesn’t just happen in Charlottesville, VA, but also tours all up and down the east coast. 

The Paramount Theater, Charlottesville, VA 

The Tin Pan, Richmond, VA

The Landis Theater, Vineland, NJ

Bob Watts Photos

The Appalachian Theatre, Boone, NC

Weldon Mills Theatre, Roanoke Rapids, NC

Matt has also entertained audiences all around the world as Elvis and almost every major city in the United States. Numerous publications have praised and spotlighted Matt’s talents. Matt has been seen in Leisure Weekly, Las Vegas Magazine, and many more!

You will many holiday classics, such as Blue Christmas, Here Comes Santa Claus, If Every Day Could be Just like Christmas (0:44) and more! After the holiday set, you will hear all of Elvis’ great hits, such as Burnin’ Love (1:36), Suspicious Minds (1:08), and many, many, more!

There is no better talent than Matt Lewis to pay tribute to the great legacy of Elvis Presley. So come on out with family and friends and get in the holiday spirit with Christmas with Elvis!

Luxury Wedding at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

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Ceremony at Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards

Catherine and Zack had a gorgeous, luxury wedding at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards on November 10, 2023 with friends and family. Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is the premier, luxury wedding venue in Central Virginia, named “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast. This unique vineyard not only serves the finest crafted wine and culinary dishes, but provides a breathtaking backdrop for weddings at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Catherine looked beautiful in her elegant, ball gown dress by Monique Lhuillier Bride, one of America’s prominent designers in fashion and creativity. Catherine’s look was completed with hair done by Valeska Williams, top media and fashion hairstylist, and makeup by Carolyn Thombs, owner of Lipstick and Chiffon. Catherine and Zack had expert, luxury wedding planner Adam Donovan-Groves, the “Ultimate Master Wedding Planner” by Vogue Magazine. Adam knows Pippin Hill like the back of his hand and helped make Catherine and Zack’s day seamless. Lush florals and greenery were provided by Southern Blooms, and couture tabletop settings by Nüage Designs and calligraphy by If So Inklined. The cohesive details truly brought Catherine and Zack’s luxury wedding vision to life. Expert shooting was provided by Gideon Photography, and we always work with the photographer to get that special “kodak moment.”

You could feel the love and support for Catherine and Zack. Catherine’s sister gave a heartfelt speech and Zack’s Dad wrote and performed a song just for them. When it was time to dance, the dance floor was never empty. Guests of all ages were on the dance floor, singing along to every song. From Taylor Swift to The Temptations, we played all the crowd favorites. We ended the night with Catherine and Zack’s special song, Teenage Dream by Katy Perry (at 1:26 in the video below).

Catherine and Zack had a wonderful, luxury wedding and we are honored to have been part of their day.

If you liked reading this, check out other luxury weddings we performed for, Wedding at The Clifton and Wedding at Farmington Country Club.

If you want to learn more about planning a luxury wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, call Big Ray at 434-960-4595 or email bigrayandthekoolkats@gmail.com.

Venue & Caterer| Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

Planner| Donovan-Groves Events

Photographer| Gideon Photography

Dress| Monique Lhuillier Bride

Cake/Dessert| Cakes by Rachel

Florals| Southern Blooms

Hair & Makeup| Valeska Williams, Lipstick and Chiffon

Rentals| MS Events, Nüage Designs

Stationery| If So Inklined

Transportation| Cville Travel

Wintergreen Resort Wedding

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Band playing at Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA

Brittney and Daniel got married on September 30, 2023, surrounded by gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Wintergreen Resort. Wintergreen Resort is the ultimate, luxury, four-season vacation spot with spacious condominiums and thrilling recreation, all in the heart of nature. Brittney is a competitive ski racer, so getting married at Wintergreen Resort where skiing is one of the specialties, was the perfect backdrop for her special day. Brittney and Daniel had the perfect set up at Blue Ridge Overlook with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains providing a breathtaking setting for their ceremony. Every loved one was there and included in their wedding, even the furry one.

Brittney looked beautiful in her elegant, long-sleeved dress, with hair and makeup by Island Glow, and complimented by a lovely bouquet provided by Burleson’s Big Day. Expert photography was taken by Carly C Photography with lighting and rentals provided by Blue Ridge Event Production,  Riverwood Events and Catering, and Argent Events, and wonderful catering service by Wintergreen Resort.

Guests enjoyed cocktail hour at the Blue Ridge Terrace, where the festivities continued well into the night. The reception setting was a beautiful mix of dusty orange and gold, perfect colors to compliment the scenery and Brittney and Dan’s styles. It got a little chilly, but that did not deter the party! Guests danced all night to Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, The Temptations, and many more. 

If you liked reading about this Wintergreen Resort wedding, check out other weddings we performed for, Wedding at The Clifton and Wedding at Farmington Country Club.

If you want to learn more about planning a great wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, call Big Ray at 434-960-4595 or email bigrayandthekoolkats@gmail.com.

??Photography| Carly C Photography

Planner & Florals| Burleson’s Big Day Events

Venue & Catering| Wintergreen Resort

Hair & Makeup| Island Glow

Band| Big Ray and the Kool Kats

Rentals| Riverwood Events and Catering, Argent Events

Lighting| Blue Ridge Event Production

Planning Your Wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats

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Big Ray and the Kool Kats take pride in delivering great music, entertainment, and providing  excellent service that caters to each couple. Big Ray takes every wedding very seriously and plans each wedding with the couples, and the planner, meticulously. Planning your wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats is stress free. Big Ray meets with you, takes time to understand your musical vision, and works with you on how you can have a great party for all your guests. A fun story Big Ray likes to tell his brides is his Taylor Swift story.

“I’m a Swifty!”

Big Ray met this couple through a mutual friend of his and that was the first thing the bride said to him. He had no idea what that meant at the time. Big Ray and the Kool Kats traditionally play Motown, 80s, 90s, and country hits, but also play modern pop hits!

“If you don’t know one of a “special” song, why don’t you just play it recorded?”

Big Ray gets asked this many times and why would he go through the trouble. First of all, it is no trouble at all. Big Ray and the Kool Kats is more than happy to go the extra mile for any couple if it means they get the wedding of their dreams. That includes learning any song that is meaningful to the couple or family.

Musical moments to think about as you plan.

Big Ray will help you plan your special musical moments as you plan your wedding. Keep your entrance and introductions fun, upbeat, clean; they set the mood for the evening. Your first dance as a couple should be to a song that is meaningful to both of you. Just like Big Ray and the Kool Kats does, insist the band rehearse it and play it live flawlessly. Not too long, 3 minutes is just about perfect for the wedding photographer to get that once in a lifetime shot. Big Ray never suggests doing choreographed dances, it is more work and pressure on you as the couple, sometimes it is easier to just flow with the music.

Father/Daughter dance? Let Dad have whatever he wants here. It’s a big day for him as well. Mother/Son? Same as Dad, let Mom have whatever she wants. Other family dances? Your wedding band will have lots of ideas.

Communicate well ahead of time (months even) with your wedding bandleader, make sure they understand your musical vision for the evening, and let the professionals go to work. It will be a better party. It’s a promise! Planning your wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats is fun, seamless, and unforgettable.

A Jewish Wedding at The Willard InterContinental, Washington D.C.

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Elizabeth and Robert got married at the iconic, 5-star The Willard Hotel InterContinental hotel on July 8, 2023. Known for its luxurious accommodations and historic significance, The Willard InterContinental Hotel has been a favored venue for various high-profile events, including weddings. With its beautifully adorned ballrooms and elegant spaces, the hotel provided the perfect backdrop for their special day. 

They had a unique wedding that beautifully blended Caroline’s Jewish heritage and vibrant New York wedding style. New York has always been its own center of culture, history, and unique experiences, weddings especially. In New York, weddings have a distinct flow that keeps the energy high and the party atmosphere alive. 

How is a Jewish Wedding Celebrated?

A Jewish wedding reception in particular is a highly structured and time-sensitive event that requires careful attention. Instead of having a traditional seated dinner and long speeches all at once, the evening is divided into multiple dance sets, each lasting no more than 30 minutes. In between these sets guests enjoy dinner, toasts, and special dances, creating a dynamic and engaging celebration.   

It can be challenging for many bands to keep up with the fast-paced and precise nature of a Jewish wedding, and Big Ray and the Kool Kats has the experience needed to handle this flawlessly. 

What Happens at a Jewish Wedding?

A Jewish wedding is a unique and joyous celebration that typically includes various traditional customs and rituals. The celebration goes on well into the night. We started with bridal introductions and then Elizabeth and Robert’s first dance kicked off the start of the evening with a full dance floor. We made sure to play all of the great hits, as seen in the review by the bride’s father, who wrote it without us having to even ask for a review! 

“Big Ray and the Kool Kats played at our daughter’s wedding at the Willard Hotel in Washington DC. From the first song until the last, the dance floor was packed. So many people came up to us and said it was the best wedding band they had ever seen. The horn section was incredible and all the musicians were very talented. They played everything: old standards, 60’s hits, Motown, disco/70’s stuff, Hava Nagila, Country, Taylor Swift, The Killers.  We also really appreciated the diverse set of talented vocalists. They were very energetic and enthusiastic. Prior to the wedding my wife, daughter, son-in-law, and I agreed that Ray was personable, interested in our views, and very easy to work with. I don’t think you can go wrong by hiring Big Ray and the Kool Kats.”

Marc G., Father of the Bride

After a short break, the party kept going and guests were eager to get back on the dance floor. One of the highlights of a Jewish wedding is the Hora, a favorite of ours to perform. Now, I always insist that the couple be lifted by strong men, such as the groomsmen (isn’t assisting the bride and groom their job anyway?) because especially at The Willard, the chairs are unbelievably heavy. This tradition is always a favorite for family and guests alike. The party never stopped and the dance floor was never empty. What a great night and as always, Big Ray and the Kool Kats is forever grateful to have been part of a couple’s special day!

If you liked this, check out other weddings we performed for, The Willard InterContinental Wedding, Washington D.C. and Wedding at Farmington Country Club.

If you want to learn more about planning a great wedding with Big Ray and the Kool Kats, call Big Ray at 434-960-4595 or email bigrayandthekoolkats@gmail.com.

5 Questions You Should Absolutely Ask Your Wedding Music Band

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You should always ask your live music band questions! You want to know what you are paying for and who you are getting. Hiring a crowd pleasing wedding music band is a big step in wedding planning and you want to make sure you hire the right one. A band of professional musicians who regularly rehearse and perform together is exactly what keeps your dance floor full. Be sure your wedding music band meets the standards you expect from all your vendors to ensure a great party!  Below are a few questions you should ask when deciding on your wedding music band.

How Much Does a Wedding Music Band Cost?

Every wedding music band has different costs and packages. Ask what those packages and costs are to see what fits your musical vision the best. Don’t just look at a price tag, research, study and understand what value the wedding music band brings. Check out You Want a Full Dance Floor to understand how to guests on the dance floor and have a great night!

When Can you Speak with the Band Leader?

Kyla Jeanette Photography

Whether you found this band online or through an agency, you want to meet who will actually be at your wedding and have that connection, so you know that band is the right fit for you. How can I get in touch with him or her?

What is the Band’s Experience with Weddings?

The amount of times a band has performed at a wedding does not matter as much as how flexible, professional, and responsive the band is to your needs and specifications for your wedding. The band may have played thousands of weddings, but each and every one is different.  How they planned for last week’s wedding will be completely different than how they plan for your wedding. Check out Why is Live Music Important to see why you should have live music at your wedding.

does the Wedding Music Band Change Musicians a Lot?

Consistency is key. Many bands have a lot of personnel changes, so you will want to ask your band how often their musicians change, if they do at all. Some bands are actually not really a “band” but rather part of a franchise that assembles musicians, some of whom might not even know each other. A professional wedding music band has regular members will provide the top tier experience you want for your guests…something just not possible with a thrown together group.  

Will the Band Learn New Songs for Your Wedding?

Kyla Jeanette Photography

Ask if the wedding music band is willing to learn new songs, it will show that the band is flexible and willing to work for your wedding. What is the process for adding requests and even working with a “Do not play list”?

The photo above is a prime example because when I first met the bride, one of the first things she said to me was, “Ray, I’m a Swiftie.” I never knew what that was, but I do now and I made sure to invite the bride and groom on stage!