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Here we are, in the lobby of the Toll House Hotel, in Los Gatos.
We’re entertaining at the hotel’s “Wedding Faire”, talking with people about making wedding music plans.
This was a wonderful afternoon. I met a good number of brides, as well as new event professionals. Thanks to my friend Amy Frugoli, of Twitterpated Weddings, who posted this nice photo on her blog.
Wedding Faires are interesting events. In a few hours, I speak with MANY brides-and-grooms-to-be about their wedding music plans. They begin nearly all our conversations with one of two questions, usually in this order:
- Are you available on —– date?
- What’s your fee?
Not very productive questions, I’m afraid. My answers are always, “We’ll, it depends on the time, or the location, or the size of the band you want, or …
Actually, my own favorite conversation opener for wedding music plans is “Tell me about the mood you want at your wedding”. Here we can see if we ought to begin discussing their options. Like time, location, size, and especially how to select the perfect music for their celebration.
More about selecting wedding music plans in a moment. But first, a few related thoughts. They’ll all come together soon, I promise.
This has been one of those weeks where lots of random thoughts form a pattern. This week it’s all about “simple pleasures”.
Where to begin? I recall hearing radio & TV medical authority, Dr Dean Edell, once comment on dogs chasing their tails, children swinging or spinning around til they got dizzy, cats eating catnip, youthful pot-smoking, and adults having a drink. Just a few familiar examples of normal animals altering their consciousness.
All human cultures (maybe all animals, for that matter) seem to have a way to elevate the spirit, all pursuing a simple pleasure. We might call it “playing”, though some consequences might be dangerous.
Then a friend recently announced the 50th anniversary of the Barbie Doll. Another simple pleasure — Barbie dolls, teddy bears, beanie babies, and “blankies”. Kids love ‘em, as though their life’s mission is to find friends and take care of them.
Actually, not such a bad idea — can this simple notion be the “Meaning of Life” after all?
Could be worse.
Last Monday I bought a book written by one of my favorite podcasters, Mark Bittman, the well-known food critic, TV personality, and New York Times columnist. In the Introduction of How to Cook Everything, he explains why “simple things are best” — they tend to taste best and be best for you, too.”
Finally, for years now I’ve liked the pattern of working hard and relaxing hard. Recently I enjoyed one of those relaxing days. It was a tune-up, to “re-charge my batteries”. Like a carpenter pausing to sharpen his saw, I joined thousands of eager people attending the “Get Motivated” seminar at the HP Pavillion, in San Jose.
What an amazing day! From 8am-5pm I listened to eight world-famous champions speaking in person about what it takes to be successful. Speakers included Olympic champion Michael Phelps, economist Steve Forbes, health expert Dr Earl Mindell, former New York mayor Rudi Giuliani, former Secretary of State Gen. Colin Powell, and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar.
Their topics ranged widely — from complex issues of financial management to simple issues of treating people fairly. Each speaker gave us tons of ideas and inspiration for greater productivity and success.
Currently my favorite advice of the day is Zig Zieglar’s notion that “You can have everything you want in life if you’ll just help enough other people get what they want.”
How straightforward can you get?
Ah, if only life were always so simple! Wouldn’t we be better off? Is this really the meaning of it all?
Actually, my life IS pretty simple. I make a living leading a band that helps people have a good time. Before their weddings and parties, I help them plan the perfect music. Then at their celebrations, our passion and enthusiasm helps all their guests get into the swing of things.
So here’s a tip. I’ve found that successful celebrations depend on the right music. And selecting the right music depends on first getting a clear understanding of what festive mood you want. First plan this, and then choosing your music will be easy!
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The Magnolia Jazz Band entertains at weddings and parties throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. If you are ever nearby, you’ll love catching us in action, seeing and hearing us create a great mood.
In the meantime, please join our Magnolia Jazz Band fans on Facebook. You’ll receive daily tips for planning wedding and party music and get reminders for our public events.
Thanks for reading my blog. I appreciate your interest and hope you get a few good ideas here. Please write me a little COMMENT and continue this conversation. I’ll reply to you, and so will others who share your interest. You’ll make new connections.
Do you know a friend who needs help selecting wedding or party music? Do them a favor. Please SHARE this article. Or POST in on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Google+. And if you find this blog useful, please LIKE it, TWEET it, and SUBSCRIBE for more of my thoughts. Use those little icons below.
Thanks for reading this article. I appreciate your interest and hope you get a few good ideas here. Got one or two? I'd love to hear what you liked. Please write me a little COMMENT below. Start a conversation -- I'll reply. Promise.
By the way, does a friend need help selecting wedding or party music? Do them a favor: EMAIL this article, or SHARE it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Google+.
And if you find my blog useful, please LIKE it, TWEET it, and SUBSCRIBE for more ideas. Use those cute little icons below.
Meanwhile, the Magnolia Jazz Band entertains at weddings and parties throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. If you are ever nearby, you’ll love catching us in action, seeing and hearing us create a great mood.
How can I help you? Call 408-245-9120 or use Robbie@MagnoliaJazz.com. Planning a celebration? Ask about our availability.
