This band is absolutely amazing! They were referred to us by my father in law and I am so glad that they were. The Lorio Ross group that manages them are very professional and will work with you to come up with exactly the type of night you want. They know what gets people up on the dance floor. My wedding was on New Years Eve, so, it was very important that the night was lively. The Jerry Ross Band knocked it out of the park. Everyone was dancing the night away! They can take any song and perfect it. Amazing work! At the end of the night, Gwen even made sure to come and ask my husband and I if we wanted anything else played. Awesome!

Thanks, from The Jerry Ross Band!

When we sat down to post for Music Monday, we really wanted to start that summer playlist. Gather up all the tunes that scream summer sensation. Bring on the clapping choruses and the whistling bridge, we’re definitely ready for those feel good beats. But we decided we couldn’t just skip right over the delightful season that is spring!

So… Happy Music Monday, readers. Open the windows and turn up the volume.

Click here to listen to the playlist in its entirety!

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

While the rest of us celebrate this Irish holiday with green beer and shamrocks, love takes center stage on the Emerald Isle. Kiss Me, I’m Irish, takes on a whole new meaning! Here are a few other Irish wedding traditions that keep Irish eyes smiling on the big day.

The Irish Wedding Band

The Claddagh Ring is the traditional ring of choice for Irish brides. When engaged, the ring is worn on the right ring finger with the heart facing in, towards the knuckle. Once married, the Claddagh ring is worn on the left ring finger. If the bride opts for an engagement right, it is good luck to have your birthstone included, even if that stone is otherwise unlucky.

The Irish Wedding Dress

While contemporary wedding trends in Ireland closely replicate other Western countries, traditionally the Irish bride wore a blue dress. In ancient times, it was blue that represented purity. Modern brides can take advantage of the growing trend for colored wedding dresses and incorporate a blue wedding dress to celebrate their Irish heritage!

Another tradition is the addition of Irish lace. You may not want your entire dress to be made of the intricate fabric but consider incorporating it in to your veil or don it as a handkerchief.

And while you may not wish for your dress to accidentally be torn on your wedding day, maybe you should! It’s a sign of luck in Ireland!

The Irish Wedding Toast

Irish Toasts and Proverbs are plentiful! Here are just a few of our favorites…

May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings,
Slow to make enemies,
Quick to make friends,
But rich or poor,quick or slow,
May you know nothing but
Happiness from this day forward. 

–

May the roof over your heads be as well thatched
As those inside are well matched.

–

Here’s to health, peace and prosperity. May the flower of love never be nipped by the frost of disappointment, nor shadow of grief fall among your family and friends.

Irish Superstitions

If you want extra luck on your big day, be sure to 1. wake to the sound of birds signing, 2. see 3 magpie birds, 3. hear a cuckoo, 4. accidentally tear your wedding dress and 5. have the sun shine on you! Don’t worry if you miss a few of these… but be sure to have a happily married woman put the veil on you. It is bad luck to put your veil on yourself. After the ceremony, it’s important that a man be the first to greet the bride and wish her joy. And if you’re planning on having children with your new spouse, look at the sun as you’re leaving your wedding and your children will be beautiful!

The Irish Wedding Dance

Consider starting the night off right with an Irish set dance. This is a great way to enjoy some traditional Celtic music, music with a rhythm your guests won’t be able to ignore! If your guests are not familiar with Irish dance, consider having a few traditional dancers there to provide some fun and quick lessons. Here’s a great video example of some Irish wedding dance fun!

Getting married this Saturday? How are you celebrating?

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

1. Girls Just Want To Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper

The Tune: Cyndi Lauper’s breakthrough hit, Girls Just Want To Have Fun resonates with women of all ages and is a pop-culture legacy of the 80s. With the song’s contagious beat, Lauper’s eccentric moves, and lyrics that are begging to be sung in masses, this tune is a great pick for our list!

The Groove: Lauper offers plenty of inspiration in the video. Think side stepping with bold arm movements, or fanning your skirt while you sway. The beat offers a perfect opportunity for a train, which should only encourage guests to belt out the lyrics of this feminist anthem.

2. Play That Funky Music – Wild Cherry

The Tune: A true one-hit-wonder with a title inspired by the times. For a band that normally played hard rock, this funk rock song really hit a chord with fans, propelling the tune to the top of the charts.

The Groove: Thanks to our friend, David, for these suggested dance moves: Step side to side while nodding your head to the beat. Singing along only in anticipation of the guitar solo at which you stop dancing to play your air guitar.

2. Feel So Close To You – Calvin Harris

The Tune: A classic club thumper with wistful lyrics makes this a great choice to get people to hit the dance floor! Bonus points for another surefire singalong chorus. This is Indie meets Dance at its best. We predict Feel So Close To You is going to be a popular request this wedding season.

The Groove: This song has a great, rhythmic, repetitious beat so go with it! As long as your moving in some sort of bouncy fashion, you should be good!

Be sure to check out the intense dubstep remix of Feel So Close To You from Nero… here.

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

Theme: Las Vegas Casino

Description: A really classic themed party, a Las Vegas Casino event offers myriad of options for entertaining your guests. From black jack and poker to palm readers and psychics, there is a lot you can do with this theme. There are endless options for decor, as well. And your guests can even be greeted by paparazzi! Let your imagination be as wild as Las Vegas herself!

Suggested attire: Cocktail attire.

Food and Drink: Finger foods and appetizers make great options for a theme that requires roaming! Let your guests nibble as they wait for their turn to roll the dice. Accompany these small plates with classic cocktails like martinis and daiquiris.

Décor: The bright lights of the Vegas strip adorn the entry; think lighted Casino sign and some $$$ signs buzzing with electricity. White entry columns are flanked by green palm trees. Custom table linens and chair covers compliment themed floral centerpieces, and the room is finished with large dice stacked around the ballroom.

Entertainment: The options for entertainment are endless. Black Jack, Poker, Craps and Roulette tables are the obvious choice. Other fun options include strolling Magicians and Airbrush Tattoo Artists. You could also give your guests the option of playing classic arcade and carnival games, think Pinball or Ski Ball. And don’t forget the Vegas Show Girls, adorned in beautiful costumes complete with those lovely and colorful headpieces.

Music: Offering your guests tunes spun by a talented DJ with the option of karaoke is a great way to keep the party interactive. If you want to put on a real show, consider a high-energy act like Dal Bouey.

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

1. Higher and Higher - Jackie Wilson

The Tune: Born in Detroit, Michigan (what’s not to love!), Jackie Wilson’s discography boasts a wealth of dance floor favorites. With a legacy of passionate performances and groovy moves, it’s no wonder he’s called Mr. Excitement. An inescapably contagious tune that’s a little ecstatic, this classic will be sure to get people on the dance floor.

The Groove: Time to go a little wild. Arms out, fingers snapping, hips and shoulders swaying with a good head tilt. And of course, sing along.

Watch on You Tube

2. Like A Prayer - Madonna

The Tune: Another Michigander, you really can’t go wrong with Madonna on your playlist. A pop-rock song with elements of gospel, Like A Prayer has a simple melody paired with an appealing contrast of sounds and textures.

The Groove: Crouch down with your legs apart and bend your knees outward. Sway your hips to the beat and use your arms to gyrate to the rhythm of the music. For the less flexible, try a simple side to side step and clap to the beat. An oldie but a goodie – Madonna style.

Watch on You Tube

3. 1999 - Prince

The Tune: A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-er, Prince is known for his flamboyant stage presence, over-the-top performances and stunning vocal range. 1999 offers dancer apocalyptic pop at it’s best – a true party theme.

The Groove: It’s the end of the world – go crazy.

4. Black & Gold - Sam Sparro

The Tune: A little bit electro-pop with an insistent pulse, Black & Gold is Aussie-American sensation Sam Sparro’s lead single off his self-titled album.

The Groove: A little bit Fred Astair, a little bit Mr. Roboto.

Watch on You Tube

5. Dancing Queen - ABBA

The Tune: Euro-disco triumph ABBA has a decidedly superstar legacy. Dancing Queen is only one of countless hits but still remains one of their most popular songs. This might be due in part to the fact that you’d be hard pressed to find a woman who won’t dance to it.

The Groove: Twirling. Twirling of any kind.

Watch on You Tube

6. Hey Ya - Outkast

The Tune: A song you cannot not sing along to. Hey Ya is a great mix of hip-hop and pop-rock with a dash of funk. It’s sad to think that in another 10 years, kids may not even know how to ‘shake it like a Polaroid picture’.

The Groove: Incessant jiggle with the occasional shimmy and properly timed clap.

Watch on You Tube

7. Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond

The Tune: If you like Bill Murray you know that there are two kinds of people in this world, those who like Neil Diamond and those who don’t… But in all seriousness, who doesn’t love this song!? With a great build-up, Sweet Caroline is the perfect mix of belt-it-out lyrics and poppy dance-ability.

The Groove: Swaying, some hugging, and a whole lotta shouting.

Watch on You Tube

8. Party Rock Anthem - LMFAO

The Tune: Party Rock Anthem… need we say more?

The Groove: Learn How to Shuffle!!!

Watch on You Tube

9. Billie Jean - Michael Jackson

The Tune: With a distinctive bass line and Jackson’s vocal “hiccups”, Billie Jean is a good crowd pleaser for both its singability and solid beat. Not too fast, not too slow.

The Groove: Moonwalk. Moonwalk in a circle. And if you can’t: shimmy, spin and pop-walk your little heart out.

Watch on You Tube

So, tell us! What should #10 be? We’ll post your responses next week.

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

We’ve booked some great gigs for this weekend! Whether you’re looking for live music here in the Detroit area or further afield, chances are there’s fantastic entertainment happening right where you are! Here’s a list of some of the best music this Friday and Saturday has to offer…

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Head over to your neighborhood Hamlin Pub to check out these great bands…

Clarkston

Friday: SPACE CATS

Saturday: ACOUSTIC REWIND

Lake Orion:

Friday: RON & ERIC

Rochester

Friday: DR. SMITH

Shelby

Friday: ZOO HIPPIES

Saturday: DIVERSITY

Van Dyke

Friday: PUNCH

Saturday: AUDIO MIND

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There’s always something fun happening in Ann Arbor. As restaurant week comes to a close, grab your friends and head to Weber’s Inn for this weekend’s awesome live entertainment…

Friday & Saturday

Chateau 

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Planning a special occasion or just looking for something a little swanky? Ocean Prime is your go-to place for the most talented musicians around. Check out the following locations for a variety of live music…

Atlanta

Friday & Saturday: GEORGE MARTIN

Denver

Friday: ERIC BLUMENFELD

Saturday: CHRIS RATHBUN

Tampa

Friday  & Saturday: ALLON SAMS

Dallas

Friday: SOAP BOX

Saturday: DANIEL ROCHA

Orlando

Friday: KRIS BROCATO

Saturday: KRIS BROCATO

Troy

Friday: SCOTTIE ALEXANDER

Saturday: HERBIE RUSS

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AND DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR AMAZING DUELING PIANO SHOWS!  HEAD OVER TO 526 MAIN IN DOWNTOWN ROYAL OAK FOR GREAT MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT.

Wishing everyone a fun-filled weekend!

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

Clearly, what makes a great love song is personal. It is part great melody and thought-felt lyrics but, for couples, it’s all about the setting. Perhaps Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers just happened to be playing when you first kissed or Home, from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes, was on in the pub when you accidentally tripped and bumped in to her, spilling her Herbal Sour all over the bar. (People meet in funny ways, okay?!).

As personal and sentimental as love songs can be, there must be other motivators behind the resurgence and staying power of classic love songs. For our band leaders, the consensus seems to be that popular culture has a pretty huge impact.

‘Take the movie, Father of the Bride, for instance. I remember shortly after that movie came out we were playing a wedding and some kids, maybe 10 or 11 years old, came up to request Build Me Up Buttercup. So we play it. And suddenly everyone is on the dance floor, and everyone is singing along. Kids, teenagers, grandparents. I mean everyone. Movie play a big part.’ Kim McKinney, L’USA

Think about all the great love songs featured in films! Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On was made famous by the movie Titanic. Everyone remembers the scene in Ghost that features The Righteous Brothers’ Unchained Melody. But not every wedding scene translates to a big wedding hit. As great as this scene is, I’m not sure this song  made any Top 10 lists.

Here are a couple of popular and long-standing wedding songs in their featured movie spotlight! Don’t you just love a good movie scene…

Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You

As Time Goes By, written by Herman Hupfeld

But here’s the thing… it isn’t just movies. Think for a moment about all the other avenues through which we’re exposed to music. How many times have you seen the latest Apple commercial and thought, ‘well that’s a catchy tune’. Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes Home was featured in a Palm commercial and became an instant hit. And while Etta James’ At Last has been a go-to wedding choice for, well, ever! The President and First Lady certainly didn’t do any harm choosing it as the song for their inaugural ball dance.

What is your favorite love song from a movie?

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

On Saturday they did just that. Senior Event Coordinator, Sandee Singer, booked The Association for a private function at The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids and they were a hit. Each year the Roskam Baking Company throws a corporate party and we’re always honored to provide the entertainment. Previous National Acts have included Joe Piscapo and Lovin’ Spoonful. This year Bob Jensen was also there to provide Lighting and Sound.

Joe Piscapo even made a special appearance!

For flashback’s sake, check out some retro The Association!

What’s your favorite The Association hit? Need to book a national act? Give us a call 248.398.9711

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross

We have executed countless themed parties and want to share our knowledge and expertise with you! We’re pretty sure the best way to do this is right here on the blog. We’re going to be sharing pictures of past events, making suggestions on decor, featuring great entertainment and presenting our best tips for tying it all together. Watch for these featured posts regularly. We’ll be titling them Planning Your Party (sums it up nicely, no?).

By far one of our favorite themes is Phantom of the Opera! It’s sophisticated, it’s mysterious, it’s classic! It’s also a very versatile theme. The story of Phantom of the Opera is romantic so it makes for a fantastic option if you’re looking to throw a themed wedding reception or a Valentine’s Day party. This theme also offers a great opportunity for decadence and luxury; a great option for holiday parties. To add even more mystery and glamour, use a Phantom of the Opera theme as the backdrop to your Masquerade Party.

Theme: Phantom of the Opera

Description: The most popular and  successful musical of all  times. Even if you haven’t seen the Phantom you know the story. The Phantom of the opera is the longest running show in Broadway history. You enter the Victorian world with the beautiful décor of theater  Red draping, Statues and Fountains with red carpet entrances and chandelier lighting . Setting the visual Impact that is breathtakingly unique.

Suggested attire: Formal black tie and beautiful gowns.

Food and Drink: French Cuisine with Champagne and Fancy Liqueurs

Décor: Red carpet & Red Draped Tie Back with Gold Tassels at entrance and in the corners of ballroom, Gold and Black Urns with Fresh Palms to flank entrance and place throughout ballroom, Tall Candelabra Centerpieces with Black Feathers and Red Roses, Red Drape Valence and Tie Back Gold Tassels with Large Mask

Entertainment: Orchestrated Ballroom dancing

We’re really excited about starting this new recurring feature and can’t wait to offer more suggestions on themed events. We want your questions and suggestions! If there’s a themed party idea you’d like us to cover – get in touch!

Lisa @ Lorio-Ross