Wedding DJ Hampshire Archives

Life Sounds Better To Music ~ May 2020

1st June 2020/0 Comments/in Music, New Music, Uncategorised/by Paul

Life Sounds Better To Music ~ May 2020. We come to the end of another month in the year that promised so much … then took a major detour. Life has started to return to the new normal (whatever that’s going to be) and, as always, I’ve got a lot to be thankful for. New music seems to be slowing down, which I guess is inevitable under the circumstances. Here are some new and old things that have been in my ears during May.

Badly Drawn Boy ~ I’ll Do My Best

Damon Michael Gough, aka Badly Drawn Boy, is an act that I came to late. I’ve never been fortunate enough to see him play live. He’s someone I turn to when I need a musical hug. My friend Chris Haslam has been sharing his playlist over the recent months and he’s responsible for me finding this and the Baxter Dury below. Thanks Chris.

I’ll Do My Best is from the first Badly Drawn Boy album in eight years. As well as this track from the album, you can also see a fascinating short video called ‘Supersize Your Soul: The Story of Banana Skin Shoes’ if you CLICK HERE

Nathan Dawe ~ Flowers (featuring Jaykae)

A not-so-new new release, apparently from the end of last year – but new to me. Actually I think this isn’t the mix I heard but it’s the nearest I can find.

Originally a hit for Sweet Female Attitude in 2000. Apparently the song uses the same chord sequence as Erik Satie’s well know classical piece Gymnopedie 3.

If you know a softer/Glitterbox/Tropical House style mix of this UK Garage classic, PLEASE let me know.

Baxter Dury ~ I’m Not Your Dog

New to me, Baxter is the son of Ian Dury. He actually appears on the cover of his dad’s iconic ‘New Boot and Panties’ album. ‘The Night Chancers’ by Baxter Dury is the other recommendation, from my friend Chris Haslam. Another that made a big impact on my May playlist. His vocal style is so much like his Dad’s, ‘I’m Not Your Dog’ is a great example of this.

Neil Finn featuring Stevie Nicks & Christine McVie ~ Find Your Way Back Home

One of my all-time heroes released a new track at the end of the month. Mr Finn of Crowded House fame, and more recently a member of Fleetwood Mac, wrote the song for the homeless of population of Auckland in New Zealand and the Auckland City Mission which works to support them.

The song features Stevie Nicks sharing the lead vocals and Christine McVie on backing vocals.

It’s beautiful.

Prince ~ I Wanna Be Your Lover ~ Dimitri From Paris Remix

OMG! This remix is from way back, but I hadn’t heard it until it featured on a recent Glitterbox Radio podcasts. One of my favourite Prince tracks remixed by one of my favourite remixers – Dimitri From Paris. Ignore the Dimitri from Stoke tag on the video – that’s probably to reduce the possibility of it getting taken down). THIS is absolutely my favourite find of the month.

And that, dear listener, is Life Sounds Better To Music ~ May 2020. I must confess it was hard to find four tracks this month. Maybe it’s the lack of new releases or maybe it’s just me. If you have some stand out new music on your playlist, or have any thoughts about these, please get in touch – paul@thepartydj.co.uk.

You can my posts for January, February, March and April by clicking on the month – highlighted in blue. Or try typing Life Sounds Better To Music in the search window.

I wish you peace, love and music in June as I raise my mug of tea to you ~ cheers! x

August Weddings

5th March 2018/0 Comments/in Wedding Tips/by Paul

What makes August Weddings so popular?

It’s summer and lots of people are taking holidays which can be a mixed blessing because some of your guests may already have plans. We got married on the August Bank Holiday at the end of the month so I’ve always thought of it as peak season.

Of course this is England so great weather still can’t be guaranteed, here are the headlines…

Temperatures ~ August daytime temperatures will generally reach highs of around 22°C (72°F). At night the average minimum temperature drops down to around 13°C (56°F). In recent times the highest recorded temperature in August has been 35°C (95°F), with the lowest recorded temperature 5°C (41°F).

Rain ~ the average monthly amount of precipitation has been recorded at around 38 mm, that’s 1 inches. Throughout the month you can expect to see rain or drizzle falling on 14 days of the month.

Sunshine ~ expect the sun to shine for an average of 7 hours per day.

Some couples steer clear of the summer months because they don’t want their plans to be ruined by rain, as always the important thing is to have a “Plan B”.

To get the full rundown on what myweather2.com think about the weather for August Weddings in the Hampshire and New-Forest area CLICK HERE

Because it school holiday month August Weddings probably need to be booked sooner so that everyone gets those important “Save The Date” cards. For some couples planning smaller celebrations it’s probably not such a big deal. There have never been more options for weddings than we have now – what is right for you is what is important.

The pictures in this blog were taken at August Weddings held at Winslowe House CLICK HERE, The Beaulieu Hotel CLICK HERE, Bartley Lodge CLICK HERE and Skylark CLICK HERE. All four are good venues, a couple of them are exceptional in my opinion – if you’d like to know more please get in touch ~ paul@thepartydj.co.uk

My Mission To Stamp Out Boring Weddings

26th February 2018/0 Comments/in Soap Box/by Paul

My Mission To Stamp Out Boring Weddings … I just want to help, it’s as simple as that.

Planning a wedding is not easy and you have probably never done it before. You have to find out what you need and what want and work out how it’s all going to happen – scary stuff! Speaking to your married friends and finding out about their experiences is one great way to start and so is finding suppliers you like and getting their advice is another. I’ve seen hundreds of weddings and have lots of experience and knowledge that I’m happy to share.

I originally made this video back in 2016 after I’d given my “I’m On A Mission To Stamp Out Boring Weddings” talk at Toastmasters. I found it again and re-edited to share again – it’s still just as relevant and I still feel just as passionately about it.

You’ll find lots of great advice on the bookcase page of my website CLICK HERE and also in this blog – there’s even a search function here so you can look for specific articles, or you can just drop me an email or call me! Obviously I’d love to be considered to provide the entertainment for your big day but if I can just help by telling you a few tips I’ll be happy too.

So that’s My Mission To Stamp Out Boring Weddings. As the song goes …

“Winter, Spring Summer or Fall, all you’ve got to do is call, and I’ll be there, yes I will. You’ve got a friend” 😉

Thank You 2017

31st December 2017/0 Comments/in Looking Back/by Paul

Thank You 2017, you’ve been amazing!

OK, maybe it’s a bit silly to say thank you 2017 but it has been a fun year and looking back I’m happy with how things worked out. I was thrilled to be ask to play for two of my previous brides as they celebrated “significant” birthdays, perform at a couple of great engagement parties and, of course, play a part in many wonderful WOW weddings! I also got to work at many of my favourite venues alongside many of my favourite suppliers. I continued with study, training and even did a couple of events as a speaker to help other DJ’s. It was a year full of “stuff” and another year where many unexpected changes and opportunities have brought me to a new place and a new plan for 2018… but more about that next year 😉

The year started with lots of wedding fairs/fayres/showcases and WOW events and a couple of birthday parties. There was Maxine’s 40th, then I was back at my Christmas venue The Port House for Sam’s 30th party.

In the Spring I was delighted to DJ for Vickie and Gemma’s engagement party and am looking forward to their wedding in 2018. It was great to see Karen and Ian, their friends and family again (I did their wedding in 2013) as Karen celebrated her 60th. Then it was Charlotte and Sam’s wedding and reception at The Marwell Hotel. They wrote a wonderful testimonial for me CLICK HERE.

In June there was Hannah and Alex’s stunning reception at Norton Park following their church wedding.

July started with Bex and Alex’s beautiful wedding with a church ceremony followed by a marquee reception set in the beautiful English countryside. They did another great testimonial for me CLICK HERE.

Highlights in August included Katherine and Sinbad’s wedding at The Tithe Barn CLICK HERE to see my blog post and their feedback It was also really great to be invited to the first showcase at Manor Court Farm – this venue is AMAZING! For more information PLEASE CLICK HERE Angie and Dean finally tied the knot at The Master Builders and Lucas celebrated his 21st with a huge black tie diner and dance in a marquee party at home.

September highlights included Amina and Tarik at the magnificent Tylney Hall Then there was another engagement party, this time for Libby and Glenn – I wonder if I’ll get there wedding?

October saw two brilliant weddings. Rachael and Remi at Woodland’s Lodge. It was another day full of different World traditions. The second was very special as I’ve known the bridegroom Matt literally all his life! Anna and Matt were married at their church in Southampton and then had their reception at East Horton

I decided not to “do” Christmas parties this year, instead Ce and I took another trip to Fuerteventura – and we are already planning our next visit there.

So many great parties, lovely people and amazing love stories … Thank You 2017 and bring on the New Year!

Join the WOW Speakers Club

26th September 2017/0 Comments/in Uncategorised/by Paul

Are you scared because you have to make a wedding speech … then join the WOW Speakers Club is just what you need!

Watch this video NOW!

The transcript goes something like this …
You’ve got nothing to be ashamed of ~ public speaking always ranks high in the anxiety polls.
Don’t panic help is at hand.
I’m Paul The Party DJ also known as The WOW Wedding Guy and I’m on a mission to stamp out boring weddings and help couples just like you create amazing weddings, I’ve even won awards for it!

Yes, public speaking can be scary but on this occasion you need to get some perspective.  You have to make a speech, but the room is full of lovely people who have been invited to be part of a very special day, they are on your side, they want you to be great. You’ve got plenty of time to prepare and practice, so there really is no reason to fail.

There’s a famous saying I love, it’s “They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel” , so speak from your heart

Research, planning, writing, rewriting and practice are key don’t just try and do it “off the cuff” even if you are the best blagger in the World

This day, these people deserves more. This wedding deserves THE BEST

As part of my mission Ive created THE WOW SPEAKERS CLUB, it’s a 4 week course of 90 minutes fun sessions held on consecutive Thursday evenings at Le Chanteclerc, just off Junction 1 of the M27 at Cadnam.

Places are limited and it’s open to anyone – whether you are one of my wedding clients or not. The cost is … FREE I just ask you buy a drink from the bar

At the end of this fun four week course you’ll have a great speech and you’ll be confident about delivering it. You’re speech will be one of the highlights of a great day!
 
So. sign up today, there’ll be loads of hints and tips to help you be the best you can with chances to practise and support the fellow course attendees – it’s a no brainer,  book your places NOW – email paul@thepartydj.co.uk

International Mystery Man Wedding DJ Scotland!

2nd February 2017/1 Comment/in News/by Paul

Well that was fun! I’ve just had three days in Glasgow ~ The Party DJ / Wedding DJ Scotland! Actually I wasn’t there to DJ I was booked to speak at a “Think Tank” event for DJ’s. I flew up with FlyBe and stayed at The Holiday Inn Glasgow airport where the event was being held – both were good and very reasonably priced.

Over 30 of us were in attendance from all over the place, as well as DJ’s from Scotland and the North of England there were also delegates from the South West and Southern England. Derek, who organised the event, now lives in Cyprus. Derek was the guy who really helped me find my new direction when I attended an event with him in February 2011, so I was delighted when he invited me to speak.

I was actually billed as a “Mystery Guest Speaker” and nobody, except Derek, knew I was going. I even had a silhouette with a question mark on the publicity artwork!

It had actually caused a bit of a stir as people tried to guess who the mystery man was. Thankfully when I was revealed nobody booed or threw things.

There were three other great speakers, all good friends of mine, and the reaction from the attendees was brilliant. First up Ian spoke on “20 Reasons’s Why Other DJ’s Are Stealing Your Clients”. I was next sharing my story and talking about the WOW events I hold. After lunch Martin presented “Weddings – Day In The Life” and finally Euan spoke, his topic was “Background Music Friend Or Foe”. Throughout the day there was plenty of time for questions and the afternoon was rounded off with the four of us giving our thoughts on a number of other topics raised by the attendees.

Ian, Euan, Martin and the delegates

Derek knew I wasn’t keen to speak locally because I’m not really happy sharing with all of my competitors, but the trip to Scotland was great fun and I may be tempted to speak again – I wonder if he has any DJ’s in the Balearics who’d be up for a Think Tank?

You know you’re in Scotland when there’s a Mars bar on your drinks tray, Irn Bru in the mini bar and haggis with breakfast

If you are a DJ looking for training you need to speak to Derek, contact me and I’ll put you in touch.

So, I will probably never be Paul The Wedding DJ Scotland but hopefully I’ve helped some of my colleagues to join in my campaign to stamp out boring weddings!

Today is THE DAY

15th November 2016/0 Comments/in Event/by Paul

The countdown is done, the wait is over, today is THE DAY!

It’s finally time for my “Creating Your WOW Wedding” evening. I’ll be explaining how to put my WOW Wedding ideas into your wedding timeline with plenty of great examples.

The event is at Ampfield Golf Club, Winchester Road, Ampfield SO51 9BQ CLICK HERE which is between Romsey and Hursley on the way to Winchester. The doors open from 7pm and we’ll be starting about 7:30pm. The evening is in two halves of about 45 minutes with a break in the middle, so we should be done just after 9:30pm.

The entrance fee is £10 per couple with all of that going to the Countess Mountbatten Hospice Charity CLICK HERE. PLUS, the evening comes with a full money-back guarantee – if you stay to the end and feel the evening wasn’t good value for money, I’ll refund you from my own pocket – so the Hospice Charity still gets your £10. If you wish to bring other guests – maybe your parents or a friend there is no extra fee. Please bring cash if possible – thanks.

Here’s what Hannah had to say about a previous WOW event …

“Paul invited us to his ‘WOW’ wedding event at Ampfield Golf course, which was amazing! We took our parents a long too and we were all blown away. I think what really struck us was Paul was so passionate about how people felt, having that great feeling, not just us as the bride and groom, but family and friends, which was so important to us.”

I can confirm there will be lots of my colleagues from the Hampshire Wedding Group CLICK HERE in attendance too, so make sure you take the opportunity to quiz them as well.

You can still come along even if you haven’t already registered – if you get a chance to let me know you’re coming it would be a great help (email paul@thepartydj.co.uk or text 07973 617153).

So, today is THE DAY, don’t miss out – be there or … er … be somewhere else.

Grand Finale ~ WOW Countdown … 1

13th November 2016/0 Comments/in Wedding Tips/by Paul

Our final tip, for now, is about creating your Grand Finale!

Finally … a staged “Last Dance / Grand Exit” is a great way to end your WOW Wedding. If you want the end of the party to be as memorable as the first dance, then with a bit of planning we can arrange for you to be in a big circle of guests, or for you to exit via an archway of guests.

Also you may like to say a final “thank you” on the microphone?

Whatever you want is best – just make sure you actually think about it and plan how the most important party you will ever give ends.

A great DJ will help you plan a Grand Finale and make sure it all happens!

Tomorrow I’m going to run through all the tips I’ve posted in the countdown to my “Creating Your WOW Wedding” event on Tuesday evening.

I can confirm I’ll be joined by several friends from the Hampshire Wedding Group who will be on-hand to answer any questions you have about other aspects of wedding planning. The doors open at 7pm for a 7:30pm start, the evening is in two halves with a break for you to mingle and we should be finished between 9:30pm and 10pm – so it’s not going to be a late night. The bar at Ampfield is very reasonable priced and I even have goodie bags for the first 20 couples and we may have a free raffle (I’m just putting the last few details together.

The Red Arrows and Rainbows ~ WOW Countdown … 2

12th November 2016/0 Comments/in Wedding Tips/by Paul

Arrange a fly-past by the Red Arrows …

OK, maybe that’s a step too far, but at one wedding a couple of years ago we knew they were appearing at a nearby event, so the photographer and I kept an eye out and made sure we got the wedding party back out to see it so they could get some photos.

A similar moment was captured when Jane from Winslowe House kept a look out for a rainbow on a sunshine and showers wedding day – she let us know and the photographer took the couple out from their meal to capture the moment.

Likewise there may be something happening that has a potential negative effect on your big day – a big event may cause unusual traffic congestion or a major sporting event might have your guests checking their phones every two minutes – think about how you can get the best outcome in these situations.

You can’t always plan for this stuff but you can keep it in mind, just in case.

So, we’re almost there ~ just a few more hours until the “Creating Your WOW Wedding” evening at Ampfield. If you haven’t already reserved your places email me now paul@thepartydj.co.uk or CLICK HERE Remember, your entry fee will go direct to The Countess Mountbatten Hospice Charity.

Photographs ~ WOW Countdown … 6

8th November 2016/0 Comments/in Wedding Tips/by Paul

Photographs ~ they say “a picture is worth a thousand words”, so displaying photo’s is a great way of telling your story and engaging with your guests.

The first “W” in the “WOW” system is for “Weave” yourselves into the day – what better way than including your childhood photographs, your parents’ and grandparents’ wedding photos, shots from your hen and stag events, pictures of your pets ~ in fact anything you want! You can also add snaps from the day as you go along so that evening guests can get a real flavour of the whole day. You can display them in frames or on a screen or projected on a spare wall, is a great way to entertain your guests and help you weave YOU into the day.

If you are having a “destination wedding” abroad and having a party when you come back a photomontage of your trip and ceremony is an absolute essential!

If you haven’t already read “Your WOW Wedding” email me and I’ll forward a link to you ~ paul@thepartydj.co.uk

We are now one week away from the “creating Your WOW Wedding” event at Ampfield Golf Club when I’ll be running through a wedding day timeline and explaining how you can use use “WOW” to make yours the best wedding day ever! Tickets are £10 per couple with all proceeds going to The Countess Mountbatten Hospice Charity ~ CLICK HERE for more information. Reserve your places now ~ email me today ~ paul@thepartydj.co.uk

Posts