Real Wedding: Meghan + Russell

Weddings

Elegant Hill Country Wedding at Hidden River Ranch | Live Music by Mikaela Kahn

“Mikaela and Jordan – were an absolute dream to have at our wedding! Words can’t describe how special they are, both are truly remarkable people in general and superbly talented. We had them sing a collection of our favorite love songs before and during our ceremony and perform throughout our cocktail party. Mikaela sang a few of my personal favorite songs, paced them perfectly to the cadence of the ceremony and sang them acoustic to create the perfect vibe. Our cocktail party was filled with fun covers and a perfect collection of songs that guests loved to hear and kept things light and lovely. I can not sing their praises enough, I loved working with them, I loved hearing them perform and can not thank them enough for making my day incredible. If I had a ten star option, I would choose 11 stars to give!” – Meghan J (ceremony & cocktail hour)

I’ve got two words to describe this September wedding: elegant, and fun! It was truly the perfect combination of class, and lightheartedness. From the minimalist floral ceremony backdrop, to the cheery wildflower place cards, Meghan & Russel really let their personalities shine while also creating a timeless scene. I have no doubt that their grandchildren will look back on these photos and think “Wow, this wedding could have taken place 50 years ago or yesterday. Also my grandma is a serious babe.”

It’s always fun when a bride & groom really know what they want and love getting into planning the music with me! From the beginning, Meghan & Russell had a clear vision for their day and the experience they wanted their guests to have. They chose four songs for us to play during the prelude while guests took their seats in the gorgeous chapel. Each song had a special meaning to them and we loved creating versions that would fit the mood. First, we played a slowed down, acoustic version of “How Sweet It Is” by James Taylor. Normally this song is pretty upbeat, but slowing it down made everyone really tune into the romantic lyrics and dare I say – sweetness – of the song. Continuing with the slow/relaxed vibe, we played Coldplay’s hit, “Yellow”, and literally one of the most perfect songs ever written, “Your Song” by Elton John. We ended the prelude with “All Eyes On You” by St. Lucia which was one of “their songs”.

The first song of the ceremony was a special surprise that their parents had chosen to walk to. Jordan sang the Elvis classic, “The Wonder of You” while I sang soft accompanying backgrounds as close family members came down the aisle. The bridal party walked next to “In My Life” by The Beatles. I played a sparse, twinkly version on piano while Jordan accompanied with light guitar. Meghan’s big moment was next! For her, we played “I Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis. We started the song with just piano and vocals and sang through the first half, building intensity and anticipation for her entrance. The doors opened when we got to the lyrics “take my hand”, revealing Meghan – an actual bridal angel (I swear she was glowing) – and everyone held their breath as she floated down the aisle. Meghan and Russell giggled their way through the ceremony and we sang them off to “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray Lamontagne.

For the cocktail hour, we kept it light and upbeat with lots of modern pop and country hits, playing up the beautifully rustic setting at Hidden River Ranch. It was such a special evening and we were so excited to get to provide the soundtrack! Thank you so much for having us!

Highlights: Pre-ceremony charcuterie and rosé bar (yes please), the simple floral circle backdrop, reception dripping with flowers, those wildflower & succulent table settings, and of course – Meghan’s hair.