The Importance of Inclusivity: Serving the LGBTQ+ Community

As a wedding DJ in Connecticut, I have had the privilege of working with many wonderful couples, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. Weddings are a celebration of love, and it is an honor to be a part of such a special day for couples of all backgrounds and orientations. In this post, I want to share my experience working with LGBTQ+ couples and how I strive to make their wedding day as unique and memorable as possible.

First and foremost, it is important for me as a wedding DJ to create an inclusive environment where all couples feel comfortable and welcome. This means playing a diverse range of music that appeals to all tastes and backgrounds, and ensuring that the playlist reflects the couple's unique style and preferences. I also make a point to avoid any offensive or derogatory language in my announcements or interactions with guests, and to use gender-neutral language when addressing the newlyweds.

One of the most important aspects of working with LGBTQ couples is understanding the unique challenges and obstacles they may face during the wedding planning process. This can include navigating legal issues, dealing with family or societal pressures, or simply finding vendors who are inclusive and understanding of their needs. As a wedding DJ, I strive to provide support and guidance to my clients throughout the planning process, and to be an advocate for them.

Ultimately, my goal as a wedding DJ is to create an unforgettable experience that celebrates the love and commitment of all couples, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, working closely with the couple to personalize their day, I hope to make a positive impact in the lives of all those I work with.

If you are a couple planning a wedding in CT, I would be honored to be a part of your special day. Let's work together to create a celebration that reflects your unique style, values and love.

Mastering the Wedding Music: Tips and Tricks from a Professional DJ in Connecticut

As a wedding DJ in Connecticut, I’ve seen my fair share of weddings and have been lucky enough to be a part of some truly unforgettable celebrations. One thing that I’ve noticed is that there is one topic that is always on the minds of couples planning their wedding: the music.

Music is a crucial part of any wedding celebration, as it sets the tone for the entire event and helps create an atmosphere that will keep guests dancing and having a great time. As a wedding DJ, it’s my job to help couples choose the right music for their wedding and ensure that the party never stops.

When it comes to choosing the right music for your wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to choose songs that reflect your personal taste and style as a couple. This could mean going for classic love songs, or choosing modern hits that are currently topping the charts.

Another important factor to consider is the mood and atmosphere you want to create. Are you going for a fun and lighthearted vibe, or do you want something more elegant and sophisticated? Your music choices should reflect the overall vibe you’re going for, and should help create the atmosphere you want for your big day.

One trend that I’ve noticed in recent years is the use of live music at weddings, especially cocktail hour. Whether it’s a live band or a solo artist, having live music can add a special touch to your wedding and create a unique and memorable experience for your guests.

Another trend that is becoming increasingly popular is the use of themed playlists. Couples are now choosing songs that reflect their shared interests or hobbies, or even songs that are meaningful to their relationship. This can add a personalized touch to your wedding and create a playlist that is truly unique to you.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you choose music that you love and that reflects who you are as a couple. I always work closely with my clients to create a music playlist that is perfect for their big day, and that will keep their guests dancing all night long.

So, whether you’re going for a classic love song vibe, or a more modern and upbeat playlist, make sure to choose music that reflects your personality and style, and that will help create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding celebration.

Why Connecticut Is a Great Choice for a Destination Wedding

When I think of my favorite destination weddings, my mind usually goes to Italy (the food!), Ireland (those castles!) or somewhere tropical (vows on the beach!). But lately, when someone asks my advice on where to exchange vows abroad, I usually end up convincing them to celebrate their big day right here in Connecticut. Why? It has all the geography (mountains, beaches, forests, farms and even Italian villas!) and buildings (castles, beach resorts, theaters, parks & European-style gardens and more). And don’t even get me started on the food. From world-class pizza trucks to James Beard-winning chefs, Connecticut has it all — even on a budget.

Getting married on the Connecticut shoreline can be a beautiful and memorable experience for a number of reasons. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider having your wedding on the CT shoreline:

  1. Scenic beauty: The Connecticut shoreline is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its scenic coastline, charming coastal towns, and picturesque lighthouses. Having a wedding on the shoreline can provide a beautiful backdrop for your special day.

  2. Wide range of venues: The CT shoreline offers a wide range of wedding venues, from historic mansions and rustic barns to waterfront hotels and elegant ballrooms. Whatever your wedding style or budget, you're sure to find a venue that suits your needs.

  3. Convenience: The CT shoreline is easily accessible from major cities like New York and Boston, making it a convenient location for guests who may be traveling from out of town.

  4. Local charm: The towns and villages along the CT shoreline are full of local charm and character, with their quaint shops, seafood restaurants, and historic landmarks. Incorporating some of these local elements into your wedding can give it a unique and personalized touch.

  5. Activities for guests: The CT shoreline offers plenty of activities for guests to enjoy before or after the wedding, such as visiting historic sites, taking a boat tour, or exploring local museums and galleries.

Overall, the CT shoreline offers a unique and memorable setting for a wedding, with its natural beauty, charming towns, and wide range of venues. Whether you're a Connecticut resident or are planning a destination wedding, the CT shoreline can be an excellent choice for your special day.

Our Top 10 Wedding Venues on the CT Shoreline (west of New Haven)

  1. Lighthouse Point Park Carousel in New Haven, CT is a charming and unique venue for a wedding, with its vintage carousel and historic pavilion overlooking Long Island Sound. The venue offers a playful and whimsical atmosphere, perfect for couples looking for a fun and memorable wedding experience.

    https://www.cityofnewhaven.com/Parks/ParksInformation/lhcarousel.asp

  2. The Loading Dock in Stamford, CT offers a unique industrial setting for a wedding, with its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and outdoor patio overlooking the harbor.

    https://loadingdockevents.com/

  3. The Waters Edge at Giovanni's in Darien, CT offers a waterfront setting for a wedding, with views of Holly Pond and multiple event spaces, including a grand ballroom and outdoor terrace.

    https://watersedgeatgiovannis.com/

  4. The Inn at Longshore in Westport, CT offers a waterfront setting for a wedding, with views of Long Island Sound and multiple event spaces, including a grand ballroom and outdoor tented terrace.

    https://www.innatlongshore.com/

  5. The Burr Homestead in Fairfield, CT offers a historic and elegant setting for a wedding, with its colonial architecture and lush gardens.

    https://www.burrhomestead.org/

  6. The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT offers a unique and aquatic-inspired setting for a wedding, with its ocean-themed exhibits and event spaces.

    https://www.maritimeaquarium.org/private-events

  7. The Darien Community Association in Darien, CT offers a charming and historic setting for a wedding, with its colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.

    https://dariendca.org/

  8. The Delamar Greenwich Harbor in Greenwich, CT offers a luxurious waterfront setting for a wedding, with views of Greenwich Harbor and multiple event spaces, including a grand ballroom and outdoor terrace.

    https://www.delamargreenwich.com/

  9. The Country Club of Darien in Darien, CT offers a beautiful and historic setting for a wedding, with its colonial-style clubhouse and picturesque golf course.

    https://www.ccdarien.org/

  10. The Greenwich Audubon Center in Greenwich, CT offers a unique and natural setting for a wedding, with its woodland trails and outdoor pavilion.

    https://greenwich.audubon.org/rentals-weddings

The top 12 wedding venues on the Connecticut shoreline (New Haven & Eastern Shore)

The Connecticut shoreline offers a unique and memorable setting for a wedding, with its natural beauty, charming towns, and wide range of venues. Whether you're a Connecticut resident or are planning a destination wedding, the CT shoreline can be an excellent choice for your special day. Here’s our pick of the Top 12 wedding venues on the CT Shoreline east of New Haven (click here for the western list)

  1. Madison Beach Hotel - This luxurious hotel located in Madison offers stunning views of Long Island Sound and has a ballroom that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

    https://www.madisonbeachhotel.com/weddings/

  2. Eolia Mansion at Harkness State Park - This historic mansion in Waterford offers a beautiful setting for a wedding, with its manicured gardens, ocean views, and elegant ballroom.

    https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Historic-Preservation/Eolia-Mansion/Eolia-Mansion-Weddings

  3. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina - This waterfront resort in Old Saybrook has multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a grand ballroom and a tented terrace overlooking the marina.

    https://www.saybrook.com/weddings/

  4. Guilford Yacht Club - This picturesque yacht club in Guilford offers a stunning waterfront setting for a wedding, with its panoramic views of the harbor and its elegant ballroom.

    https://guilfordyc.org/Weddings_Events

  5. The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station - This waterfront venue in Haddam offers a beautiful setting for a wedding, with its views of the Connecticut River and its elegant ballroom.

    https://www.theriverhouse.com/weddings/

  6. Owenego Inn Beach & Tennis Club - Located in Branford, this waterfront venue offers a private beach, panoramic views of Long Island Sound, and multiple event spaces for weddings.

    https://owenego.com/

  7. Mystic Seaport Museum - This maritime museum in Mystic offers a unique and historic setting for a wedding, with its outdoor gardens and indoor event spaces that showcase the museum's collections.

    https://www.mysticseaport.org/event/weddings/

  8. The Inn at Mystic - This charming inn in Mystic offers a romantic setting for a wedding, with its gardens, ocean views, and elegant ballroom.

    https://www.innatmystic.com/weddings/

  9. Water's Edge Resort & Spa - This luxurious resort in Westbrook offers multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a grand ballroom, a beachside pavilion, and a tented terrace.

    https://www.watersedgeresortandspa.com/weddings/

  10. The Saybrook Inn & Spa - This waterfront inn in Old Saybrook offers multiple event spaces, including a grand ballroom, a tented terrace, and a garden pavilion overlooking the marina.

    https://www.saybrook.com/weddings/

  11. The Guilford Barn - This rustic and charming barn in Guilford offers a unique and picturesque setting for a wedding, with its historic architecture, lush gardens, and rustic decor.

    https://www.theguilfordbarn.com/weddings

  12. Amarante’s Sea Cliff - Located in New Haven, offers a stunning waterfront setting for a wedding, with its panoramic views of Long Island Sound and elegant ballroom.

    https://amarantes.com/

These are just a few of the many beautiful wedding venues on the Connecticut shoreline. Each venue offers its own unique charm and style, making it easy to find the perfect setting for your special day.

The Best Non-Traditional Wedding Processional Songs

Walking down the aisle has become a much more light-hearted affair. Gone are the days of stuffy processionals and boring recessionals. In their place are songs and instrumentals that give the guests a glimpse into your personality as a couple and help set the vibe for the evening you have planned for them.

The type of music you have at your wedding says a lot about the type of wedding you are having, so we’ve compiled a list of unpredictable and unique non-traditional songs for your processional (with words and instrumental) we think you’ll love. Some are cheekier than others, but they’re all beautiful. We added some Spotify links so you can listen to the specific versions we chose.

Favorite Non-Traditional Processional Wedding Songs

Latch, Sam Smith (acoustic)

Lion’s Mane, Iron & Wine

Amazed, Boys II Men

I don’t want to miss a thing, Aerosmith

River, Leon Bridges

What Kind of Love, Childish Gambino

Better Together, Us the Duo

The Bones, Maren Morris

Kiss the Girl, Brent Morgan (little mermaid)

Such Great Heights, Iron & Wine

Higher Love, James Vincent McMorrow

Stand by Me, Florence + the Machine

Take Me Away, The Dixie Chicks

Iris, Kina Grannis

Favorite Non-Traditional Processional Wedding Songs (instrumental)

Here Comes the Sun, Beatles

She Will Be Loved, Maroon 5

Without You, David Guetta, Usher

Skinny Love, Japanese Breakfast

Claire de Lune, Claude Debussy

Somewhere Only We Know, Keene

Seasons of Love, Jonathan Larson (Rent)

Heartbeats, Jose Gonzalez

Songbird, Fleetwood Mac

Careless Whisper, George Michael

10 of the Best Wedding Venues in Connecticut for Outdoor Ceremonies

10 of the Best Wedding Venues in Connecticut for Outdoor Ceremonies

We’re so lucky. CMV Weddings gets to work in some of the most beautiful places in Connecticut. Officiating outdoors is a magical experience, whether it’s warm ocean waves crashing behind us, or a crisp breeze whispering through an autumn ceremony, our state offers almost 6-7 months of comfortable outdoor weather.