Jackie Baird & Chad Osowski

When: Friday, November26th, 2010

Where: Community Center, Minto, ND
1st Dance Song: "Better Together" by Jack Johnson

They really decked out the community center. Chair covers, a raised head table with lit backdrop and candlelight. Decorations courtesy Darcy Van Hoff. All three together make a great impression when you walk into such a large room. The raised head table, in particular, is almost necessary if you want to be seen at all.


Since the dance didn't start until after 9pm, we did the dollar dance, bouquet toss, and a garter raffle all in a row, just after 10. The garter raffle got us eight winners, who then competed in a sort of scavenger hunt to determine a winner. Very cutthroat business. When I asked for a picture of the bride and groom, one guy, instead of getting a camera, grapped the four foot tall picture collage display at the greeting table. Well, OK then.

Two different couples I worked for a few years back are here, and both are expecting babies first half of next year. Congratulations, but please don't name him Hershey.

Chad picked their first dance song, and it was held back as a surprise for Jackie. She didn't find out until they walked out onto the floor, which they did during the last 30 seconds of their video slide show. It setup the first part of their first dance with pictures of themselves as the backdrop. I thought it worked very well.

That hat Chad is wearing was a gift earlier in the day. His captain's hat for his fishing boat.

Awesome older song I'll never get to play again but that worked great here: "We Built This City" by Starship I also got to play Nelly's "Country Grammar." Despite how much it played when it came out, I don't think I've heard it or had it requested for at least five years.

See more at Grand Forks Wedding DJ.

Christie Canfield & Tyler McFarland

When: Saturday, November13th, 2010

Where: A Touch of Magic, East Grand Forks, MN
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

"Robert, Thank you so much for being a part of our wedding! You did a great job and we truly appreciate it! Happy Thanksgiving!" - Christie & Tyler McFarland

This is my first wedding in a few weeks. To earn the evening out, from 7am to 2pm, I watched both my three week old son and 20-month old daughter so my wife enjoy part of her day.

Christie and Tyler had these very simple, but very elegant centerpieces of yellow leaves on stems. They looked like flowers and fit the fall weather. That seemed how everything was tonight. Simple, elegant, and a perfect fit. Almost effortless (though I doubt it was).

Normally, if a couple is showing a video, I get a copy in advance and take care of things. At a Touch of Magic, that is supposed to be done for you. However, the DVD didn't work with the player, it would have left off the last three minutes. Instead, I took care of it with my gear and managed to get it to work to the end.

Things really got going after 10pm, so Christie had me continue for a little over an extra hour.

Random song request that went over great, but wouldn't ever play anywhere else: T.I.'s "What You Know." I had it, but don't think I've ever played it before. Doubt I will again. That's OK, Tyler and his buddy, Flash, love it. Also, "Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul, from Christie's list.

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Lindsey Belcher & Derrick Duray

When: Saturday, October 23rd, 2010

Where: Masonic Center, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "I Need You" by Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

"Hey Robert! We wanted to say thank you for everything, you did an awesome job at our wedding reception! You were so nice to cater to all of our needs, plus we had a blast with you! If we come across anyone with DJ needs we will recommend you in a second! Thanks again, and congrats to you and your wife on your new baby!! PS Sorry about Andy!!! ;)" -Lindsey and Derrick

Their ceremony was at the Japanese Gardens (behind Altru Hospital) which is where I proposed to my wife. I'm here three days after my son was born but so far I haven't been distracted. Just after the bride and groom arrived, I noticed a red, lollipop+child related spot on Lindsey's dress. Fortunately I carry Shout! Wipes and took care of it very easily.

There are several couples here as guests that I worked for. Even the caterers. Since I was dismissing tables for the buffet, I helped out one couple by holding their beautiful two week old daughter, Stella, so they could hit the buffet line.

I edited both of the parent dances down to two minute versions of "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts and a slow version of "Forever Young" by Rod Stewart. This meant each Lindsey and Derrick got a moment with a parent, but without it taking up 10 minutes of the start of the dance.

We have an early start today, but already, before 8pm, they've requested I go until 12:30am. This is going to be a five and a half hour dance.

Bridesmaid Paige was promoted to Best Man after former Best Man Andy dissappeared a second time (right before the toasts and again before the dollar dance, even though I had told him to sit tight).

Never has there been a better reason to have the husband rather than the winner of the garter, take the garter off the bride's leg. Lindsey's dad won the raffle.

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Laura Gaddie & Derek Wentz

When: Saturday, October 16th, 2010

Where: Ramada Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "This Year's Love" by David Gray

The first things I noticed when I walked into the Ramada today were the beautiful chocolate colored chair covers, the paper lanterns hanging, and their favors: candyed apples. Which they made themselves. Apples are from her mom's backyard. Laura unwrapped all the caramels herself. 200 candy apples in 4 hours. I think they're nuts.

The wedding party was ready to go when they arrived so we really had fun with the introductions into the ballroom. The issue is, they were also late, so we had to (rather awkwardly) move straight into the prayer for dinner.

I finally got to work with Darrel Deutz again. First time in over a year. He's in my top five favorite photographers (Shawna Noel, Katie Lewis, Brian's Photographry, and Milestone are the other four).

Only about 12 songs on the request list. Most interestingly, Lady Gaga.... for Derek's brother and Dad. Hmm.

They had a Catholic wedding, which are always early. They added extra 75 minutes so the dance could go til 12:30.

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Amy Holm & Casey Lundquist

When: Friday, October 1st, 2010

Where: Alerus Center, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Smile" by Uncle Kracker

"You did a great job at the reception/dance! We've heard so
many great compliments from people that said they had such a
great time! I will definitely continue to recommend you to
other couples! Thanks again!" -Amy Lindquist

Amy is the daughter of Brian Holm, of Brian's Photography (notable enough a man to have a store front on 32nd Ave ever since I started DJ'ing in 1998). Casey is her CaseyBear (sorry, Casey, I had to).

A late start to the evening meant an hor d'eourves buffet instead of proper dinner. Amy and Casey's head table was actually three rounds together in the center of the room. I really liked their display of pictures as you came in. Lots of individual pics in frames scattered across the table.

Amy had a nice list of requests for me to work with. Some younger boys (about seven) kept running over to request songs on behalf of some older guests at a table. Makes it tough to work with since the kids don't really understand what they're asking for.

My favorite moment had to be Amy's dad's toast. The entire thing is too long to repeat here, but he did everything right: he used an old memory of he and Amy when she was little to tell something about her as a person; it was sweet; and it was funny.

See more at Grand Forks Wedding DJ.

Christy Sobolik & Shawn Luskey

When: Saturday, August 28th, 2010

Where: Ramada Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Fever" by Michael Buble

My second weekend and third dance in a row at the GF Ramada. They were kind enough to let me store my gear here, which saved me quite a bit of effort.


This was a Catholic ceremony at St. Michael's church, a much earlier start than normal to a day. Ceremony at 1:30, Ramada opened at 4, and dinner at 5:15. For comparison, last week's lutheran service started at 4pm.

Every single member of the wedding party, 12, plus the bride and groom, did a toast. That took a little while (30 minutes). However, most were very good and the guests didn't seem to mind.

One huge item: they choreographed their first dance and her dance with her dad. Very cool. Nothing too complex, but it makes a big impression.

Her vocal coach was the winner of the garter raffle. He was a more than a bit uncomfortable coming up since he didn't realize he wasn't going to remove the garter. No, no, sir, you merely won it. When Shawn came out to remove it, one snap of his fingers and his groomsmen came out and formed a privacy barrier. Public without being public.

My standard contract has a three hour dance to it, which would have only brought us to 10:15. Despite the heat, they decided to add two extra hours (that pic above is from just after midnight). The plus to that is you start to play songs you've never played before. Deeper requests. One was "I Wanna Be Sedated," by the Ramones. In 12 years, hundreds of events, it's never been requested. Ever. I played it right away and they loved it. Sweet. Also unusual (but good), Christy's favorite, "Longtime" by Boston (you'd recognize if you heard it, probably, skip to the 3:30 mark).

One benefit to good equipment: a guest slipped (someone had spilled a drink) and fell hard into my table. Which in turn slid a foot or so, but the music didn't stop and everything was fine. Quality craftmanship courtesy Colorado Sound N' Light and their Super Table.

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Mallory Winfield & Dustin Hiott

When: Friday, July 23rd, 2010

Where: Clarion Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain

"We had seen Robert in action at the Alerus Center (we work there) for many weddings and have been very pleased with his ablility to provide a fun filled evening for many wedding events. Remember Mom's he is there for the wedding couple but did accomdidate our requests also. Thanks Robert for making it a great night for our daughter and son-in-law!" - Del & Jim Winfield, Mallory's parents.

I actually booked this wedding because Mallory's parents both bartend at the Alerus center and have seen me work many times.

A pretty straightforward evening. The fear of public speaking reared it's ugly head though. The best man (whose wedding is in three weeks) and the bride and groom were all terrified. I've never really related to that, and I've always wondered what, exactly, people think will happen.

See more at Grand Forks Wedding DJ.

Whitney Vidden & Cody Christie

When: Saturday, August 21st, 2010

Where: Ramada Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Then" by Brad Paisley

"Thank you so much for agreeing to DJ for our wedding reception. We really appreciate you taking the time to meet with us to make sure our evening goes smoothly!" - Whitney & Cody Christie.

Custom coloring books and crayons were at the guest book table. For kids, in theory, though I noticed quite a few older folks grabbing them.

I can't recall a room getting so quiet and attentive when I've started my introductions. Ever. It was so.... polite.

As a surprise, Whitney and Cody had two extra cakes, one each for their own parents. Both sets are celebrating their 30th wedding anniversaries this month. We brought everyone up for a cutting before the speeches.

And, wow, what speeches. Our best man had three typed single space pages. Usually a big no-no, but it was very good. Most of the wedding party stood up, too.

I had occasion to use my pre-edited songs again. Both of their first two dances, the Brad Paisley followed by "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts, I've made two minute versions. It really helps move things along at the beginning without being abrupt.

The dance was pretty easy. Cody and Whitney provided a sizeable request list of their songs, with a couple marked as 'must' plays. Mixed with guest requests, I always had songs I knew they wanted. It really helps tailor the evening to their tastes.

Kylie Leddige & Todd Tanke

When: Friday, August 20th, 2010

Where: Ramada Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Tupelo Honey" by Van Morrison

Another family affair. I worked Todd's brother's wedding in November 2008 (Jessica and Tanner) and one of his groomsman's Tanner Altendorf before that.

One obstacle tonight is that Todd gets cluster headaches. His body temperature will spike and bring on a migraine. During dinner he snuck away and took a quick cold shower. If it gets bad enough, he can take a shot, but, apparently, too early, and it doesn't work.

No cake, just cupcakes. Two different best men, maids of honor, and speakers from the crowd, along with his dad's speech. Somewhere, somehow, during the 1st dance, Kylie's dad managed to sneak out of the room and I didn't notice. So we bumped Todd's dance with his mom while I found Larry.

Todd, his brother Tanner, the other Tanner (Junior), and Chris have a bit of a tradition. Play the song "Wipeout," Chris is the surfboard, and the guys take turns. Hilarity ensued when Tanner took a spill, then Junior decided to ride the board on his tummy. Just stop and picture that visual.

After the dance wrapped up, the best man (and my past client) Tanner got attacked by cupcakes. In the ear.

On a more personal note, I'm exhausted. I barely recovered at all for my wedding the next day. If you're wondering: 7am to Noon, taking care of my 18 month old daughter and some household chores. During her nap, I was tearing up a floor on top of a floor on top of a floor on top of a floor as part of a bathroom remodel (yes, remove four floors in order to install one new one). At 3pm I loaded up the truck with my gear, cleaned up, drove to Grand Forks, setup, and worked the reception til 1am. No, I don't take breaks. During the reception I drank half a gallon of water and a V8 (great for replacing salt). Twice that the next day along with a couple of milks and an hour sitting in front of an air conditioner.

Megan Neppl & Austin Hauck

When: Saturday, August 14th, 2010

Where: Holiday Inn, Detroit Lakes, MN
1st Dance Song: "Fishin' in the Dark" by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

In between the ceremony and reception the entire wedding party hopped on pontoons for pictures on the lake. They reached shore just in time to avoid a downpour.

The photographer, Brian Walker, setup a photobooth. It printed a copy for the guest and one for Megan and Austin. Brian also did pictures starting before the ceremony and was at the reception until about 11pm. Quite a long day for him.

Along with my usual duties, I was hired to make a video slideshow and film the ceremony. The former I've done quite a bit, the latter, not so much. The slide show came out great with a little surprise. Each Megan and Austin recorded a message of love and thanks for their parents that I dropped in. It starts at the 3:15 mark of the video. The quality isn't the best since we improvised. Between the ceremony and reception I had them read these messages to my voicemail, which I then downloaded as mp3s. If you get a chance to try the cupcakes from Central Market Grocery in Detroit Lakes, take it. They provided the dessert for the reception and I snuck one after the end of the evening. Fantastic frosting and pumpkin spice in the cupcake. See more at Detroit Lakes Wedding DJ.

Michelle Sande & Josh Schake

When: Saturday, August 7th, 2010

Where: Clarion Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "When I Look At You" by Miley Cyrus

"Hi Robert! Just thought I'd drop you a line and thank you for the great work at our wedding reception. We had a fantastic time with you. I appreciated the fact that you listened to our music preferences and catered our dance to us! The little game during dinner was hilarious, too! We will reccommend you to our friends!" -Michelle Schake

Khaki suits instead of black tuxedos seem very fortuituous on a day like today. Hot and sticky. The photographer, Brian (of Brian's Photographry), had them rotating back inside between pictures to keep from sweating too bad. Also awesome was, instead of cake, a sundae bar! A soft serve machine with toppings at the ready.

Once again I digitally edited their first dance song to shorten it up a bit, from about four minutes down to two and a half. It's something I can't recommend enough when you'll be having multiple special dances at the beginning, thus excluding guests. The reality of it is, these songs are mostly for the two people dancing, not for the guests.

I pretty noticeable mistake on my part tonight. I missed a change. Josh was supposed to dance with his mom to a certain Brad Paisley song (Oh, Love). I had it, and it was taken care of quickly, but there was still my gaffe. I had already begun bringing out wedding party to start the rest of the dance. It's the kind of mistake I pride myself on NOT making and one that will stick with me for a while even though the net result was Josh's dance with his mom started about eight seconds late.

See more at Grand Forks Wedding DJ.

Kaela Erickson & Derek Laudal

When: Friday, August 6th, 2010

Where: Marriot, Moorhead, MN
1st Dance Song: "Whatever It Is" by Zac Brown Band

"Thank you so much for all of your time, help, patience, organization, and fun that you provided us for our wedding. We continously get compliments regarding the music DJ. We highly recommend you to others. Thank you for the perfect time at our wedding." Kaela and Derek

There are little things you notice when trying to get guests interested and excited. I should have noticed I wasn't quite engaging them. Not that I did bad. People still had fun. However, I left with that nagging feeling that I really could have done much better.

Milestone photographry was here tonight. Dave Arnson is his name. One of the four or so photographers I recommend.

Once again, the couple had very few specifc requests (that's been pretty common this summer). She likes Zac Brown Band and Brown Eyed Girl. They didn't want the YMCA, Mickey, Chicken Dance, Hokey Pokey, and C'Mon Ride It. That's about it. Naturally, Kaela changed it so her nephews could have the Chicken Dance and Hokey Pokey. Then, later, she requested C'mon Ride It (the Choo Choo Train), which I used to make Derek lead a conga line. I teased her that she only didn't like five songs and had me play three of them. That's how it works, though. We make compromises for family.

See more at Fargo Wedding DJ.

Lindsey Altpeter & Ryan Martens

When: Saturday, July 31st, 2010

Where: Alerus Center, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Look at Me" by Carrie Underwood

Ryan is Canadian, which brings with it a few different wedding traditions. The biggest change for me is they provide an MC to do the introductions. I haven't talked so little since my first year DJ'ing. Fortunately I still had people wrangling and setting up their video to keep me busy.

For their video, I supplied (no charge, as usual) the LCD projector and my custom portable screen (5'x6'). The benefit is I can set it all up and test the video before guests arrive. Then it all disappears until a few minutes before show time.

The best man is Brad Miller. He and Ryan used to play UND hockey together and were responsible for those sweet Brad Miller Time videos.

We did a fun elimination game to give away the garter. Scott, one of our ushers, won. Cool for me was getting to eliminate former UND Sioux standout and current St. Louis Blue TJ Oshie (not for anything in particular, just how many NHL'ers will I ever get to boss around in my life? At least one, I suppose.).

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Ashley Skavlem & Jon Champagne

When: Saturday, July 24th, 2010

Where: Bestwestern Townhouse, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "All About Loving You" by Bon Jovi

"We were really impressed with the quality and performance from Robert Benda. We got married almost three weeks ago and we are still receiving compliments on how good of a job that Robert did. I would recommend him to anyone!! He knows how to keep things going and how to have a good time!! Thank you very much Robert for making our reception unforgettable!!!" - Ashley Champagne

I got to mix things up a little and we did their first dance song when they arrived, and cut the cake as a lead into the dollar dance.

I delivered a 2 Liter of Dr. Pepper for Jon. It's his favorite. And nothing says classy and romantic at a wedding like placing a giant 2 liter at the head table. He enjoyed it, though.

Unfortunately, Jon is a big Boston Red Sox fan. While we all can't be perfect, Ashely indulged him by having a few Red Sox items put into her bustle. That was sweet.

Tass Malsam & Joe Wood

When: Saturday, July 17th, 2010

Where: Hilton Garden Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "My Best Friend" by Tim McGraw

They stopped by the Eagles Crest for pictures at the golf course. Tass' heels sank right into the green. The limo broke down (that seems to happen a lot). Neither the broken one, or the replacement had air conditioning. It's 80 degrees today and very humid. They were very drained when they arrived at the Hilton. I got Tass a damp wash cloth for her neck, got them into the cool ballroom, and things got much better.

Tass and Joe are using the same cake knife Tass' parents used. Already engraved with the parents' wedding day, they'll add their own engraving and start a family tradition

A larger, single tiered cake for pictures. Slips of paper out gave guests a chance to offer congratulations or advice.

No bouquet toss (no single friends) or garter tonight. Just a few requests and the dollar dance. Even the first dance was a bit different. I cut out almost two minutes (the first verse and chorus), and we also invited guests halfway through to start things quickly.

Kate Priebe & Seth Sorenson

When: Sunday, July 11th, 2010

Where: Under a tent, Outside Thompson, ND
1st Dance Song: "Come Rain, Come Shine" by Ray Charles

Only my third Sunday wedding in 12 years, and my only under a tent this year. The day couldn't be better, partly cloudy and temps in the upper 70's. Their guest book was (were?) fabric swatches for each guest to sign. Kate and Seth took a picture on the tree swing and kicked off our evening with a big introduction set to 'Crazy in Love' by Beyonce.

Seth's mom put together a nice slide show on Power Point. Multiple pictures up at the same time and the entire thing was only about five minutes. Very nice. I took care of the projector and screen, though it was tough with the sun peeking through the sides of the tent.

You can NOT do enough about mosquitos at these evenings. Once sundown comes, and they're everywhere, I don't care how much you sprayed your yard this week. If it wasn't an hour ago it won't matter. Oh, and bug zappers attract bugs. I ended up bug spraying (that's a verb, right?) guests, using my own stash.

The highlight was a two year old's request, a song called "Buzz's Jig."

The night capped off with Seth and Kate lighting two 'Wish Lanterns.' These are paper lanterns with a special candle at the bottom. The effect is the same of a hot air balloon. They each lighted the candles and sent them floating into the night sky. A proper send off and good night.

Brandie Cink & Eric Burckhard

When: Saturday, July 10th, 2010

Where: Hilton Garden Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Someone Like You" by Van Morrison

Today started earlier than usual. I was hired to videotape the ceremony. Brandie wanted video, but not to spend a fortune, and was OK with what I called "uncle" quality. My gal and I brought in a pair of cameras, recorded audio off the Hopper Danley sound system for a good quality (I hope, I haven't heard it yet).

Hey, look at that, the photographers are West Fargo's Milestone Photography, another fine vendor from Freshwed.com. My, what professionals! (Too much? Well, they were great to work with...)

Poured champagne was served by the Hilton for the speeches, except that everyone kind of forgot to do a toast with their speech. That left me. Don't worry, not my first time. I will say, it was the first time I saw a (clean) diaper used as a speech prop. Kudos to Jenica for that one.

Amy Samuelson & Chris Shields

When: Saturday, June 26th, 2010

Where: Vista Inn, Fargo, ND
1st Dance Song: "Only You Can Love Me This Way" by Keith Urban

I usually stay positive on this blog but feel an exception today. Not for the bride and groom, or their guests, but for the Vista. The thermostat was set for the air conditioning to kick in at 80 (a 2nd thermostat was at 85). This made the beginning of the evening very unpleasant since the humidity was almost unbearable. And even though we complained, no staff did anything. It also brought other touches, like servers in blue jeans, staff items laying around the room, and not waiting for the bride and groom before serving dinner (they were there, but not at the head table), to the forefront.

The guests and the couple, however, were fun. Pom poms were passed out for Amy and Chris' entrance to the room (her mom is a big Sioux hockey fan, apparently).

April Kaiser & Tyler Grinde

When: Saturday, June 19th, 2010

Where: Touch of Magic, East Grand Forks, MN
1st Dance Song: "It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw & Faith Hill
Photos Courtesy Shawna Noel Photography

This couple was referred to me by Tony and Brandi Melicher, married May 2008. Since it's at the Touch of Magic, certain rules apply and I didn't start work til dinner was ending. I picked up for the speeches and moved right into their first dance.


The dance started slow (at 7:30pm, with the sun still shining bright), but picked up after 8:30, when the dollar dance got folks up and socializing. It really let loose later when Tyler got to, for lack of a better phrase, dance up on April (to OMG by Usher) which moved us into the garter (a raffle and contest) and bouquet toss.

They added an extra hour, again tonight. I got a request for The Stroke by Billy Squier (really?).

Deanna Beiswanger & Jonathon Betting

When: Friday, June 18th, 2010

Where: Clarion Inn, Grand Forks, ND
1st Dance Song: "Into the Mystic" by Van Morrison

Every wedding is different. Sometimes in small ways. Sometimes a bit bigger. Much of the reception for Deanna and JB is an understated elegant (courtesy wedding decorator Daryce Van Hoff). They also chose no wedding party. Their head table was themselves and their seven month old, Matea. No dollar dance and no garter tonight, either. Who cares. It took a bit for the socializing to die down and the dance to warm up, but we got there.

I was in their room prior to the reception, helping bussel her dress. Always bring the diagram, folks. It will help a lot.