Surprise Wedding Proposal – “Will You Marry Me?”
Wedding Proposal Ideas – Yay another wedding proposal, how I love these gigs. They give me a warm fuzzy feeling. If you’ve read our previous blogs you will see just how much they mean to us and about previous ones we have performed at. Each one is unique and is personalised around the happy couple. They are so exciting and romantic.
We were originally contacted when Peter found us on the internet as he was looking for some live music to propose to his girlfriend. As the details emerged, it seemed Peter had opted to surprise his future fiance Jenny at their house. During previous conversations he mentioned to surprise her out on a walk. Although it may be difficult for him to stumble across us in the middle of nowhere and that the weather could change everything. The house was the more viable option.
A couple of days before, Peter rang to say he remembered a song that she would really appreciate and asked if we could learn it. It was Jenny’s favourite song ever. So we said yes we can do it and began learning the song as best we could.
Since it was also her birthday he was going to tell her that they were going out for the evening. In reality the room was prepared and approximately 20 friends and family and a pair of Rag Tag Misfits would be sneaking into their downstairs lounge where all would be revealed.
After a text Peter informed us to park just up the road where we would see a group of her friends waiting. Someone would inform us how to get in the back of the house through the neighbours garden friends and family in tow. So that’s exactly what we did.
After meeting just a stone’s throw away from the house they knocked at the next door neighbours. Peter’s neighbours looked completely bewildered at a load of strangers entering his house. A big group of people including, a band, a baby in a pushchair and even a dog. It was all very Mission Impossible and quite amusing.
We managed to all get around the back of the house without raising suspicion. We noticed the speakers and microphone setup in the back room as Peter came through. A nice touch of red candles and love heart balloons were strategically placed on the floor ready for him to pop the big question.
With everyone hushing about and whispering aside from a Dog who decided now would be a good time to howl. Howl it did and it wouldn’t stop. We began to setup as quick as we could..
Since we were using the pop up acoustic we were set up in under ten minutes. Now we were setup Peter gave us the nod.
He escorted Jenny into the room where she was blindfolded with headphones on. He removed the headphones and we began to perform Jenny’s favourite song 1000 years by Christina Perri.
He walked her right in front of us and then someone removed the blindfold. In front of her on one hand and one knee was the very romantic Peter. He was holding some cards with personal words on, with the final one being the big question “Will you Marry Me?” Jenny was sobbing all the way through.
Since the song was new to us we just hoped we wouldn’t make a serious blunder and as it turns out we pulled it off quite well. She was made up and more importantly said “Of course I’ll Marry You” to which there was a big cheer.
After the proposal the party continued and Peter asked us if we could play an additional set to keep the party going. The house was a lovely detached property with everything anyone could need inside. He had guitars, a bass a piano and even a drum kit upstairs. It’s fair to say they have a beautiful home and beautiful friends.
Its funny because when we were talking to Jenny afterwards she thanked us for learning her favourite song and performing it so well. We asked her did she suspect anything in which she replied “I thought I had the headphones on because I was going on a helicopter ride for my birthday”. Ha ha; luckily she wasn’t disappointed and was so overwhelmed with the events that occurred that day. She was of course now on the road to marriage.
The evening was finished off by a Mexican catering van outside. Peter kindly offered us a bite to eat and chatted about the surprise and how well it had gone. We washed it down with a shot of tequila and our job was done.
Thank you to Peter for asking us to perform for such a special occasion. Thank you to your lovely friends and family who made us feel so very welcome. Most of all congratulations to Peter & Jenny we wish you both well in the future. We hope it’s a future filled with love, laughter and sunshine.
ORGANISING AN EVENT?
If you wish to book live music for your venue, festival, wedding, event or party you can contact us HERE to check our availability
Love Bedford Live Music – Love Bedford is a name given to The Business Improvement District in Bedford. They organise events and aim to create a fun and safe environment for customers and businesses with the goal to improve trade and the overall shopping experience. We were approached by The Bedford Bluecaps who patrol the town when we were busking in the summer when we were en route to France. They took a card for any future events they may have. A few months later they contacted us with a date on the run up to Christmas.
The lovely lady we spoke to on the phone showed us were to perform. In the middle of the town centre next to the beautifully sparkling Christmas tree. Since we anticipated traffic on the way to Bedford and didn’t hit any we arrived a couple of hours early. We suggested that if no one else is performing we can set up and just play extra through to our scheduled finish time. They were more than happy with this as it meant more live entertainment.
Nevertheless it was Christmas and we had lots of Christmas songs to play. We have played in the cold many, many times and we can do this. It builds up our immune systems and keeps us well. Its when an icy wind and rain kicks in that it becomes unbearable. Luckily the sky was calm tonight and the stars were out.
To be honest we felt quite vulnerable. Thankfully the lovely blue caps were doing their rounds and walked passed us a few times assuring us that they were within distance.
We were booked to perform for an hour and a half and ended up playing earlier than scheduled, staying for about 3 hours. We wanted to give Bedford as much as we could and entertain till the end. I’m not going to lie. We did freeze and became like living statues with icicles hanging off our faces. Luckily someone came with a blow torch and unfroze us.
My solution if I were the queen (I reckon a crown would suit me) would be to have a separate late night Christmas market every week in the build up to Christmas. Light switch on is a perfect time to advertise this and create a buzz. If all the stalls are there at light switch on and the shops are open; surely people will return the week after. Especially knowing the market will be on and if parking is free. People don’t necessarily come to shop at Christmas Markets they come for the experience and do a bit of impulse buying when they are there.
Live Music at Hickory’s Smokehouse in West Kirby – Once in a while you dine out in a restaurant, enjoy a beer and think, mmm…I could just eat that again. Such was the case here, a superb fully authentic American restaurant chain called Hickory’s Smokehouse. We were initially contacted a few weeks ago and asked if we would like to perform at their restaurant. It was our first time at Hickory’s Smokehouse so we were unsure of what to expect. Over the water we went, up to the Wirral. Based in West Kirby, Merseyside and as described on their website as a “Buzzing American BBQ joint serving hickory-smoked and grilled meat, kids’ menu, shakes and US beers”.
The food is a real take on American styled eateries, from the side dishes to the specially imported ole pit smokers from Missouri, not to mention the music, you’d think you were in the Hill Billy Mountains and Dolly was just around the pass. Then the old Chigago blues tunes were pumping out, It really was a great selection. Having met Buddy Guy himself in Chicago I’m sure he would really give it the thumbs up.
As the time approached playtime it did seem to empty out a bit although there were still a few present to perform to. The ones that were still in there did stay which is always a good sign. We introduced ourselves and played it cool for the first few songs to warm them up. We noticed a couple of tables finishing their drinks and heard them saying “should we stay for another and watch the band?” and that is exactly what they did.
Overall it was a successful gig. We got asked for “one more song. One more song” so that’s always a good sign. Our music suited the venue and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
In some venues we have the honour of performing at bespoke, prestigious, grandeur, distinguished and esteemed venues. We have been lucky enough to have travelled all over the world with our music and performed in some very nice venues. I think the House of Blues in Chicago was the biggest one. It’s totally different from street entertainment. You know the type where someone at some point in their lives makes you feel like a first class respectful citizen. Tonight Andy had no choice but to remove his little white ankle socks it was part of the dress code you see.
To cut a long story short he became a successful card shop owner. He built the businesses up and then sold them for a small fortune. He then he informs us that he is a UK Yo Yo champion. Its extraordinary a Yo Yo champion of all things.
So they prepared a table and we fine dined together. Obviously we didn’t want to take advantage of his generosity and didn’t order the most exquisite thing on the menu (steak or lobster), but the food we did order was divine and just enough to keep us going. Formby Hall Restaurant is one of those places where the more you pay, the less you get. Although every fork full is sublime. It was also surprisingly filling. I don’t like to eat too much before a performance as it makes it difficult to hold the notes with a full tummy. It was the perfect amount in beautiful surroundings.
It keeps us going especially when there are times when performing on the street and you are stone cold or being baked in the ruthless sun. When the rain is pouring and chilling you to the bone. Being called names on the street by people who need a slap or perhaps just educating. When people shout at you “get a real job” or throw things at your head. We’ve experienced being first class citizens to second class citizens within days of each other and it truly fascinates me.
While we were packing up we were approached by the president of Formby Hall Golf Resort. He told us he thoroughly enjoyed our set. He told us he wrote songs etc., and had previous success with these. He gave us some advice (which is always good to hear from someone in the music business) and informed us that we will be re booked for another party with them.
So when the opportunity arises to perform indoors we gladly accept. Such is the case with Golden Square, an indoor shopping centre in the heart of Warrington. After a busking spot in Warrington last year we contacted to enquire if they ever allow buskers to perform in their complex. The lady I spoke to told us this is something they were thinking of trialing over the festive season. Live music and choirs will create an extra special Christmas shopping experience. This was our second year performing At Golden Square in Warrington.
They erect barriers for groups who were booked in to perform. Apparently it was to do with Elf and Safety (if you get my Christmas pun). So once we had visually seen where to setup we decided to name it our own little play den. It was quite good really as no one could approach you from behind and scare the living daylights out of you (as they have in the past). We checked in at the office and Tweeter and Zippy were able to have their very own VIP badges.
We quickly settled in and joked to each other how delightfully windy and cold it was. To be honest it was a blessing as it was freezing outside. It was a relief to get away from the cold weather and opt for a more tropical environment. The acoustics were sounding great. Being indoors and surrounded by glass we didn’t need to be loud. The music was bouncing around making for a big sound as we played through the afternoon.
We busk throughout the week and gig of a weekend. Busking helps the gigs find us instead of having to chase them. It’s a way of promotion. I’d say 99% of our gigs are as a result of busking or through word of mouth following a performance.
Tonights venue is St Benets, Litherland in Liverpool – After driving back from our gigs in The Lake District tonight was the double celebration, it was the birthdays of Diane & Gary. Arranged by their daughter the very organised and sweet Hannah. Hannah did a great job organising the party. With the venue, the catering, decorations, a DJ, live entertainment, invites and all of those lovely little touches that makes a party personal. It was going to be a good night and hopefully one to remember.
There was quite a lot of people going to be attending so we worked it out with Tony and assured him we don’t need much room and everyone was happy. After we worked out that we could both utilise the stage we began setting up our gear and TK Entertainments did a fantastic job providing excellent lighting and visuals for the birthday celebration.
he first few songs sounded great. It was a large room for us to fill and around 170 guests turned up. Thankfully the sound carried across perfectly with the Guitar, Drum and vocals. Our new QSC’ speakers smashed it. Loud yet the clarity was brilliant.
After a great version of happy birthday in the key of C was performed, the candles were blown out, there was a few speeches and the dance floor was full. This was our chance. Lets keep it filled with the classics. So we burst into our upbeat numbers and I’m happy to say that is what happened. Unfortunately someone spilt quite a large drink on the dance floor.
Sometimes there are just too many ego’s in the room and I can’t stand big ego’s. Tonight this wasn’t the case, the volume levels were perfect. They worked in harmony so the volume was consistent all night and a lively and pleasing level for the audience. He waited until both of our sets were finished before the volume was cranked up a little more. He finished the evening off with some fantastic song choices and kept the dance floor filled till the end.
With Tony’s lights out and most of our equipment packed down we were suddenly in darkness. Usually in a venue they just turn the main lights back on, but nothing. It had been 10 minutes since the party had ended yet there was no one to be seen. It took me another 10 minutes to find anyone to turn the lights back on from behind the bar. I seriously could have had a private little drinking session for free if I was that way inclined. Then it was light, cameras, action, yay we can see.
Diane & Gary a big Happy Birthday to you both and I hope you had a fantastic evening to remember. We may see you again soon as one of your fiends has booked us for another party in the New Year.
Which is fantastic for us by the way, because come January, the lull hits you. January for us is a time to catch up and write. Our first gig was at The Queens Head in Hawkshead. We were booked for 2 gigs and had another one in Liverpool later that evening. We were to perform on the Friday night with the next morning being the annual Hawkshead Christmas Festival.
This time of year we also have to consider a tree. It’s a beautiful Christmas tree sparkling in all its glory but unfortunately due to the space in the hotel it has nowhere else to live. Except in the middle of the performance area. It takes careful preparation and lots of gaffer tape to manoeuvre our setup. We had a word with the tree and reassured it that we would try not to damage its baubles and a compromise was made between us. We would temporarily relocate it a few inches back. Alas armed with our gaffer tape we did it without tripping anyone over (where’s there’s blame, there’s a claim). We are happy to say the tree continued to sparkle.
It was fairly busy with tourists for the time of year so after the meals and desserts, the pub was quite full so we played some more upbeat numbers. Although it quietened down by the end of the night it was a nice little gig with an appreciative audience. I expect everyone hit the sack early in anticipation for the infamous Hawkshead Christmas Festival.
As we finished breakfast our thoughts turned to the Christmas Market and the many stalls being setup around the village. Since we had left all of our gear in the pub overnight it dawned on us that driving the van through the village would be tough if not impossible. By mid morning much of the North West’s Ramblers Association and hordes of tourists had flocked into Hawkshead making it impossible to get through. The van was parked some distance away therefore the pub offered to lend us a trolley. Tah dah, trolley dolly to the rescue. It was a bit tricky to load and manoeuvre through the crowds but we did it.
The Queens Head Hotel had a little marquee setup outside the pub so were preparing hot food and selling warm mulled wine and brandy. With pulled pork and slow cooked beef stew the smell was making our mouths water. Even after our lovely filling breakfast. Nonetheless we have a couple of hours performing to work our appetites up. It was early yet but Val & Jane (the owners of The Queens) were in full swing and warming themselves up with the mulled wine and brandy. They offered us a tipple of this steaming tasty mixture. It was medicinal as it was pretty cold outside and surely it’s better to warm up from the inside out. I have to say the mulled wine and brandy really packed a punch and I’m glad I only asked for a small one. It did the trick though and warmed my cockles right up.
We were playing for around an hour when we heard the crashing thunder of drums. It completely drowned out our little amp but sounded fantastic. It was the sounds of The Bay Beat Street Band. As we looked down the street we could see them with a brass section and various drums performing Christmas songs. They sounded brilliant.
Going off track a bit, I say this because in a similar instance sometimes when you are busking you get the odd ten piece Hare Krishna bands turning up. Now, the The Bay Beat Street Band are obviously not a Hare Krishna band but it’s of similar volume. You see, it’s happened to us on several occasions when we’ve been busking they turn up playing at full volume and just set up opposite or next to you. It’s a public space and no one has the right to own it I get that, so we are no different. When we are setting up we try to be as considerate as we can to the people around us.
Now let’s get back on track to the Hawkshead Christmas Festival. Our set went down brilliantly and we sold quite a few CD’s. The village was very busy, the food was delicious, the entertainment throughout the village was excellent, the people were friendly and although it was cold the sunshine had his hat on for the day. Overall a great success.
Tonight we are at Skelwith Fold Caravan Park. Continuing on from a successful gig at The Eagleshead and a very comfy night’s sleep (courtesy of the lovely Arthur and Dahnell), it was time to go down the road to Skelwith Caravan Park. Since our gig at Skelwith is in the evening we had most of the afternoon to explore. We have visited the Lake District many times and even resided here at one point. We searched for a place we had never been to. With a little help from Google we descended on a little place called Cathedral Cave situated in Little Langdale.
Finishing off our little adventure at Cathedral Cave we started Scooby (our van) up and searched for a food stop and dressing room. We spotted a perfect little place just off an A road in a cave like entrance. We parked up and cooked our tea on the stove in the back of the van and slipped into Halloween costume number 2. A pussy cat.
We parked right next to our performance area which made setting up a breeze as we unloaded our gear. Just as we finished setting up we were offered a burger, on the house, umm….Having just eaten, one of us at least couldn’t refuse. Just a bit more energy to dance off later then. Andy can’t resist a burger, but they make me burp and burger burping and singing don’t mix too well. Especially if your sharing a microphone ha ha.
It was a bit experimental as the organiser had only just asked us if we had sound effects. The first one we played was horrendous, it sounded like people being tortured. Too late it had already pelted out across throughout Cumbria, ooops. It really was disturbing and was a bit too much. Thanks Youtube for that. So as to not scar the little ones for the rest of their lives we opted for some more pleasant sounding noises. Werewolves and creeping floorboards was a little bit less traumatic for their ears.
The Halloween songs we learnt went down fantastic in particular The Time Warp. They were all doing the dance and chanting “Let’s do The Time Warp Again”. Ghostbusters went down well also, if you can imagine a huge crowd of people screaming ghost busters it really was great moment. During our first break it was time for the competition to see who was the scariest of them all. Kids first and then over to the adults. I always feel sorry for the judges in these competitions. The children really, really want to win.
She put me in a bin bag, back combed my hair, put black on my face, stuck a load of waste items on me (like used teabags, empty crisp packets) and a sign saying “what a load of rubbish” on my back. I won first prize. So since I’ve had a taste of it from when I was young, I love dressing up and find any excuse to do so.
Thank you to the organisers at Skelwith Holiday Park for asking us to entertain your lovely guests, it was an absolute pleasure. Well done; it was a fabulous success and we are looking forward to next year already.
The Eagles Head, Cumbria is situated in a little village called Satterthwaite in the Cumbrian countryside. With more livestock than people it has a lovely quaintness and great community spirit. The Eagles Head is a beautiful country pub that is in effect in the middle of nowhere. Unless you have ever been to Grizedale then you may have stumbled across it. Surprisingly each time we have played at the Eagles Head it has been quite busy especially for a rural pub. It seems in season all the holiday makers eat and drink here and out of season the locals flock by the tractor load.
For a bit of fun we dug out some materials to make Halloween costumes. I decided I wanted to be music related. So in full satire as a voodoo doll complete with pins though I had mistakenly thought that the band I wanted to aspire to was called the voodoo dolls. It was in fact the Goo Goo Dolls. Ooops. Mr Misfit dressed as a wizard complete with cape and a long twisty pointed hat that was very heavy. Both costumes were homemade. Andy’s hat is actually quite funny. It is in fact a cowboy hat with wire coat hangers on top with some brown material stitched on. The hat was drooping throughout the performance. Needless to say the hat was made redundant half way through the show.
Alas our thoughts of us being the only ones to have made an effort were short lived as a few of the locals had come out dressed to impress and we breathed a sigh of relief.
Overall it was a fantastic gig with a wonderful and appreciative crowd. Huge thanks to all 
