Stephanie and Larry's wedding reception brought me to Hart's Hill Inn in Whitesboro, just a few miles outside of Utica. This was my first visit as a wedding DJ, but I've visited several times during my days as a radio DJ. Check out the blog post for photos, song selections and more memories!

First opened to the public in 1946, Hart's Hill Inn has been owned by the Lichorowic family since 1963. The venue can accommodate two receptions at once and there's space out back for outdoor ceremonies. But if you already live in the Utica-Rome area, chances are you're already familiar with this popular location.

I've been to Hart's Hill Inn as a wedding guest, I've represented my old employer Lite 98.7 at various events, and even once as a "40 Under 40 Mohawk Valley" recipient. It was wonderful to finally return after so long! (I even passed by the original Lite 98.7 studios, just up the road, on my way in.) Though I didn't have time to drop any quarters myself, I was happy to see the classic Ms. Pac-Man arcade machine still working. If you've never noticed it, it's not visible from the main lobby; it's tucked in a little corner in the short hallway leading to the mens' room.

Although the reception moved very quickly, it was jam-packed with fun thanks to a great crowd. Among the requests, Stephanie included some dabkes to honor her Lebanese roots. The circle dances were well-received by her family. And as Stephanie predicted, even those who weren't familiar with the songs were quick to join in the fun. You'll see in the photos below.

You'll see also see one shot of guests serenading Stephanie. I was informed early in the evening, by a guest, that it's another tradition for male relatives to sing "You've Lost That Loving Feeling" to the bride at every wedding in the family. I managed to squeeze it into the lineup a bit later in the evening and you'll see it turned out really nicely.

Here are Stephanie and Larry's picks for the big songs of the night.

Key Wedding Song Selections

• Wedding Party Intros: Nat King Cole / L-O-V-E, then changed to Beyonce / Crazy in Love
• Bride and Groom Entrance: John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John / You're the One that I Want (from Grease)
• First Dance: Christina Perri / A Thousand Years
• Bride / Father Dance: Temptations / My Girl
• Groom / Mother Dance: Lonestar / Let them Be Little
• Cake Cutting: Bruno Mars / Marry You
• Bouquet Toss: Beyonce / Single Ladies
• Garter Toss: Entry of the Gladiators (instrumental)
• Last Slow Dance of the Night: Haley Reinhart / Can't Help Falling in Love
• Last Dance of the Night: Blues Brothers / Everybody Needs Somebody to Love

Photo Gallery

Here are just some of the photos I snapped -- click the blue button at the bottom to see 12 more, and to tag/like/share on Facebook!

Click any photo below for a larger version.

Click here to see these +12 more & tag/like/share on Facebook!
More Event Photos

These are just a few shots I snapped quickly amidst my DJ duties -- for more (and better!) photos from various points throughout the day, check out professional photographer Erin Covey's website and Facebook page. (Note: Erin's finished work isn't up yet as of this writing, so keep checking back!) It's thanks to Erin's recommendation that Stephanie and Larry contacted me last year, so thank you, Erin!

Thank you also to Stephanie and Larry for taking Erin's advice to meet with me and to ultimately hire me to DJ your reception! I'm also thankful for this wonderful review on Facebook!

I enjoyed working with you and seeing all the plans come to fruition. I wish you both all the best for many years of happiness together!