Category Archives: Chris Sarlas Orchestra

Sarah & Adam

June 16, 2012

Hotel InterContinental Chicago
Sarah & Adam

Arguably one of the best sounding ballrooms in the city, Hotel Intercontinental’s Renaissance Room was the chosen location for Sarah & Adam’s wedding ceremony and reception. Add Melissa Phillips’ expert event planning to this fabulous venue, and you have stumbled upon a recipe for perfection! Congratulations Sarah & Adam!

The hora was off the charts!

Tim & Barry know how to get everyone on the dance floor:

And Dayna….well, she’s just in a class by herself. Doesn’t miss a note. You’ll notice Chris cueing the band for the next tune in this video, because we don’t use a set list. Chris monitors the dance floor IN REAL TIME, and he calls the next tune that will keep everyone dancing.

Ashley & Jimmy

June 2, 2012

Fulton’s on the River
Ashley & Jimmy

Summer weather has arrived, along with a bustling wedding season! Beginning with cocktail music outside adjacent the Chicago River, Ashley & Jimmy kicked off their wonderful celebration at Fulton’s on the River. After dinner service, they hit the dance floor with their bridal dance, “You Are The Best Thing”/Ray LaMontagne, and danced, and danced, and danced! Kelly from Clementine Events was exemplary to work with – definitely call Clementine if considering planning services for your day! Ashley’s fulsome 5-star review on Wedding Wire:

“Before we get to the music, let me say how wonderful a job Chris himself did managing us throughout the process. From the moment we met with him he made it clear that he had our best interests at heart his main intention was that we get the service we wanted and within our budget. He never once tried to force any additional services on us in order to raise the fee, and we were able to get all of the instruments that we wanted and make it work within our budget. He always responded to all of our inquiries the same day. He was extremely professional throughout the process, especially in the final few weeks when we were finalizing our preparations. Chris was such a calming presence on the phone, ensuring us that everything would go smoothly. He couldn’t have been better.

Now for the Music. Wow. People were coming to us all night and all said some variation of “Where did you guys find this band, they are INCREDIBLE,” and they were. The talent of the musicians was clear, and the dance floor was rocking all night, even our 90 year old grandfather felt the need to get out there. The voices of the singers were amazing, and they really brought so many of our favorite songs to life. I seriously can’t imagine how they could have done any better.

In addition to the music, they did a wonderful job of interacting with the crowd and making sure that people stayed on the dance floor. This was one of our larger concerns, as there are few things sadder than an empty dance floor at a wedding. They knew how to work the crowd wonderfully, and there was never a dull moment.

We only gave 5 stars for all criteria because we couldn’t give 6. If you are considering Chris Sarlas Orchestra, do yourself a favor and sign the contract now. We promise it will be one of the best decisions you make for your special day.”

Thank you Ashley and Jimmy!

Jessie & Michael

April 28, 2012

The Hyatt Lodge at McDonald’s Campus
Jessie & Michael

We loved getting this note from Jessie a few days after the wedding:

“Thank you so much for making our wedding a memorable event! Between the great performance by your orchestra and allowing my brother to play, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Your orchestra really made our wedding. Both Michael and I would highly recommend your orchestra to anyone! Thanks for everything!”

And Jessie, we had a fantastic time playing for you and your guests!

One of our new favorites:

A special request, “must play.” You got it! We love Smokey

Sarah & Jason

April 21, 2012

Racine Marriott
Sarah & Jason

Got the sweetest note from Sarah a few days after the wedding:

“What can I say in a short email to capture the many ways I want to say thank you?! You were a great deal the glue to making our wedding evening spectacular, and April 21st will always be a memorable day in each of our wedding guests’ minds. Thank you so so much for your efforts prior to and throughout the duration of the evening. You had a beautiful set for our preferences, and really kept the dancefloor going all night. I am so happy we had you there to celebrate with us! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts again. All the best to you and each member of your orchestra!”

Tim tears up Grenade: