June 30, 2012

Westin Lombard
Alexis & Brandon

Once in a while, something happens during an event that is truly special. Alexis’ mom Zoe surprised her by singing “In My Daughter’s Eyes”/Martina McBride with us. It was absolutely magical, as was the entire celebration.

This 5-star review from the bride on yelp means the world to us:

“This band made our wedding spectacular! My dad passed away 6 months before the wedding and Chris Sarlas was/is such an amazing, genuine person. He really helped me through the whole process and truly cared. The singers were awesome as well as the instruments. All of our guests complimented us the entire night on how great the band was. We had some greek dancing too and the singers and musicians were incredible. The band made the room come alive! You will not be disappointed with the Chris Sarlas Orchestra!”

Alexis, we know that your father is looking down and smiling upon you both. Thank you so much for choosing us to keep you dancing on your wedding day 🙂

June 22, 2012

Ruth Lake Country Club
Kristine & Robert

It’s always such a compliment when a family calls us for another family celebration –The Cronin family chose us to perform for Katie’s 2008 wedding and now for Kristine’s 2012 party! Ruth Lake Country Club in Hinsdale was hopping — as was my heart was when I read the Mother of the Bride’s 5-star review of us on Yelp:

“This is the second time we have used this band for a wedding. Both our daughters were married to the music of Chris Sarlas. They were wonderful both times. Big downtown elaborate wedding- and wonderful for the “outdoor summer” wedding we held in the suburbs. Best band for New York style wedding – they let you pick all the songs for the evening- and they even learned a new french song for the groom!
Fabulous- they dance floor rocked all night– right to the end!!!!!!!!!!!!”

And from the bride and groom via Wedding Wire:

“If you can get them, pick the Chris Sarlas Orchestra for your wedding! Chris is a pleasure to work with, the singers and instrumentalists are amazing and fun, and they really know how to rock a party! People were up dancing the entire night, and everyone couldn’t stop talking about how awesome the band was. They really are the best in the Midwest! Get the CSO, and your wedding will be a surefire hit!”

What you don’t see in these video clips are the waitstaff….who were dancing down the hall with every tune. Best night ever!!

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.

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!