I had the opportunity to work with Michelle at Juliane and Corey's wedding. Her playing was so beautiful. Michelle's harp music made the wedding ceremony super classy. Plus don't harps just look cool. I've been trying to get my daughter to take harp lessons but so far she just wants to play the piano. Maybe some day. Here is my interview with Michelle.
Your Name: Michelle Paterson
Company: Harp by Michelle
Genre: Wedding music
Location: Draper, Utah
Website: harpbymichelle.com
Facebook/Instagram: @HarpbyMichelle
Tell me about your business: Live music really sets the tone for an event. People of all ages appreciate the beautiful sight and sounds the harp offers. From soft inviting prelude to the unforgettable march of the bridal procession to the fun tunes enjoyed while devouring your dinner plate. I play it all, and welcome special requests to make your special day truly enchanting. Harp and viola is also available.
Tell me a little about yourself: At the age of 10, my family took a trip to Lake Louise in Banff, Canada. Walking into the lobby at the charming lodge, I found myself captivated with the sound of a harp. The harpist was exquisite. And so was her music. It was love at first sight! I started taking lessons, played my first wedding at 14, and decided to pursue a Master’s degree in harp at the University of Arizona. It’s been a wonderful journey!
How do brides find you?: Mostly through my website and referrals.
What’s your favorite part about being in music industry? Being an intimate part of someone’s life for a few hours is intriguing. I always leave a wedding impressed, culturally educated and thoroughly appreciated. It is truly uplifting! Oh, and I don’t mind putting on a fancy dress, being immersed in beautiful flowers and luscious backdrops on a Saturday afternoon-don’t have to yank my arm too hard!
Why did you decide to play your harp for weddings? Weddings are a big deal. So are handcrafted instruments that stand 6 feet tall with 47 strings. Eighty magnificent pounds of beauty! Harps at weddings are a must!
What’s your least favorite part about playing your harp for weddings? Mustering up the courage to ask four well-groomed groomsmen to lug my 80 pound goddess up a mountain to the most perfect ceremonial site. My harp dolly can only go so far in the dirt!
What makes you stand out from your competitors, are all vendors in the wedding music industry equal? Professionalism. Wedding planning is stressful. Been there. My average response time is within the hour. I am willing to learn any piece of music. It’s fun for me. I also try hard to be easy to work with. All wedding musicians are not created equal. I have played for countless weddings over the last two decades, continually adding to my repertoire. You want someone that sound great, looks great, and is easy to work with.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional to play music at your wedding versus doing it yourself? Ambiance and elegance. You could bring a speaker with some loaded tunes, but you won’t get the “wow” factor from your guests. Hire a harpist!
How far in advance should a bride book/inquire about your services and why? Three months. Weekends fill up quickly.
What is a consultation/first meeting typically like? Who/what do you recommend they bring? Most importantly we discuss song choices for the bridal party, bridal march, the pronouncement processional, and requests for reception/cocktail hour.
What is your favorite service and why do you recommend it the most? I started playing with a virtuosic violist over three years ago. Jen is experienced and a delight! The viola is so rich and compliments the harp well.
0 Comments