When Allison and I were getting married, we wanted to keep things simple. We'd planned a small ceremony with close friends and family, and were trying to figure out what we could do afterwards to celebrate. Nothing over the top - just something fun where everyone could relax and enjoy themselves. We were still brainstorming ideas when my phone rang. It was a new venue we'd never played before, asking if The Counterfeits were available for a gig that same night as our wedding. My first instinct was to say no - I value my life.
But as I started to explain why we weren't available, an idea formed. I told the venue manager what was up - that I was getting married that day, that we had this small guest list, and that we were basically just looking for something fun to do after the ceremony. "What if," I said, "we played the gig, but I'm a little more dressed up than usual and some of our friends and family hang out?" (I ran this by the bride first!) There was a pause, then laughter. "Let's do it," he said. "And your people can have the employee discount on food and drinks."
So that's how it happened. After our ceremony, instead of a traditional reception, we headed to the venue with our small group of family and friends. I was in my wedding clothes (minus the jacket by the second set), Allison was in her dress, and The Counterfeits played a full show. Our guests got to eat, drink, and dance while we did what we do. The other patrons at the venue had no idea they were at someone's wedding reception - they just thought the band was really happy that night. Which, to be fair, we were.
The best part? At the end of the night, true to form, the band packed up all the gear and loaded the van before we left for our honeymoon. Nothing says "working musician" quite like hauling your amp to the van in wedding attire. But it was perfect for us. Our families got to see what we actually do, our friends had a great time, and we got to celebrate our wedding doing what we love. Plus, we actually made money on our wedding day instead of spending it.
When couples ask me about booking The Counterfeits for their wedding, I tell them this story. Because if I trusted The Counterfeits to play my own wedding - literally - then you know we're going to show up for yours. We understand that your wedding is important because we've been there. We know what it's like to want everything to be perfect, to worry about the music, to hope your guests have a good time. The only difference is, at your wedding, you get to enjoy the party instead of working it. And I promise, we'll probably be wearing slightly more traditional band attire. Probably.
