The coast between Marina del Rey and Palos Verdes is wedding country, and I've been lucky to DJ a lot of celebrations there. I'm DJ Sam House, and here are some favorites from 2008 to early 2010, including the music, the traditions and the surprises that made each one unforgettable.
Marina del Rey
Brad and Sabrina, Marina del Rey Marriott (September 2008). A relaxing Sunday wedding with a bit of fun and dancing too. Sometimes the best parties are the easygoing ones.
Alan and Patricia, Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey (February 2009). We were definitely putting on the Ritz. We mixed Spanish and Italian music for both families, and they loved it, from "Suavemente" to the tarantella.
Brenda and Sergio, Marina del Rey Marriott (May 2009). A mariachi band played through dinner, and after dinner we packed the dance floor and everyone went crazy. MC Dennis Waller was with me, helping keep the party live. It's always a good time when everybody dances until the end.
Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach
Sandra and Jim, Bluewater Grill (July 4, 2009). An early afternoon Independence Day reception where everyone danced, to Jim's surprise. I received lots of compliments on the music selection.
Meluz and David, Bluewater Grill (November 2008). This was their second reception after getting married in Vail, Colorado, so it was light on tradition and heavy on good times. With the California wildfires making headlines, family and friends still got out there and shook their groove things.
Alex and Sara, Marriott Manhattan Beach (January 2010). My first wedding of 2010, and we kicked the year off with a bang. The couple celebrated with friends, family and a visit from the USC Marching Band. Classic! The dance floor was packed all night.
Palos Verdes
Josephine and Rommell, Trump National (March 2009). During dinner we enjoyed a traditional performance by Samahan Filipino Dance Co., and after dinner everyone filled the dance floor to show off their own moves.
Anthony and Kimberly, Trump National (June 2009). A beautiful day to be floating around Palos Verdes, or just getting married. Great-looking couple, plenty of loving friends and family, and a view everyone took in together.
Planning tips for coastal weddings
- Plan for the breeze. Marina and ocean-view venues can be windy, so secure decor and ask your DJ about sound.
- Welcome both families. Whether it's mariachi, tarantella or a traditional dance troupe, great cultural moments work best when your DJ knows the plan.
- Mind the timeline. Sunset, fireworks and early-afternoon receptions all need slightly different schedules, so share yours.
For more, read about Simon and Jennifer at Trump National or Dan and Nicole's Fourth of July wedding.
Planning a wedding of your own? I'd love to hear about it. Say hello here, or take a look at my wedding DJ services.