Dream Lake Como Wedding
Chanel & James

Chanel & James

Every one of our wedding shows is special and unique in its own right – but sometimes we walk away with not just the warm, fuzzy feeling of being a part of something memorable…but with treasured new friends. This feature pays homage to a wonderful weekend in July 2018, when the Shayler and Smith families came together, through the fairytale destination wedding of Chanel and James.

We always have many a conversation with our lovely clients, especially when it comes to an Italian destination wedding, where logistics can be complex – but through the planning process of James and Chanel’s wedding, we developed fond friendships and a firm love of the Shayler/Smith clan! This wedding was nothing short of magical, with every detail lovingly thought out and planned to perfection.

The Preparation

On the eve of the wedding day, the Jam Hot 10 Piece Band flew out to Lake Como, Italy to meet our tour event production team Artisan Productions, who had driven our equipment over from the UK. As soon as we stepped into Villa Pizzo on the morning of the 20th July 2018, we could tell that all of Chanel and James’ lovingly made plans were all coming to fruition in the most stunning way, helped by to their amazing wedding planner Elena Renzi. The venue was dressed by the tremendous Figli Dei Fiori, and the sensational grounds were adorned in mesmerising floral displays spilling over with peach, pink, white and orange roses. The ceremony area was to be Villa Pizzo’s private terrace overlooking the breathtaking views of Lake Como, and was set with elegant white seats, all waiting to be filled with Chanel and James’ friends and family.

Arrival

Whilst Chanel, her mum Julia and the bridal party were all no doubt preparing for the day, we got to work setting up the various elements of our performance spaces in the magnificent Italian sunshine (always a pleasure to break out the shades). First we focused on the main evening show. We set up facing the stunning views over the lake, and Artisan Productions provided our stage, full PA and an impressive lighting rig. Once we were 100% happy with our sound check, we moved on to setting up our second system out on the lawn.

Soon it was time to be in place for the imminent arrival of the guests. They were to be transported to Villa Pizzo’s private harbour via boat, and waiting for them was our roaming acoustic line-up, comprising of sax, trumpet and acoustic guitar for this element of the day. Once all of the guests had alighted, our talented boys led them up the hill, and through to the ceremony area. James and the groomsmen arrived, all looking incredibly suave in their Paul Smith suits. James greeted his guests with grace, and waited in anticipation for his bride.

Ceremony & Drinks

Before long, the Bridal party arrived led by 2 charming flower girls, and a beguiling bridesmaid dressed in exquisite pastel blue. When we first glimpsed Chanel, she looked positively resplendent in a Vera Wang dress that couldn’t have been more perfect. This stunning lady was simply glowing, and as she walked down the aisle on the arm of her devoted Father, you could see the adoration in her Grooms’ eyes from a mile away. After a ceremony that was full of laughter and happy tears, the new Mr and Mrs Smith led their guests through to the garden, where we were waiting to serenade them during their scenic drinks reception. Our 4 Vocalists and Pianist flawlessly played an atmospheric live-lounge set of well-known pop, played with a sunny, acoustic vibe. This provided an elegant soundtrack to the incredible surroundings, as James and Chanel’s guests enjoyed aperitifs on the lawn.

Evening Reception & Dancing

Once it was time to sit for dinner and speeches, we took our leave for a while, to prepare for our evening performance. We spent time enjoying a delicious dinner made by the talented chefs at Villa Pizzo, before getting dolled up for the evening ahead. We dressed in our gold, black and white costumes for this performance, and once we were all looking show-ready and had warmed up, we made our way down to get in place for the First Dance. Chanel and James chose the timeless classic ‘Power Of Love’ by Celine Dion, and Melissa performed a breath-taking rendition, beautifully accompanied by Chanel’s brother Lee on a white baby grand piano. The effort that was put into that special moment made it all the more poignant – the baby grand was carefully driven all the way over from the UK in a personalised truck (featuring giant images of Chanel and James on each side!), alongside the dance floor that had been bought for the occasion. Lee put so much time and effort into perfecting the song, and it was such a moving experience to be part of – he absolutely nailed it! Once Chanel had also taken a turn around the floor with her Dad, it was time to kick off the party in true Jam Hot style! Chanel and James’ guests were fabulous to entertain, their responsiveness and vigour made for an outstanding party that I’m sure everyone will still be happily reminiscing about to this day, and long into the future!

The After-(Boat)Party

This long-awaited celebration didn’t stop at just the Wedding day. The following afternoon, the guests (and us!) were treated to a boat party on Lake Como, taking us on a scenic journey to the historic and very beautiful Bellagio. On deck, our live-lounge band (this time featuring 4 vocalists, acoustic guitar and cajon) played up-beat, well known songs. Accompanied by fabulously raucous singing and dancing from the wedding party, the atmosphere was truly sunny, happy and magical. We stopped off at Bellagio for lunch and a stroll through the romantic cobbled streets, before once again boarding the boat and slowly setting off for the harbour. After more singing, dancing, laughing and playing music, we thoroughly enjoyed a glass of wine whilst watching the sun set.

Thanks For Having Us!

Both days were stunningly documented by the extremely talented team at Tell Your Story – an absolute pleasure to work with such experienced, accomplished photographers and videographers, who captured the whole essence of the occasion in the most bewitching way – all images & video above are courtesy of Oana & Valentin. Top quality shooting!

The entire experience was an absolute pleasure, from the initial planning meetings, all the way through to the conclusion of the wedding celebrations. Whilst we never give anything less than 100% to every single client – the fact that this kind, loving family truly went above and beyond, is still so much appreciated and remembered with great fondness. I’m thrilled to say that 2 years on, James and Chanel are now the proud parents of their adorable Walter, who was born in may 2019. All of us at Jam Hot wish the Smiths and the Shaylers, a happy, prosperous and blessed future. Cheers!