Megasound

Plan to Visit the 2011 Bridal Spectacular

2011-09-25T10:38:00.000-04:00

If you are planning a Fort Wayne wedding, don't miss the 2011 Bridal Spectacular on Sunday, October 2, 2011. Megasound will be one of the many wedding professionals on site ready to help you plan your 2012 or 2013 wedding. Whether you are newly engaged or your wedding is right around the corner, the Bridal Spectacular offers the advantage of featuring many qualified wedding professionals in one handy location.

If you are looking for the latest bridal fashions or attire for your wedding party, don't miss the runway fashion show at 2pm. You'll enjoy samples of tasty cakes from regional bakers and food delights from area caterers as well as sweet chocolate treats. You'll have a chance to talk to DJs, Officiants, hair stylists as well as view samples from professional photographers and video artists and the newest in wedding invitations and floral designs.

Tasty Wedding Cake Samples

At the Megasound booth, we'll be giving away several prizes including a $200 prize for "savings off" your ceremony and reception package. Be sure to sign up at the door as well as the individual vendor booths for wonderful door prizes and other opportunities to save money on planning your wedding. In the past brides have won free bridesmaids bouquets, cake servers, money off their event packages, and much more.

Another can't miss treat at the Megasound is the "Real Bride" Jessica who will be on site to to answer questions about planning your wedding, how it was to have Megasound assist her with her wedding, and other helpful tips on surviving and enjoying your wedding day.

Real Bride Jessica

The Bridal Spectacular is from noon-4pm at the Allen County Memorial Coliseum which is located at 4000 Parnell Avenue in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Tickets are available at the door.

Megasound Holds Contest for 25th Anniversary Giveaway

2010-11-25T12:01:00.001-05:00

Press Release from Megasound

Fort Wayne, Indiana, November 25, 2010 -- A local DJ/MC/Officiant company is showing their appreciation to the community as a part of their 25th Anniversary celebration. Many couples are forgoing their ideal wedding ceremony due to the economic downturn, job concerns, and financial situations. Megasound is grateful for the 25 years of support from the Fort Wayne community. In turn, as a thank you, Megasound will present one area couple with a $350 wedding ceremony package. Megasound will custom-tailor a wedding ceremony and ceremony music package that reflects the couple's personalities, unique qualities, and respective traditions. This contest runs through December 20, 2010 and the winning couple will be announced on December 25th. To win this wedding ceremony giveaway, couples are asked to submit a short letter to the company answering the question, "What qualities are important to you (the bride and groom) in a DJ/MC/Officiant company for your wedding?" Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email address, date and location of wedding ceremony, and the reason why you deserve to win this wedding contest. Entries can be mailed to Megasound, P.O. Box 5098, Fort Wayne, IN 46895-5098, or emailed to Megasound01@comcast.net.

Megasound is a professional DJ/MC/Officiant service specializing in weddings. Megasound offers a complimentary consultation in order to determine a couple’s specific wedding needs. The company works closely with each couple in order to create a meaningful, truly exquisite wedding ceremony. The Megasound staff is extremely detail-oriented and cares about the quality of each ceremony performed. The company also provides fully personalized, fun reception entertainment and coordination as well as pre-marital counseling for complete wedding service.
For more information about this contest or the services that Megasound provides, please contact Megasound by email at megasound01@comcast.net, calling (260) 484-2460, or simply visit http://www.megasound1.com/.

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Blog Migration

2010-06-29T10:51:00.000-04:00

If you've reached the Megasound Blog and wondered why we haven't posted in a while; check out our website blog at http://megasound1.com/category/blog/ .

Or simply just click here to read more about
Fort Wayne Weddings
Helpful Wedding Planning Tips
Officiant Services
Reception Entertainment
Fun Songs to Include in Your Wedding
and much more.

Be sure to bookmark our new wedding blog site so you can stay up to date on all things wedding-related with Megasound!

The Seven Latest Love Songs for the New Decade

2010-04-06T11:08:00.000-04:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Love Songs for Your Fort Wayne wedding!

One of my favorite song posts was “Love Songs Through the Decades”. Click here if you didn’t get a chance to read this post the first time around. I reread this musically rich post the other day and realized that this whole new “20-10” decade holds even more exquisite, romantic songs. Many of these love songs can easily be used for a couple’s first dance, a parent dance, or even an anniversary dance at a wedding reception. So, as we enter into a new decade, there will be even more love songs to enjoy (whether singing, dancing, or just for your listening pleasure). I hope that you enjoy these new love songs for 2010.

“Nothin’ on You” by Bruno Mars

“Hey Soul Sister” by Train

“Haven’t Met You Yet” by Michael Buble

“Put it in a Love Song” by Alicia Keys

“I See You” by Leona Lewis

“All I Ever Wanted” by Kelly Clarkson

“My Heart is Yours” by Justin Nuzoka

When you need help with creating your Fort Wayne wedding reception music soundtrack, contact Megasound at 260.484.2460!

How to Avoid the 7 Most Common Mistakes When Hiring a DJ for Your Wedding

2010-04-05T14:21:00.000-04:00

from Erik Michaels of Megasound

Here are seven ways to avoid being disappointed with your Fort Wayne wedding reception entertainment. The points are very solid and as with any wedding decision on hiring any entertainer (DJ/disc jockey, MC/Master of Ceremonies, or band), much thought must go into place before you sign on the dotted line.

Always have a detailed contract for your wedding

COMMON MISTAKE #1: CONTRACTING A DJ/DISC JOCKEY BASED ON PRICE ALONE.

This is a huge mistake to avoid when planning your dream wedding. The musical entertainment is one of the most important elements in the success (or failure) of the “party” portion of your wedding reception. Try to keep in mind the IMPORTANCE level of your wedding and how much you want your wedding to be an awesome event!

An exceptional wedding entertainer will work with you ahead of time so that all of the elements are seamless and polished. Your Fort Wayne DJ should satisfy you and your guests AND he/she should leave you with great memories of your wedding celebration. Base your decision to hire an individual or company on what features and services they offer you, not on price alone. The "best price" is not always the "best value." Just because someone has a business card with the words "Professional DJ" on it does not mean much. Would you choose a doctor for an important surgery based on which one is cheapest?

Ask your potential DJ a lot of pointed questions

COMMON MISTAKE #2: WAITING TOO LONG TO HIRE THE ENTERTAINMENT.

Time is of the essence when locating and hiring your wedding entertainment. No one has unlimited resources. If your wedding reception is scheduled for April, May, June, July, August, September, October, or December, you need to book your entertainment (DJ or band) much earlier than the rest of the year. Entertainment for weddings, high school proms, homecomings, reunions, and holiday parties is much more in demand during these months. In addition, the best Fort Wayne entertainers usually get hired first which makes them unavailable for a given date much earlier than others.

COMMON MISTAKE#3: NOT DETERMINING THE EXPERIENCE LEVEL OF STAFF FOR YOUR WEDDING.

Determining the actual experience level of your entertainer is quite important for your wedding. Knowing this key piece of information will help you understand how well your wedding reception will be handled when unexpected problems arise as well as the overall atmosphere of your event. Look for an individual or company with at least five years in the wedding industry. Specifically ask if they have the type of experience that you expect for your wedding. 10 years of experience is recommended for most quality DJs in Indiana. Weddings are more detailed and complicated than a backyard party or high school dance. Making certain that your wedding DJ is proficient as an MC (master of ceremonies) is also important. MCs who can also officiate wedding ceremonies will naturally also perform better at the basics.

COMMON MISTAKE#4: NOT CHECKING ON BACKUP EQUIPMENT.

Backup equipment needs to be on-site, hooked up, and ready to go for each and every event - especially yours! Make certain that your event will not "end early" due to equipment failure with no way to get the show back up and running in under 5 minutes. Also, make sure that your entertainer will not back out of your engagement because of equipment failure. See (#5) below for more equipment information.

Back up equipment should be on site

COMMON MISTAKE#5: SELECTING AN ENTERTAINER WHO DOES NOT USE PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT.

Professional grade equipment is a must for all events. An entertainer who uses home stereo or consumer grade equipment puts your party at risk of unexpected breakdowns - blown loudspeakers, amplifier shutdowns, and improperly operating equipment. Consumer grade equipment was never designed for heavy-duty use, constant transportation, and the other range of variables such as extreme temperature, humidity, and dust that it will inevitably be subjected to in our trade. Although professional equipment is not indestructible, it is designed to withstand this type of use as well as being designed for sound reinforcement applications.

COMMON MISTAKE#6: NOT CHECKING THE ENTERTAINER'S CREDENTIALS.

This is a HUGE mistake to avoid when planning your dream reception. Check your local Better Business Bureau concerning the individual or company you are considering. If the entertainer that you are considering has had complaints made against them to the BBB, you could be the next person who hires that entertainer and receives unsatisfactory service. Keep in mind that many "moon-lighters" are not even on file with the BBB, but still may do an "OK" job. However, if an entertainer that you are considering has NO file with the BBB AND no website, watch out! These charlatans do not take this business seriously and most times lack necessary experience, insurance requirements, business licenses or certificates of compliances, and/or other areas of concern (such as proper ethics). Another great source of reference is to check with the manager at the facility you are renting or other professionals such as photographers. Once again, just because a DJ calls their service "PROFESSIONAL" does not make it so.

Reception entertainment

COMMON MISTAKE#7: BELIEVING THAT A PARTICULAR SETUP WILL BE THE SETUP AT YOUR WEDDING.

Most DJ's or companies use different equipment from the equipment you saw in their office, at a bridal show, or at a particular engagement. The sound setup at your wedding reception could be considerably different from how it looked before. Ask for pictures or video footage before hiring anyone. Your particular reception hall may be too small or too large for a given setup. If the setup is too small, find out if the entertainer offers larger equipment. Few companies offer standard equipment (this is where all the entertainers from a given company all use the same basic setup). Make certain that enough room is available at your reception hall for the setup; conversely, if the setup is quite small, it may be too small for your particular event.

Professional MCs and Officiants

2010 and 2011 dates are filling up quickly, so contact Megasound at 260.484.2460 to secure your wedding reception date today!!

What is the Significance of a "Grand Entrance" at a Reception?

2010-03-12T08:12:00.001-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

The planning and the stress lead to the alter. The nerves and the anxiousness dissolve once the Officiant pronounces the happy couple man and wife. Then it is time to celebrate the new union at the reception.

The reception is the first actual public appearance for the bride and groom as a newly married couple. The grand introduction should not be taken lightly as this is a symbol of the next stage of life for a couple and the official announcement to a couple’s closest friends and family members.

The grand introduction sets the tone for the upcoming celebration. Check out our recent list of “18 Fun Reception Introduction Songs” and see for yourself how songs reflect a couple's tastes and styles.

Why do Brides Carry a Handkerchief at Their Wedding?

2010-03-11T09:05:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Handkerchiefs have been used over the centuries and brides carry them at their weddings for a variety of reasons. Handkerchiefs are symbols of family crests or shields; and in many cases, a lady's colors (which knights would wear into battle). The most practical use for a bride is to dab away her tears of joy and happiness.

The wedding handkerchief is generally a bridal keepsake which a mother will then pass down to her daughter. Some families hand down this “something old” from generation to generation. Some brides hold their handkerchief with their bouquet and others tuck their hankie in their dress.

The bride’s handkerchief is one tradition that has held pretty much to it’s original intent and purpose. A plain Kleenex just doesn’t withstand the potential tearful treatment as would a handkerchief.

Call or email us TODAY to set up a visit with us for YOUR wedding!

Is it a Requirement to Dance with Parents at the Wedding Reception?

2010-03-10T10:16:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

A “Parents Dance” is one of the traditional dances that many couples include in their wedding. A daughter dancing with her father at weddings dates back some time. In some areas, this is a symbol of a father turning the protection of his daughter over to her groom. In many circles, the dance is a reflection of the relationship and an expression of love between the bride and her father.

On the flip side of the father-bride dance, a groom may ask his mother to dance. Again, this dance is a reflection of the bond and love a mother has for her son.

Fewer songs are written for the groom to dance with his mother than the number of songs available for a bride to dance with her father. We’ve found that there are quite a few songs that are appropriate for either dance. Click here to check out our post featuring a wide variety of song suggestions for parents' dances!

Why are There “Sides” at a Wedding Ceremony?

2010-03-08T18:02:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Have you ever wondered why an usher asks you whether you want to sit on the bride’s side or the groom’s side of the church? In ancient times, marriages were sometimes arranged to bring peace to two feuding or warring tribes (or families or towns). In order to reduce tensions and possible fights before the wedding ceremony, the ushers would separate the bride's family from the groom's family.

Over the years, this traditional seating has given way to simply seating guests on a first come, first seated basis. Today, many couples are selecting alternative locations for their ceremony and the divided seating is impractical and in some cases impossible. Nowadays, guests just want to support the bride and groom as a couple and get a good seat to watch them tie the knot.

If you are interested in learning more about wedding traditions or securing your 2010, 2011, or 2012 ceremony and/or reception date, give us a call today!

Why are Brides "Given Away"?

2010-03-08T09:40:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Throughout history, many marriages were pre-arranged even before the bride and groom were teenagers. Social standing and status had a lot of weight in these matters. Sometimes, the groom and his family were expected to “pay a price” for the bride. The groom, in a sense, purchased the bride and compensated her family for their "loss".

At the wedding ceremony, the bride’s father would escort her and “present” her to the groom. By acknowledging the Officiant's question ("Who presents this woman?"), the father would verbally reaffirm that the arrangement was completed and he approved of the union. This also represented that the bride’s family had no additional legal claim to her. She was then dependent on her new husband and his family.

In this day and age, a father is basically giving his blessing to the marriage when he presents his daughter to her groom. Brides may have both parents or her child “give” her away and some brides select to walk unaccompanied down the aisle.

2010 wedding dates are filling up quickly, so contact the Officiants at Megasound to see if we still have availability for your wedding ceremony!

Why Does a Bride Wear a Veil at Her Wedding?

2010-03-05T08:03:00.002-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasoud

A bride’s veil dates back to ancient times and arranged marriages. A groom would not see his bride until the wedding ceremony. The unveiling of the bride was typically a part of the wedding ceremony.

Many cultures also believed that a veil was worn as protection from evil spirits or an evil eye. The veil would be part of the “disguise” that a bride wore so evil spirits would not make trouble for her on her wedding day.

Nowadays, brides wear a veil as an adornment to compliment their wedding dress. The veil completes the whole bridal "look". Veils come in every length from cathedral to the French veiling (that looks like a tiny net birdcage).

Fort Wayne bridal salons offer veils, tiaras, hairpins, and more. To save time, attend a trunk show that features unique veil designers. Megasound works with Fort Wayne wedding professionals who offer exceptional veils and other bridal accessories. To find out more, give us a call.

What is the Meaning of the Unity Candle?

2010-03-04T08:04:00.001-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

The Unity Candle is the most common wedding ceremony tradition and is generally held after the ring exchange vows and before the blessing. The Unity Candle symbolizes family unity and the joining together of the Bride and Groom and their families. In the past this was usually done by the Mother of the Bride and the Mother of the Groom lighting their child’s respective candles and then the Bride and Groom together lighting the Unity Candle. Nowadays it is still done that way occasionally, but more often the Bride and Groom light their own candles.

Many different traditions may be used in place of the Unity Candle tradition in the event of your ceremony taking place in a location where candles are impractical, such as an outside wedding or a wedding taking place in a facility that doesn’t allow open flames such as a museum. One alternative tradition is called “The Blending of the Sands” and originated in Hawaii. The Bride and Groom each have their own containers of colored sand and then blend them together in one container during the ceremony signifying their joining together.

Another tradition which can be used instead of candles is called “Handfasting”. “Handfasting” is the binding of the Bride's and Groom's hands with rope, tied with a special knot during the wedding ceremony. Again, a symbol of binding two individuals as a whole.

Still, many other traditions exist such as the “Jumping of the Broom”. This particular tradition is believed to have originated in African tribes. Originally, sticks were placed on the ground, representing the couple's new home. However, it became popular among African-American slaves who could not legally marry, so they created their own rituals to honor their unions. The Bride and Groom are sweeping together in a circle to signify the sweeping away of their former single lives, their past problems, and their previous cares. The broom represents a threshold between past and present, and “jumping the broom” symbolizes the crossing of this threshold into a new relationship as husband and wife. Starting a new life with another person requires a leap of faith, and by taking this leap, the couple shows their dedication to work together through all of life’s circumstances. This tradition can be done either at the ceremony or afterwards at the reception.

At Megasound, we can help you determine which tradition fits you best for your wedding, so give us a call today to set up a visit with us. We would love to hear about your plans and ideas for your wedding so that we can help you build your ceremony and/or reception to be just what YOU want it to be!

Complete Your Bridal Look on March 6, 2010

2010-03-03T18:56:00.000-05:00

from June Hoffman of Megasound

The Wedding Place is hosting their 12th Semi-Annual Veil and Headpiece Extravaganza this Saturday March 6th. At Megasound, I get some great opportunities to play music for other wedding related events. This is one of those types of events that I get to enjoy as much as the brides. I am spinning the tunes and MCing the event as well.

This pre-nuptial event is an excellent opportunity for brides to pick out finishing touches to their wedding look. It plans to be a wonderful time for you to check out more than just veils. The Wedding Place is featuring new, be-jeweled hair pins and gorgeous wispy feather pieces from the designers at Bella Trousseau. Fort Wayne brides will have the first look at these amazing adornments on Saturday. Bella Trousseau is only available at the Wedding Place.

Other goodies on schedule for March 6th include scrumptious wedding cake from Elegant Cakes by Carolyn and special gifts for each bride. Each registered bride also receives complimentary hair styling and makeup from Hair, Etc. Space is limited, so to reserve your spot, call 260-482-1250 today.

The “Veil and Headpiece Extravaganza” will be held at the Wedding Place which is located at 4618 Speedway Drive in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Reservations are required as the event runs from 10am-4pm this Saturday, March 6, 2010. Hope to see you there!!

What are the Significances of Wedding Flowers?

2010-03-02T14:53:00.000-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

For instance, why does the groom wear a boutonniere? Why do the bride and her bridesmaids carry bouquets?

Historically, flowers represent fertility, purity, new life, and never-ending love. Therefore, they are perfect for a wedding! Originally, bouquets included herbs and spices along with the flowers. These additions helped cover up offensive body odors and also were used to ward off evil spirits, bad luck, and ill health. Strong spices and herbs were believed to scare these bad spirits and other problems away and in many instances, the spices and herbs were eaten afterwards to promote fertility and desire. Dill weed, garlic, chives, and orange blossoms were most frequently used, but which flowers, spices, and herbs were used had to do with local traditions. During Roman times, both the Bride and Groom wore garlands of flowers, much like the Hawaiian lei in today's world. A Groom’s boutonnière also reflects a more chivalrous time when a knight would wear his lady’s colors into battle.

During Victorian times, flowers took on specific meanings between lovers or two people who could not otherwise express their communication in words or written letters or notes. These meanings came to be used for the Bride's flowers, as their meaning could be easily seen by all attending the wedding. Most everyone is familiar with the meanings of roses with red meaning true love or romantic love, yellow meaning friendship, and white meaning purity, reverence, and virtue. However, many of the meanings of flowers have been lost with time. The language of flowers, called “floriography”, has a fairly large online presence. I also found it interesting that there were even differences of meanings and slight nuances between colors and types of flowers.

While the Bride's flowers were generally white, nowadays flowers can be almost any color to augment the colors of her wedding. Megasound has worked with many florists over the years and we will be happy to recommend qualified professional florists who will be happy to help you pick the right flowers for YOUR wedding. We also take the time at the rehearsal to go over placement of flowers and bouquets for the best logistics and photo options. Should you like to know more, just give us a call at 260.484.2460.

What Do Aprons and Hog Troughs Have to do With Weddings?

2010-03-01T09:39:00.001-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Have you ever heard of the "Apron Dance" or the "Hog Trough Dance" at Weddings?

The Dollar Dance: Some traditions at weddings evolved to help with more modern issues. As we mentioned in our post about the honeymoon, when honeymoons originated, they had a different meaning and lasted a bit longer (typically a month) than today's honeymoons. As honeymoons evolved into more expensive "vacations", a new way to help the bride and groom pay for their honeymoon also evolved. The dollar dance is also called the "money dance" or "apron dance" and originated in Poland around 1900. It began in immigrant neighborhoods and was started to help brides and grooms with the costs of either their honeymoon or setting up their new life together.

Originally, the Best Man would begin dancing at the reception with the Bride and pinning money onto her dress or putting it into a purse or an apron which she wears over her dress specifically for this event (which is where the namesake came from). Nowadays, the Groom is also a part of the dance and rather than just men dancing with the Bride and women dancing with the Groom, more often than not; there are no particular rules. Even children join in for these modern festivities. Some Fort Wayne couples have even made the dollar dance into a challenge (to see who can collect more money) during the reception.

The Hog Trough Dance: Another interesting dance at receptions is called the "hog trough" dance. This tradition is much lesser known than the dollar dance, but is often done around the same time frame (in the reception) as the dollar dance. The “tradition” goes as follows: when a younger sibling gets married before an older sibling; the older sibling is supposed to get in the hog trough and dance. This is done to bless the younger sibling's wedding, as it was once believed to be bad luck for a younger sibling to marry before an older sibling.

While doing a bit of research, references were made to this tradition originating in Germany and being mainly a rural tradition. Some research turned up articles referring to this custom as a northern Baltic tradition, but there is a surprisingly small amount of information available today on this subject. Many of the previous meanings have been forgotten and today we simply enjoy the humor and camaraderie of the “hog trough” dance.

Regardless of what traditions you would like to make a part of YOUR wedding reception, rest assured that Megasound will work with you to customize your wedding just the way you want it! Call us TODAY to schedule your FREE consultation!

What is the Significance of the White Aisle Runner?

2010-02-23T12:32:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

At a ceremony, the white aisle runner has Biblical references as part of the blood covenant that is represented in a marriage. The “white” aisle runner is symbolic of the holy ground where two lives are united by God as one. White is also a symbol of purity and innocence.

A more practical purpose for the white aisle runner at the church is to protect the bottom portion of the bride’s wedding dress. This is especially helpful for outdoor weddings.

Today, many couples opt for a customized aisle runner that they can incorporate into their home after the ceremony. Many couples are still happy with a basic white aisle runner to keep with tradition.

At Megasound, our Officiants run your wedding rehearsal for you and have helpful tips and tricks to ensure a safe walk down the aisle. Find out how you can benefit from pre-planning at your wedding by calling 260.484.2460.

Are You Ready for the First Dance?

2010-02-22T08:43:00.001-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

The first dance is a very widespread wedding tradition, in which the newly married couple enjoy their first dance as a married couple at the wedding reception. The song usually has a special meaning to the couple, such as the first song they ever danced to, or the lyrics of the song may resonate with them.

Some couples take dance lessons before their wedding to help them with their first dance. The first dance is generally a slow song; however, some couples opt for a fast song (these are usually couples who took dance lessons). The first dance also (in the Midwest states) usually begins the dancing portion of a wedding reception. Couples living in coastal states commonly feature their first dance immediately following their introduction.

Check out our recent post with great songs that other brides and grooms have used for their first dance.

As with all traditions of your wedding, here at Megasound we will work with you to decide which traditions fit your wedding and give you plenty of suggestions for songs to use. Give us a call TODAY to schedule your free consultation!

Are You “Tying the Knot”?

2010-02-19T07:33:00.000-05:00

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Most people are familiar with the phrase "tying the knot" although relatively few know the origins of the saying. For much of history, rope has been the most powerful way of connecting things and people. “Hand-fasting” is an ancient custom of binding together the hands of the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony, and a special knot was used for this. As such, the expression of "tying the knot" supposedly came from this tradition according to some historians.

Another story about how this expression came to be actually dates back to Roman Times when the bride wore a girdle secured by a knot. After all the festivities of their wedding night, the groom had the honor of "untying the knot." The couple's lives were then "tied together."

Other stories of ritual binding were also popular in ancient Carthage where the couple's thumbs were laced together with a strip of leather. In India, the Hindu groom knotted a ribbon around his bride's neck, and once tied, the marriage was legal and binding.

Get the inside scoop about other wedding traditions and ways for less stressful wedding planning by contacting Megasound. Don’t wait too long as there is limited availability on many key wedding dates in 2010!

Are You Planning to Attend the Bridal Spectacular?

2010-02-18T10:13:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

We are so excited to be a part of the 3rd annual Bridal Extravaganza this Sunday (February 21, 2010). This is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet the Megasound staff, sign up for great prizes, check out other amazing wedding professionals, and enjoy the excitement of planning your dream wedding.

The Bridal Extravaganza is presented by the Fort Wayne Weddings Magazine and Fort Wayne Newspapers and sponsored by Majic 95.1. The doors open at noon at the Grand Wayne Convention Center in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. Be sure to be one of the first 250 brides to receive a cool bridal tote bag! The newest edition of the Fort Wayne Wedding Bridal Planner is available to all brides as part of their admission which is $12 at the door. For even greater savings, pre-sale tickets are only $10 and are available online or through Saturday at the Wedding Place (260-482-1250) or the Monogram Shoppe (260-436-3138).

So, if you are currently planning or just want to do some bridal pre-planning, be sure to venture to the heart of downtown Fort Wayne this weekend. If you are still in need of a DJ, MC, or Officiant, stop by and see the Megasound booth and staff. You will also find some of Fort Wayne's best wedding resources for your planning needs including venues, cakes, bridal gowns, bridesmaid's attire, tuxedos, mother’s dresses, invitations, honeymoons, photographers, and so much more.

Hope you enjoy the wedding planning excitement this weekend!

What Does “Honeymoon” Really Mean?

2010-02-17T06:04:00.001-05:00

from Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Many stories surround the origins of the tradition of the honeymoon. As we wrote about previously, in ancient times, many of the first marriages were by capture, not choice. When early man felt it was time to take a bride, he would often carry off an unwilling woman to a secret place where her relatives wouldn't find them. While the moon went through all its phases (about a month), they hid from the searchers and drank a brew made from honey. Hence, we get the word, “honeymoon”. This is a rather literal translation of how the practice began.

Another similar story explains how the Teutonic people began the practice of the honeymoon. Teutonic weddings were only held under the full moon. Afterwards, the bride and groom would drink honey wine for thirty days. Therefore, the period immediately following the wedding became known as the honeymoon. While the name survived, the purpose and timeframe of the honeymoon changed. After the wedding, newlyweds would leave their family and friends to go and do what newlyweds are supposed to do. Nowadays, while the purpose survives, a romantic destination (like a vacation) is instead used.

Another literal translation of this tradition comes from the dictionary. The word "honeymoon" first appears in the 16th century. The honey is a reference to the sweetness of a new marriage. The moon is not a reference to the lunar-based month, but rather a bitter acknowledgment that this sweetness, like a full moon, would quickly fade.

While there are probably other stories as to how honeymoons got started, one practical reason shows that the term 'honeymoon' comes from the tradition of the bride drinking honey mead for one month after the wedding to encourage fertility. A male child was particularly desirable, and it was thought back then that the drinking of honey mead by the bride would increase the chances of this happening.

At Megasound, we work with many other Fort Wayne wedding professionals who specialize in planning honeymoons. We are more than happy to share those vendor references with our brides and grooms so they can plan their honeymoon.

Why Does a Groom Have a "Best Man"?

2010-02-16T09:05:00.002-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

In ancient times, men who had decided upon a wife often had to forcefully take or kidnap her if her family did not approve of the man. While it may seem barbaric in today's society, the groom-to-be would sometimes face resistance from her male family members or from competing suitors who would challenge him. The groom would therefore bring along his "best men" to help him fight for the woman. Another story is that during ancient times when women were in short supply, the groom captured his bride-to-be from a nearby town. The groom, accompanied by a male companion, seized any young girl who had strayed from the safety of her parental home. Our custom of a "best man" is a relic of that two-man, strong-armed tactic; and for such an important task, only the best man would do.

According to German folklore, a best man around AD 200 carried more than a ring. Since there remained the real threat of the bride's family attempting to forcibly gain her return, the best man stayed by the groom's side throughout the marriage ceremony, alert and armed. He also might serve as a sentry outside the newlyweds' home. Despite this being folklore, it is not without written documentation and physical artifacts. In fact, the threat of recapture by the bride's family was perceived as so genuine that beneath the church altars of many early peoples - including the Huns, the Goths, the Visigoths, and the Vandals - lay an arsenal of clubs, knives, and spears.

Today (thankfully) the best man and groomsmen are honorary positions. Luckily, the threat of violence nowadays is quite small in comparison and rather limited in scope.

Do you need help with your wedding? Discover the simple to apply techniques that can help you plan a wonderful wedding by contacting Megasound!

Why do Most Brides Wear White on Their Wedding Day?

2010-02-15T08:03:00.001-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

The white color wedding dress is a symbol of innocence and purity. The white wedding dress was made popular by Queen Victoria at her wedding even though most brides at that time still wore wedding dresses of other colors. This was mostly due to the high costs of white material.

Around the late 1890’s, white wedding gowns were more readily available to brides. Many brides still select a gown that could be worn again and again after the wedding day.

Even though white dresses were more fashionable, the economy (and times of war) still played a large part in the practicality of wedding dresses. Many brides wore their “best” dress or a white wedding dress that could be dyed or altered after the wedding.

Most contemporary brides still want to be married in white. Today, there are many shades of white (including off-white, diamond white, ivory, and many more shades) available to brides. Some brides have even selected a gown color that matches their personality or wedding theme.

Contact Megasound to get the latest trends and learn more about other traditions and how to incorporate them in your wedding day.

What Does a “First Kiss” Mean at a Wedding?

2010-02-12T08:32:00.001-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

The “first kiss” dates back to the Roman times when contacts were sealed with a kiss. The official ending to the wedding ceremony is when the Officiant lets the groom know that he may kiss his bride.

The wedding kiss is a symbol of a bride and groom’s love and devotion as well as their respect for each other. This is also an outward and visual acknowledgement to the public agreement that the couple has entered into the life-long covenant of marriage.

Take a moment to practice your kissing skills with your soon-to-be spouse and then call Megasound at 260.484.2460 to find out how our staff works with couples on their wedding ceremonies and how to incorporate traditions into the occasion

Why Throw Rice at a Wedding?

2010-02-11T13:47:00.000-05:00

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Throwing rice at the newly married couple dates back centuries as a symbol of prosperity and fertility. Food has represented plentiful crops in that the tiny “seed” may grow into a large bountiful plant.

Tossing birdseed is more of a modern trend. This stemmed from the urban legend that birds would eat the uncooked rice which would expand in their stomachs causing the birds to explode. However, uncooked rice is harmless to birds.

Rice and birdseed may be more hazardous to guests attending the wedding. Some people have slipped on both items that are on hard floors or steps of the church.

Even more contemporary trends include tossing rose petals or fall leaves as well as blowing bubbles and waving sparklers.

We recommend you contact us at 260-484-2460 for additional information about Megasound's wedding services or to arrange your own consultation as soon as possible. This will help to guarantee a reservation for your preferred date.

Why All the Luck?

2010-02-09T13:54:00.000-05:00

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Something Old, Something New,
Something Borrowed, Something Blue,
and a Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe.

This good luck rhyme dates back to Victorian times. Many brides to this day attempt to arrange their attire to fit this saying and it is the most symbolic of all and the meaning of the original custom is the same as it is today.

"Something Old" represents the bride's family and her past. Many brides choose to wear a piece of family jewelry or a mother's or grandmother's wedding gown or handkerchief.

"Something New" represents good fortune and success and a bride's hopes for a bright future in her new life. The wedding gown is often chosen as the new item.

"Something Borrowed" is to remind the bride that friends and family will be there for her when help is needed. The borrowed item is supposed to come from a happily married woman, thereby lending the bride some of her own marital bliss to carry into the new union.

"Something Blue" is the symbol of faithfulness and loyalty. Occasionally the garter will be blue for this symbol. Brides of ancient Israel wore blue ribbons on the border of their wedding clothes or in their hair to denote love, modesty, and fidelity. Blue also signifies the purity of the Virgin Mary and is the most popular of all colors.

"A Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe" is to wish the bride wealth. Some brides still place a penny in their shoe during their marriage ceremony.

Contact Megasound today to schedule a personalized consultation to find out how we help our brides and grooms incorporate traditions into their weddings.