If there’s one thing that 2023 has shown us, it’s that we love being able to travel outside of Chicago to be a part of some fantastic weddings. On September 16th, Paul Michaels Events DJ Company had the incredible opportunity to travel out of state for a Allison and Charlie’s special day. We ventured west to the neighboring state of Iowa and arrived at the National Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque. As part of our Midwest DJ entertainment services, we provided them with our wedding elite package.

Though Allison and Charlie actually live in Chicago, they chose this unique location as Dubuque is where they first met, back when they attended the same college. The venue is truly captivating, with its enticing featured exhibits and aquariums filled with diverse aquatic life. It easily allured everyone’s hearts throughout the entire night, both with its natural charm and the added decor from the couple’s amazing vendor team.

The festivities began with a beautiful ceremony in the Train Depot, where the sunlight shone through as the bride and groom said their heartfelt vows. The ceremony was made all the more special and intimate as it was officiated by Charlie’s uncle, Joe. After Allison and Charlie exited as official newlyweds, a cocktail hour took place in the Discovery Center, which was surrounded by the mesmerizing aquarium. Guests mingled and enjoyed the enchanting atmosphere before moving upstairs for the reception to officially commence.

The room buzzed with anticipation as they awaited the appearance of the newlyweds. Before too long, they made a grand entrance to the timeless Luther Vandross classic “Never Too Much”, setting the tone for the evening. Following their cake cutting, they shared their first dance to John Mayer’s “A Face to Call Home”, creating a truly magical moment. The speeches given by the Charlie’s father, best man, and Allison’s sisters provided hilarious insights about the couple, adding an extra touch of joy to the celebration. As guests were finishing a delicious meal from J&D Catering, Allison and Charlie got up to welcome everyone and thank them for being there with them for such a special occasion. 

After Allison and Charlie each shared a dance with their parents, it was time to turn up the energy and open up the dance floor for everyone! DJ Brian took charge of the dance floor, playing a mix of hits from the past two decades, along with some disco and classic rock songs. Allison proved that girls just want to have fun as all the ladies came out onto the floor in hopes of catching her bouquet, set to the tone of the Cyndi Lauper hit. She also proved that she was the dancing queen as she revealed a dress change to the ABBA title of the same name! Throughout the night, guests reminisced to some old favorites and danced the night away to some more modern hits.  To close off the night, “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers played as everyone sang along to the top of their lungs. All in all, the night was a perfect blend of honoring the past, enjoying the present, and looking forward to the future.

Allison and Charlie’s wedding was truly a Mississippi River landmark treasure. Their special day deserves its own exhibit in the museum, as it was a testament to their love and the joy they bring to everyone around them. We extend our deepest gratitude to the newlyweds and all their friends and family who came out to celebrate with them. Their presence made our experience nothing short of amazing!