Sam & Kevin’s Charming Wedding at Forbidden Root Brewery in Chicago’s West Town Neighborhood

Bride and groom on the dance floor with friends.

When it comes to planning a wedding in Chicago, couples face more decisions than they can count. From venues and menus to music and décor, every detail matters. For Sam and Kevin, their journey to the altar came with an unexpected twist: their original venue permanently closed before their big day. Suddenly, they had to start the planning process from scratch. Luckily, the story has a happy ending. Their search led them to Forbidden Root Brewery, a neighborhood favorite known for its inventive food and craft beer. Not only was the brewery conveniently close to their home, but the staff welcomed them with open arms and worked tirelessly to help create their perfect day. For our team at Paul Michaels Events DJ Company, it was also our first time providing wedding DJ services at Forbidden Root Brewery – an experience we’ll never forget!

DJ Paul Michaels and Assistant Evan had the honor of helping Sam and Kevin bring their vision to life. Together, they worked to ensure that every moment of the night was filled with unforgettable memories, from the heartfelt ceremony to the high-energy dance floor. This wedding also carried extra meaning for our team. Sam has known DJ Paul Michaels for many years through a mutual friend. When she and Kevin reached out to Paul Michaels Events DJ Company to discuss their plans, it felt less like a client inquiry and more like a chance to help a friend celebrate one of the most important milestones of her life. That connection set the tone for the entire planning process. 

Forbidden Root Brewery isn’t your typical wedding venue, which made it a unique and memorable space for Sam and Kevin’s vows. Guests mostly remained at their tables, with a few rows of chairs arranged in front of the altar area. That setup created a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a couple who wanted their wedding to feel warm and personal. The ceremony was officiated by the couple’s friend, Alex, whose words captured the joy and sincerity of Sam and Kevin’s relationship. Following their “I Do’s”, it was time for cocktail hour. And where better to enjoy a post-wedding drink than a brewery? Forbidden Root is known throughout Chicago for its creative craft beers, and guests were thrilled to sample them while mingling and sharing their excitement for the night ahead.

After a very delicious buffet dinner, family and friends shared toasts that were heartfelt and emotional, yet also filled with laughter. These speeches reminded everyone why weddings are so special: they’re not just about celebrating two people in love, but about honoring the families and communities that surround them. With dinner and toasts complete, it was time to turn up the energy. DJ Paul took over and immediately had the dance floor packed. From the first song to the last, the music kept guests moving, singing, and celebrating without pause. Assistant Evan worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly, from equipment checks to coordinating with the venue staff. Having an experienced support team is part of how we’re able to deliver a stress-free experience for our couples. By the time the final song played, it was clear that this wasn’t just a wedding reception; it was a full-blown celebration! Guests weren’t ready for the night to end, which is always the best sign of a successful party.

Sam and Kevin’s wedding is a perfect example of why the right DJ can transform a reception. Music isn’t just background noise – it sets the tone, creates energy, and ensures that the night flows effortlessly from one moment to the next. To our lovely couple, thank you for trusting Paul Michaels Events DJ Company to be part of your wedding day. It was an honor to celebrate with you at Forbidden Root Brewery, and we’re so glad we could help create an unforgettable night filled with love, laughter, and nonstop dancing. We wish you a lifetime of happiness as you start this next chapter together!

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue & Caterer: Forbidden Root Brewery
Photographer: IG Photo Video Inc.
Planner & Florist: The Final Touch

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Abigail & Nick’s Vibrant Wedding Reception at the Chicago Cultural Center in The Loop

Wedding Reception DJ in Downtown Chicago

On June 21st, friends and family gathered to witness the wedding of Abigail and Nick, which took place at the breathtaking Chicago Cultural Center. The couple celebrated their love in style with a reception that was as uniquely “Chicago” as the stunning venue itself. We at Paul Michaels Events had the honor of providing the soundtrack for this unforgettable evening, full of emotion, joy, and an energy that electrified the room.

After their ceremony at St. Joseph’s Immaculate Conception, Abigail and Nick’s loved ones gathered at the Chicago Cultural Center for a delightful cocktail hour. Anticipation filled the air as cocktail hour soon came to a close, and the event officially kicked off with a series of fun and memorable entrances. The parents of the bride entered the room to “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, followed by the mother and sisters of the groom to “Dancing Queen” by ABBA. The groomsmen brought the hype with “Grove St. Party” by Waka Flocka Flame, while the bridesmaids matched that energy with “Where Them Girls At” by David Guetta. The Best People kept the excitement going with “The Best” by Tina Turner, before Abigail and Nick made their show-stopping grand entrance perfectly synced to the hook of “Love on Top” by Beyoncé.

The celebration moved smoothly into the cake cutting while the Beyoncé track continued, setting the scene for a heartfelt welcome speech from the newlyweds. Abigail’s mother, Sally, led the group in a touching prayer, followed by a delicious dinner. During the meal, guests enjoyed a series of heartfelt and entertaining toasts. Jim, the bride’s father, delivered a warm and emotional speech, while Best Man Jason and Matron of Honor Amanda added laughter and love with their messages to the happy couple.

After dinner, the formal dances began. Abigail and her father shared a touching dance to “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne, followed by Nick and his mom dancing to “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins. The couple then took to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife to “More of You” by Chris Stapleton, followed by a reverse anniversary dance set to Haley Reinhart’s version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

From there, the dance floor opened up and the energy never let up. Guests filled the space all evening, dancing to a mix of Motown favorites, modern hits, and everything in between – including some standout tracks from everyone’s favorite up-and-coming pop artist, Chappell Roan. In addition to our stellar DJ services, we also provided a photobooth which ended up a huge hit, offering guests the perfect way to capture the fun and keep the memories alive.

Abigail and Nick’s wedding was everything a celebration should be: joyful, emotional, vibrant, and completely unforgettable. We were honored to be a part of it and grateful to help bring their wedding vision to life at such an iconic venue. Thank you to the happy couple for letting us be a part of the wedding magic!

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: Chicago Cultural Center
Planner: Naturally Yours Events
Photographer: Madi Ellis Photography
Videographer: Old North Film Company
Caterer: Jewell Events Catering
Florist: Trablume
Cake: Vanille

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Madeline & Connor’s Timeless Wedding at Union League of Chicago Club in Downtown Chicago

Group of People Dancing at Union League Club

What an incredible day it was celebrating Madeline and Connor’s wedding at the Union League Club of Chicago! This celebration was full of beautiful moments, thoughtful details, and pure joy, and we were honored to help make it unforgettable. From the elegant cocktail hour to the high-energy dance floor, we brought our full Wedding Experience package to give them a day they—and their guests—will cherish forever.

The evening began with a charming cocktail hour in the library on the fourth floor, where guests mingled, enjoyed drinks, and settled into the excitement of the evening. Soft, classic tunes filled the air, setting a warm and inviting atmosphere in the cozy, sophisticated space. While everyone was busy catching up and sharing laughs, we were getting the ballroom on the second floor ready for the big moments ahead.

One particularly special part of the night was when Madeline and Connor had a private room reveal. Just before dinner, the two were invited into the beautifully decorated ballroom for an intimate first look at their reception setup. This gave them a quiet moment to soak it all in and appreciate the setting before their guests arrived. Following the reveal, they shared a private dance, just the two of them on the dance floor, in a quiet, magical moment that truly embodied the love they share. It was a wonderful way for them to pause, connect, and take in the significance of the day together.

Once guests were welcomed into the ballroom, everyone took their seats for a delicious dinner. As the courses were served, the father of the bride, best man, and maid of honor each took turns giving heartfelt speeches that had the room alternately laughing and tearing up. Their words spoke to the love, friendship, and incredible support surrounding Madeline and Connor, adding so much warmth and meaning to the night.

As dinner concluded, it was time to kick off the formal dances. Madeline and Connor took the dance floor for their first dance as newlyweds to the timeless classic “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King. Watching them sway together, surrounded by the love of their family and friends, was nothing short of magical. After their first dance, we had an anniversary dance, inviting couples who have been married over the years to join in and celebrate their enduring love with Madeline and Connor. They danced to “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton, a perfect song for honoring the strength and beauty of long-lasting love.

Once the dance floor was open to everyone, the energy soared as guests joined in, letting loose and dancing the night away! DJ Paul Michaels and DJ Alec worked together to curate an incredible mix of music, keeping the dance floor packed until the very last song. From timeless classics to the latest hits, we made sure there was something for everyone to enjoy, and the guests did not disappoint—they brought the energy and kept it going all night long!

To add an extra layer of fun, we also provided our premium photobooth, complete with both onsite prints and digital copies sent via SMS/Email. Guests enjoyed capturing candid moments and creating memories to take home as keepsakes, and it added another lively touch to an already unforgettable evening.

Throughout the night, Madeline and Connor left the music and atmosphere in our hands, allowing us to craft an experience that resonated with all of their guests. Their trust in us meant everything, and we couldn’t be happier to see everyone enjoying each moment.

Congratulations to Madeline and Connor on a beautiful start to their life together. It was a joy to be a part of your wedding day, and we’re so grateful you chose Paul Michaels Events to help make your celebration everything you dreamed of. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue/Caterer: Union League Club of Chicago
Cake: Bittersweet Pastry
Photo: By Lexie Jeanne
Floral: Something Borrowed Blooms
Day of Coordinator: Simply Elegant Group

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Hormel Foods & Planters Peanuts Very Merry 2023 Holiday Party at LondonHouse Chicago

The best corporate holiday party DJ in Chicago

‘Tis the season for joy, celebration, and unforgettable corporate holiday parties. This year, Hormel Foods & Planters Peanuts raised the bar with a Winter Wonderland-themed extravaganza hosted at the stunning LondonHouse Chicago. To amplify the magic and ensure a truly festive evening, they chose Paul Michaels Events to provide DJ services. As the best corporate holiday party DJ in Chicago, we made sure that our services provided an evening of elegance, excitement, and festive cheer.

The event commenced with a captivating cocktail hour in the foyer of LondonHouse Chicago. Guests mingled against the backdrop of holiday decorations and the city lights, indulging in the festive atmosphere that set the tone for the night. The anticipation soared as the ballroom doors swung open, revealing a scene straight out of a holiday fairy tale. Holiday-colored lighting adorned the room, snowflakes danced on the walls (thanks to our special spinning snowflake effect!), and the impeccable decor by Steve’s Flower Shop added the finishing touch to the enchantment.

Taking the stage with finesse, DJ Paul Michaels orchestrated the evening, guiding the crowd through speeches, raffles, and a friendly “name that tune” challenge. The energy was infectious, and the excitement reached new heights as attendees vied for a chance to win a certificate for a free night’s stay at the renowned Kimpton Hotel Downtown Chicago.

But the highlight of the night wasn’t just the friendly competition—it was the dance floor that truly came alive. DJ Paul showcased his expertise in curating a playlist that spanned the decades, from the classic hits of the 60s to the chart-toppers of today. The result? A dance floor pulsating with energy as colleagues and friends celebrated the season with the perfect soundtrack.

Beyond the fantastic music and lively ambiance, Paul Michaels Events DJ Company brought an extra touch of fun with a photobooth. Decked out with an array of props, the photobooth became a hub of laughter and candid moments, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to capture memories that would last a lifetime.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Hormel Foods & Planters Peanuts for entrusting Paul Michaels Events with their annual holiday extravaganza. It was a privilege to be part of such a special event, and we look forward to the opportunity of providing our corporate holiday party DJ services again next year!

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: LondonHouse Chicago
Floral: Steve’s Flower Market

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Allie & Gabe’s Heartfelt Wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling, Illinois

Bride and groom entering their reception with wide open arms.
 

Love was in the air as Allie and Gabe embarked on a journey of a lifetime at the beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling, Illinois. Every moment of their wedding celebration was filled with elegance, enchantment, and unforgettable memories. For our bride and groom, it was love at first sight – or should we say, love at first song! Their special day was a true testament to the magic of love and music, seamlessly bringing together two families on this special occasion. Filling the role of country club wedding DJ, we made sure their day was perfect by providing our wedding elite package.

The evening was a whirlwind full of enchanting tunes and moments that will forever linger in the hearts of everyone present. We were in charge of the music from start to finish, making sure the soundtrack was on point for every part of the celebration, from the ceremony to the cocktail hour and, of course, the amazing reception. The couple’s impeccable taste was evident as the decorator transformed the venue’s Grand Ballroom into an enchanting haven, adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and the soft glow of candles. Paired with our light blue uplighting, the scene was straight out of a magazine. The ambiance was set just right during the cocktail hour, allowing the celebration to be extended to the outdoors as well. With an outside speaker setup, guests could enjoy the fresh air without missing a beat of the festivities. 

When it was time to introduce Allie and Gabe, you could feel the excitement in the air. Their guests exuded radiant joy, and their excitement set the tone for a night of laughter and celebration. The bridal party got the energy kicked off by coming into the room to “Get The Party Started” by P!NK, to which then the newlyweds followed to “I’m A Believer” by Smash Mouth. They had their cake cutting (with “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You” by James Taylor playing in the background, naturally), and then welcomed everyone to their reception. With the room still buzzing, they shared their first dance, swaying to the timeless tune “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton. After the heartwarming dance and some touching toasts from the father of the bride, the Maids of Honor, and Best People, it was time for a delicious dinner provided by the venue.

The highlight of the evening, of course, was the dance floor where DJ Tyler and DJ Paul took the reins, ensuring that every beat kept the guests on their feet and the energy flowing. Before inviting everyone to join the couple on the floor, Allie and Gabe shared their own dances with each of their parents. Allie danced with both of her parents to “I Loved Her First” by Heartland, then Gabe met his mom on the dance floor and swayed to “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Finally, it was time for their loved ones to join them in the dancing! Per the couple’s request, our DJs kicked off the dancing with “Could I Have This Dance” by Anne Murray. This slow song was extremely sentimental, as this was the song that Allie’s parents had their first dance to at their own wedding. The couples in the room were invited to take part and sway with the newlyweds to this special song.

From there, the dancing went all night long. DJ Tyler and DJ Paul kept the party in high spirits by playing the best hits from the 70s, some classic throwbacks from the 90s, and some of the best Latin music to keep the group dancing. Allie also did her bouquet toss to “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” by ABBA, then all the couples were invited back to the floor to partake in the Anniversary Dance. The night finally came to a close as our DJs ended with the requested last dance, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver. Though nobody wanted to leave the dance floor, this song was the perfect way to end an overall spectacular day full of love and joy. 

Allie and Gabe’s wedding showcased the profound impact that music can have in creating a truly memorable and heartfelt experience. Congratulations to these newlyweds, and thank you for choosing Paul Michaels Events to be a part of your special day! 

 
Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue & Caterer: Chevy Chase Country Club
Photo: Maura Black Photography
Video: Allan Nino Films
Floral: Flowers 21
Decor: A Posh Production

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The second set of pictures below were taken by the event photographer, Maura Black Photography (https://www.maurablackphotography.com/). 

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Aviva & Ben’s Harmonious Wedding at Bridgeport Art Center in Chicago’s Bridgeport

Bride and groom standing in a circle of their loved ones on the dance floor, swaying to the sounds of Paul Michaels Events, a premier Chicago DJ company

We might be halfway through 2023, but the weddings are still coming in strong! We recently had the honor of being a part of Aviva and Ben’s big day at the Skyline Loft in the Bridgeport Art Center. Their wedding was an exquisite and elegant affair, made even more memorable with the assistance of our premier Chicago DJ company. This wedding was made perfect with our wedding base package and premium photo booth.

The evening was filled with enchanting music and unforgettable moments, as we provided sound for every part of the night – from the ceremony to the cocktail hour and reception. DJ Shannon set the perfect tone for the processional with instrumental music that created a light and romantic atmosphere. As Aviva walked down the aisle, guests were captivated by the enchanting melodies, setting the stage for a truly magical ceremony.

After the bride and groom shared their “I Do’s”, guests went to mix and mingle during a lively cocktail hour. DJ Shannon continued to impress with his upbeat and fun music selection. The guests couldn’t resist tapping their feet and grooving to the vibrant tunes, creating an atmosphere filled with energy and excitement. The stage was set for an evening that would be cherished by all in attendance.

As everyone found their seats for the reception, it was clear that everyone was eager to give a round of applause for the bride and groom. A mixture of Natalie Cole’s “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) and sounds of pure joy filled the air as Aviva and Ben made their introduction as husband and wife. They then quickly transitioned into the Mission Impossible photo game, where they ran to every table to try and get pictures with every guest. This ignited pure joy and togetherness, and absolutely turned up the energy of the room. After a delicious meal and some heartfelt toasts, Aviva and Ben shared their first dance to “Stuck with U” by Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber. All eyes were on the couple as they swayed back and forth.

Following this, it was time to get the party started! DJ Shannon opened up the dance floor with the timeless wedding song “We Are Family.” The choice proved to be an instant hit, drawing guests of all ages to the dance floor. The joy and excitement were palpable as everyone came together to celebrate the newlyweds, creating a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere. One of the highlights of the evening was DJ Shannon’s exceptional handling of the traditional Jewish dance, the “Horah.” With Aviva, Ben, and their families ready to go, he created a lively and spirited atmosphere that had everyone on their feet. Another memorable moment was Aviva’s bouquet toss with all the single ladies. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper was the perfect soundtrack as the girls jumped in the air in hopes of catching the bouquet. Overall, the dance floor was so incredibly enjoyable that nobody wanted to leave! DJ Shannon kept the floor packed until the very end with all the best pop and R&B hits, as well as everyone’s favorite wedding classics. Everyone enjoyed dancing the night away to artists such as ABBA, Taylor Swift, the Jonas Brothers, and Kacey Musgraves.

Aviva and Ben’s wedding showcased the profound impact that music can have in creating a truly memorable and heartfelt experience. Congratulations to these newlyweds! We are so honored to have been part of their big day, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: Bridgeport Art Center
Caterer & Cupcakes: Zelda’s Catering
Photo: Emma Mullins Photography
Floral: Serena Madrigal
Day Of Coordinator: Kris Sangari of Events with a K
Officiant: Rabbi Amy Feder of Temple Israel – St Louis

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Erika & Nabeel’s Fusion Wedding at The Woman’s Club of Evanston in Evanston, Illinois

Bride and groom surrounded by loved ones on the dance floor, dancing the night away to the best Evanston DJ entertainment services, courtesy of Paul Michaels Events

A little over a month ago, we had the honor of being a part of Erika and Nabeel’s wedding celebration. Their fusion Indian/American wedding took place at the stunning Woman’s Club of Evanston, a gorgeous historic venue that was the perfect setting for their big day. For this wedding, we provided our Evanston DJ entertainment services, which included our wedding elite package and our premium photo booth.

The evening began with a brief yet charming ceremony in the venue’s ballroom. The ballroom was transformed with full room uplighting, enhancing the ambiance and creating a magical atmosphere that perfectly complemented the couple’s vision for their special day. After they said their “I Do’s”, our newlyweds walked back down the aisle to “Marry You” by Bruno Mars, along with the sound of cheering and joy from their guests.

After mingling for a bit during their cocktail hour, it came time for the reception to kick off. The introductions of the bridal party kept everyone engaged; first to walk into the room were Nabeel’s parents, then Erika’s parents. Following them came Nabeel and his groomsmen, who performed a choreographed dance that the room went wild for. Erika and her bridesmaids came in after, also with a choreographed dance, and the room filled with even more excitement. The most exciting part, though, came when Erika and Nabeel shared their own choreographed dance that bled into their first dance as husband and wife. They danced to a custom mix of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” and Parra for Cuva’s “Out Here with Us”. Their dance absolutely kicked off the reception on the right foot, as guests were buzzing with conversation and pure joy for their two favorite people.

Erika and Nabeel welcomed everyone and thanked them for being there, then had their cake cutting before breaking into dinner service. Ashyana Banquets provided a delicious meal while guests enjoyed speeches made by friends, Erika’s maid of honor, and both Erika and Nabeel’s parents. One of Erika’s bridesmaids also sang a song in dedication to her and Nabeel, which was a truly lovely moment to witness.

Finally came our favorite part of the night: opening up the dance floor, of course! But before we introduced some dance floor favorites, we started off with a slow dance for the groom’s parents. The two of them swaying on the dance floor were a beautiful example for Erika and Nabeel’s love. After their slow dance concluded, it was time to get the party started.

Our team was thrilled to curate a music playlist that reflected this unique blend, incorporating energetic Bhangra beats and soulful Bollywood melodies alongside American music favorites. Once the music began, the energy on the dance floor was electric. Erika, Nabeel, and their guests danced with unbridled joy, creating an infectious atmosphere that filled the ballroom. The sounds of Punjabi, 2010s pop, and chill wave instrumentals kept the floor packed. The diverse range of songs ensured that every guest had the opportunity to groove to their favorite tunes and celebrate the couple’s beautiful union.

The celebration continued well into the night, with the music seamlessly transitioning between Indian beats, American hits, and the couple’s personal favorites. The dance floor remained alive and vibrant, reflecting the love and happiness that surrounded Erika and Nabeel on their special day. Congratulations to our newlyweds! We are honored to have been a part of such a beautiful occasion, and thank you for trusting us to help you make the best day ever!

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: The Women’s Club of Evanston
Caterer: Ashyana Banquets
Photo: Studio Finch
Day of Coordinator: Krys Juleen of Aisle K Celebrations

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Joe & Vasti’s Monumental Wedding at Avli on the Park in Chicago’s Lakeshore East

Dance floor full of dancing guest at Avli on the Park, dancing to music by the best Chicago DJ Entertainment Services, Paul Michaels Events

We had the absolute pleasure of being a part of Joe and Vasti’s unforgettable wedding celebration at Avli on The Park. This stunning venue, located in Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood, provided the perfect backdrop for their special day. With our wedding VIP package and premium photo booth, Paul Michaels Events ensured a night filled with our incredible Chicago DJ entertainment services that helped to create cherished memories.

The festivities kicked off with a vibrant cocktail hour on the rooftop, where our team provided the perfect ambiance with light contemporary rock music. As guests mingled and enjoyed the breathtaking views, the music set the tone for a night filled with celebration and joy. Following cocktail hour, we moved into the main reception area, where our expert team took care of lighting and sound to create an immersive and captivating atmosphere. 

Once inside the restaurant area, everyone enjoyed a fantastic Mediterranean buffet. The bride and groom made their grand introduction and welcomed everyone, as well as thanked everyone for joining them on their big day. They exchanged their vows, then their maids of honor and best men shared their heartfelt speeches for the newlyweds. Following their cake cutting, Joe and Vasti shared a beautiful first dance to Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One”, made all the more ethereal with our “Dancing on the Clouds” effect. 

Once Vasti shared her bouquet toss with all of the ladies, DJ Shannon wasted no time in getting the party started. Opening up the dance floor with the bride’s favorite song, “Techno Prank” by Dubdogz, the floor immediately filled with the bride and her enthusiastic guests. DJ Shannon skillfully blended guests’ requests with throwback jams, wedding hits, and today’s dance music, keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed. Our team read the crowd expertly, creating an electrifying atmosphere with a mix of songs that kept everyone on their feet. As the night drew to a close, DJ Shannon ended the celebration with the timeless classic, “Piano Man.” The bride and groom took center stage, dancing the night away surrounded by their loved ones. It was a magical moment that perfectly encapsulated the love and joy of the entire evening.

Joe and Vasti’s wedding reception was a true party for the ages. From start to finish, the energy of the evening was infectious, and the dance floor never emptied. Congratulations to Joe and Vasti on your incredible wedding day! We are grateful to have been a part of your journey, providing top-notch entertainment that created memories to last a lifetime. Thank you for trusting Paul Michaels Events with such a special celebration.

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue & Caterer: Avli on the Park
Florist: Aysel Cristian Floral Atelier
Photo & Video: Emma Duarte
Wedding Coordinator: Maribel Rolling

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Ben’s Bar Mitzvah at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glen Ellyn, Illinois

Group of people surrounding guest of honor at bar mitzvah, with bar mitzvah entertainment services provided by Paul Michaels Events

We recently had the pleasure of providing bar mitzvah entertainment services for Ben’s soccer-themed Bar Mitzvah. The festivities took place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glen Ellyn, where the basement was transformed into an energetic and vibrant space adorned with soccer-themed black and white decor, along with lime green and purple uplighting. We also provided upgraded dance floor lighting and a premium photo booth. 

DJ Paul, DJ Tyler, Dancer Jamie, and Dancer Gary arrived at the Crowne Plaza and prepared the space for the big celebration. After the bar mitzvah service concluded at Etz Chaim Synagogue, Ben and his friends arrived at the hotel. Everyone was eager to kick off the festivities! As guests settled in, we wasted no time in engaging everyone with a variety of exciting games. We introduced a new game that involved stacking red solo cups into a pyramid, but the kids had to work as a team and be careful not to knock the pyramid over (or risk having to start all over again). From a thrilling game of musical chairs to the active teamwork required in our scavenger hunt, the laughter and energy were contagious. The soccer-themed atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement to the games. Participants raced across the dance floor, vying for victory and enjoying friendly competition. The room buzzed with energy and joy as everyone got involved, making memories that would last a lifetime.

The festivities continued with a delectable buffet for the kids and a plated dinner for the adults, ensuring everyone’s taste buds were satisfied. The sweets table enticed everyone with its array of delicious treats, adding a touch of sweetness to the celebration. While everyone was enjoying a delicious meal and some desserts, we played a game of trivia, where we got to see which kids knew Ben best. It was a blast seeing who knew what about Ben, such as his middle name (Michael) or what his favorite TV show is (South Park).

As everyone finished eating, we continued with more games and opened up the dance floor. Guests were drawn to the rhythm of hits from the 2000s and 90s, and couldn’t wait to let loose and groove. The atmosphere was electric – especially when Ben led a conga line around the room! The celebration reached even greater heights as Ben’s Horah dance took center stage, with guests lifting him in celebration of this momentous occasion. The night eventually concluded with a heartfelt mother-son dance to Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole.

Congratulations, Ben, on your Bar Mitzvah! We were honored to be a part of your special day and witness the joy and love that surrounded you. Thank you for allowing us to celebrate with you and your incredible family.

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel
Photo: Karly Tearney Photography
Decor: Confetti Wish

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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Joseph & Jared’s B’Nai Mitzvah at Congregation Etz Chaim in Lombard, Illinois

A group of kids holding hands in a chain link and passing a hula hoop to each other using their bodies, with entertainment being provided by Paul Michaels Events, an expert in B'nai Mitzvah entertainment services

A little less than a month apart, we found ourselves back at Congregation Etz Chaim for another wonderful unforgettable celebration. This time, we had the honor of providing b’nai mitzvah entertainment services to Jared and Joe. This event was made all the more special with the fact that Jared and Joe were actually the twin sons of the Rabbi performing their b’nai mitzvah ceremony. We were so excited to help them celebrate their coming of age and all their hard work in preparing for this special day! To make this celebration even more memorable, we brought out a great team of professionals, including DJ Paul Michaels, DJ Vlad, Dancer Jamie, and Dancer Gary.

As guests walked into the room, they instantly took notice at the Cobra Kai theme adorning the space. Decorations with yellow, red, and black colors added personality to the venue in tribute to one of Jared and Joe’s favorite TV shows. Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch, then enjoyed a lovely video montage dedicated to the twins. 

Throughout the afternoon, we kept the kids engaged and entertained with a variety of games, such as the hula hoop game and musical chairs. From a marshmallow relay to a balloon stomp, laughter and excitement filled the air as the kids ran around the room. We even had games that involved both the adults and the kids, like the newspaper dance, where participants dance on a piece of newspaper that keeps getting smaller. The joyous spirit was infectious, and everyone joined in the merriment.

In addition to the games, we led the traditional dancing – the Horah. It was a beautiful moment as both the bar mitzvah boys and their brother went up in the chair in celebration of their accomplishments. We were honored to be a part of such a special tradition. We also offered up trivia, where guests had to answer questions about Jared and Joe to see how well they knew them. Guests cheered with the right answers and laughed at the not-so-right answers. 

All in all, this b’nai mitzvah was a delightful occasion that we were thrilled to be a part of. Congratulations to Jared and Joe on their b’nai mitzvah! Thank you again to you and your whole family for allowing Paul Michaels Events to be a part of your special day. 

 

Vendors we had the pleasure of working with:

Venue: Congregation Etz Chaim
Photo: Elan Photography

Check out some of our candid pictures below! The pictures below were taken by us, and not by the event photographer.

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