Flute and Violin Duo at a Rental Home in Breckenridge, Colorado

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Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Breckenridge, Colorado. Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Breckenridge, Colorado. Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Our flute and violin duo was the perfect fit for this intimate early spring wedding ceremony in Breckenridge, Colorado. I’m beginning to think of this beautiful rental home as the “Breckenridge Wedding Rental”, because it’s become a popular venue for weddings.

This busy bride was excited to have the beauty of live music for her wedding ceremony, but other than her choice of Pachelbel’s Canon in D for her walk down the aisle, she left the music selections to me. I put together a beautiful music program that I felt matched her joyful personality and the rustic and stunning Colorado mountain setting.

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Breckenridge, Colorado. Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Breckenridge, Colorado. Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

A fresh blanket snow had fallen the night before, and the ceremony setting looked just like Christmas despite the April calendar date. It even started to lightly snow towards the end of the ceremony, and the effect was magical!

We continued to play after the ceremony as guests mingled indoors and enjoyed refreshments before the dinner was to be served. I was so glad that our music put a smile on everyone’s faces and made the event feel so joyful and festive.

 

Our flute and violin duo is the perfect music choice for an intimate wedding ceremony.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music on the Aspen Mountain Wedding Overlook

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Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

The calendar may have confidently declared that it was spring, but it’s not unusual for the Colorado mountains to enjoy some of their biggest snowstorms in the month of March. This out of state couple was debating on having their wedding anywhere from a tropical retreat to a snow covered mountain, and an Aspen mountain wedding ceremony won the day! They got the true Aspen mountain wedding experience with heavy snow, freezing cold, and whiteout conditions, but they stayed positive and enjoyed their wedding day adventure.

I accompanied the arrival of guests with my romantic and joyful solo flute music, a perfect fit for the mountain setting. My music greeted guests as soon as they reached the top of the gondola. They enjoyed the music as I played through the songs that the couple chose. As they mingled, they enjoyed hot drinks, snacks, and fluffy blankets. Soon, everyone was guided to the seats at the ceremony site and the ceremony took place in a surreal winter wonderland. What is normally a sweeping mountain view, was a dramatic backdrop of pure white.

I continued to accompany various parts of the ceremony with my music, and then played a lively recessional after the couple was pronounced husband and wife. Everyone quickly went inside to warm up after that!

From the Groom:

“Christen was a delight to work with! “

“Christen was a delight to work with! She did a few video calls with us during Covid as we were destination wedding to Aspen. Her website gave some good samples and she picked up a song we requested to learn to help make the moment special. We picked up a song list and she delivered! Her music created a special backdrop to our wedding, and I can't wait to rehear her during our wedding video. :)”

Ceremony Music:
Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton) - Parents and Ringbearer
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight and River Flows in You (Yiruma) - Readings
Secrets (One Republic) - Sand Ceremony
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Prelude Music (sample selections):
Musetta’s Waltz (Puccini), Gigue from Suite #3 in D Major (Bach), A Day Without Rain (Enya), Beautiful in White (Westlife), Spring from Vivaldi’s Seasons

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Aspen Mountain Wedding Overlook
Wedding Planner: Aspen Event Solutions
Photography: KiKi Creates
Ceremony Music: Solo Flute by Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Enjoy the romance and flexibility of my Solo Flute Signature Package for your Colorado wedding ceremony.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek

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String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

This was a perfect October day for a romantic autumn wedding ceremony. The Oaks at Plum Creek is a new venue and the building and grounds are stunning! The ceremony site overlooks an enchanted grove of mature scrub oaks, and the sweeping view behind the ceremony area overlooks the city and vibrant autumn foliage.

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

Our string trio played a mix of elegant and romantic classical and contemporary music for both the ceremony and cocktail hour. We played a special arrangement of “Somewhere in Time” for the bride’s walk down the aisle. Prelude music included selections by Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Chopin.

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

During the cocktail hour, guests mingled outside by the warm fireplace, and indoors while we entertained them with classical and contemporary favorites. Our contemporary music selections included songs such as “At Last”, “Accidentally in Love”, and “Moon River”.

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

Expert Tip:
Not sure what songs you’d like to hear for your prelude? I can help choose your song list based on a theme, mood, or an inspiration song of your choice.

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Oaks at Plum Creek
Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio
Photographer: Two One Photography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Two One PHotography

 

Enjoy the traditional elegance of our string trio for your wedding ceremony.

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music in Edwards, Colorado

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Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Edwards, Colorado - Music by Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music in Edwards, Colorado - Music by Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

This vibrant couple didn’t let the pandemic get in the way of their 2020 wedding plans, but their plans did change many times leading up to their wedding, with the safety of their family and friends in mind. They finally ended up with an intimate wedding ceremony at a privater rental home on the top of a mountain, and the end result was stunning!

Our flute and violin duo set the mood with elegant music that the bride chose, including “Ave Maria” (Schubert), “What a Wonderful World” (Louis Armstrong), and “River Flows in You” (Yiruma). The ceremony was held outside with a panoramic mountain view as the backdrop.

The bride walked down the aisle to a very special rendition of “A Thousand Years”, which my violinist sung while I accompanied her on flute. From our perch above the ceremony, we could see elk leaping and playing on the mountains as the ceremony was taking place.



From the Bride:

“We Could Not Recommend Someone More”

“Christen is a pleasure to work with. She is organized, timely, and professional. She helped us put together a lovely timeline, and chose music that was perfectly suited to our tastes. She is outstandingly talented and wonderful to work with! We could not recommend someone more.”

Ceremony Music:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Wedding Party
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bride
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight- After First Reading
Romanza from Eine Kline Nachtmusik (Mozart) - After Second Reading
Amazing Grace - Knot Tying Ceremony
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles) - Recessional

Samples from Cocktail Hour Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel), You’ll Be in My Heart (Tarzan), Moon River

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Music - Flute and Violin Duo - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Photographer - Shebli Huston Photography
Videographer - Chris Rasmussen Films

 

Flute and Violin Make the Perfect Pair!

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Lionsgate Event Center in Lafayette, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

My string quartet enjoyed playing wedding ceremony and cocktail hour music on this perfect autumn day in late September. We played romantic classical and contemporary music as guests arrived, and for the cocktail hour, we played a mix of lively classical and contemporary music to get the party started.

We just loved all the chandeliers hanging from the trees! These and other elegant touches gave the venue a really classy indoor/outdoor feel.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D - Wedding Party and Bride
La Rejouissance - Recessional

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Broomfield, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Timeless and traditional, our string quartet is the perfect addition to your wedding celebration.

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Breakfast Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

The ranch is a remote campground and rafting center located on the Colorado River. I left my house at 5:30am so that I could have everything set up and ready to go for this pre-breakfast wedding ceremony. The wildfire smoke was thick in the air and made for a stunning sunrise over the mountains (right).

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

 

One thing that I love about my job is being able to travel to many interesting and exciting locations across Colorado. Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado was certainly among the more unusual wedding locations that I’ve been to. Most mountain weddings take place in the Colorado mountain resort towns, and until the pandemic happened, this wedding was likewise to be held at a beautiful Breckenridge venue. When that venue temporarily shut down for safety reasons due to the pandemic, the wedding celebration was moved to the fun and outdoorsy Rancho Del Rio.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Before I even arrived, I felt like I was in a different world. The open plains of the Front Range and the thick pine forests of the Colorado resort towns were replaced by dry grasslands, mysterious types of trees, and scrubby unfamiliar shrubbery.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Wedding Party
Bridal March (Wagner) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Rancho Del Rio
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet
Photographer: Roland Mott

Our elegant quartet music almost felt out of place in such a wild setting, but our music became the focal point that guests were drawn to, and this is where they mingled before the ceremony began. The ceremony was beautiful with the backdrop of the Colorado River, and afterwards, the bride and groom made their getaway in a raft (left).

After the ceremony, we continued to play cheerful music for the breakfast, which the guests enjoyed under a pavilion area.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Rancho Del Rio in Bond, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music in Avon, Colorado

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Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music in Bachelor Gulch, Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music in Bachelor Gulch, Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

I played solo flute for both the ceremony and appetizers. I played classical music by Bach, Mozart, and Debussy, and also more contemporary music by the Beatles, Sinatra, and a few jazz numbers along with some fun improvisation. I varied each song with different reverb settings on my amplification, and enjoyed imitating the original performances, and adding my own flair and personality. It completely made my day when one of the guests told me that my flute playing sounded like several instruments were playing, and not just a single flute!

I accompanied the cake cutting with "This is All I Ask” by Frank Sinatra. This was a song that the bride requested in memory of her grandfather, who used to sing it a lot.

From the Mother of the Bride:

“Christen was very easy to work with from start to finish! The flute sounded amazing on the mountain during our outdoor wedding and we would highly recommend using Christen for any and every event indoor or outdoor!!!”

Wedding Ceremony Songs:
Blackbird (Beatles) - Groom and Parents
Scarborough Fair (Traditional) - Bride
All my Loving (Beatles) - Recessional
This is All I Ask (Sinatra) - Cake Cutting

Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: Shane Macomber
Rabbi: Rabbi Joel D. Newman
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute

This August, it was such a privilege to have the opportunity to play solo flute for this traditional Jewish wedding ceremony in the Colorado mountains. This New York couple had originally planned to have a large wedding celebration with all the trimmings, but due to the pandemic, they sadly had to cancel the celebration as originally planned. The re-imagined intimate ceremony that they ended up with may have been completely different than their first plan, but it was so full of love, joy, and meaning.

The couple was married on an empty lot with a beautiful view of Bachelor Gulch. The hot sun disappeared behind cooling, dramatic clouds just in time for the ceremony. Afterwards, everyone continued to celebrate with appetizers and cake at their vacation home in the village. The bride is a pianist, so she chose some lovely music selections that I was very excited to learn.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music in Bachelor Gulch, Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music in Bachelor Gulch, Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

My Solo Flute Signature Package is my most versatile wedding music package, and I love playing everything from traditional classical music to pop and rock music.

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

This wedding ceremony took place on an absolutely perfect July day at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado. It was a significant ceremony to me because it was the first wedding that I played music for after the pandemic hit this year.

My cellist and I played elegant classical music for the arrival of guests before the ceremony. As we played, the pandemic and troubles of life seemed to float away on the breeze, and our music gave the setting such a peaceful and elegant feel. We continued to play classical music after the ceremony concluded and sent everyone off feeling relaxed, to the next stage of the wedding celebration.

Wedding season has certainly started once again for me with four more weddings in Estes Park, Larkspur, Beaver Creek, and Vail over the weekend. Wedding celebrations have become smaller and more intimate, but I truly feel that these smaller ceremonies can be more memorable and so meaningful. And, there’s always the option to celebrate again later with a big party!

Wedding Ceremony Songs:
Seating of the Parents - Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach)
Wedding Party - Hornpipe Finale (Handel)
Bride - Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach)
Recessional - Wedding March (Mendelssohn)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Black Canyon Inn
Officiant: Reverend Scott Awbrey
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Photographer: Haley Allen

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton in Bachelor Gulch

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Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

It’s hard to know what to expect from the Colorado mountains in October, and just two days prior, we had a huge snow storm and frigid temperatures. However, this day the sun shone brightly and the temperatures warmed into the afternoon. The autumn foliage was just finishing up, and the snow was melting quickly, a celebration of both autumn and winter.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

The couple chose an elegant mix of classical and contemporary songs, and I supplemented their list to fill out the prelude time. I also made a special arrangement of “Over the Rainbow” to accompany their children as they walked down the aisle, and and arrangement of “Yellow” for the bride’s walk.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Ritz Carlton - Bachelor Gulch
Officiant: Scott Beebe
Photographer: Preston Utley
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo

I want to give Preston Utley a special shout out and thank you for these lovely photos!

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Enjoy the elegance and joy of the flute and violin for your wedding ceremony. Listen to flute and violin music samples.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

In mid-October, my flute and violin duo was hired to play beautiful music for a Colorado mountain wedding ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton in Bachelor Gulch, Colorado. The bride and groom had traveled all the way from Georgia to have their destination wedding ceremony in the stunning autumn Colorado mountains.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

After the ceremony, we moved to the outdoor patio where we continued playing a mix of lively classical and contemporary music for the cocktail hour. The sun was setting by now and it was becoming chilly, and we were glad that cocktails finished just in time for everyone to move indoors by the warm fire.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Sample Songs from the Prelude:
Simple Gifts (traditional), Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach), Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), Ode to Joy (Beethoven)

Wedding Processional Music:
Wedding Party - Over the Rainbow
Bride - Yellow (Coldplay)
Recessional - Here Comes the Sun (Beatles)

Sample Songs from the Cocktail Hour:
Air from Water Music (Handel), On Wings of Song (Mendelssohn), All of Me (John Legend), All My Loving (Beatles), Flower Duet (Delibes), River Flows in You (Yiruma)

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

Flute and strings by christen stephens, flute and violin Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail hour music in beaver creek, colorado, Photo by preston utley

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Lodge at Breckenridge in Colorado

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Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

From the Bride:

“Christen and her quartet played for our wedding on 11/10/19. She was so easy to work with and incredibly detail oriented. She was also very responsive and answered my questions and requests usually within the hour. The group sounded fantastic and all the guests enjoyed the wide selection of music. The best part was that I knew I didn't have to worry about a thing on the big day. Thanks, Christen!” - Laurel R.

Our beautiful string quartet is a traditional ensemble, but don’t let that fool you, because we can play just about any kind of music from classical to pop, rock, and jazz.

Learn more >

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

In mid-November, I had the honor of playing my cello along with my string quartet for my friend Laurel’s wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. I was so happy to have the opportunity to participate in her wedding celebration in such a meaningful way.

It’s hard to know what kind of weather to expect in the mountains in the middle of November, but the day turned out to be absolutely perfect with bright sun and temperatures in the 50’s.

Laurel is a vocalist and former music teacher, so since she knows and loves music, she chose a wonderful and varied music set list for her ceremony and cocktail hour. For her ceremony, she chose a set of mostly Baroque and classical music, and then during cocktails, she chose pop music, romantic songs, jazz, and country songs.

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Sample Selections from Prelude Music:
Selections from the “Four Seasons” (Vivaldi), Salut d’Amour (Elgar), La Vie En Rose (Luis Guglielmi), Suite #3 (J.S. Bach)

Wedding Processional Music:
Bride - The Wedding from Legends of the Fall
Recessional - Hornpipe from Water Music (Handel)

Samples from Cocktail Hour Music:
Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Coldplay), Sweet Child O Mine (Guns ‘N Roses), And So it Goes (Billy Joel), All of Me (John Legend), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Take Five (Dave Brubeck), Here Comes the Sun (Beatles), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Venue: The Lodge at Breckenridge
Photographer: ELD Photography
Officiant: Adorkable Weddings

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Flute and strings by christen stephens, string quartet wedding ceremony music at the lodge at breckenridge in breckenridge, Colorado

Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

From the Mother of the Bride:

“Christen played along with a harp at my daughters destination wedding. They were just amazing. Due to some circumstances beyond our control we had to do a last minute change of venue. She didn't bobble at all. She made it so easy and was so accommodating. I received so many compliments and her professionalism was outstanding. She loves what she does and you can tell in every song she/they played. She made sure everything was perfect and it was. I highly recommend her for any and all occasions. She made my daughters wedding very memorable. Thank you again Christen!” - Brenda S.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Duo
Wedding Planner: Blue Sky Elopements

It’s hard to surpass the elegance of the flute and harp, and with the flute playing the melody like vocals and the harp providing a romantic background, we can play just about any style of music. Listen to our flute and harp music samples.

It was almost the last day of summer when my harpist and I traveled up to Aspen, Colorado to play elegant flute and harp music for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. We expected it to be cool in Aspen, but it turned out to be a beautiful warm day with a hot sun. The wedding ceremony was held at an elegant mountain home that had a backyard with stunning mountain views and hints of autumn foliage.

The bride loved our large song list, and she selected her entire wedding music program by herself, from the ceremony through the cocktails. Her music choices were varied and included sacred, classical, pop, country, rap, Disney, and jazz music. The guests loved the variety of music that we played, and they particularly enjoyed hearing some of the rap and pop pieces played on flute and harp.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

Samples from Wedding Prelude and Postlude Music:
In the Garden (hymn), Jesu of Man's Desiring (Bach), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), Crazy (Willie Nelson), A Whole New World from Aladdin, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban), Fairest Lord Jesus, When You Wish Upon a Star, The Ludlows,Someday My Prince Will Come

Wedding Processional and Recessional Music:
The Lord’s Prayer - Seating of the Parents
Beauty and the Beast - Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Flower Girl, Ringbearer
Shallow (Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga) - Bride
Ave Maria (Schubert) - Sand Pouring Ceremony
Hey Ya (OutKast) - Recessional

Samples from Cocktail Hour Music:
Isn’t It Romantic (Ella Fitzgerald), Just the Way You Are (Bruno Mars), Dream a Little Dream of Me (Louis Armstrong), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Try to Remember (Jerry Orbach), Amazed (Lonestar), From This Moment, (Shania Twain), Love Me Tender (Elvis), The Wedding from Legends of the Fall, Hey Ya (OutKast)

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Our music enhanced the incredible setting, and we greeted the arriving guests with a selection of classical and contemporary songs. I custom selected the songs for the couple to give their special day a feeling of peaceful elegance.

The bride and groom both told me that when they heard the bride song, they were incredibly moved by the moment, and as the musicians, we can’t that we didn’t have tears in our eyes too!

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Samples from Prelude Music:
Make You Feel My Love (Adele), Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach), Andantino (Mozart), Wedding Song (There is Love) (Peter, Paul, and Mary), Be Thou My Vision, Air from Suite #3 in D Major (Bach), A Whole New World from Aladdin

Wedding Processional Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Parents and Groom
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Ringbearers, Flower Girl
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay)- Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio
Venue: Sanctuary Golf Course
Officiant: Clinton Anderson
Photographer: Brinton Studios
Videographer: Elevate Photography

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

This summer, I played cello with my string trio for this elegant and romantic wedding ceremony at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado. The Sanctuary Golf Course is an idyllic setting for a wedding with lush green grounds, waterfalls, vibrant flowers, and a beautiful wedding pavilion overlooking sweeping vistas.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

From the Bride:

Christen played for our wedding ceremony and did an absolutely wonderful job! We had a string trio, and really enjoyed working with Christen throughout the entire process. She helped us select our ceremony music and worked with our officiant to make sure everything went smoothly. We can't thank her enough.” - Tara T.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Experience the elegance of strings for your wedding ceremony. Listen to string trio or string quartet music samples.

Quick Tip: Have an outdoor wedding ceremony under a pavilion or covered area so that you and your guests will be sheltered from sun, wind, and rain, and still have a magnificent view.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Classical and Contemporary String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado







Flute and Strings Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Once the storm abated, the radar was looking great for the moment, and I hurried outside to set up our amplification equipment and lead our trio in a brief warmup. The sun came out, and our music was a cheerful accompaniment as guests tentatively walked out to the ceremony area, while venue staff quickly wiped the rainwater off all 250 chairs and replaced the beautiful flower arrangements.

Torrential rain, thunder, lighting, and hail didn’t stop this couple from having an elegant outdoor wedding ceremony at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado. When I arrived 1 ½ hours before the ceremony began to set everything up for our trio, I could already hear the thunder menacing in the distance. As the ceremony time drew closer, so did the storm, and soon everyone was gathered under the shelter looking at radar and weather predictions.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

The traditional Romanian wedding ceremony was filled with prayers, music performed by various family members, and wonderful stories and antidotes about the couple. It was supposed to be 1 hour and 15 minutes long, but it looked like another storm was approaching, and it had to be cut a little short as big fat drops of rain began to fall once again. We played music after the ceremony finished as guests went on to the remainder of the celebration, which would take place inside the lodge.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Our trio played lively contemporary and Baroque music that the bride had selected for the prelude, and it was a cheerful accompaniment to the sunshine and sweet, rain washed air.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Sample Songs from Prelude:
When I’m 64 (Beatles), Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Coldplay), Riguadon from Water Music (Handel), Rondeau (Moreau), Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Hornpipe from Water Music (Handel)

Wedding Processional Songs:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Parents, Ringbearers, Flower Girls
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bride
A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Trio
Venue: Spruce Mountain Ranch
Wedding Planner: Events by Kerin

Celebrate with style with our elegant flute and strings trio. Listen to music samples HERE

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Strings Wedding Ceremony Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larkspur, Colorado







Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Arrabelle in Vail

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I knew from the moment that I spoke to this bride that she was a lovely person, and she was indeed such a delight to work with! This couple in their 50’s hired my flute and violin duo to accompany their wedding ceremony and cocktail hour with classical and popular music to give a mood of understated and classy elegance.

We played classical music selections as guests arrived and to set the mood for the ceremony to follow. For the processional of the wedding party and the bride, we played “Don’t Stop Belivin’” by Coldplay, a special music arrangement for flute and violin that I made specially for the couple. The bride said that the moment she heard us play, she just knew that our music was the most perfect choice for her wedding, and it brought happy tears to her eyes. The happy tears continued as the couple was joyfully united in marriage.

Imagine my surprise when I recognized the bride’s sister when she walked up to do a reading! She was the mom of one of my former flute students. My student and her mom were equally surprised to recognize me as the one playing the flute, and we had a brief and happy reunion.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Wedding Processional Music:
Wedding Party and Bride’s Processional: Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Coldplay)
Recessional: All You Need is Love (Beatles)

Sample from Wedding Prelude Music:
Air from Suite No. 3 (Bach), Flower Duet from Lakme (Delibes), Allegro from Spring (Vivaldi), Arioso (Bach), River Flows in You (Yiruma)

After the ceremony was over, we continued to play for cocktails out on the patio of the Arrabelle.

Sample from Cocktail Hour Music:
Rigaudon from Water Music (Handel), Blackbird (Beatles), Minuets I & II (Devienne), I Will (Beatles), Intermezzo (Mascagni)

From the Bride:

“One week post-wedding and we and our guests are still singing the praises of Flute and Strings by Christen. Christen was the only musician I spoke with, unlike the myriad of vendors I spoke with virtually every other aspect of her wedding, instinctively I felt she was exactly what we were looking for. Boy was I correct. She is first and foremost an exceptionally talented musician, which you can hear from her music samples. She also offered a wide variety of music to choose from for both the ceremony and reception, and were flexible and accommodating to my own processional selection. She was quick to respond to my questions, highly organized and professional and showed up early on the big day. And then they played. It was WONDERFUL!!! Having beautiful live music during the ceremony was important to us and to have it played so well really made the day extra perfect. I can't say enough about Christen.” Bobbi B.

Add a touch of class and elegance to your wedding ceremony with the lovely combination of flute and violin. You can listen to music samples here.

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo
Planner: Glitter and Bliss Weddings
Venue: The Arrabelle at Vail Square
Photography: Daniel Alfonzo Photography
Flowers: Petals and Pours

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

It’s been a very rainy summer here in Colorado so I was very glad that the sun shone brightly for this Florida couple’s wedding ceremony. My romantic solo flute music was the first thing that guests heard as they approached the wedding site at Sapphire Point Overlook in Dillon, Colorado.

I played traditional wedding music selections as guests enjoyed the view and drinks . The kids and adults all enjoyed feeding the very friendly chipmunks, who delighted everyone by eating right out of their hands.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

The ceremony was so sweet and intimate with only a few close family and friends witnessing the couple’s vows. Afterwards, photos were taken accompanied by more music.

From the Groom:

“Christen was wonderful to work with. She is an amazing musician and I would recommend her to anyone! Everybody at our wedding commented on how beautiful her music was!”

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Fun Tip: Provide a beautifully decorated drink bar to welcome guests and give them something to enjoy as they wait for the ceremony to begin.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Music - Solo Flute by Christen Stephens
Venue: Sapphire Point Overlook
Photographer: Christina Craddock Photography
Officiant: Phil Gallagher

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Bride and Children- Canon in D
Recessional - Trumpet Voluntary

Sample Selections from the Prelude and Postlude:
Hornpipe Finale from Water Music (Handel), Hornpipe (Purcell), Trumpet Tune (Purcell), Meditation from Thais (Massenet), Postcard to Henry Purcell from Pride and Prejudice, Rondeau (Mouret), Selections from Handel’s Royal Fireworks Music, What a Wonderful World, Minuetto (Mozart)

Hire my solo flute signature package to add beauty and romance to your wedding ceremony. Listen to solo flute music samples.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, traditional solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon. Colorado

Royal Wedding Ensemble Wedding Ceremony Music at the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

Samples from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Trumpet Voluntary (Purcell), Hornpipe from Water Music (Handel), Gloria in Excelsis from Gloria, Psalm 19 (Marcello)

Processional and Recessional Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
Trumpet Tune (Purcell) - Pageboys and flower girls, family dog
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Let the Bright Seraphim from Samson - Recessional

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

It was hard to believe that Vail, Colorado had a significant snowfall in late June! Just one week later, the weather was absolutely beautiful for this romantic mountain wedding ceremony. This Colorado bride and groom had the loving support of 220 family and friends to help celebrate their their marriage. It was the largest wedding that I’ve ever played for on the Holy Cross Event Deck.

The bride told me that she loves brass instruments, and she was so excited when I recommended our “Royal Wedding” ensemble which features a trumpet, flute, violin, and cello. It’s just like having a mini orchestra complete with string, woodwind, and brass sections. Our ensemble played joyful music as the guests arrived, and our music enhanced the magical mountain setting.

As the wedding party made their way down the aisle, our music played and the guests cheered their support. After the ceremony, we continued to play as photos were being taken.

Quick Tip:
If you would like a mini orchestra for your wedding ceremony, hire our Royal Wedding Quartet! We are like a string, woodwind, and brass section all in one elegant ensemble.

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Wedding Planner: Snapdragon Celebrations
Photographer: Adriana Klas
Venue: Holy Cross Event Deck

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Royal Wedding Quartet, Wedding Ceremony Music in Vail, Colorado

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano's Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado

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CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY STRING QUARTET WEDDING CEREMONY MUSIC AT BEANO’S CABIN IN BEAVER CREEK, COLORADO. PHOTO BY MELISSA BRIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY STRING QUARTET WEDDING CEREMONY MUSIC AT BEANO’S CABIN IN BEAVER CREEK, COLORADO. PHOTO BY MELISSA BRIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

This July, I played cello with my string quartet for a beautiful wedding ceremony full of rustic charm and elegance. The wedding ceremony took place at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. The mountains in Beaver Creek were still lush and green after copious summer rain and cool weather. The wedding was to take place outside on the lawn, but shortly before were were to begin playing the prelude music, we heard a rumble of thunder. We hoped that the storm would quickly pass by, but it became very severe with torrential rain, bright lightning, and lots of hail. We joined the guests in the shelter of the cabin, and played a mix of classical and contemporary music as they enjoyed cocktails.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

After the worst of the storm passed, we moved back outside to the covered porch, and the wedding ceremony was accompanied by our elegant music and the sound of gentle rain. There was standing room only, and it actually made for a very intimate and sweet ceremony with family and friends surrounding the bride and groom and showing their love and support.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Reign of Love (Coldplay) - Seating of the Parents
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Junior Groomsman, Flower Girls, Ringbearer
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Sampling from Wedding Prelude Music:
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Bourree (Bach), Salut d’Amour (Elgar), Minuet (Bach), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Flower Duet (Delibes), Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach)

We ended the ceremony with a celebratory finish by playing “All You Need is Love” and the guests scattered with smiles on their faces. The rain stopped, allowing for more lovely photos in the outside mountain setting.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Wedding Vendors:
Venue - Beano’s Cabin
Planner - The Soiree Studio
Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Photographer: Melissa Brielle Photography
Videographer: When it Clicks
Florals: Petals and Pours

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Quick Tip: Bright and colorful flower bouquets like these provide a vibrant pop of color, even on a rainy day.

Our string quartet is the perfect touch to give the feel of traditional elegance to your wedding ceremony. Celebrate one of the most important days of your life with the beauty of live music!

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Cathedral Point in Boulder, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Cathedral Point Overlook in Boulder, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Cathedral Point Overlook in Boulder, Colorado

I was hired by a really sweet bride to play solo flute for a mid-week wedding ceremony at Cathedral Point Overlook in Boulder, Colorado. It would be an intimate wedding ceremony with only about 10 people total, and I met the groom, photographer and wedding guests at the Flagstaff Restaurant in Boulder and followed them to the ceremony site. The groom was in the lead car, but his phone lost signal, and with no help from GPS, he was lost!

I had studied the map and looked at satellite images before I left, so I was assigned to be the new leader and I successfully led the caravan of cars to the parking area for the overlook. It was the first time that I’ve ever led an entire wedding party to their own wedding location!

A short hike revealed a stunning and very private ceremony location. As we hiked, big fat raindrops began to fall, and by the time we arrived at the overlook, it was pouring in earnest. I hung my umbrella in a pine tree to cover me as I set up my things.

The bride wanted a light, calm, and soulful vibe, and she personally selected all of her music for the prelude, ceremony, and postlude. At her request, I even played a special song that I made up on the spot, inspired by the mountain setting, a song unique to her wedding day. Guests told me that as they hiked closer to the ceremony site, it was just like being in Lord of the Rings, with my flute music floating over the mountains and leading the way.

What a lovely and sweet ceremony this couple had, and the weather turned out to be perfectly beautiful with only a few stray drops of rain. Afterwards, I played more music during photos, and I also enjoyed getting to know the bride and groom’s family.

“The day couldn’t have been more perfect!”

“My daughter had a small mountain ceremony on top of Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder Colorado. Christen was able to play for us with very short notice. Most of the wedding party caravaned to the top but our groom lost phone signal and had trouble finding the way. Christen had studied some of the maps and was able to find the location. When my husband and daughter and I arrived a short while later we heard these lovely sounds coming through the forest as we hiked down to the ceremony site. There was truly a mystical feeling. She played mostly classical music with a few popular songs mixed in, and one she created while there and she continued to play during photos. We were also given a recording of the music from the event! That day couldn't have been more perfect and we were all so happy! We recommend Christen for wedding events as well as any others. Many thanks, Christen!” - from the mother of the bride

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Cathedral Point Overlook Boulder, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Cathedral Point Overlook Boulder, Colorado

Bride’s Entrance: Here Comes the Bride (Wagner)

Sample Selections from Postlude and Prelude Music:
Fly Me to the Moon (Sinatra), Hornpipe 1&2 (Handel), Vivaldi (Winter), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Velvet Midnight - a custom improvisation by Christen Stephens, Blackbird (Beatles)

Fun Tip: Have a simple and heartfelt wedding ceremony on an overlook in the Boulder mountains. It’s near to the city and just as beautiful, private, just as nice as any pricey formal overlook setting.

Hire my solo flute Signature Package to set the perfect feel for your wedding day. My signature package includes:

  • Light, joyful, modern feel

  • Large repertoire including classical, pop, rock, and jazz

  • I will learn two new songs not on this list at no extra charge

  • Custom improvisations unique to your wedding, in any musical style available

  • Enjoy the luxurious sounds of my solid rose gold and silver flute

  • Optional amplification provides tastefully enhanced sound with added reverb, ideal for outdoor performances

  • No shaded location or tent required

  • Greater flexibility with outdoor performances than strings

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music on the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

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Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music on the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music on the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

The weather forecast was for a 60% chance of afternoon thunderstorms in Vail, Colorado, but we were all hoping that this bride and groom could have the outdoor mountain wedding of their dreams. For the moment, the radar looked clear, so I took the gondola up Vail Mountain and we prepared to play.

We played beautiful classical prelude music that the bride custom selected to greet the guests as they arrived. Everyone was arriving from out of state, and I could hear gasps of appreciation as they first saw the panoramic mountain view, accompanied by our live music.

The ceremony was short, and afterwards, we played upbeat rock and rap songs to accompany photos. Clouds were moving in from all directions and it began to grow dark. I saw a few brilliant lightning flashes in the sky. We decided to soldier on and keep playing music, but minutes later the wedding deck staff told us that a big storm was coming in and we had to leave the deck.

The wedding party and guests were quickly whisked away in golf carts, and they continued the wedding celebration in the shelter of the Arrabelle at Vail Square. We remained to pack up our things as quickly as possible and escape the storm. We were one of last people allowed down the gondola before it was shut down for safety during the storm, and we made it to our car just before the heavens opened up and the flooding rains came.

Sample Selections from Prelude Music:
Selections from Handel’s Water Music, Air from Suite #3 in D major (Bach), Rondeau (Mouret), Hey Ya (Outkast), I Want to Hold Your Hand (Beatles), All of the Lights (Kayne West)

Ceremony Music:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Parents, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Hornpipe Finale (Handel) - Recessional

Quick Tip:
Rain makes for beautiful photos, but lightning is dangerous. Have an alternate plan just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate for your special day, and just like this couple, you’ll probably be lucky enough to not have to use it.

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Cello Duo - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Venue: Holy Cross Event Deck
Photographer: Chad Fahnestock
Officiant: Gretchen Abernathy
Reception Venue: The Arrabelle at Vail Square

Add the beauty of live music to your Colorado mountain setting. Listen to flute and cello music samples.