April 18, 2023

A Brisk Autumn Day Wedding at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek: String Quartet

April 18, 2023/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Park Hyatt, Beaver Creek, Photo by Jamee Photography

A brilliant autumn mountainside on a chilly, windy, and rainy day set the stage for this elegant Colorado wedding ceremony. The fall foliage looked rich and bright against the moody sky, and our music completed the atmosphere with the bride’s joyful classical selections.

The tent rental folks sadly forgot to deliver our musicians canopy in their flurry of bringing other items, and they came back with it just as it was time for us to play. Unfortunately, they couldn’t figure out how to set up the shelter for us, but they finally got it mostly up just in time for the rain to begin again. We moved underneath quickly to protect our instruments and kept playing.

We played traditional and classical prelude music and hymns, and we included selections from Vivaldi's Seasons and Handel's Water Music at the couple's request. We accompanied the communion for the bride and groom with a beautiful hymn “Come Thou Fount”, followed by “Blessed Assurance”. The recessional was the lively and traditional “Hornpipe Finale” from Handel's Water Music.

The cocktail hour was supposed to be outside, but because of the weather, it was moved indoors. I had all our sound equipment set up in advance so that we could move quickly. Having amplification really helped us be heard over the large number of guests, and we created a lively atmosphere with upbeat contemporary music.

Playing music at a wedding requires preparation, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Even when things don't go as planned, as was the case with our canopy and the weather, being able to keep a positive attitude and work together as a team can help ensure a successful performance.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach): Mothers, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Flower Girl
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
Come Thou Fount: Communion
Hornpipe Finale (Handel): Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
Wedding Planner: Pink Champagne Events
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Photographer: Jamee Photography
Thank you for these beautiful photos!
Videographer: Wedding Videos Colorado

From Classical to Fun and Modern, Our String Quartet Does it All!

Listen to String Quartet Music Samples

April 07, 2023

A Nostalgic Wedding at the Sebastian in Vail, Colorado: Flute and Cello Duo

April 07, 2023/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Sebastian in Vail, Colorado, Photo by David Gillette Photography

As a flutist, I've had the honor of performing at many weddings, but this cool and rainy September ceremony stands out in my memory as truly exceptional. I loved working with this couple, not only because they were from my long time hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, but also because they had a truly sweet love story! They were high school sweethearts who lived their separate lives for a long time and then were reunited and finally married. It was written all over their faces how in love they were!

Despite the rainy weather and some family emergencies that caused delays, the wedding finally got underway in the courtyard outside the Lenora Restaurant. As the guests mingled and took their seats, we played warm and romantic music that set the tone for the ceremony to come.

One thing that made this wedding particularly memorable was the couple's love of the singer Sade. They had requested several special arrangements just for flute and cello, and I really enjoyed creating them. The bride even walked down the aisle to one of Sade's most romantic songs, "Cherish the Day”, and they recessed after the ceremony to a lively arrangement of “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin.

But the most touching moment of the day came during the cocktail hour. The groom had requested a surprise song, "By Your Side," which was the bride's favorite Sade tune. The couple had forgotten to include it in the list they gave me, but I was happy to accommodate his secret request. As we played the song, I watched as the bride made her way closer and closer to us, clearly overcome with emotion. Without a word, the couple began an impromptu first dance together to the music, lost in their love for each other. This sweet and unexpected moment gave me goosebumps.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Cherish the Day (Sade) - Bride
Thank You (Led Zeppelin) - Recessional

Sample Selections from Prelude and Cocktail Hour Music:
Gavotte (Handel), March in D Major (Bach), Have I Told You Lately (Van Morrison), Kiss of Life (Sade), Pearls (Sade), You and Me (Dave Matthews Band)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Lenora Restaurant
Wedding Planner: Party Girl Events
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Photographer: David Gillette Photography - thank you for these amazing photos!

Experience the Luxurious Sounds of the Flute and Cello

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

February 24, 2023

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

February 24, 2023/ Christen Stephens

The sun was shining, and the Woodland Mosaic Garden was blooming with life, making it such a romantic setting for this summer garden wedding. Our uplifting flute and cello music blended with the birdsong, filling the solarium and gardens with joy. We played for both the wedding ceremony and cocktail reception, adding a sophisticated feel to the entire day.

As soon as the first guests started to arrive, we began to play classical music for the prelude. We were sure to include plenty of Vivaldi and Beatles songs at the couple's request, a special treat for the British groom.

Though this couple met later in life, their story was as modern as it gets. They met online during the pandemic, and their love for each other was undeniable. It was hard not to cry during their incredibly sweet vows, as they sealed their union. To add to the sweetness of the day, our hearts were warmed by so many compliments from the guests and bride and groom. We felt so grateful to have been a part of this beautiful garden wedding.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
Ode to Joy (Beethoven): Recessional

Sample Prelude and Postlude Music Selections:
Gavotte and Gigue from Suite #3 in D Major (Bach)
Autumn (Vivaldi)
Love Me Tender (Elvis)
I Will (Beatles)
Kiss From A Rose (Seal)
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Denver Botanic Gardens - Woodland Mosaic Garden
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Wedding Planner: Table 6 Productions
Photographer: Alisha Light
Officiant: Jody Stephenson

Our Flute and Cello Duo is the Perfect Compliment to a Joyful Garden Wedding.

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

February 03, 2023

Violin and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony and Dinner Music at the Vail Golf Club

February 03, 2023/ Christen Stephens

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Dinner Music at Vail Golf Club Wedding Island, in Vail, Colorado, FLute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by The Cavern Photography

It was an unusually cold and rainy August day when my violin and cello duo played for a wedding ceremony and dinner at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado. The bride had fallen in love with a YouTube recording of “Speechless” by Dan + Shay. It was played by a violin and cello duo, and she wanted to walk down the aisle to that very thing, and we made it happen for her.

The ceremony took place out on the Vail Wedding Island, and we waited for the pouring rain to stop before we went out there to tune our instruments and warm up. Soon, guests began to arrive, and we played romantic classical music to set the mood before the ceremony. When we played for the wedding party, the pastor announced each person that walked down the aisle just as if it was a grand reception entrance. Everyone cheered for each person, and the loudest cheers went to the bride, of course!

During the ceremony, we played “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from the Lion King for the Unity Lasso. The entire ceremony was in Spanish, and I was grateful that I knew just enough to know when it was time for the unity ceremony to begin. The traditional ceremony included a lengthy sermon, and I was glad to once again, to understand just enough Spanish to know the general idea of what the pastor was saying.

Cocktails were supposed to be outside, but the temperature was falling rapidly and it was just too cold for the guests, so cocktails were cut short and the guests moved indoors and were seated for dinner. We played elegant pop music during dinner, and I used my professional sound system to project our sound enough to be pleasantly heard but not so much that people had to raise their voices to talk.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bridesmaids, Ringbearers, Flower Girls
Speechless (Dan + Shay): Bride
Can You Feel the Love Tonight from the Lion King: Unity Lasso
Wedding March (Mendelssohn): Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Vail Golf Club
Live Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Photographer: The Cavern Photography
Videographer: Diego Garcia Avila

January 24, 2023

An Irish Wedding Celebration in Estes Park, Colorado: Flute, Viola, Cello Trio

January 24, 2023/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

I love playing Irish music on my flute, and it’s one of my specialties, so I was so excited when this couple asked me to help celebrate their Irish heritage at their wedding with our music! The family had immigrated from Ireland through Ellis Island, which reminded me of my own grandmother who also immigrated through Ellis Island. What a wonderful and fun family history!

The couple chose our flute and strings trio (flute, viola, cello), to play music for their wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. They loved the full sound of our trio, but that it has a lighter sound than a quartet.

The ceremony took place at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Estes Park, Colorado. It was a charming hilltop church in a majestic mountain setting. Originally, the couple wanted a prelude of Irish music and other non-traditional music to greet their guests as they arrived. Unfortunately, it turned out that this Catholic Church required us to play approved traditional music. I picked out a new set list and had it approved, and I sadly couldn’t incorporate any of the music that the bride originally wanted. But we were able to fit in all of the bride’s song requests later for cocktails!

We played a beautiful and holy prelude, befitting of the setting, and our music filled the church with glorious sounds from our overhead perch in the choir loft. For her communion, the bride chose for us to play “Blest Are They”, and I arranged a lush setting of the song for our trio to perform.

Afterwards, we moved to Della Terra Mountain Chateau to play cocktail hour music. This is where we let loose and had some fun! We played 100% traditional Irish music and Riverdance music. From jigs and reels to slow and haunting airs, we created a lovely vibrant atmosphere with our music as guests mingled for cocktails. To accomplish this, we added 11 new traditional Irish pieces to our repertoire, and I specially arranged 5 new Riverdance songs for our trio. Leading up the wedding, it was not uncommon for my husband to hear me playing “Reel Around the Sun” and other lively Irish tunes over and over again so that I could perfect this difficult music. It was thrilling when it all came together into one celebration!

Listen to Flute and Strings Trio Music Samples

January 04, 2023

A Star Wars Inspired Wedding Ceremony and Reception at The Denver Botanic Gardens: Flute, Viola, Cello Trio

January 04, 2023/ Christen Stephens

The Denver Botanic Gardens are my favorite wedding location because I love gardening and the natural beauty of plants and flowers! This weekend, our flute and strings trio (flute, viola, cello), had the privilege of playing at the Tropical Conservatory for this couple’s wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, and full dinner reception.

Flute and Strings Trio Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Molly Margaret Photography

It was a blazing hot day, and it was even hotter inside the conservatory - probably well over 100 degrees. Thankfully, after the wedding, a few clouds moved and it cooled off a little. As the guests arrived, we welcomed them with Disney music and pop tunes. Then, for the cocktail hour, we switched to elegant classical music. Then, while the guests ate dinner, we played a mix of classical and contemporary music.

The couple particularly loved Star Wars music, and I made several new Star Wars arrangements for them. They also loved Disney, jazz, and well, pretty much everything! They were fun to work with and I loved their music selections. For their first dance, we played “Across the Stars” from Clone Wars, and then for the dance with the parents, we played “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. When we saw the guests lining up with light sabers for the send-off, we knew that we had to play another Star Wars song, so we played “Darth Vaders Theme (The Imperial March)”.

From the Mother of the Bride:

“The perfect garden wedding music!
Thanks so much to Christen and her trio for their wonderful performance at my daughter's wedding at the Denver Botanic Gardens in August. We couldn't be happier. They learned the music we requested (so much Star Wars!) as well as pop and big band hits. We received so many compliments from guests and the other vendors. It was the perfect musical accompaniment to the garden wedding and reception. We couldn't have asked for more.”

Sample Music Selections:
It Had to Be You (Harry Connick Jr.), Unforgettable (Sinatra), Love is Here to Stay (Gershwin), I See Fire (Ed Sheeran), Perfect (Ed Sheeran), Stay (Dave Matthews), At Last (Etta James), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), Marry You (Bruno Mars)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Family
Ice Dance from Edward Scissorhands: Ringbearer and Bride
Star Wars (Main Theme): Recessional
Across the Stars from Clone Wars: First Dance
A Whole New World from Aladdin: Father/Daughter and Mother/Groom Dance
Darth Vader’s Theme (The Imperial March) from Star Wars: Send-off

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Tropical Conservatory at the Denver Botanic Gardens
Live Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Trio
Site Coordinator: Serendipity Catering
Photographer: Molly Margaret Photography

Flute and Strings Compliment Each Other Beautifully!

Listen to Flute and String Trio Music Samples

December 30, 2022

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music in Georgetown, Colorado

December 30, 2022/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Georgetown, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Alyssa Carpenter

I loved playing my flute along with my cellist for this intimate and traditional wedding ceremony at Our Lady of Lourds Catholic Church. This charming mountain chapel is nestled in the idyllic town of Georgetown, Colorado, the kind of small town that you read of in novels. As we waited for the church to be unlocked, the curious locals asked who was getting married today as they drove by, and they cheered their congratulations when we responded.

The bride wanted a mountain chique vibe for her wedding, and she asked that we include some traditional Irish selections as well. The church stayed locked until shortly before the ceremony, so we were quick to begin playing prelude music as soon as we could, as the guests were being seated.

From the Bride:

“Christen was absolutely incredible; as a planner, musician, and person. She helped us select the perfect "playlist," plan the logistics of the music so that everything would go seamlessly, and was a pleasure just to talk to, much less hear her play! Her musical ability is unmatched, and her range is amazing. She made everything about the planning so easy, and my only regret is that we didn't have her play longer! I would recommend her and her team to anyone 1000%! Amazing person and musician!”

The processionals were the traditional Canon in D (Pachelbel) for the wedding party and Wagner’s Bridal Chorus for the bride. During the ceremony, I played “Amazing Grace” as a reflection song, and there was such a feel of serenity that filled the chapel! We played the less traditional “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles as the recessional, to send guests off to the cocktail hour.

For cocktails, we all moved to Chief Hosa Lodge in Golden. The bride wanted fun, light, and happy music to celebrate a love-filled day. At the bride’s request, we played upbeat contemporary selections by the Beatles, John Denver, and acoustic style music from the 80’s. We enhanced our music with our amplification and fun beats on our drum machine! People loved the fun music selections!

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Georgetown
Reception Venue: Chief Hosa Lodge
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Photographer: Alyssa Carpenter

Experience the Light Joyfulness of our Flute and Cello Duo

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

October 10, 2022

String Trio Wedding Music at Spruce Mountain Ranch in Larksupur, Colorado

October 10, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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

This couple’s Spruce Mountain Ranch wedding was originally to take place at Trey’s Vista, which is a wide open ranch area with sweeping views. However, with the threat of wind and rain, they decided to move their ceremony to the more sheltered courtyard outside the Spruce Room.

A little rain during the ceremony didn’t take away this bride and groom’s joy, and perhaps it brought them a little extra good luck, because their day was amazing! The couple chose to have elegant classical prelude music as their guests arrived, followed by fun and upbeat contemporary music for their cocktail hour. This black tie celebration was an elegant and formal affair, and every detail was perfection, thanks to their expert vendor team! After cocktails, we left them smiling and celebrating with their first dance.

From the Father of the Bride (excerpt from his letter to me):

”… I wanted to thank you for your elegant music during Kelly and Jacob’s wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. Live music was such an important element to us and lent class to a wedding deemed “black tie”. Several guests paid compliments on the decision to include your trio… As well, Christen, you were a pleasure to work with as we prepared for the big day. I appreciated your responsiveness and organizational skills.”

Wedding Processional Music:
Canon in D - Seating of the Family
A Thousand Years - Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Flower Girls and Bride
All of Me (John Legend) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Spruce Mountain Ranch
Wedding Planner: Kenzie Kerr Weddings
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio
DJ: Elite DJ
Photographer: Sierra Dawn Photo

Our String Trio Adds the Perfect Touch of Class to Any Event!

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

May 30, 2022

Solo Flute and Violin and Cello Wedding Music at the Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado

May 30, 2022/ Christen Stephens

My first wedding of the spring season was a blustery winter-like day on the top of Aspen Mountain. The sun was shining brightly, making the fresh snowfall look brilliant. The bride and groom were from Texas and I’m sure many of the guests were as well. What an experience this mountaintop wedding must have been for them! I welcomed the guests as they disembarked from the gondola with a set of traditional classical music on solo flute.

It’s hard to predict the weather in early April in the mountains, and it could be either mild, extremely cold, or even blizzard. This day turned out to be cold and sunny with a very gusty wind. There was a collective gasp from all the guests every time an icy gust of wind blew over the mountaintop, and I had to pause for a few seconds between songs to warm my hands with hand warmers. I hope that my music and the cozy blankets provided for the guests helped them feel warmer!

Solo Flute and Violin and Cello Wedding Music at the Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

After the wedding, the guests quickly moved inside to enjoy cocktails, and they were greeted by my violinist, who was playing some beautiful solo numbers. I joined her as soon as I finished up outside, and switched to my cello for a violin and cello duo during cocktails. We played a mix of our favorite formal classical and contemporary music.

I had also made a special arrangement of “As Time Goes By” for violin and cello, to honor the groom’s parents.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bride
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Samples from the Prelude on Solo Flute:
Trumpet Voluntary (Clarke), Air from the Overture in D (Bach), Selections from the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, Trumpet Tune (Purcell), Largo from Winter (Vivaldi), Prelude from Te Deum (Charpentier), Clair De Lune (Debussy)

Samples from the Cocktail Hour Music on Cello and Violin:
Autumn from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi), As Time Goes By (Herman Hupfeld), Speechless (Dan + Shay), The Book of Love (Peter Gabriel), Butterfly Waltz from Twilight, Air from Handel’s Water Music

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Wedding Planner: Something Blue by Bluebird
Venue: The Little Nell
Photography: Joseph West
Officiant: Jill Pidcock
Flowers: Carolyn’s Flowers
Cake: Coppelia Cake

My Joyful Solo Flute Music on a Mountaintop is Reminiscent of “The Lord of the Rings”!

Listen to Solo Flute Music Samples

May 05, 2022

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at Highlands Ranch Manor

May 05, 2022/ Christen Stephens

We loved playing music for this traditional Jewish wedding ceremony, and it was the perfect way to spend a cold December afternoon and evening! Our string quartet played classical and instrumental favorites as the guests arrived, and our music carried beautifully in the big open ceremony space. The bride selected “Married Life” from Up for her recessional, and the couple even playfully danced to the song when they reached the end of the aisle. Of course, after that, I had to watch the movie again! This couple was just as sweet and in love as the couple in the movie, and it was wonderful.

For the cocktail hour, the couple requested more classical music with the addition of some Disney and show tunes. I put together a program that flowed seamlessly from one style to the next, and there was even some more impromptu dancing from the guests as we played the show tunes.

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at Highlands Ranch Manor, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Wedding Ceremony Music:

Largo from Winter - Parents, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Flower Girls and Ringbearer
Romance in F (Beethoven) - Bride
Married Life from Up - Recessional

Wedding Prelude Music (sample selections):
To a Wild Rose, Serenade (Schubert), Salut D’Amour (Elgar), Air in D (Bach), Romance from the Eine Kline Nachtmusik (Mozart)

Cocktail Hour (sample selections):
Alleluja from Exultate Jubilate (Mozart), I See the Light from Tangled, Over the Rainbow, A Million Dreams from the Greatest Showman, Divertimento in D (Mozart)

Experience the Traditional Elegance of our String Quartet

Listen to Music Samples

April 09, 2022

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Vail Golf Club

April 09, 2022/ Christen Stephens

The fall foliage and weather could not have been more perfect for this long-awaited Vail wedding celebration. This couple had booked me back in 2019, and they sadly had to postpone their 2020 wedding to 2021. It was so exciting when the big day finally arrived!

This bride wanted to have classic wedding music for her ceremony and cocktail hour. We chose a mix of our favorite classical and romantic contemporary songs and created an elegant music program with a good flow. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers on the patio of the Vail Golf Club. The guests often recognized the songs that we were playing but couldn’t always place the titles, so we helped out when they asked.

From the Bride:

“We could not recommend Christen more! She was incredibly professional from the first time we spoke, and then thoughtful and understanding when we had to postpone our wedding. The ceremony and cocktail hour music was beautiful and exceeded our expectations. We were so impressed by the variety of music offered and how detailed Christen was throughout the planning process. Thank you Christen and Brightin for being a part of our special day!!”

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Ode to Joy (Beethoven) - Parents, Officiant, Maid of Honor, Best Man, Groom
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Samples from the Prelude and Cocktail Hour Music Selections:
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight, The Sound of Music, A Day Without Rain (Enya), Can You Feel the Love Tonight from the Lion King, Si Bheag, Si Mhhor, What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Curious Story (Schumann), A Thousand Years from Twilight, Autumn (Vivaldi)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Vail Golf Club (Wedding Island)
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Violin and Cello Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Wedding Planner: Snapdragon Celebrations
Photographer: Nate and Jenny
Videographer: Larisa Graham Films

April 03, 2022

Flute and String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch

April 03, 2022/ Christen Stephens

It was a blustery day in late summer when I played with my flute and strings trio for this very elegant wedding ceremony. We played romantic contemporary music for this modern couple as guests arrived and enjoyed drinks.

It was such a windy day that the bride’s veil blew off her head just as she started walking down the aisle! It became tangled in a twiggy tree and it took the wedding planner and another good Samaritan a good five minutes to extricate the delicate tulle. The bride ended up being married without he veil on, but that was a small detail to her. It was obvious to see that this couple was so in love and happy to be married that nothing else really mattered. The ceremony was absolutely lovely.

After the ceremony, we played upbeat contemporary music as the guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers on the patio. I added our drum machine to these lively tunes to add the rhythm and energy that we love in pop and rock songs.

Listen to Flute and String Trio Music Samples Recorded Live at the Wedding:

Wedding Ceremony Music:
I Get to Love You (Ruelle) - Officiant and Parents
At Last (Etta James) - Bride
Marry You (Bruno Mars) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings Trio (flute, viola, cello) by Christen Stephens
Wedding Planner: Bluebird Productions
Photographer: Bubble Rock
Videographer: Elysium
Flowers: Vintage Magnolia
Hair and Makeup: Liz and Brittani
Reception Entertainment: Matchmaker Band

Flute and Strings Beautifully Compliment Each Other.

Listen to Flute and String Trio Music Samples

February 18, 2022

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek and the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek

February 18, 2022/ Christen Stephens

Our string trio played elegant and fun music for a wedding ceremony at the charming Beaver Creek Chapel, followed by cocktail hour music at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek. We played classic prelude music that the bride selected, and then played a mix of upbeat classical, pop, and rock songs for the cocktail hour.

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Kimi D Photography

Wedding Prelude Music (Sample Selections):
All Creatures of Our God and King, Arioso (Bach), Serenade (Schubert), Nocturne from a Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mendelssohn), Come Thou Fount

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Parents and Groomsmen
Anne’s Theme from Anne of Green Gables - Bridesmaid’s, Ringbearers, Flower Girls
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Be Thou My Vision - Communion
Doxology - accompany congregation
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

“Best Live Wedding Music of All Time”

“We were so incredibly fortunate to have Christen and her flutist and strings trio to play for our wedding recently at the Beaver Creek Chapel.

In the weeks leading up to our big day, Christen was incredibly supportive of my wife and I's decisions in terms of tailoring our dream playlist. They could not have set a better mood in the chapel that day, and there were tears of joy a'plenty.

Thank you so much to Christen Wedding Music and co. for their amazing work! Would definitely recommend to a friend, family, or stranger.” - Harry K., Groom

Listen to Music Samples Recorded Live from the Wedding:

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Ceremony Venue: The Chapel at Beaver Creek
Wedding Reception Venue: Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
Wedding Planner: A Touch of Bliss
Photographer: Kimi D Photography
Videographer: Van Buren Photography

Cocktail Hour Music (sample selections):
Romanza from Eine Kline Nachkmusik, Scheherazade Theme (Rimsky-Korsakov), Fughette in C (Handel), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Feel Pretty from Westside Story, Alleluja from Exultate Jubilate (Mozart), I’ve Got You Under my Skin (Cole Porter), Just One of Those Things (Cole Porter), Chasing Cars (Snow Patrol), At Last (Etta James)

Enjoy Music from Our Very Popular String Trio.

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

January 21, 2022

Flute and Cello Wedding Music at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado

January 21, 2022/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado

This wedding ceremony took place on a perfect summer day in early August at the beautiful Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado. I played flute accompanied by my cellist for both the wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. The bride wanted music that was fun and romantic, and she loved the Beatles and Disney music.

We played a mix of romantic classical and modern music for the prelude as guests arrived. For the cocktail hour, we played lively modern songs, and got toes tapping with background beats on my drum machine.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Wedding Party
Latch (Sam Smith) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Photographer: Jess Leigh
DJ: Dancin’ Shoes

Experience the romance of our Flute and Cello Duo

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

January 10, 2022

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at Wedgewood Brittany Hill in Thornton, Colorado

January 10, 2022/ Christen Stephens

In July, our string trio enjoyed playing for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour at Wedgewood Brittany Hill in Thornton, Colorado. The bride walked down the aisle and everything went as planned, until the bride spontaneously began kissing her soon-to-be husband! At the gentle admonition of the officiant, she fell into the groom’s arms, laughing.

It threatened to rain, and we even saw some lightning, but this turned out to be the first of 22 weddings in a row where it actually didn’t rain during, right before, or right after a ceremony.

Our string trio played a few classical pieces selected by the bride before the ceremony, and afterwards during cocktails, we played set list of romantic and upbeat pop song covers.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Make You Feel My Love (Adele) - Seating of the Parents and Wedding Party Processional
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Sample Cocktail Hour Song Selections:
Marry You (Bruno Mars)
Young and Beautiful (Lana Del Ray)
Imagine (Beatles)
Such Great Heights (Iron and Wine)
Yellow (Coldplay)
What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong)

From Classical Music to Covers of Pop Songs, Our String Trio Will Bring Life and Beauty to any Celebration!

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

October 05, 2021

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music at the Lodge at Breckenridge

October 05, 2021/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony, Cocktail Hour, and Reception Music at the Lodge at Breckenridge, Photo by Andrea Stark Photography

From the Groom:

“Christen and her musicians are amazing! They played recently at our July wedding in Breckenridge and the music was beautiful. She even learned a couple of specific songs that we asked for, and our guests loved the mix of contemporary songs they played during the ceremony and part of the reception. Christen was so nice and we are so thankful her and her string quartet crew were a part of our day. Highly recommend!!”

Our string quartet had a wonderful time playing music for this wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception! We played a short prelude of classical and traditional music, and then switched to upbeat contemporary music for the cocktails and reception. The “Flower Boi” played his part perfectly and made us all laugh!

As we played “Forever, and Ever, Amen” during the prelude, I heard a hint of singing from the guests. During the reception, the singing was a little louder while we played “Just the Way You Are”. I couldn’t resist, and we launched into “Take Me Home, Country Roads'“, and the whole room erupted in enthusiastic, off-key singing!

We continued playing lively contemporary music and finished with a requested encore performance of “Take Me Home, Country Roads”. There was so much energy throughout the evening, and we were enjoying playing so much, that we didn’t realize how hungry we had become. The couple had arranged for us to eat food from the buffet afterwards and it was very welcome gesture.

Wedding Ceremony Music:

Bittersweet Symphony (Verve) - Wedding Party
All of the Lights (Kayne West) (slow section) - Bride
Overjoyed (Matchbox 20) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:

Ceremony and Reception Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Venue: The Lodge at Breckenridge
Photography: Andrea Stark Photography - Thank you so much for these beautiful photos!

The signage at this wedding is worth highlighting - it was delightful and nerdy!

Our String Quartet is equally comfortable playing elegant classical music and rocking out on contemporary tunes!

Listen to String Quartet Music Samples

September 25, 2021

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the YMCA of the Rockies and the Twin Owls Steakhouse

September 25, 2021/ Christen Stephens

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Overlook Chapel at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

This July, my team and I played music for a wedding ceremony at the YMCA of the Rockies Overlook Chapel, which is at the top of Emerald Mountain. We arrived at the chapel after a drive up a winding dirt mountain road. The mountaintop felt wild and isolated, and it was completely silent except for the breeze in the trees and distant thunder.

As we warmed up and did sound check, we were swarmed by biting flies, which were enjoying the fact that we couldn’t really defend ourselves while we were playing our instruments. It was a relief when storm clouds covered the hot sun and the wind blew the worst of the flies away. When it was time to start the wedding, the mountaintop was still empty of people except for us and the officiant. The thunder rumbled louder and we saw lightning, and we hoped that everyone would arrive before the storm did!

Soon everyone arrived at once in a caravan of cars, and we played one prelude song and then launched into the bride’s song so that she could be married before the storm came. The bride walked down the aisle to a special arrangement that I made of “Precious Love” by James Morrison, a song that was meaningful to her.

The ceremony was really quick, and just as the couple was pronounced husband and wife, a few fat raindrops had begun to fall. People hurried away quickly, and we wrapped up the recessional song so that we could get to safety. We packed up under the shelter of our little canopy, during a deluge of wind, rain, flooding, and lightning.

Afterwards, we all made it safely to the Twin Owls Steakhouse, and we played lively contemporary music to entertain the guests during the cocktail reception.

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Ceremony Venue - YMCA of the Rockies - Overlook Chapel
Wedding Cocktail Hour and Reception Venue - Twin Owls Steakhouse
Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio

Live Music adds Just the Right Touch to your Wedding Celebration!

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

July 11, 2021

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Nathrop, Colorado

July 11, 2021/ Christen Stephens

It was such a delight to work with this couple, and I felt privileged to be a part of their wedding celebration! The groom absolutely loves strings, and having live string music at their wedding was a very important part of this couple’s special day. They had our string trio play music with a contemporary feel for their ceremony, cocktail hour, and first dance.

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music, Photo by Rachel Case Photography

We began by playing romantic contemporary prelude music as guests arrived before the ceremony, and we added energy with lively pop and rock tunes during cocktails. The bride also requested some special songs that her family loves, including “When I’m 64” (Beatles) , “Over the Rainbow” from Wizard of Oz, and A Whole New World.

We finished our portion of the evening playing the dreamy “I Get to Love You” by Ruelle for the couple’s very romantic first dance.

Wedding Ceremony Music:

A Thousand Years from Twilight - Wedding Party
Turning Page from Twilight - Bride
Viva La Vida (Coldplay) - Recessional
I Get to Love You (Ruelle) - First Dance

Wedding Vendors:

Venue: Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: String Trio by Christen Stephens
Officiant and Wedding Planner: Clinton Anderson
Photographer: Rachel Case Photography - Thank you for these amazing photos!

Celebrate Your Wedding With the Beauty of Strings.

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

June 22, 2021

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado

June 22, 2021/ Christen Stephens

From the Groom:

“Amazing Musical Team!”

"Christen Stephens and her musicians were incredible! My bride wanted a very specific video game song played as she walked down the aisle and Christen's team pulled it off perfectly! They also did a great job with general contemporary music played on classical instruments, and created a great, classy, yet fun, atmosphere during the pre-ceremony time, and cocktail hour! She was always professional and very easy to work with! Highly recommended!”

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

My musicians and I loved playing beautiful music for this elegant wedding ceremony and cocktail hour! The couple chose our flute and strings quartet, with the addition of a harpist for the bridal entrance. The bride was planning to ride in on a white horse as we played the “Great Fairy Fountain” from Zelda on flute and harp. I didn’t see exactly what happened because I was playing, but one of the many wild turkeys roaming the area spooked the horse and the bride couldn’t ride in, but it was true Colorado mountain wedding experience!

We played a contemporary music program with pop, rock, and country music selections. For the prelude, we began with slower and more romantic music, and then we really lifted the tempo after the ceremony as guests enjoyed cocktails and hors-d’ourves.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Thousand Years (Christian Perri) - Wedding Party
Great Fairy Fountain from Zelda - Bride
Marry You - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings Quartet + Harp by Christen Stephens
Photographer: Nicolette Bardos

Our Flute and Strings Quartet is an Impressive Addition to any Wedding!

Listen to Flute and String Quartet Music Samples

May 05, 2021

Flute, Cello, and Guitar Wedding Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

May 05, 2021/ Christen Stephens

Flute, Cello, Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver, Colorado

After many unusually cold and rainy April days, this Nebraska couple got lucky with the perfect spring day for their wedding celebration. They were married at the peaceful Woodland Mosaic Garden, one of several wedding sites at the Denver Botanic Gardens. This secluded woodland location has a charming Victorian solarium, making it my favorite wedding site in the gardens. The spring flowers and delicate new leaves sparkled with life, and the sun was warm and inviting.

The bride is an accordion player, and she was quite knowledgeable in music and made a variety of music selections from classical to traditional Irish, jazz, Beatles, and other contemporary songs. Both the classical and modern songs sounded perfect with our flute, cello, and guitar trio.

We played traditional classical music to greet guests as they arrived and mingled before the ceremony. This couple chose to officiate their own ceremony, and Colorado is one of only a few states where this is easy to do and recognized legally. I played short musical excerpts throughout the ceremony to set the mood and to provide lovely transitions.

After the ceremony, we switched from classical music to pop, rock, and jazz music. Everyone enjoyed our music along with cocktails and mingling. As we played, the solarium was set with tables and chairs for the dinner that would be soon to follow. We wrapped up the cocktail portion of the event with the couple’s first dance, which we accompanied with “Fantasy” by Earth, Wind, and Fire. Our guitarist switched from his classical guitar to his steel string guitar, and we really rocked it!

Ceremony Music:
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach) - Groom then Bride
Simple Gifts (Traditional) - Tree Planting Ceremony
Rondeau from Abdelazer (Purcell) - Recessional
Fantasy (Earth, Wind, and Fire) - First Dance

Cocktail Hour Music (sample selections):
Make You Feel My Love ( Adele), Viva la Vida (Coldplay), Shallow (Lady Gaga), All I Ask of You from Phantom of the Opera, All You Need Is Love (Beatles), Come Away With Me (Nora Jones)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Denver Botanic Gardens (The Woodland Mosaic Garden)
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens (Flute, Cello, Guitar Trio)
Photographer: Ryan Dearth Wedding Photography

Our Flute, Cello, and Guitar Trio can have traditional and romantic sound, or pick up the tempo for lively contemporary music.

Contact Christen

Blog

From Classical to Fun and Modern, Our String Quartet Does it All!

Experience the Luxurious Sounds of the Flute and Cello

Our Flute and Cello Duo is the Perfect Compliment to a Joyful Garden Wedding.

From the Mother of the Bride:

Flute and Strings Compliment Each Other Beautifully!

From the Bride:

Experience the Light Joyfulness of our Flute and Cello Duo

From the Father of the Bride (excerpt from his letter to me):

Our String Trio Adds the Perfect Touch of Class to Any Event!

My Joyful Solo Flute Music on a Mountaintop is Reminiscent of “The Lord of the Rings”!

Experience the Traditional Elegance of our String Quartet

Listen to Flute and String Trio Music Samples Recorded Live at the Wedding:

Flute and Strings Beautifully Compliment Each Other.

Listen to Music Samples Recorded Live from the Wedding:

Enjoy Music from Our Very Popular String Trio.

Experience the romance of our Flute and Cello Duo

From Classical Music to Covers of Pop Songs, Our String Trio Will Bring Life and Beauty to any Celebration!

Our String Quartet is equally comfortable playing elegant classical music and rocking out on contemporary tunes!

Live Music adds Just the Right Touch to your Wedding Celebration!

Celebrate Your Wedding With the Beauty of Strings.

From the Groom:

“Amazing Musical Team!”

Our Flute and Strings Quartet is an Impressive Addition to any Wedding!

Our Flute, Cello, and Guitar Trio can have traditional and romantic sound, or pick up the tempo for lively contemporary music.