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

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.

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

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

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!

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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)”.

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

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.”

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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!”

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

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

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

Experience the Light Joyfulness of our Flute and Cello Duo

A Magical Wedding Ceremony at Beano's Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado: Flute, Violin, Viola, Cello Quartet

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

This summer, I played flute along with my string quartet for a very elegant wedding ceremony at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. The event was a black tie affair and the team of vendors was outstanding. The couple requested that our music be upbeat, recognizable, and in keeping with the formal event. The songs that they chose for us to play during the prelude were Clocks (Coldplay), A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay), At Last (Etta James), All of Me (John Legend), Butterflies (Kacey Musgraves), and Viva La Vida (Coldplay).

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

It rained right up until the ceremony start time, and then stopped, right on cue. The setting couldn’t have been more beautiful, and our music added a special elegant touch.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Trumpet Tune (Purcell) - Groomsmen and Groom
Romanza (Mozart) - Wedding Party
Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Beano’s Cabin
Wedding Planner: Snapdragon Celebrations
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet
Photographer: Marco Wang Photography

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute and Strings Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado, Photo by Christen Stephens

Flute with Strings Adds a Magical Touch.

Violin and Cello Wedding Music at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, Colorado

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

On a warm summer’s day, I played cello along with my violinist for a wonderful wedding ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch. What a lovely day it was for this Florida couple to enjoy the beauty of the Colorado mountains!

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

This bride loved the music of both Kygo and Rufus Du Sol, and I worked with her to select the songs from these artists that would sound best with violin and cello. It was a challenge to re-arrange electronic dance music for violin and cello, but nothing excites me like a music arranging challenge. I stuck with it and I was very happy with the results, and so was the bride!

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

We played while guests arrived before the ceremony and then we moved to the back patio to continue playing music for the cocktail hour. The bride didn’t want anything too classic, so I chose a set list of modern movie music, EDM pop, and rock music.

From the Bride:

“Christen & Brightin with Flutes & Strings were the perfect touch to our mountain wedding! From the time I started working with Christen to the days after our wedding her communication, organization, kindness and ability to answer any and all questions was flawless. I asked her to learn some additional songs for our wedding day, and although I’m sure it wasn’t an easy task, she played the songs as if they were part of her repertoire. One of my most favorite memories will be hearing the sound of the violin and cello right before I walked down the aisle. There is no doubt in my mind that I will work with her again in future and forever follow along with her extremely talented musical journey.”

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Sample Music from the Wedding Prelude:
Romanza (Mozart), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Air From Suite #3 in D Major (Bach), Innerbloom (Rufus Du Sol)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Higher Love (An International Affair): Wedding Party, Flower Girl, Ringbearers
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
Firestone (Kygo): Recessional

Sample Music from the Cocktail Hour:
The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, You Were Right (Rufus Du Sol), I Get to Love You (Ruelle), All of the Lights (Kayne West), Nothing Left (Kygo), Sweet Child O’Mine (Guns N’Roses), Hey Ya (Outkast), Butterfly Waltz from Twilight, Don’t Stop Believing (Journey)

Wedding Vendors:

Venue: Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch
Wedding Planner: Kelly Karli Weddings and Events
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Photographer: Sarah Porter Photography
Videographer: Lupher Arts

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter Photography

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the YMCA Estes Park Overlook Chapel

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Overlook Chapel, YMCA Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

This summer, I played flute along with my guitarist for a wedding ceremony at the YMCA Estes Park Overlook Chapel. This mountaintop outdoor chapel has amazing views of the pine covered mountains and miles of blue Colorado sky. It was a warm day, but not too hot, and guests lingered before and after the ceremony to enjoy the beautiful location.

The bride wanted a rustic, modern mountain vibe, and she chose a set list of of modern music that she loved. I added fun drum machine rhythms to many of the songs, and they really gave a lot of energy to our music! We greeted guests with our music, and we continued to play afterwards as they took photos.

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Overlook Chapel, YMCA Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

Sample Prelude and Postlude Music Selections:

From this moment (Shania Twain), Could You be Loved (Bob Marley), Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran), All of Me (John Legend), This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) (Natalie Cole)

Wedding Ceremony Music:

Amazed (Lonestar) - Parents and Grandparents, Groomsmen
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bridesmaids and Flower Girls
A Thousand Years from Twilight - Bride
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (Stevie Wonder) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:

Venue: YMCA Estes Park Overlook Chapel
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo
Photographer: Roe Photography

Experience the Versatility of our Flute and Guitar Duo.

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado

While Denver experienced 100 degree record-breaking temperatures this summer, our violin and cello duo escaped to a beautiful and secluded mountain aspen grove to play elegant live music for a stunning wedding ceremony. The location was Eaton Ranch, which is an exclusive wedding venue that only hosts four weddings per year, spaced at least three weeks apart. The stately aspens and peaceful setting felt quite like a serene outdoor wedding chapel.

The bride requested that we play upbeat, delicate, and meaningful music to compliment the majestic setting. We greeted guests with our music as they arrived to the ceremony site, enjoyed drinks, and mingled before the ceremony. We played for the ceremony, and continued to play for a little while after the ceremony, as photos were taken. Soon, the guests walked down the mountainside to the cocktail hour location, and our job was done!

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring - Seating of the Family
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Wedding Party, Ringbearer, Flower Girl
Holy - Bride
You Are the Best Think (Ray LaMontage) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Eaton Ranch
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Wedding Planner: Kelly Karli Weddings and Events
Photographer: Sarah Porter Photography
Videography: Keever Films
Florist: La Rue Florals

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Eaton Ranch in Edwards, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Sarah Porter

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

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

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

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!

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Solo Flute by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Solo Flute by Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Solo Flute by Christen Stephens

The bride chose a lovely set list of classical and traditional contemporary music to create a relaxed and romantic feel for her wedding day. I played music as the guests arrived and mingled, for the processional and recessional, and then for a little while afterwards as the guests enjoyed champagne.

Afterwards, the bride told me that everyone loved my music, and that it was the perfect touch for her wedding day. Her kind comments made my day!

I love soloing on my flute and I also love gardening, so playing my flute for this wedding ceremony at the Denver Botanic Gardens was a wonderful day for me! The temperature reached 100 degrees, tying a record high for that June day in Denver, but we stayed cool under the shade of the gazebo.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Solo Flute by Christen Stephens

Samples from the Prelude Music:
Fly Me To The Moon (Sinatra), As Time Goes By (Casablanca), Hornpipe From Water Music (Handel), Amazing Grace (Hymn), Salut De Amour (Elgar), Everything I Do (I do it for you) from Robin Hood

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bride
Amazed (Lonestar) - Recessional

Enjoy the Romance of my Solo Flute Music for your Wedding Ceremony.

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

I played my flute accompanied by my cellist on a pretty day in late spring. The bride was a Colorado local, and she chose the convenient and lovely Wedgewood Boulder Creek as her wedding venue. The mature trees provided welcome shade from the warm sun, and the ceremony was accompanied by the rushing creek and our elegant music.

The wedding had a summery, cocktail feel, and the joyful sounds of my flute accompanied by the rich sounds of the cello were the perfect fit.

From the Bride:

“Would highly recommend!!! We got in touch last minute with Christen and she was soo easy to work with. Super reasonable pricing and our guests loved this additional touch we had during our ceremony!! I can’t recommend her enough!!”

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Sample Music Selections from the Prelude:

Anne’s Theme from Anne of Green Gables, Anglaise (Bach), Flower Duet (Delibes), Scheherazade Theme (Rimsky Korsakov), Butterfly Waltz from Twilight, Wildflowers (Tom Petty), Bubbly (Colbie Caillat)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
La Vie en Rose (Louis Armstrong) - Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love - Bride
Higher Love (Kygo) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings
Photographer: Blue Spruce Photography
Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Enjoy the Joyfulness of the Flute Blended with the Richness of the Cello

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Boulder Creek by Wedgewood Weddings, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Blue Spruce Photography

Flute and Violin Duo at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado

Flute and Violin Wedding Music at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

This Ohio bride didn’t let a late spring snowstorm dampen her spirits for her intimate mountain wedding ceremony! We got a little over a foot of snow, but most of it had melted by the afternoon. However, it was still quite chilly when we had all originally been expecting an outdoor ceremony in warm spring sunshine. Because of this, the wedding was moved indoors to Dannen Chapel, and it brought everyone together in a way that the outdoor wedding wouldn’t have.

The bride wanted to hear happy, simple and relaxing music, and we played a selection of classical and contemporary music that she picked out. She did a great job, because her music selections filled the prelude time exactly.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Wedding Party
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
Hornpipe Finale (Handel) - Recessional

Prelude Music Sample Selections:
Air from Handel’s Water Music, Clair De Lune (Debussy), As Time Goes By from Cassablanca, All of Me (John Legend), Flower Song (Delibes)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: YMCA of the Rockies
Ceremony Music: Flute and Violin Duo - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo
Officiant: Greg Bunton

Experience the beauty and joy of our flute and violin duo.

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Center in Lafayette, Colorado

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Event Center in Lafayette, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens and DJ Maestro

It was a blustery day when our violin and cello duo played for this elegant spring wedding ceremony. This modern couple wanted an upbeat, sweet, and fun vibe for their wedding, and they chose a modern set list of rock, rap, and love songs that put a skip in everyone’s step. We played as guests arrived, and then continued playing afterwards as the guests drifted back to a sheltered location for cocktails.

Wedding Prelude Music (sample selections):
Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland)
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight
Hey Ya! (Outkast)
Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Journey)
Sweet Child ‘O Mine (Guns ‘N Roses)
Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Wedding Ceremony Music
What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong) - Officiant, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Ringbearers, Flower Girl
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Lionsgate Event Center in Lafayette, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens and DJ Maestro

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

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

What a joy it was to solo on my flute for this beautiful family’s wedding ceremony! This couple was delightful to work with, and they were both fun and loving. The children of this blended family were delightful, confident, and silly!

April weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and the forecast was calling for temperatures in the lower 40’s and 20mph wind guests! This is what we were all expecting, but it turned out to be a calm and sunny day, with the temperature warming up to a balmy 55 degrees. It couldn’t have been more beautiful outside, and guests took advantage of of the warm sunshine to linger both before and after the ceremony, feeding the friendly chipmunks and taking photos.

From the Bride:

“Christen was amazing. Very professional and brought an elegant vibe to our micro wedding. She was easy to work with, fun, and laid back. She was able to help plan our music so it fit our styles perfectly. If you are unsure who to utilize for your wedding Christen is an easy choice. Affordable, efficient, and she knows how to elevate any event.”

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

I played a mix of classical and contemporary music as guests mingled, and I also learned a few new songs that the couple and their kids knew and loved. The bride and groom’s children were the bridesmaids and groomsman, and they stood up with their parents during the ceremony. During the ceremony, the bride gave each of them a special gift, each with different family photo to represent their family’s joining. It was a a really sweet take on a traditional unity ceremony.

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

Wedding Processional Music:
Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd) - Groom seats parents
Blank Space (Taylor Swift) - Bridesmaids, Groomsman, Flower Girl
Bridal Chorus (Wagner) - Bride
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Selections from the Prelude Music:
10,000 Hours (Dan+Shay), Speechless (Dan+Shay), Flower Duet (Delibes), River Flows in You (Yiruma), Minuet (Boccherini), Perfect (Ed Sheeran)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Sapphire Point
Ceremony Music: Solo Flute by Christen Stephens
Photographer: Nina Action

Enjoy the joy and elegance of my solo flute music.

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

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

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)

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

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”!

Six Centuries of Cello Duets and Trios - A Cello Concert

You are invited to a cello concert to enjoy Six Centuries of Cello Duets and Trios! The concert will be presented on Tuesday, May 17th 2022 at the Arbor House in Golden, Colorado.

I join my cello duet partner, Molly Niven, along with Susan Crisfield, to raise funds to support Friendship Bridge, an organization empowering indigenous women in Guatemala. All proceeds will go to support Friendship Bridge.

The concert begins at 7:00 pm, but please come at 6:30pm to enjoy a glass of wine or beer and visit our Guatemalan market. You will also enjoy a flute Choro by myself, and a 'musical dessert' on the nyckelharpa by Susan!

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

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)

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

Experience the Traditional Elegance of our String Quartet

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado

This romantic Labor Day weekend wedding ceremony took place at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado. Our flute and cello duo added the perfect musical touch as guests arrived and enjoyed the stunning views over Boulder from the Flagstaff House terraces.

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Madeline Shea

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Madeline Shea

The bride asked me to choose a mix of classical and contemporary music to play during the prelude as guests arrived, and I chose a selection of some of our favorite songs. After the ceremony, we continued to play as guests began enjoying cocktails, and then we turned it over to the DJ for the reminder of the evening.

After the wedding, the bride was so happy with the special ambiance that our live music added for her wedding day!

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Madeline Shea

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s - Wedding Party
La Vie En Rose - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Flagstaff House
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Officiant: Ceremonies with Lisa
Photographer: Madeline Shea

Experience the Elegance and Joy Our Flute and Cello Duo

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Madeline Shea

Violin and Cello Duo at the Oaks at Plum Creek

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oaks at Plum Creek, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, photo by Christen Stephens

This summer, our violin and cello duo played music for a wedding ceremony at the Oaks at Plum Creek. The couple requested a set list of modern music, which we played as guests arrived.

The weather was very blustery and threatening rain, so the ceremony began early and concluded just as the first fat drops of rain began to fall. Just as we finished playing the recessional song, it began to pour in earnest, and we felt fortunate that we were under a canopy covering to protect our instruments!

Prelude Music (sample selections):
What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Blackbird (Beatles), All of the Lights (Kayne West), Can You Feel the Love Tonight from the Lion King, Hey Ya (Outkast)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Wedding Party
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight - Flower Girl and Bride
Sweet Child ‘O Mine - Recessional

Experience the Simple Elegance of our Violin and Cello Duo

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

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:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy Music from Our Very Popular String Trio.

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

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

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

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

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