February 14, 2023

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Larkspur Events and Dining in Vail, Colorado

February 14, 2023/ Christen Stephens

Our violin and cello music perfectly complimented this elegant summer mountain wedding ceremony! The morning rain temporarily clear away, just in time for us to play a prelude of classical and romantic contemporary music.

The entire ceremony site was so beautiful, with mountain views in the background, and so many luxurious roses lining the aisle and wedding arch. Our live music lent a traditional touch and timeless feel to this Texas couple’s special day.

In keeping with the traditional feel, the bride chose Pachelbel’s Canon in D for her wedding party, followed by the romantic “A Thousand Years” from Twilight for her own walk down the aisle. We played Bach’s Arioso during the sand pouring ceremony. Then, we veered a little off the traditional path, and played “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” for the recessional. It was the perfect song choice for the mountain setting!

Wedding Prelude and Postlude Music (Sample Selections):
La Vie en Rose, Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach), Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Prelude Op. 28 #7 (Chopin), Spring (Vivaldi), All You Need is Love (Beatles)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Wedding Party
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri): Bride
Arioso (Bach): Sand Pouring Ceremony
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (Martin Gaye): Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Larkspur Events and Dining
Wedding Planner: Kelly Karli Weddings and Events
Photographer: Carter Rose Photography
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo

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

December 20, 2022

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

December 20, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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).

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 with Strings Adds a Magical Touch.

Listen to Flute and Strings Quartet Music Samples

December 09, 2022

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

December 09, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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!

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!

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.”

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

November 30, 2022

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

November 30, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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.

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.

Listen to Flute and Guitar Music Samples

November 13, 2022

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Lodge at Breckenridge

November 13, 2022/ Christen Stephens

I enjoyed playing my cello along with my string trio for this beautiful summer wedding ceremony in the Colorado mountains. The rain showers cleared up just in time for the guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air and sweeping views before the ceremony started.

Our trio played prelude music as the guests arrived, and we continued to play through the cocktail party. The bride wanted a rustic and relaxed feel for her wedding celebration, but also something elegant and fun. She chose a list of her favorite classical music for the prelude, and then we played upbeat pop and rock music as the guests enjoyed cocktails.

The bride also had a very few special song requests that i arranged just for her wedding, to add a lovely personal flair. These songs were “I Choose You: (Sara Bareilles), “Time to Say Goodbye” (Andrea Bocelli), “Separate Ways” (Journey), and “All of Me” (John Legend).

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Choose You (Sara Bareilles): Parents, Officiant, Groom, Wedding Party, Flower Girl (cute lab dog!)
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri): Bride
Marry You (Bruno Mars): Recessional

Selections from the Prelude and Cocktail Hour Music:
Spring and Autumn from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Rondeau (Mouret), Ave Maria (Bach), Time to Say Goodbye (Andrea Bocelli), Separate Ways by (Journey), All of Me (John Legend), Shallow (Lady Gaga), At Last (Etta James), All you need is Love (Beatles), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Star Wars Main Theme, What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Lodge at Breckenridge
Wedding Planner: Hourglass Productions
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio
Photographer: Chelsea Sliwa Photography - Thank you for these beautiful photos!

Our String Trio Can Be Elegant or Fun, or Anything in Between!

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

October 21, 2022

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

October 21, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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

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

August 10, 2022

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

August 10, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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!!”

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

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

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

July 19, 2022

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

July 19, 2022/ Christen Stephens

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.

Listen to Flute and Violin Music Samples

June 24, 2022

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

June 24, 2022/ 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.

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.

Listen to Solo Flute 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

April 24, 2022

Flute and Piano Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Interfaith Chapel in Vail, Colorado

April 24, 2022/ Christen Stephens

Imagine a wedding on a charming mountainside chapel, surrounded by full autumn colors. Then add the joyful music of the flute, accompanied by the full grand piano, and you have the perfect setting for a wedding ceremony! The trip over the mountains on this early October day was filled with scenes of golden autumn foliage and snow-capped peaks. It felt like a journey through summer, autumn, and winter. It was sunny and in the 70’s when I left my home, but there was a blizzard as I drove over the continental divide and then again over Vail Pass. Despite the snowy weather and an accident that closed down the entire highway for 45 minutes, we were at the chapel on time and excited to be a part of this bride’s long-awaited wedding ceremony.

Most of my clients are from Texas, and this bride was no exception, traveling to Colorado to enjoy the beauty of the mountains in peak foliage season. She wanted upbeat and joyful music for her wedding ceremony and the mother of the bride wanted a classic feel. Our flute and piano duo was the perfect fit to play a mix of classic contemporary and classical music. We kept the mood light and joyful, and our music was a warm greeting for the guests on this cool and rainy autumn afternoon.

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

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Parents, Best Man, Maid of Honor
Bridal Chorus (Wagner) - Bride
Wedding March from a Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Vail Interfaith Chapel
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens (Flute and Piano Duo)
Wedding Planner: Kelly Karly Weddings and Events
Photographer: Shane Macomber

Experience the Joy of our Flute and Piano Duo.

Listen to Flute and Piano Music Samples

April 14, 2022

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek, Colorado

April 14, 2022/ Christen Stephens

I enjoyed playing cello with my string trio for a wedding ceremony at the idyllic Chapel at Beaver Creek, in the Colorado mountains. The aspens were in their full glory, and the sunshine was warm and inviting. The autumn day and charming chapel gave me deep sense of nostalgia, looking forward to cool autumn nights, days full of golden sunshine, hot chai tea, sweaters, apple pie, and soft blankets.

This couple had postponed their 2021 wedding to 2022 and the long-awaited day had finally arrived! There were gale force winds in Beaver Creek on their old date, so the change worked to give them perfect wedding day weather.

The couple chose live music that would set a light and joyful mood as their guests arrived, for the processionals, and then after the ceremony to send their guests on to the next portion of the festivities. Our music filled the chapel with warmth and joy to match the sun drenched Aspen trees outside.

Wedding Prelude Music (sample selections):
What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Wedding Song – There is Love (Peter, Paul, and Mary), Reign of Love (Coldplay), Make You Feel My Love (Adele)

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

Wedding Vendors:
Venue - The Chapel at Beaver Creek
String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Wedding Planner: Kelly Karli Weddings and Events
Photographer: Laura Murray Photography
Florist: Vintage Magnolia
Cake: Cornerstone Chocolates
Makeup: Carrie Stockert Makeup

Experience the Elegance of our String Trio.

Listen to String Trio 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

March 23, 2022

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at the Taharaa Mountain Lodge in Estes Park, Colorado

March 23, 2022/ Christen Stephens

This summer, our flute and violin duo played for a joyful wedding ceremony at the Taharaa Mountain Lodge in Estes Park, Colorado. This new venue has a beautiful reception and dining building with a large covered porch where guests can take in the peaceful views and fresh mountain air. The outdoor wedding chapel features a scenic space with a rustic arbor and patio area, blended into the landscape with surrounding boulders.

We learned two special songs for the ceremony. The first song was “Blue Sky” by the Allman Brothers. When the bride’s parents were still in college, her dad would bring his stereo out to the lawn in front of her mom’s dorm and play the song in honor of her (just like in the movies!). The second special song was “Carry on My Wayward Son” by Kansas. This was a special surprise for the groom, and it’s a meaningful song to him.

For the prelude, the bride requested upbeat, welcoming, and modern music selections. I put together a mix of pop and rock songs including selections from the Beatles and Coldplay, I accompanied some of the more upbeat tunes with beats on my drum machine, and the guests loved the energetic feel of our music.

From the Bride:

“Christen was one of the first vendors we contacted when we started the wedding planning process. I had stumbled on her website and found myself getting teary-eyed listening to samples on her website while imagining myself, in my dress, on my wedding day, walking down to the aisle to the music. I immediately messaged her and booked the date! Christen was so easy to work with- very fast responses, organized, professional and an overall lovely human. She even learned two special songs for us! One song was my parents song, which I walked down the aisle to (they were so moved with this selection), and the other was symbolic for my husband and his service in the military, and that song was our recessional (my husband was so surprised and moved). I didn't have any time to talk with Christen, or her violinist colleague, Brightin, on our wedding day itself (I had no idea how busy I would be that day!), but everything went perfectly as planned and their music was loved by all of the guests. We had several guests comment on how much they enjoyed the more modern music we selected and how the music really created and upbeat and positive energy for the ceremony. I strongly recommend Christen to any couple planning their wedding! She is a real professional, a talented musician and a kind person!”

Wedding Ceremony Music:
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Parents and Wedding Party
Blue Sky (Allman Brothers) - Bride
Carry on my Wayward Son (Kansas) - Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Taharaa Mountain Lodge
Ceremony Music: Flute and Violin Duo by Christen Stephens
Wedding Coordinator: Kaitlin Shea Weddings
Photographer: Colorado Lifestyle Photography
Videography: Homefield Weddings

Experience the Joyful Sounds of the Flute and Violin.

Listen to Flute and Violin Music Samples

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

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From the Bride:

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

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

From the Bride:

Enjoy the joy and elegance of my solo flute music.

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

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

Experience the Joy of our Flute and Piano Duo.

Experience the Elegance of our String Trio.

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

Flute and Strings Beautifully Compliment Each Other.

Experience the Joyful Sounds of the Flute and Violin.