For this week’s spotlight, we spoke with Sherry Lewis of Pleasanton, CA , about Wine Country Strings, her string ensemble that is available for weddings in Northern California and beyond.
How did you start your group?
My earliest experience with weddings was to be hired by another group. After a few of these gigs I realized that there lacked a consistent standard in both performance and interaction with the client. As for the earliest name of our group, An Elegant Touch of Strings, my advertising consultant asked me what we were all about…and that led me to these words! I’ve since introduced a new name, Wine Country Strings. No huge reasons, I just like the sound, we do perform quite a bit in various vineyard venues, and I think it’s easier to remember but same performers and service as we’re known for through the years.
What does your musical group offer for weddings?
We can perform any part of the wedding from ceremony through reception as a soloist, duo, trio, quartet and even more musicians as desired for the music of our clients’ dreams.
What’s been your favorite experience as a musician?
Most recently I put together a 12 piece orchestra at the Levi Stadium, Santa Clara, California, where the client rented out the entire stadium for a proposal to his girlfriend! We were hidden behind a grassy partition until the big moment and then stepped out and began romantic music. She said Yes…whew! Afterward we performed for their clients. It was truly memorable.
What do you love most about working with weddings?
I love the compliments that come from all ages. My most memorable is from a boy around 6 years old who caught up with me as I was heading out. After a very sincere compliment he handed me a dollar bill. It was so many years ago and still it brings a smile when I think of it.
What piece of advice would you give brides and grooms to ensure they find a band/group/musician who will make certain their big day goes off without a hitch?
The venue and wedding consultant that the bride and groom are using will know the musicians doing the best jobs and which include showing up on time to be set up and ready to take final instructions.
How do you think an app like Joy can help make weddings better?
The layout of Joy is so simple to maneuver and quickly informative. I especially enjoy the exciting pictures, after all pictures say a 1000 words! The professionals being featured have been chosen for their proven high quality and so having such a collection all in one app will surely give the brides and grooms more time together to enjoy the final days before their Big Day.
At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy should last forever. What does that mean to you?
A wedding where one can look back on amazing photos, food, music and other professional services they’ve carefully chosen to share with their family and friends, many who traveled from far off countries, will be a wedding where the joy of the day will last forever!
