There’s something magical about weddings at Lord Thompson Manor—its manicured gardens, European-inspired architecture, and softly lit candles throughout the building create an atmosphere that feels straight out of a royal English romance. So, when Madeline and Joe invited our string quartet to perform for their ceremony and cocktail hour, we were thrilled to be part of their celebration.
Madeline isn’t just any bride—she’s a fellow wedding vendor and a talented content creator for Ever After Social. She’s seen our classical wedding musicians perform at other weddings, and let me tell you, when someone who knows the industry inside and out chooses you to play for their special day, it’s the ultimate compliment.
Madeline and Joe’s wedding at Lord Thompson Manor was the epitome of timeless elegance, with just a touch of spontaneity to make it unforgettable. Between the gorgeous black-tie aesthetic, lush all-white florals, candles for days, and antique silver and vintage gold accents, the day exuded sophistication from start to finish. And when an unexpected power outage left the band unable to perform, our string quartet stepped in to save the day, seamlessly adapting to keep the party going.
Hi, I’m Ariana - I’m a wedding violinist and the founder of Ariana Strings. I’ve performed for 725 weddings and private events over the last 15 years and love sharing our couples’ wedding stories. Here you’ll find inspiration for your wedding ceremony music, song ideas for your cocktail hour, as well as incredible wedding style from this real Lord Thompson Manor wedding. Let’s dive in!
An Elegant Wedding Ceremony
Madeline and Joe’s ceremony took place in the garden at Lord Thompson Manor, framed by a color palette of all-white florals and surrounded by lush greenery. The ceremony design, accented by mixed-metal décor, felt both classic and contemporary—a perfect reflection of the couple’s vision.
As the guests settled in, our string quartet began the prelude with a selection of classical wedding music favorites. The air was crisp, and the soft glow of the late afternoon light added to the atmosphere of quiet anticipation.
Madeline and Joe’s unplugged ceremony was as heartfelt as it was elegant, with their guests fully immersed in every moment. The ceremony began with officiant, Kathy Vass setting the tone, reminding everyone to stay present and enjoy the beauty of the day.
The Wedding Ceremony Music:
- Family & Wedding Party Processional: We opened with Canon in D (a.k.a. Pachelbel’s Canon) a timeless classic that added to the regal vibe. The highlight? The adorable flower girl and ring bearer, making their way down the aisle. Our hearts melted from their cuteness.
- Bride’s Processional: Madeline’s entrance was nothing short of breathtaking. As we played Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley, she floated down the aisle, looking every bit the regal bride.
- Rose Ceremony Surprise: Halfway through, the couple surprised their moms with a touching rose ceremony. We played La Vie En Rose softly in the background, adding to the tender moment.
- Recessional: The newlyweds made their joyful exit to Stevie Wonder’s Signed, Sealed, Delivered, with laughter and applause echoing through the gardens.
For the postlude, we kept the vibe upbeat with classical pieces as the couple transitioned directly into their champagne toast and speeches.
Toasts from the Juliette Window: A Lord Thompson Manor Wedding Tradition
In a creative twist, the toasts were delivered from the Juliette window of the Manor—a romantic touch that had guests gazing up from the candlelit gardens. The father of the bride, maid of honor, and best man shared heartfelt and humorous stories, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.
While they toasted, we snuck out and set up for cocktail hour, ready to play light and celebratory pieces to keep the energy high.
Fireside Cocktail Hour: Cozy and Classic
Cocktail hour took place on the patio, where space heaters and glowing fireplaces kept guests cozy under the evening sky. The Manor’s timeless charm shone in every detail, from the antique silver and vintage gold accents to the flickering candlelight.
For the music, Madeline and Joe had our pop string quartet play a mix of 70s classics, jazz standards, and a party vibe toward the end. We crafted a setlist to fit their vision, leaning into timeless favorites, adding a Bridgerton-style twist toward the end to build up the energy. Guest requests were welcome, and we were thrilled to see how much everyone appreciated the music. We played:
Marvin Gaye "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)" Frank Sinatra "Fly Me To The Moon"
Frank Sinatra "The Way You Look Tonight"
Natalie Cole "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)"
Sonny & Cher “I Got You Babe”
Stevie Wonder "Isn't She Lovely?"
Nat King Cole "L-O-V-E" Adele "Rolling in The Deep"
Camilla Cabello "Havana"
Calvin Harris/Rihanna "We Found Love"
Katy Perry "Firework"
Taylor Swift “Love Story”
Taylor Swift "Wildest Dreams" from The Netflix Series BRIDGERTON
Sia "Cheap Thrills"
The Show Must Go On
Just as the festivities were hitting their stride, we caught wind of an unexpected challenge: a power outage had swept through the street, cutting electricity to the Manor. The band, though ready to take over, couldn’t start for another half hour.
Jackie of Lord Thompson Manor turned to us. “Can you keep playing?” they asked.
“Of course! We’ve got you covered.”
We seamlessly extended our performance, moving indoors to be heard by the guests as they took their seats in the dining room, keeping the celebration alive with a mix of romantic and upbeat songs, proving that nothing- not even a power outage—could dim the joy of this day.
Heartfelt Gratitude
Madeline and Joe, thank you for trusting us to be part of such a meaningful day. As a fellow wedding vendor, Madeline, your decision to have us play for your wedding means the world. It’s a true honor when someone who knows the industry so well chooses you for their most important day.
Your wedding felt like a royal dream, from the candlelit elegance of the Manor to the love and joy that filled every moment. We’re so grateful to have been part of it and wish you both a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Vendor team:
Venue and Floral Design Lord Thompson Manor
Officiant Kathy Vass of Ever After Ceremonies
Reception Band Sugar
String Quartet for Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Ariana Strings
Photography Alicia Ann Photographers
Vow Books Etsy
Content Creator So Bridal Social
Cake Marble Made Cakes
Hair and Makeup Simply Gorgeous by Erin
Signage Something Borrowed Event Decor
Dress Everthine Bridal and Jane Hill Bridal
Jewelry David Yurman
Rings Farmington Jewelers
Ring Boxes Styling Archives
Suits Formals by Antonio
Car Rental Elizabeth in Newport
Pajamas Daily Sleeper
