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Writer's pictureAriana
Apr 122 min read

Sunshine Chic: Celebrating Connecticut's Wedding Planner Community in Style

When one of our favorite wedding planners, Lindsey of Wildflower Events, reached out to invite us to perform for a special luncheon, I was thrilled! We had worked together many times before and all of her events were not only flawless, but fun and beautiful.


I had just one question: What’s the color scheme?


Normally, we default to concert black, but I couldn’t help myself: We just had to glam it up!


All women string quartet in yellow dresses performing at historic home in Connecticut
Credit: Colleen Anne Leenehan Photography


Despite the gray skies and rain outside, the venue bloomed with vibrant yellow: Our dresses were in the right place! We were met by a ray of sunshine with Springy tulips, floral linens, bright stationary, and sweet cocktails.


Hosted by the dynamic duo of Doro Catering and planned by Wildflower Events and Design, this luncheon was meticulously curated to delight the senses. The Estate’s dark woods and black walls were the perfect backdrop for springy blooms and bright yellow details.


When Connecticut wedding planners get to be guests


The uplifting sunshine didn't stop there – it radiated from our string quartet as we performed upbeat pop string covers. We performed everything from Bridgerton and classic rock to modern pop. A bunch of the planners made requests, which is always our favorite. She told us how she and her family are total Disneyphiles, so we played her request: When You Wish Upon a Star.


As the requests kept rolling in, one planner thought they could challenge us: Could we play Beyonce’s latest hit Texas Hold ‘Em?

Heck, yes, we can and we did!


We had so much fun and, to top it all off, the food was incredible!


Doro Catering pulled out all the stops: Just wait until you see the giant harvest board! It was a sight to behold, a cornucopia of flavors and textures that had everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). I’m still dreaming about the pomegranate and beet hummus!


But perhaps the most remarkable thing about the afternoon was the way it brought the top Connecticut wedding planners together. The phrase “Community over competition,” is often thrown around as a buzzword (or should I say, buzz phrase?), but these entrepreneurs truly embody it. Along with our music, genuine laughter filled the air. The camaraderie was so inspiring and reminded us:


Empowered women empower women.

Check out the gorgeous gallery by Colleen Anne Leenehan below


Vendor team:

Host and Caterer Doro Catering and Events

Photographer Colleen Anne Leenehan

Flowers and Rentals Petals and Plates

String Quartet Ariana Strings

Stationery Max and Maiden Ink

Calligraphy BL Calligraphy

Linens BBJLatavolo




Writer's pictureAriana
Feb 132 min read

That Time We Performed for the Prince of Ethiopia


String quartet performing for charity event at Dickinson mansion in Connecticut
Ariana Strings Quartet performing for The Prince of Ethiopia's charity event

I'm absolutely buzzing to share this incredible experience that our string quartet had last weekend at the historic Dickinson Mansion in Essex, Connecticut.


We serenaded another incredible luxury event this week with distinguished guests ranging from diplomats and politicians to royalty!


It was such a distinct honor to be chosen to perform for this charity event benefiting the Royal Ethiopian Trust. It was an evening filled with enchanting classical music, sweet people, and all for a fantastic cause.


The Royal Ethiopian Trust is dedicated to supporting education, healthcare, and cultural preservation initiatives in Ethiopia. From building schools for children to providing medical supplies, they've been making a real difference in the lives of countless people. It's heartwarming to see the impact they've had and continue to have.


Even more of an honor was that this was a repeat booking from the event sponsors (the same folks who booked us for the Queen of England's Diamond Jubilee Event!) When clients choose to include our musicians time and time again, it feels like we're doing something right! For our first event together, I created a bespoke string orchestra at the Wadsworth Mansion for the British Consulate. Check it out here.


String quartet performing at Dickinson Mansion in Essex, Connecticut
Credit: Colleen Anne Leenehan Photography

string quartet performing at charity event at Dickinson mansion in Essex, Connecticut
Ariana Strings Quartet performing waltzes and tangos at The Dickinson Mansion, Essex, CT

For this charity event, we treated the guests to classical favorites: from Strauss Waltzes to sultry tangos and a little bit of opera for good measure! The crowd was filled with classical music enthusiasts who were most appreciative. There's just something incredible about seeing people come together, enjoying music, and supporting a good cause.


You'll notice that we've expanded our concert wardrobe to include formalwear. For this evening, we donned gold sequin ballgowns and formal black tuxedos. We have a lot of fun getting our glam on and know how much of an impact it has when we set the scene and match the overall elegance of these luxury events.


As classical musicians for luxury events, we thrive on moments like these. It's not just about playing music; it's about creating memorable experiences that resonate with people long after the final notes fade away. And being able to do that while contributing to something as meaningful as the Royal Ethiopian Trust's mission? Well, that's what makes it all worthwhile.


See more of this wonderful evening as captured by our dear friend and wonderfully talented colleague, Colleen Anne Leenehan Photography, below.








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