Q: What first inspired you to sing for people’s weddings?
A: Years ago a good friend of mine asked me to sing at her wedding ceremony. Singing at her wedding and seeing how the music affected her and others at the ceremony made me so happy. From there, I started to receive referrals, individuals asking if I could sing at their weddings and other special events. I found each wedding for which I sang to be unique, lovely, and special. To date, I am inspired every time I sing at a wedding. It’s an occasion unlike any other, and I am honored every time someone requests that I add my voice to their important day.
Q: What inspires you today?
A: I’m inspired on a daily basis by something new every day. On a consistent basis, the general theme to my inspiration is beauty: seeing the beauty in people when I observe thoughtfulness and generosity from others, watching the leaves change colors this time of year, hearing a moving piece of beautiful music… I try to take it all in and allow it to feed my soul.
Q: What do you love most about your job?
A: I love the fact that if I’m doing my job correctly, I emotionally move people. For example, directly after the last wedding ceremony in which I sang, the mother of the bride approached me with open arms and tears in her eyes, expressing how grateful and moved she was by my music. That was a huge compliment and a fantastic day on the job. When I’m able to capture the spirit of the ceremony in my music and when people feel that, to me, my job can’t get any better.
Q: What’s the best advice anyone has ever given you?
A: That’s a tough question. I’ve received so much good advice from so many talented and wise people throughout the years. An important piece of advice given to me when I first began to sing for weddings was in regards to performing nerves. I was reminded that at a wedding I’m there to add a layer of loveliness with my music; and since the day is not about me, there is no reason for me to feel nervous when singing. I’ve taken that advice with me, and to this day, before I start to sing at a wedding, I remind myself the truth of that statement and the nerves simply melt away. There’s a joke that goes something like this, “What is the vocal exercise a singer most enjoys? Answer: ‘Mi-mi-mi-mi!’” In regards to a wedding, a ceremonial singer will do an injustice to the music if they make the singing about themselves. So, with that bit of advice, I find that thinking solely of the bride, her tastes, and the feel she is trying to capture, I’m able to deliver what really makes her happy.
Q: What advice do you have for our readers?
A: Well, as a recent bride myself, I can offer some wedding planning advice from a singer and bride’s perspective. My biggest piece of advice is having a communicative team of people working on your wedding. Make sure they ask the right questions to get a sense of who you are and what you want. Don’t be shy to ask your own questions, too. No question is a dumb one. You want to make sure you feel comfortable with the professionals who are going to be a part of one of your most important days of your life.
Q: Who are your idols in the wedding industry?
A: This is not the most sophisticated answer, but it’s the most honest and personal response to that question: my mother. My mother was both my sister’s and my wedding planner. Her detail, organization, and passion for her work were beyond impressive. Since then, many people (including myself) have been encouraging my mother to take up the profession on a more serious basis. She’s got the head and heart for it.
Q: What are your favorite songs for a wedding ceremony?
A: My favorite songs are constantly changing as I hear or sing something new. Currently, I enjoy singing Gounod’s “Ave Maria”. Everyone knows and loves Schubert’s version of the “Ave Maria”, but Gounod also wrote an “Ave Maria” which is not sung as often, but which is equal in beauty. I also like it when a bride asks for something a bit unconventional, such as a show tune or a well known song that I’m able to be creative with. In addition, for religious ceremonies, it’s really moving and a special treat when I can sing a classic like “Amazing Grace” a cappella.
Julie can be reached by anyone interested in her services/networking at her work email and phone —773.275.3538 and juliebucksoprano (@) gmail.com. Also, her website is www.juliebucksoprano.com
To learn more about how to find the best Chicago Wedding DJ, grab a copy of the audio for helpful tips on choosing the right DJ and then give us a call.