So if you read the recent post about helping someone to propose with magic, (if you didn’t, please do, its a great story), then here is in fact the complete opposite end of the spectrum.
The enquiry for my services came after Pat and Paul had attended a wedding at Shendish Manor in 2015. I was performing there for Mel and Steve during the Reception drinks and Wedding Breakfast, and had obviously made a lasting impression, enough for Pat to mail me directly.
Now a referral is one thing, but for someone to see me and be impressed enough to enquire about thier own event really is a big compliment to me and shows i’m doing something right.
Pat was looking for a magician, specifically me ;), to perform at St. Michael’s Manor in St. Albans for thier 50th Wedding anniversary. Now if you do not know St. Michaels Manor, please take a look, it really is a fabulous venue.
After the email process of finding out date, times, numbers and plans and confirming my fees Pat decided to book me and the date was secure in the diary. This was to be around 80 people, a few children (in fact only 4) and a canopé reception drinks on the balcony followed by more formal sit down meal with 9 tables beautifully laid out. I suggested 2 hours would be a good timeframe to ensure everyone got to see me.
On arrival, as always I spoke to the staff about plans for the day and met Pat, whom I immediately recognised from the wedding, she was such fun, I could not forget. I performed some close-up reception drinks magic two small groups outside, giving them a flavour of what I can do and establishing myself among them as something fun and exciting they could all see during dinner…and talk about afterwards.
It was during this time that Paul said “oh go away…no, please don’t you are amazing, stay” – he was frustrated that I was able to read his mind so well.
The reception drink was over in a flash, around 45 minutes and now on to the main proceedings.
Understanding the flow and order of service at each table, I started off at the main table for Pat and Paul. For occasions where a couple is the main event, I always like to perform one or two things entirely bespoke to them. It’s such a specially occasion and I always feel a lasting memory, a memento of the day is a nice touch – in this instance, Pat signed a £2 coin, Paul signed a 10p coin, holding the coins in their clasped hands they glanced into each others eyes to make a wish. They open theirs hands and now both signatures are on the 10p coin, one either side, symbolising thier unity. This of course got gasps and applause and i’m pleased to say, one guest sat at the table, who had identified himself as a ‘non-believer’ shouted out, “now even I believe in magic”.
After this, I flowed around the room from table to table between courses being careful not to disrupt natural conversation. I must say the crowd was so much fun, applause and hand shake, even fist bumps, everyone was smiling and clearly enjoying the magic.
My finale piece was to the whole room in which Pat’s grand daughter managed to win some delicious chocolates.
So, why title this post ‘Something for us all to aim for’?
What really stood out for me on this wonderful afternoon, was how amazing it is that a couple can be married for 50 years and still clearly have so much love for each other. The room was filled with guests all enjoying each others company. Some knew each other for many years, some only just met, some were even at the wedding. The strength of bond was clear to see and was amazingly inspiring.
Life throws various obstacles in our way, some knock us down, some we get up from, but with the love of those around us, the love we share both near and far, life is and can be a wonderful thing. Take stock of those you are blessed to know and love and try not to let the humdrum of life, get in the way of what truly matters.
Congratulations Pat and Paul and thank you allowing me to come along and share the fun and laughter with you all….and thank you for such wonderful feedback.
