Morgan and Billy's Wedding: A Night of Music and Memories at Brick and Mortar
As a Columbus, Ohio wedding DJ, I’ve had the privilege of soundtracking countless love stories. Morgan and Billy’s wedding at Brick and Mortar was a standout, blending heartfelt moments with a dance floor that never quit. With 135 guests—100 younger guests and 35 from the parents’ generation—this day was about creating a vibe that felt personal and electric. Here’s how it unfolded, from the couple’s perspective.
Early Setup and Atmosphere
I arrived at 1:00 PM to set up for both the ceremony and reception. The couple opted for uplights to add warmth to the venue and a CO2 gun for some high-energy moments later. Brick and Mortar’s open, elegant space was the perfect backdrop. Working with Esther Kimpton from MMJ (both planner and day-of coordinator), photographer Carter Teal, and videographer Story’s in Motion ensured everything ran smoothly. Morgan and Billy’s Spotify and Apple Music playlists were my guide, giving me a clear sense of their taste—eclectic, heartfelt, and fun.
Cocktail Hour: Setting the Tone
At 5:00 PM, cocktail hour began with tracks from the couple’s curated playlist. The music was mellow but engaging, letting guests mingle while hinting at the energy to come. Morgan and Billy wanted a relaxed start, and the playlist delivered, keeping conversations flowing.
Reception: Entrances and First Moments
The reception kicked off at 6:15 PM with introductions that set the crowd buzzing. Morgan and Billy chose “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne for the wedding party entrances, perfectly timed:
Bridesmaids walked in as a group just before the first verse (“Baby, it’s been a long day, baby...”).
Groomsmen entered as the second verse hit (“And baby, the way you move me it’s crazy”).
The couple, introduced as “Mr. and Mrs. Morgan and Billy Ginley,” stepped out right before the chorus (“You are the best thing...”), fading out at 1:32 for a seamless moment.
Their first dance to “Simply the Best” by Billianne played in full, a choice that felt deeply personal. You could see them lose themselves in the moment, surrounded by uplights that amplified the intimacy.
After their welcome, Tom and Sue, plus Chris and Jerry, offered blessings before a plated dinner. The couple’s playlist kept the mood light, complementing the meal without overpowering it.
Special Moments: Cake and Family Dances
The informal cake cutting, set to “I’m in Love with You” by The 1975, brought a playful energy as guests snapped photos. Then came the parent dances:
Father/Daughter to “Vienna” by Billy Joel (faded at 2:39), a tender nod to their bond.
Mother/Son to “Child of Mine” by Carole King (faded at 2:05), warm and emotional.
These songs were clearly chosen with care, reflecting Morgan and Billy’s relationships with their families.
Dance Floor: Energy Unleashed
Open dancing started with a packed floor, fueled by the couple’s must-play picks. They were clear about what to avoid—no Taylor Swift (except a “Love Story” remix if needed), no Bruno Mars, no Justin Timberlake, and no coordinated dances. This kept the night organic, with guests moving freely to the B/G playlist’s mix of classics and modern hits.
Morgan’s outfit change was a highlight, timed to “These Words” by Badger and Natasha Bedingfield. It was a moment that re-energized the room, with guests cheering her return.
The Exit: A High-Energy Sendoff
The special exit featured a medley of “Downtown” by Macklemore, “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield, “Dancing on My Own” by Robyn, “Where the Wild Things Are” by Luke Combs, and “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus. “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + the Machine closed it out, building to a euphoric peak. The CO2 gun added a burst of excitement, and guests were buzzing about the after-party at Novaks.
Morgan and Billy ended with a private last dance to “I Was Born to Love You” by Ray LaMontagne and Sierra Ferrell—a quiet, intimate moment that felt like theirs alone.
Wrapping Up
By 10:00 PM, the night wrapped, leaving everyone smiling. Morgan and Billy’s choices—from the playlist to the no-coordinated-dances rule—made the night feel like an extension of who they are. For me, it was a reminder of why I love DJing weddings in Columbus: it’s about translating a couple’s vision into a shared experience.
If you’re planning your wedding, share your playlist and vibe with me (Jomar Shaffer, 330.383.7817). Let’s make your day sound as unique as you are.
