Modern Luxe was one of the best choices we made for our wedding --- they are incredibly talented…read moreand really brought the energy to our dance floor, and we've been told by countless guests that they loved our band. I stumbled across them during a YouTube deep-dive of local wedding bands and immediately told my now-husband I'd found the right band. We reached out in Sept 2021 and asked if there was any opportunity to see them live before we booked. They didn't have any upcoming live shows at the time but immediately invited us to stop by one of their rehearsals, where we were greeted warmly from the moment we arrived. They played a few songs by our request, though within 30 seconds we confirmed we were sold, and then were friendly enough to all sit and get to know us for a bit. They met with us again closer to our wedding date to confirm all of our song choices for the big moments, even enthusiastically agreeing to create a surprise mash-up of my dad's song choice and a childhood favorite of ours for our father-daughter dance. On our actual wedding day, they were flawless from beginning to end. Their instrumental version of "Helpless" from Hamilton for my walk down the aisle instantly triggered tears. Our first dance and dance songs were perfect. Our dance floor was packed all evening, including friends and family who don't typically gravitate toward the dance floor, and we had an absolute blast. MLX even surprised us by bringing one of their singers who'd actually left the group since we'd booked because they remembered we'd felt drawn to him (though their new singer, James, is awesome, too!). You can tell that MLX really loves what they do and were genuinely invested in making sure our wedding was perfect. We can only hope that one of our friends hires Modern Luxe for their own wedding someday. Until then, we will definitely be seeking them out at one of their public shows so we can relive our perfect night over and over.

For those who frequent the live local cover band nightlife scene like hubs and I had so much fun…read moredoing before kiddos, you may remember a band called Lima Bean Riot. They have somewhat recently reinvented themselves as "Modern Luxe" and play weddings now too! They still kick tush!!! We recently attended a wedding and these guys absolutely rocked it!! They played a fantastic mix of genres and combined them all so seamlessly. They had the crowd dancing and singing along from beginning to end. They covered all the classics you expect to hear at a wedding and some you would never think to, but thought were an awesome add-in. Each member of the band who came from a variety of different musical backgrounds offered something unique to the mix and together, they were absolute perfect and well-rounded. The band acknowledged the couple often and very well. They gave a warmth to the couple as if they weren't just another gig. They even learned the first dance song which the bride said she loved more than the original. The bride also said that she was going to go with a DJ, but once she saw Modern Luxe at a bar one night in Philly, she was sold. My small critique has nothing to do with the music so I'll keep with my 5 star rating they deserve based on performance. The tiny thing that kind of rubbed me the wrong way was the beautiful, personable lead singer's flip flops which she wound up changing into well into the night. I totally get it. Heels suck. There's no getting around it. Dancing and performing in them for hours blows. I've done it. I too was in the same industry for years and years and wore heels the entire night. I feel her pain, I really, really do. I just think it looked very unprofessional for a wedding, even a more casual summer barn wedding. There could've been a better, more appropriate shoe choice in my opinion. I'm not one for flip flops anywhere other than the beach or on the way to yoga. Certainly not with a dress and definitely not to your place of work or a wedding. A nice sandal if she wanted to keep with a summer open toe, a ballet flat or flat ankle bootie to go with the whole rocker chick thing. I mention this because I'm not the only one who noticed. The bride gave a lot of thought into every perfect elegant detail of her special night and I personally thought it was a tad disrespectful. I know this may sound harsh and silly, but I notice these things and apparently wasn't the only one. Small, tiny fixable flaw however. I've seen other photos of her performing and she looks amazing and dressed up, head to toe so I'm not sure what the deal was with this night.... I would absolutely hire these guys without thinking twice and I'm suuuuuuuper picky about bands. If you're in the market for a band for your wedding which I personally think is the way to go and makes a world of a difference, check these guys out! They still play the bar scene so seeing them live before booking or just for fun is easy. Check their Insta or FB for upcoming gigs!

Strangers (BVT Live Band) absolutely blew us (and our guests) away. From the moment they started…read moreplaying, the dance floor was packed -- even with people we never see dance at weddings. Their energy, professionalism, and talent are unmatched. What stood out most is how they didn't feel like just entertainment in the background -- they felt like part of the celebration, bringing the entire room to life through their music. Before the big day, they took the time to meet with us, understand our vibe as a couple, and talk through musical preferences. There were a few songs we weren't sure about, and they gently reminded us to trust their expertise when it came to keeping the party alive -- and they were absolutely right. Every song hit, the transitions were seamless, and the entire experience felt personal and electric. So many of our guests are still talking about how phenomenal the band was. If you're looking for a band that brings joy, connection, and unforgettable energy to your wedding, Strangers is it. Can't recommend them highly enough.

Booking Carinvalè for our wedding was the absolute BEST decision we could have ever made!! Our…read morevenue had recommended BVTLive if we were interested in booking a band, so we watched one of their live showcases streamed live on YouTube. My husband and I enjoyed all of the bands that played, but one really stuck out to us, Carnivalè! We booked Carnivalè without even seeing them in person, that's how good they are! When we did attend a showcase in person a few weeks later, they exceeded our expectations and we started counting down the days until they would play at our wedding! Working with Nils to lay out all of our options was amazing! He is the sweet person you'll ever meet and so on top of things! Leading up to the wedding we worked closely with our band leader, El, to choose songs and create a timeline for our wedding. El and Carnivalè have played at tons of events and weddings and were super organized and easy going! Fast forward to our wedding night, El and the band were absolutely INCREDIBLE!! They catered to all ages at our wedding and made it a night to remember! I really can't put into words how much fun everyone had and how amazing the band sounded the entire night! We are so thankful to El and the band and would highly recommend them to everyone!! If you want your dance floor PACKED all night long, book El and Carinvalè!

saw him at 60th Birthdat party this Sunday at the Bocci Club in Poiny Breeze. I am African…read moreAmerican and this man played and rocked it out all night long. You won't be disappointed with his music jams.

Just an FYI, do NOT hire the "DJ" Johnny Looch, he took a deposit October 2018 and agreed to DJ my…read moremother's reception. I witnessed him taking the deposit at the Starbucks on Broad and Jackson (on my birthday) and here is the email confirmation that he sent my mother confirming that he received it. He dodged my mother's and my calls. The first time I called him (he didn't recognize my number) when I asked him if he could confirm that he would be DJing my moms wedding, he quickly gave an excuse saying he was in a meeting and would call my mother back, but he never did. She called him multiple times left multiple messages and he ignored them all. We also tried to reach him via text message, which he ignored. He did not show up to the event and he walked away with the deposit.

Between all of the First Friday art visits, culture doses of concerts and theater productions, and…read morejust stopping by to pay homage to the Isaiah Zagar mosaic exterior that I've done, Painted Bride is one of those places that I could have sworn I've interviewed years ago! But sometimes one spot manages to slips through my proverbial cracks, and Yelp manages to deliver a helpful reminder for me. And seeing how it came after I did social media for Rock to the Future during their annual Music For All Ball fundraiser, and splurged on a couple of their silent auctions, that reminder couldn't have come at a better time! and when it comes to all of the above that I listed above, dance parties, educational workshops and more; the Bride is a cultural phenomenon! Much like the case with Magic Gardens and all over South Philly, the irst time I came across Painted Bride I was instantly drawn to its exterior being a mosaic wonderland. And the interior was filled with works from all kinds of local artists and photographers that I'm happy to say that I've seen carry on for 5+ years running. For music I have glimpsed all kinds of jazz shows, music showcases from High Two Productions and other local music organizations, and dance events that tied in every facet of such a culturally eclectic venue. And overall, I look forward to more.

The Painted Bride in Old City is one cool cultural arts center. It has become a Philadelphia…read moretradition with its mosaic walls outside designed by Isaiah Zagar, and its art galleries and theatre inside. There is always something interesting happening here. Today I saw a modern dance troupe from the Netherlands at the Bride which was definitely cool and definitely worth it. A lot of cities in this world would very much love to have a Painted Bride Cultural Arts Center!

The hottest of the hot! Beat Street Station is where it's at! I can't believe I am just getting…read moreover here! It has everything I love mixed into one! It's rustic, urban chic, historic and unique. It's sexy, yet inviting to all, while being cool and funky at the same time. An awesome venue for anything and everything! We just held our Baby Loves Disco event here today and I was so incredibly impressed by this stunning place. It's truly a gem. One of a kind. I wish we would have thought of this place for our wedding reception as it is "so us". The chandeliers, the drapery, the mirrors and those lights! Couldn't get enough! Minimal decorations needed for this place, if any at all. The sound system is fantastic also. It's immaculately clean, a safe locale, and an easy drive from the city or burbs! It's just the "it" spot as far as I'm concerned. I couldn't recommend it more! Great communication with hosts throughout our entire planning process. Their friendly staff including Joe an Lisa made our party run so smoothly. The staff is really superb, and Bobby well, he's the best of the best! There's a reason why he's been doing this for decades!! Anyone throwing a party, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Sweet 16, wedding or anything really, this is the place! An old historic train station building turned amazing party venue! Wow you guest! Treat them to a night here! Oh, and they have in house catering and a list of recommended preferred vendors. It's like a one stop shop! Amazing!

went here for a formal.... worst decision I could have made. Tried to leave. Black lady decided to…read morelock the door. Didn't Realize you could lock people into your establishment.... On top of all of this I explained how this "fine" establishment held us against our will inside while we tried to leave and the "supervisor" who oversees the people leaving asked if I was studying law..... because I was expressing how simple it is to let people out of your building. Seriously a problem. also took an hour to get a drink. the bartender is a loser.... only serves woman.....skips people who have been in line.....absolute beta.

I called Splash of Expression for a huge event involving 30+ children and SHE DELIVERED!! Although…read morethis was a last minute call, she arrived on time and ready to work! The designs were BEAUTIFUL and the colors were bright and vibrant. I will definitely use Splash of Expression again. I HIGHLY recommend this business!

Whenever I have a party and I want it to be amazing I call Splash Of Expression! Her creative…read moreskills always amaze me and my guest! Book her! You will not be disappointed!!

Was a guest at The IATSE Ballroom for a graduation party. I had a really good time while there on a…read moreautumn Saturday. I was super happy to see that IATSE offered a parking lot. Yay! Once I walked in, immediately the room of the event was decorated nicely. The ballroom was spacious, decent sized dance floor, and a bar. This particular event had a cash bar with complimentary soft drinks. I ordered a cosmopolitan drink that was made nicely. I peeped that the bar offered casamigos too (nope lol; I drove). The food was absolutely delicious. My favorite was the lobster bisque, salmon, and potatoes! Yummy! The staff were all nice and professional. Overall, this appears to be a nice venue to have a special occasion.

Was here for a birthday party today and the place looked great! Staff was so friendly, food was…read moregood, drinks at the bar were great.

I have attended classes here off an on (cause life be happening) for more years than I can remember…read moreat this point. When I'm ready for a wonderful workout I always return because why on earth would I ever go to any other pole studio in Philadelphia? The owner, Mary is simply the best. Her detailed instruction, carefully paired with support, compassion, and pushes to help you grow are all that any aspiring pole dancer could ask for. These classes will help you discover (rediscover) and own a whole new level of sexy confidence you never knew you had. And the workout? Be prepared to feel the burn in every muscle. Students can pay on a per class basis or simply pay $90 for unlimited access to the most fun workouts you'll ever experience. I cannot say enough positive things about this place. If you've ever considered taking a pole class, chair dance, or floor work class please take this as your sign to enroll tah-day!