Big Ric Rising: One of the Best Wedding Bands in Philadelphia

Springton Manor Farm: Dana and Mark Cole – September 11, 2020

Wow!  The Big Ric Rising band was absolutely amazing on Friday night.  You guys made Dana and Mark’s wedding! Everything was perfect, the ceremony music, music during cocktail hour and of course the full band at the reception! Ric had everyone up and dancing the entire evening. You can tell that you guys love what you do! Our guests are still raving about the great band!

Thank you so much for all you did to ensure the wedding was a success.  You were so helpful and patient during this entire process, especially given all the changes in dates and venues. We look forward to working with BVTLive! and Big Ric Rising again in the future.

Thanks again,

Kris

Philadelphia Cricket Club: Amy and Matt Seybold – November 29, 2019

Hi Big Ric,
We cannot thank you guys enough for being a part of our day yesterday! The reception was SO much fun, I can’t even tell you how much positive feedback we got from people on the music. That was all thanks to you guys for keeping the party going, engaging the crowd, and just keeping us so organized. We have had multiple people tell us that was the best wedding that have ever been to! We saw people dancing who never dance at weddings. It was just that fun! Thank you so very much! I’m so happy we worked with you guys. It made our wedding the unforgettable night we were hoping It would be.

I would love to leave you guys a review online to let others know what a great night It was. Please let me know the best way/place to do so. We leave for our honeymoon tomorrow but will be back next week.

Thank you so much!
Our best,
Amy and Matt (Bride & Groom)

The Lake House Inn: Melissa & Barry Guglielmo – October 19, 2019

Best wedding band ever!

When the band we wanted for our daughters wedding was not available, BVTLive! recommended Big Ric Rising. I was skeptical because I never heard of them. They were absolutely amazing and the best wedding band we have ever experienced. We still hear from our guests how much fun they had at the reception. LOVED THEM!!

- Jeanne (Mother of the Bride)

Collingswood Ballroom: Katie and Scott Hammell – October 18, 2019

Amazing experience - would recommend again and again

What a pleasure it was working with “Big Ric Rising” from BVTLive!! Big Ric and his team approached the day and the weeks leading up to it with absolute class. Talking with Ric and Nils on the phone was like connecting with an old friend you haven’t seen in a while. Their energy and enthusiasm in making sure they had all of our wishes in mind carried over to the wedding day. If my wife didn’t look so stunning, I’d say Big Ric and his crew absolutely stole the show. From the moment we were introduced, our guests knew they were in for a party unlike any wedding they’ve attended before. They kept the dance floor packed for the duration of our reception. Ric’s voice and energy was impeccable, his accompanying singers were flawless and the band’s sound was amazing! All of our guests from our 12 year old cousin to our 90 year old Grandmother had nothing but compliments toward the band! Many of our soon to be married guests asked for their contact info to book for their big day, and I HIGHLY suggest you do the same! You WILL NOT be disappointed!

- Katie (Bride)

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts: Jane and Brendan McPhillips – September 7, 2019

Big Ric Rising Rocks! Heading into our wedding, we were pretty sure that we wanted a band. We had been to a wedding with another BTV Live band and were just blown away by how great it made the party. We knew that it would be a big part of our budget, but also felt like folks don’t remember the food but they would remember the music! As we were working on booking with Nils, he was super helpful as we tried to decide on the band and also narrow down our date. We were engaged for just under a year and really only started planning nine months before the wedding, so we were super lucky that Big Ric was available the same day as our venue! We went to the showcase and were blown away by the band, and then Ric came over to introduce himself and explain his role in the reception. We both felt really confident that he would keep the party going so we wouldn’t have to worry about everyone having a good time - he would be on top of it! Additionally, Nils was super helpful as we had just a DJ at our ceremony since we had a few songs that we really wanted to incorporate and also needed sound setup. For our ceremony, Ric worked with us on the run of show, starting with the wedding party entrances. Our parents and wedding party were so excited to dance their way in, and then Ric bust into “California Love” as we entered the reception. We didn’t have a traditional wedding with first dances with our parents, opting instead to open up the dance floor with the mother of the bride & bride dancing to Dancing Queen. From there, the dance floor was packed all night. Ric did a great job of keeping the energy up - he had the father of the bride help kick off a set, and kicked off a bunch of other surprises that really made the night and that had all of our friends and family talking about it afterwards and making our reception so memorable for us! Best thing about our wedding by far!

- Jane (Bride)

Congress Hall: Carolyn and Bryan Hardenbergh – August 10, 2019

Paul,
I never got a chance to follow up with you. Thanks so much for all your help with our Aug 10 wedding. Big Ric was KICK ASS!!!
Everyone was talking about him. I wanted a good party and he really brought the house down. I’ve had so many people say they want him to play their wedding. Even Gritty said he wanted to hire him! I had some of my guests from overseas that said they wanted to fly them over, haha.
Thanks for helping us have a memorable day. Let me know if I can ever host you to a Flyers game.

- Bryan (Groom)

Gibson Island Club: Caroline and William Cagney – June 22, 2019

Hello Nils, Big Ric and the rest of the band!

THANK YOU!!!! Oh much goodness you all were amazing on Saturday and we had the best time dancing!! Thank you so much for everything!!! Everyone was raving how incredible you all were and we couldn’t have agreed more. I so appreciate everything and just want to reiterate mine and Will’s gratitude for the most perfect night!!!!

Gratefully,
Caroline and Will (Bride and Groom)

Bartram’s Garden: Skylar and Tim Malone – June 15, 2019

We danced the night away! SO much fun! Big Ric and the band had us laughing, dancing, and even better- he made memories for us at our daughter’s wedding. The sound was a perfect level- not too loud and not too soft. Big Ric kept the reception going without being on the mic all the time. I really like Ric and wish I had more daughters for more weddings- we’d ONLY use this band. P.S. some members of the band played the music at the garden marriage ceremony and it was elegant and beautiful. Big Ric Rising did it all perfectly.

_________________________________________________

Dear, dear Ric and Nils,

I'm not sure how I can possibly thank you and the band for the FAB-U-LOUS time we had at Skylar and Tim's wedding on the 15th at Bartram's Garden.

We had a rough year prior to the wedding and my family, in particular, needed, needed, needed to be together and dance.

How we LOVE you!!!!!!!!!!!

A million thank you’s for your time, attention, energy , talent - and just for being you. 🙂

My husband said he wants to see if you can come play in our barn and we'll just have friends come and have a bar-b-que.

I give you each and all a BIG hug.

With all my heart,

Thank you.

Meredith 🙂
(Sky's Mom)

The Franklin Institute: Dinora and Vlad Dobru – June 8, 2019

Big Ric and Nils were very easy to work with. They were responsive and listened and gave their recommendation. We chose Big Ric because of his energy and his engagement with everyone. He has the ability to get everyone involved and to have a good time. Everyone commented what a great band it was. The singers and musicians are excellent! They can perform any type of music. If you want a fun event, with everyone engaged I would highly recommend Bic Ric Rising. We were sorry when the event was over.

___________________________________________________

Big Ric Rising performed for our daughter’s wedding at the Franklin Institute June 2019. The Band exceeded expectations!! Ric and his band members know how to make a party successful. Big Ric gets everyone involved. The guests commented on how much they enjoyed the band. It’s the first time I saw guests not want the reception to stop. It was so much fun dancing to this terrific band. They are easy to work with and all of the band member are excellent. If you want a memorable experience go with Big Ric Rising!

- Cheryl (Mother of the Bride)

The Union League of Philadelphia: Caroline and Drew Goehler – May 18, 2019

Hi! Hope you have recovered from your AMAZING performance on Saturday night. Boy oh boy....did you have that dance floor rockin!!!! That’s just what we wanted...no time for anyone to take a break and just enjoy the music and each other.
You rocked it! Thank you for all the fun you provided.

With gratitude,

Lisa Black (Mother of the Bride)

The Free Library of Philadelphia: Gabrielle and Patrick Reimel – May 3, 2019

Big Ric and the band were amazing, would hire again in a heartbeat. Everyone was dancing from beginning to end.

- Gabrielle (Bride)

Chester Valley Golf Club: Jacki and Kevin Davidson – March 30, 2019

Amazing!!!
We had Big Ric Rising for our wedding and it was hands down, the best decision we made!! They were energetic, fun, made the dance floor packed and made my husband and I have the time of our at our wedding reception!!! We are still hearing compliments 3 weeks later!! From the minute we signed the contract up to the wedding day, they were responsive and listened to all our requests. Would 10 our 10 recommend to any couple looking for a lively and fun reception!

- Jacki (Bride)

Bradford Estate: Tiffany and Charles Bennett – March 23, 2019

Unforgettable!
Big Ric was the star of the show during our reception. He interacted with our guests and made sure everyone was dancing. What sets Big Ric Rising apart is his interaction with guests and just how good he is at making sure everyone is having a good time. The band is full of talented musicians and everyone was very approachable and easy to talk to when I had questions before and during the event. I highly recommend Big Ric Rising!

- Charles (Groom)

The Manor House at Commonwealth: Casey and Rick Kozub – January 19, 2019

Best Band Choice Ever!! Ric and I could not have been happier to have chosen Big Ric Rising to be a part of our day! Such great energy from everyone and so much talent in one band! Our guests are still raving about how great our band was and that is all thanks to Big Ric! I don’t think there was one time at all the entire night that the dance floor was not full!! Ric was amazing to work with and really had everything together and made my night stress free! If you want a night to remember, full of fun, dancing and great music than you have to go with Big Ric Rising! Thanks to BVTLive! for having such talented bands and thank you to Joanne for guiding us to finding the best band for us!

- Casey (Bride)

The Mendenhall Inn: Kelsey and Joe Boccella – December 20, 2018

Big Ric Rising made our wedding!! Ric was a great MC and kept the dance floor packed all night! He kept the night moving through introductions, dances, and the countdown to midnight. We have gotten so many compliments from guests on what a great reception we had thanks to the band! BVTLive! was easy to work with and we would highly recommend them to anyone!

- Kelsey (Bride)

Overbrook Golf Club: Member Holiday Party – December 15, 2018

Once again, Big Ric kicked ---. He is truly the best! I have not met a better entertainer. Big Ric knows how to get the party started, he knows how to keep the party rocking, and he knows when to tear the roof off of the place. It is so fun to watch him work the crowd.
I cannot begin to tell you the rave reviews I received about the party on Saturday December 15th and most of the feedback included comments about Big Ric.
When we booked Big Ric earlier in the year for this party, you and I agreed on a small band in the Piano Bar. Ric took it upon himself to add two band members to his band because he knows the room and knew those extra two pieces would elevate the experience. He did not have to do that and I know he took money out of his own pocket to pay those other musicians. I don’t think there are many band leaders, who would make that sacrifice for the greater good. It did not go unnoticed and Big Ric should be commended for his thoughtfulness and energy.
Personally, I love Big Ric. He is a pleasure to work with and his skills as a band leader are second to none. Big Ric is a true professional. He works his --- off to make sure the people in front of him are having a good time. Ric makes everyone look good, including the venue and their staff. That is a fact. If you cannot have a good time with Big Ric, there is something wrong with you.
I look forward to the next time he and I can work together. I am sure it will be sooner than later.
Best regards,

- Jimmy (Assistant Manager)

The Cira Centre Atrium: Morgan and Jeffrey Cottle – November 16, 2018

Best Wedding Band EVER!
We had Big Ric Rising play for our wedding in November and it was the BEST decision we made while wedding planning! We actually planned our entire wedding around the band - they were the first vendor we booked. Ric was awesome throughout the process. He understood what we were going for throughout our day, and dealt with all of our out-of-the-ordinary requests/plans. People still rave about our band. EVERYONE was on the dance floor from the start of the night until the last song (one of our guests even ripped his pants dancing - that's how you know it was good music!). Several people told me they've never seen a bride have so much fun at her own wedding - there were only a few moments when I wasn't on the dance floor! A few people told us that our wedding was the best they've ever been to, and I credit a lot of that to Big Ric Rising's ability to really engage the crowd and play to the mood of the party. These guys are true professionals. If you book them for your wedding, you will NOT regret it - in fact, you'll most likely say it was the best decision you made!

- Morgan (Bride)

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts: Maxine and Alan Gandler – November 3, 2018

Big Ric and the band are great. I would hire them again in a minute. They delivered on everything they promised, they read the mood of the room perfectly and gave us the best wedding ever. People after the wedding came up to us and complimented us on the band and what a great job they did. If you want a wedding where everyone is up on their feet dancing - then go with Big Ric!

- Father Of The Bride (Parent)

Drexelbrooke: Caitlyn and Joey Righter – October 13, 2018

Big Ric Rising was awesome! We couldn't be more pleased with the experience we had for our wedding in October 2018. BVTLive! (Big Ric Rising) were awesome. Everyone is still talking about them.

- Lisa (Mother of the Bride)

Pocono Lake Preserve: Liza and Andrew – September 29, 2018

Ric!

OMG! Was that incredible or what? We had SUCH a great time at liza and Andrew’s wedding! You and the band were fantastic — beyond words really! Loved how you got the energy going and kept it at 100! It was a group that was ready to have some FUN!!!! And then the girls singing the father/daughter dance— omg! And Andrews dad singing 2 incredible songs! And son-in-law jamie singing shut up and dance...you were quite generous in handing over the mike! Everyone was RAVING about you and the band!! And I think your team had a ball too— right??

Anyway just wanted to send a huge THANKs your way! No more weddings for us— but I will recommend you to be sure!!!

Best to you always!!

- Betsy (Mother of Bride)

The Down Town Club: Allison and Dan Mischel – September 22, 2018

Thank you so much for everything. You guys made our wedding rock on and everyone had a great time All of my best

- Dan Mischel (Groom)

Thornbury Park: Thornbury Founder’s Day – September 8, 2018

Hey Nils,
I am so happy to have stumbled onto your website and then met you. What an incredible band you are a part of. You are all so friendly and talented. You, literally MADE our event. Thank you so much! We all wish there was more sunshine but you never let the thin crowd or the rain drops get you down….and at the end you had everyone happy that they stayed. Thank you!

- Susan Daudert (Events Coordinator – Thornbury Township)

___________________________________________

Bic Ric Rising played at our Founder's Day Event and was nothing short of amazing! They filled an entire park with energy! They were so professional, so easy to deal with, friendly and approachable, and the talent was incredible. The FUN that this band provided still has our residents talking. Big Ric engaged our residents young and old and had people dancing, singing and laughing.
Absolutely Awesome!

- Susan Daudert (Events Coordinator – Thornbury Township)

 

 

Glen Ford Mansion: Kelley and Erik Carabasi – September 2, 2018

The music at Kelley and Erik’s wedding was perfect. Big Ric, it was such a pleasure working with you. You and your whole band are the epitome of professionalism and talent, and the guests had the best time because of you all!

Joanne, thank you as always for all of the help! I hope you both have a wonderful week and an even better fall wedding season. I hope to work you again soon!

- Allie (Mother of Bride)

Women’s Civic Center of Stone Harbor: Katie and Ryan Murray – August 24, 2018

Just wanted to say THANK YOU so much for such a fabulous wedding!! You guys were the hit of the party and everyone keeps reminding us how amazing our band was. We would recommend you to anyone! Also, thanks for letting my cousin Marie sing “I will survive” on stage, I think it was the highlight of her life!!!

Thanks for everything, hope to see you again soon!!

- Katie & Ryan (Bride and Groom)

Laurita Winery: Erin and Richie Shaget – July 7, 2018

Dear Ric and each and every member of Big Ric Rising,

Wow. How to even say thank you!! We were truly overwhelmed by how everything came together for a day that we will remember for the rest of our lives. Your singing and music was beyond amazing. You are all truly artists, and we are so, so happy you were there with us. Your music, your energy, was such a meaningful part of our wedding day. I can’t even begin to tell you how much fun it was dancing the night away. We are beyond thankful for all that you did to make our day so memorable, for not only us, but for our guests. Our wedding simply would not have been the same without you - and it was more than we could have ever hoped for. From the ceremony, to getting things started, to the last songs and group hug. You are all amazing and we simply can’t thank you enough!

With love and many, many thanks,

- Erin and Richie Shaget (Bride and Groom)

_____________________________________________

We couldn’t have been happier than we were with Big Ric Rising as our wedding band! Everyone danced — the whole night — it was impossible to stay away from the dance floor!! They will pull out those moves your guests never knew they had!! Best day of our lives so far. Also, and more intimately, they made our ceremony so special (we were married at the venue) and had special requests for wedding party entrance, bridal entrance, and for the recessional... they made the night magical accommodating these requests. It was truly an unforgettable night!!

- Erin (Bride)