Anela Lauren

s were captivated by her beautiful playing. Her harp was the perfect accompaniment to the evening. I received so many compliments on how wonderful it was to have a harpist performing. Anela even played a song that I had mentioned was one of my favorites. It was a very nice surprise. I recommend Anela Lauren with the highest praise!

. Our first duet choice was the with the ukulele, which she said wasn't possible (why offer it on the website then?). We then decided on the violin, which was confirmed via email. After confirming the duet we began to compile our ceremony song list and sent them to her. She emailed back within a couple weeks (side note: her communication skills are lacking and she does not respond for weeks at a time, we would have to send a reminder email just for her to respond to a previous email) stating that the only songs she plays are the ones listed on her website and any other song would require an additional charge. Needless to say, I wasn't impressed and by this time we had already sent out deposit so we couldn't even try to find another musician. Fast forward to the day of the wedding. My bridesmaids walk down the isle then my father and I enter the church. There is Anela playing with a flutist. What?! We specifically asked for a duet with a violinist. No need to panic, everything will be fine. Well, after the ceremony, which lasted all of 15 minutes, my family and friends went outside to do photos. Anela and her partner came outside and watched the photographers do their work rather than continue playing for the remaining 30 minutes they were being paid for. Overall, she is a good musician but far from the best bang for your buck. I would find someone better such as the people who perform in Hanapepe on Friday evenings at the Art Night.