Pennsylvanian

The Pennsylvanian is one of Pittsburgh’s most stunning wedding venues, and I’ve DJ’d over 30 celebrations there in the past few years.
The Grand Hall itself is breathtaking, with towering ceilings and marble and glass surrounding the entire space. Because of its size and acoustics, this is where thoughtful sound design matters most. I provide a six-speaker surround setup that keeps dinner music balanced and ensures every toast can be heard clearly throughout the room.
One of the unique aspects of The Pennsylvanian is how customizable the layout can be. The dance floor, bar placement, and DJ setup can all shift depending on the couple’s vision, which means each wedding here feels completely different while still taking advantage of the grandeur of the space.
Below you will find real weddings I have DJ’d at The Pennsylvanian, including playlists and highlights from each celebration.

A Perfect Ending and a New Beginning, Marissa and Nick’s New Year’s Eve Wedding Reception at the Pennsylvanian

Marissa and Nick’s wedding felt like the absolute perfect way to wrap up one year and roll into the next. It wasn’t just a wedding — it was a full-on celebration built around the people they love, the music they love, and the idea that New Year’s Eve should be fun for absolutely everyone in the room. From the very beginning of the night, it felt like their guests showed up ready to celebrate them and ready to have a great time doing it.

The Pennsylvanian was such a stunning place for this kind of night. The grand architecture already feels special, but with New Year’s touches like party hats, tinsel wands, and festive details throughout the room, it felt extra magical. There was this really fun blend of “elegant winter wedding” and “let’s ring in the new year together” energy that worked so well. The space looked beautiful, felt warm and lively, and set the tone for a night that was equal parts meaningful and joyful.

One of my favorite moments was Marissa and Nick’s first dance — they had practiced a choreographed routine and absolutely nailed it. It was confident, smooth, and so them. It was followed by some of the sweetest parent dances, which slowed the night down just enough to let everyone soak in how special the moment was before the party energy really kicked into gear. Those emotional moments were such a great contrast to the high-energy celebration that followed.

Music was a huge part of what made this night feel so personal. Marissa loves oldies and classic love songs, so those were woven throughout the evening — especially earlier on — giving everything a warm, nostalgic, romantic feel. Later in the night, the dance floor shifted into full party mode with a lot of early-2000s throwbacks, pop, hip-hop, and high-energy classics mixed together quickly to keep the momentum going. It was really fun watching different generations all finding their moments — grandparents smiling during the classics, friends losing it during the 2000s hits, and everyone meeting in the middle on the big sing-along songs.

As midnight approached, the entire room gathered together for the countdown. There was something really special about seeing everyone surrounding Marissa and Nick, counting down the final seconds of the year together, and then celebrating not just the new year, but their marriage. It felt communal in the best way. The night ended with the newlyweds still surrounded by their people, laughing, singing, hugging, and stepping into the new year with so much love around them.

It was one of those nights that felt joyful from start to finish, and honestly, such a privilege to be part of. Marissa and Nick didn’t just throw a wedding — they created a celebration that welcomed everyone into it, and that’s what made it unforgettable.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Music Styles Used Throughout the Wedding

Cocktails

  • Oldies
  • Motown and soul
  • Classic crooners and jazz standards
  • Soft rock
  • Light country
  • Romantic pop classics

Dinner

  • Classic soul and R&B ballads
  • Jazz standards
  • Classic love songs
  • Acoustic pop
  • Soft rock
  • Timeless romantic ballads

Dancing

  • Disco and funk
  • 70s, 80s, and 90s dance classics
  • Early-2000s pop and hip-hop throwbacks
  • Modern pop and dance
  • Country party songs
  • Big sing-along anthems
  • High-energy EDM and party tracks

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Dancing the Night Away with Sydney & Kyle at The Pennsylvanian

Some weddings just feel electric from start to finish — and Sydney and Kyle’s big day at The Pennsylvanian was one of those nights. Set in one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic spaces, their celebration was as grand as the venue itself, with every moment perfectly matched by the music.

The ceremony took place beneath the stunning rotunda, a space that never fails to impress. Sydney and Kyle picked heartfelt songs that made every moment feel intentional — the kind of soundtrack that makes guests tear up one minute and smile the next. It was the perfect way to kick off what turned into an incredible night of celebration.

Once everyone moved into the Grand Hall, the energy started building fast. Each couple in the wedding party made their own grand entrance to a different song, which had everyone laughing and cheering before dinner even started. The space looked amazing, and with the couple’s carefully chosen music playing in the background, the whole evening just felt warm, welcoming, and full of life.

Midway through dinner, Sydney and Kyle pulled off one of the best photo dashes I’ve seen — racing around to every table to grab a picture with all of their guests while Motley Crue blasted through the speakers. It was chaotic, hilarious, and exactly the kind of thing that sets the tone for a night that’s going to be unforgettable. Soon afterwards they had some very sweet and special dance with their parents.

And then… the dance floor. From classic Motown and disco to 80s rock, 2000s pop, and modern dance tracks, the music covered every generation. One of the coolest parts? Guests had submitted song suggestions on their RSVPs, so the night’s playlist reflected everyone in the room. From little kids to grandparents, every single person found their moment to sing, dance, or just smile from the sidelines. The energy built until the very end when guests packed the floor one last time before heading off to the afterparty to keep things going late into the night.

Sydney and Kyle’s wedding was a reminder of what makes Pittsburgh weddings so special — big love, great people, and a dance floor full of pure joy.

Music Styles Played Throughout the Night

Wedding Ceremony
  • Piano and string instrumentals of modern love songs
  • Acoustic pop and singer-songwriter pieces
  • A mix of heartfelt contemporary tracks with cinematic instrumentals
Cocktail Hour
  • Pop and soft rock favorites (Post Malone, The Eagles, Stevie Wonder)
  • A mix of R&B and soul classics
  • Country and acoustic singer-songwriter tracks
  • Upbeat pop to keep the vibe light and social
Dinner
  • Easy-listening pop, soft rock, and country
  • 70s–80s classics and feel-good hits
  • Some acoustic and indie favorites mixed in for variety
Dancing
  • Motown and disco classics
  • 80s rock anthems
  • 90s and 2000s pop, hip-hop, and dance hits
  • Modern EDM and club tracks
  • A few cultural and surprise favorites (including “Hava Nagilah” and some Pittsburgh favorites!)
Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Magic in the Details: Annika and Joshua’s Epic Wedding at The Pennsylvanian

Spring in Pittsburgh can be a little unpredictable — sunny one second, raining the next — but when it all comes together, there’s just something electric about this city. And honestly, that’s exactly how Annika and Joshua’s wedding felt: pure energy, total joy, and a whole lot of love packed into one unforgettable night at The Pennsylvanian.

From the moment I first met Annika and Joshua, I could tell their wedding day was going to be something special. They were so intentional with their planning — thoughtful about every detail without ever losing the excitement of just getting to be together. That kind of vibe? It always makes for the best celebrations.

One of my favorite moments of the whole day happened before the party even started. Before guests flooded into the Grand Hall, Annika and Joshua shared a private first dance. Just the two of them, soaking in the moment. It was seriously magical — like pressing pause on time before the chaos (the good chaos) of the night began.

For dinner we kept it classy and fun with a blend of jazz standards, acoustic singer-songwriter tracks, and a few surprising 80s favorites tucked in. It was the perfect soundtrack for people catching up, laughing over plates of amazing food, and clinking glasses.

And once we opened the dance floor? Total mayhem — in the absolute best way. Their friends and family came READY. We hit everything from old-school throwbacks to pop anthems, some high-energy rap, and even a little country and disco sprinkled in. It was that perfect mix where your grandma, your college roommate, and your cousin are all screaming the lyrics to the same song.

It’s nights like these that remind me why I love being a DJ. When the planning is thoughtful and the people show up ready to party, it doesn’t just feel like another event — it feels like you’re part of something real. Annika and Joshua nailed it: they made time for each other, and then they let loose and lived it up with the people they love most.

We wrapped up the night with one of those songs that feels like pure adrenaline in music form — everyone singing, jumping, laughing, losing it — and honestly, nobody wanted it to end. (But don’t worry, most of them kept the party going at the after party!)

Congratulations to Annika and Josh! Thank you so much for letting me a part of your unbelievably perfect wedding day!

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Megan & Rob’s Wedding at The Pennsylvanian: A Winter Wedding to Remember

If there’s one thing Megan and Rob’s wedding at The Pennsylvanian proved, it’s that a truly incredible wedding combines stunning details, heartfelt moments, and a rocking party. From the moment you stepped inside The Pennsylvanian’s grand rotunda, you could feel the magic. This venue was made for jaw-dropping celebrations, and Megan and Rob’s wedding embraced every bit of its elegance and grandeur.

Their ceremony took place in front of a massive Christmas tree, adding a festive touch to the already breathtaking space. With the historic arches and intricate details of the rotunda towering above, it felt like stepping into a scene from a winter fairytale. Megan and Rob exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends, and the warmth of the moment was almost enough to make everyone forget about the chilly December weather outside (almost!).

The Pennsylvanian absolutely shined as the backdrop to this amazing celebration. The grandeur of the space, paired with Megan and Rob’s thoughtful decor, created an atmosphere that was elegant yet inviting. It was the perfect setting for a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

The couple didn’t just stop at a stunning ceremony—they thought of everything to make their wedding unforgettable. Guests enjoyed a Pittsburgh tradition with an epic cookie table that had everyone grabbing a sweet treat (or two). Later in the evening, as guests stepped outside to send off the newlyweds with sparklers, Megan and Rob showed their thoughtfulness once again by providing cozy blankets to keep everyone warm. It was such a simple but meaningful gesture that perfectly matched the season.

One of the absolute highlights of the night was the couple’s first dance. Megan and Rob didn’t just sway back and forth—they performed a beautifully choreographed routine that left everyone in awe. They nailed every move, and the cheers from the crowd were a testament to how much everyone loved it.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper celebration without music, and Megan and Rob knew exactly how to keep the energy high. The dance floor was packed all night long with a mix of classic hits, crowd-pleasing favorites, and a few unexpected gems. Their friends went wild for a song from Hamilton and one from Hilary Duff—talk about a playlist with personality! The grand finale? A mashup of “Sucker” by the Jonas Brothers and “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey. It was the perfect send-off for the couple, with everyone singing and dancing along one last time before heading off to the after-party.

Megan and Rob are now off on a European honeymoon, exploring Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. If their wedding is any indication, this next adventure will be nothing short of spectacular. Cheers to this amazing couple—thank you for letting me be part of your story!

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Brooke and Dillon’s Magical and Musical Celebration at The Pennsylvanian

If you’re as passionate about music as I am, you know how imagine that it can be to create the perfect wedding soundtrack requests. Brooke and Dillon mastered this task beautifully, curating an incredible playlist that included a wide variety of music to ensure their guests had a fantastic time throughout the celebration.

Their wedding reception was held at the gorgeous and historic Pennsylvanian in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh. The Grand Hall was transformed into a magical setting with stunning decor, featuring a fabulous head table and an elegant monogrammed dance floor.

The music for the night was perfectly in tune with the day’s atmosphere, spanning every genre imaginable. When it was time to dance, guests eagerly filled the dance floor, enjoying a mix of classic hits and contemporary favorites. There was something for everyone, making the evening an unforgettable experience.

The night seemed to fly by, but not before Brooke and Dillon shared a special private dance in the now-empty Grand Hall. Meanwhile, their guests gathered in the Rotunda for a sparkler farewell, adding a dazzling touch to the end of the celebration. The festivities didn’t stop there; everyone then headed off to the after-party, where the good times continued with more great music to celebrate the newlyweds’ new chapter together.

It was an absolute joy to be part of Brooke and Dillon’s magical day at The Pennsylvanian, and I’m sure the memories created that night will be cherished for years to come.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

A Perfectly Styled Wedding: Ashley and Mark’s Unforgettable Day at The Pennsylvanian

Your wedding day should be a true reflection of your unique style and taste, filled with special details that you’ll cherish for years to come. Ashley and Mark’s wedding was a shining example of this, brimming with choices that showcased their impeccable taste, style, and attention to detail.

The venue they chose was none other than the historic Pennsylvanian, located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The room was adorned with stunning flowers, an elegant head table, custom artwork, and a playful, purr-fect cake topper that added a touch of whimsy.

But the amazing choices didn’t stop with the decor. Ashley and Mark curated an incredible playlist that included Egyptian music for dancing and an all-Prince-themed wedding ceremony! Their music selections not only reflected their personalities but also added a vibrant and unique flair to their celebration.

When it was time to dance, their guests didn’t hesitate to fill the dance floor, dancing the night away and creating memories that will be talked about for years to come.

Ashley and Mark’s incredible sense of style truly shone through on their perfect wedding day. They crafted a once-in-a-lifetime event that was as unforgettable for their guests as it was for them. If you’re planning your own wedding in Pittsburgh, take a cue from Ashley and Mark and let your personal style and creativity guide you to create a day that’s uniquely yours!

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Kelly and Tim (Wedding at the Pennsylvanian)

Amidst the sea of wedding advice, one timeless piece stands out – spend time together on your wedding day. The sentiment is simple, yet its impact is profound. Kelly and Tim epitomized this on their special day, hosted at the historic and exquisite Pennsylvanian in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh.

Their journey started with a beautiful ceremony and cocktail reception within the Pennsylvanian’s elegant rotunda. As the day unfolded, guests were led into the magnificently adorned Grand Hall, greeted by thoughtful details like champagne glasses denoting their table assignments.

One thing that struck me about Kelly and Tim’s wedding was the undeniable love between them. It was a love that radiated and was a topic of discussion between all the wedding vendors during dinner.

Their choice of music added another layer of magic to the evening. The playlist was a perfect blend of classics and contemporary hits, ensuring that everyone could join in the celebration. The dance floor was alive, and the air was filled with laughter and happiness.

But what truly set this wedding apart was the quality time that Kelly and Tim dedicated to their friends and family. They chose to create lasting memories not only with each other but also with those they held dear. The entire celebration was a beautiful testament to their love, as they seamlessly wove moments with their loved ones into the fabric of their day.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Brittany and Joshua (The Pennsylvanian Wedding)

There’s something truly special about a wedding where the excitement and energy of the guests match the love and joy of the happy couple. Brittany and Josh’s unforgettable celebration at the iconic Pennsylvanian in downtown Pittsburgh perfectly embodied this magical combination of love, friendship, family, and music.

Guests gathered in the breathtaking Rotunda of the Pennsylvanian which served as the perfect backdrop for Brittany and Josh’s heartfelt ceremony, where they exchanged vows and promised each other a lifetime of love and happiness. Before dinner, Brittany and Josh took center stage and embarked on their first dance as a married couple.

As the evening progressed, we made our way to the magnificent Grand Hall of the Pennsylvanian, where dinner and dancing awaited. The room was transformed into a magical space, meticulously decorated to reflect Brittany and Josh’s unique style and vision. But what truly made the night extraordinary was the contagious enthusiasm and excitement of their friends. From the moment the first notes filled the air, the dance floor came alive. Friends came together, leaving their inhibitions at the door.

As the night drew to a close, and the final song echoed through the Grand Hall, the dance floor was filled with a mix of exhilaration and bittersweet sentiment. The memories of Brittany and Josh’s wedding reception would forever be etched in the hearts of their friends and family. It was a celebration that showcased the power of love, friendship, and music to create an extraordinary experience.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Caitlin and Patrick (Wedding at the Pennsylvanian)

When it comes to planning your wedding, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics and forget about the most important ingredient of all: the energy and excitement that you bring to your celebration. Cait and Patrick knew the secret to create an unforgettable wedding reception, and it all started with their infectious positive vibes.

The Pennsylvanian in downtown Pittsburgh, PA served as the backdrop for their extraordinary day. Love was in the air as guests gathered in the rotunda for a heartfelt ceremony and delightful cocktail hour. But the real magic happened when everyone made their way into the Grand Hall, ready to let loose and have the time of their lives.

When the dance party kicked off, Cait and Patrick took it to a whole new level. They led the charge, keeping the momentum going strong for hours on end. Their playlist was a masterpiece, carefully crafted to include a delightful mix of Motown, oldies, and an eclectic range of genres that catered to every guest’s taste. It was a musical journey that brought back cherished memories while creating new ones on the dance floor.

As the night drew to a close, Cait and Patrick’s energy never waned. They made sure that their wedding reception was a non-stop adventure, leaving their guests with memories that will be cherished forever. And now, as they embark on their well-deserved mini-moon in Miami, they can reflect on a day that was filled with love, laughter, and an atmosphere of pure celebration.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Nadia and Connor (The Pennsylvanian Wedding Reception)

When planning your wedding, it’s the little details that hold the power to create unforgettable moments for you and your guests. Nadia and Connor understood this perfectly, and their reception was a testament to their incredible attention to detail.

Held at the magnificent Pennsylvanian in downtown Pittsburgh, the venue provided a stunning backdrop for Nadia and Connor’s celebration. The space was adorned with their impeccable decor, and a spacious dance floor beckoned guests to let loose and revel in the joyous atmosphere.

The dance party was a highlight of the evening, and Nadia and Connor curated a playlist that catered to every musical taste. One particularly outstanding choice was the inclusion of Persian songs, which ignited the dance floor and became an instant hit with their guests.

Nadia and Connor radiated infectious energy throughout their reception, and their friends and family eagerly joined in the festivities, ensuring that the night would be etched in everyone’s memory. As the evening drew to a close, it was evident that no one wanted the celebration to end. The love and laughter that filled the space were a testament to the incredible connection shared by Nadia and Connor and their loved ones. With their unforgettable celebration now a cherished memory, Nadia and Connor embark on a well-deserved honeymoon in Cabo.

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Melissa and Michael (The Pennsylvanian Wedding)

I am still buzzing with excitement after being a part of Melissa and Michael’s unforgettable wedding reception at The Pennsylvanian in downtown Pittsburgh, PA. From the moment I walked into the Grand Hall, I could sense that this was going to be a celebration to remember. The classic elegance of the venue was the perfect backdrop for the joyous atmosphere that would fill the room.

It was evident that Melissa and Michael put in a tremendous amount of effort to plan a memorable celebration, from the smallest details to the grandest gestures. The evening was a true testament to the importance of creating a well-orchestrated reception that will be cherished and talked about for years to come.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was when the newlyweds made a stunning mid-celebration entrance, revealing Melissa’s breathtaking and super-fun reception dress. The crowd erupted with excitement as the happy couple ceremoniously poured champagne down a magnificent glass tower, igniting the party.

The guests joined in on the fun, creating magical moments on the dance floor and at the 360 Photo Booth as they enjoyed delectable food, including delicious cannoli stations, as they danced the night away to great music. The energy in the room was contagious, and everyone was having a blast. I am grateful to have played a small role in Melissa and Michael’s special day. Congratulations to the happy couple and here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness!

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Meghan and Joe (The Pennsylvanian Wedding Reception)

115 songs… that’s the average number of tracks that make up a wedding reception. You need fifty to sixty for cocktails and dinner, then add another 10 or so for entrances, special dances, and other events. The remaining songs make up the dance party/celebration. Meghan and Joe used their 115 songs to perfection, including an excellently diverse selection of music that was the perfect match for thier fun and friendly guests at their wedding reception at The Pennsylvanian in downtown Pittsburgh, PA.

I’ve been fortunate to play many weddings at the Pennsylvanian, but am always still blown away by this historic and gorgeous space!

Meghan and Joe’s reception started off with some jazz standards and “Rat Pack” style music for their cocktail hour held in the Rotunda at the Pennsylvanian. Dinner music then included some more contemporary singer-songwriter music by some of the couple’s favorite artists. When the dance party began thier friends and family were treated to some of the best music from the last 50 years. It was so much fun to see how guests of every age filled the dance floor to celebrate!

I’ll be encouraging engaged couples to review this wedding playlist to see how they can merge their personal music tastes with songs that will appeal to all of their friends and family. Meghan and Joe’s dance floor was the place to be as guests danced and sang songs from every genre imaginable. I’m very confident that everyone will be talking about how much fun they had at Meghan and Joe’s wedding for years to come!

Wedding DJ Playlist

Planning your wedding at this venue?

I'd love to hear about your plans and share what I've learned from celebrating here. Check availability and get a personalized quote.

Explore the Blog

Planning a Pittsburgh wedding? This blog features real weddings, favorite venues, packed dance floors, and ideas to help you picture how your own celebration could feel.

Pittsburgh Wedding DJ Eric Schiemer

Meet Eric

Hi, I’m Eric. I’m a Pittsburgh wedding DJ who cares about great music, a smooth timeline, and a dance floor that feels natural and fun, not forced.

This blog is a collection of real weddings, favorite venues, and moments that show what a great night can feel like.

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Kind Words From Couples

Eric was absolutely fantastic as our wedding DJ. He brought amazing energy, kept everyone engaged, and helped create such a fun atmosphere throughout the night.

— Marisa & Nick

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