She Makes Honey Moves // Deans’ Duets

Meet the talented and sweet soul behind Deans’ Duets, April Dean Mcconnell! Along with her sister, she founded Deans – a group of wedding and event musicians. In her words, “What started out as just two sisters and two instruments has developed into something much more, and we love sharing this passion with others.”

Q: Give me your best “30 second elevator pitch”. Tell us who you are!

A: I’m a violinist and pianist, and I own Deans’ Duets!  We provide curated live music for hundreds of events each year throughout the Carolinas and the east coast.  Most of our events are weddings, but we also perform for corporate events, parties, proposals, and lots more.

Q: What kind of packages do you offer?

A: Our packages range from solo instruments (violin, piano, harp, guitar, cello) to 20-piece small orchestras!  In those packages, we offer classical music as well as top 40 and modern hits, depending on the kind of music the client likes.  Our most popular package is our string quartet.  We also play for cocktail hour, dinner, and reception sometimes too.  We offer other speciality packages too like jazz groups, bluegrass, electric violin, etc.

Q: What is your favorite part of what you do? 

A: I have such a fun job!  I get to play music for a living, and I get to help people plan one of the happiest days of their lives!  It gives me a lot of joy, and the thrill of going to new places, seeing new venues, exploring and traveling for weddings, never gets old.  

Q: Why do you love what you do?

A: Sometimes when I’m playing in a really surreal venue surrounded by such beauty, and I have the privilege of playing the bride down the aisle, that moment still gives me chills.  I take a deep breath and acknowledge how grateful I am to be a part of such a moment.  Providing music for someone’s wedding is an honor and a privilege every single time.

Q: What is one thing you would omit from weddings (garter toss, big guest #’s, etc)?

A: This is such a small thing, but I wish we could omit the “I present to you Mr and Mrs” moment.  I know I know – that sounds terrible.  Here’s my reason – After the “You may kiss the bride” moment, there’s applause and happiness and cheering!  But then the bride still has to get her bouquet, turn and face the crowd and wait for the “I present to you Mr and Mrs.”  I wish we could combine all of those moments of celebration into one big exciting exit moment! I also wish all the guests would put away their phones until cocktail hour begins, so they can fully enjoy the ceremony experience!

Q: You’re attending a wedding/event. What details stand out to you the most? 

A: I make a terrible wedding guest now, because it makes me really anxious to just sit and not do anything!  The details stand out to me – the linens, the place settings, the music (of course).  I also really notice if the couple is enjoying their day, and I always hope they can make the moment last forever in their minds.  

Q: How do you spend your days off?

A: Usually playing with my kids – ages 2 & 7 – and spending time with my husband.  I also love to read, ride roller coasters, and travel.

Q: Bright pops or neutrals? 

A: Bright colors!

Q: City or country?

A: I used to be a city girl, but now definitely the country.

Q: Summer or winter? 

A: Summer

Q: Going out or staying in?

A: Staying in

Q: Favorite Charlotte hidden gem spot?

A: My favorite Charlotte restaurant is Copper.  But my favorite hidden spot where I spend a lot of my time working is Sunflour Bakery.  If you ever can’t find me, check there first!

We’re excited to share the talents of April and her team with you! Take a look at Deans’ Duet’s Instagram and Website for information about booking and plenty more!