Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Moran Clegg.
Natalie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been singing since before I could talk. My parents put me in lessons at 6 years old and the rest is history! I’ve always loved musicals from the Golden Age and have sung classics by Rodgers and Hammerstein my whole life. I learned by first operatic aria at 16 and began entering vocal competitions and singing in choral ensembles. I studied abroad at Oxford and then transferred to the USC Thornton School of Music where I made lifelong friendships and had incredible musical experiences. Moving to beautiful San Diego has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I fell in love with this wonderful town and I’m happy to officially call myself a San Diegan!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
One challenge that I have faced with starting this small business was knowing who to reach out to when trying to get involved in the wedding industry in San Diego. I’ve purchased booths at a bridal expos downtown and spoke with hundreds of brides to find out what their needs were in terms of ceremony music. I’ve attended networking events hosting by local associations for wedding professionals. I’ve used social media to connect with coordinators about my services. By far, the most success I’ve had with reaching out to brides has been by word of mouth. Couples that hired me, end up telling their friends who end up hiring me and telling their friends. The main task is just keeping in touch with everyone you meet and work with. It’s so important to maintain relationships in this industry and I’m learning that your work often speaks for itself. When you have a good product, people will spread the word for you!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the SanDiegoWeddingSinger.com story. Tell us more about the business.
To my knowledge, I’m among the only full-time classical wedding singers in San Diego.
I’ve always loved performing at wedding ceremonies and I’m so glad that I decided to make it my full-time job! For me, there’s nothing more fulfilling than being a part of a couple’s happiest day where I’m able to bring my professionalism, training, and people skills to help make the music aspect of the event a success.
I have performed with LA Opera, the LA Philharmonic, San Diego Opera, and San Diego Symphony and with venues all over Europe but weddings are definitely a significant passion of mine. The wedding community in San Diego has been just as kind and welcoming as the singer community. I’ve had the pleasure of working with wedding vendors all over San Diego and it’s always so wonderful working with various coordinators, DJs, officiants, photographers, and venues.
There’s nothing more heart-felt than a wedding ceremony and I always focus on trying to create the perfect atmosphere for all types of wedding ceremonies and receptions.
For the couples I meet that want a truly memorable wedding ceremony, I have a very expansive repertoire comprised of love song favorites, both classic and modern, complemented by live accompaniment, beautiful instrumental tracks, or purely a cappella. Whether the song selection is performed while the bride or groom walks down the aisle or after they say “I Do”, live vocals always add an incredibly moving touch to any wedding day.
Sometimes, couples even have me sing a special song at their reception and have me sing for their first dance. Talk about a magic moment!
Whether, I’m providing high-quality live music at a church, beach, garden, country club, or park, I’m always told by happy couples that it was the perfect fit for their special day!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
There’s always a certain amount of luck that comes into play with booking weddings. Sometimes, you just have to be the first person to email them back (that’s usually me! Haha). Sometimes, you have to be able to work with whatever requests are asked of you (like singing The Brady Bunch Theme Song at a reception- true story). Flexibility is so crucial in this industry. And grace. And a good attitude! But luckily, I think I have the best job in the world and I relish everything that comes with it!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.SanDiegoWeddingSinger.com
- Phone: 858-333-6853
- Email: thesandiegoweddingsinger@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegoweddingsinger/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nataliemoranclegg/
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
