While planning our wedding, Bianca and I faced a challenge that many couples still encounter today: how to create a fun, unforgettable experience for our guests without breaking the bank. The music experience specifically was a tough challenge for us, but what was clear was that a live band was out of our budget. Even a DJ felt too pricey. But at the same time, we didn’t want to sacrifice the energy and connection that great music brings to a celebration. So, like any software development nerd would do, I offered to build something. And to my pleasant surprise, Bianca was on board!

With my experience as a software developer, I created a simple voting system that ran on tablets placed around the dance floor. At any time, guests could either use their phones or walk up to a tablet and vote for one of four songs. The winning song would play next, and the list would refresh, with new song options to vote on keeping the party fresh and the energy high. The playlist was curated ahead of time, so we had full control; no change of rogue picks like the Macarena sneaking in!

The result? A packed dance floor! Guests still talk about it years later. And that’s the moment a seed was planted.

The idea was simple but powerful: with the right tough of technology, events can be more inclusive, interactive, and joyful. And despite the rise of apps and tools over the years, most private events today still suffer from the sample problems: high costs, limited engagement, and outdated approaches. The need hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s only grown.