
Merlot Embargo
Emotional, Polished Live Music: Genuine, Personal, & Unforgettable
"Merlot Embargo" sounds a bit like a prohibition-era speakeasy. We're actually Scarlet and Geoff; a wife-and-husband team of working songwriters who also happen to throw a great party. We bring that same love for great music into every room we walk into.
The result feels a little less like hired entertainment, and a little more like you just got lucky and your friends are really talented.
Book Merlot Embargo Today
We perform at weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations throughout Southern California. Whether it's an intimate acoustic duo, a full band with horns and lights, or something in between—we'll work with you to match the right vibe for your event.
(Booking professionally through an agency or planning firm? We're fully insured, carry a W-9, and are happy to provide references. Get in touch via the form, or get a quote here.)
Events We've Performed At
We Perform at many Different Occasions
From intimate cocktail hours to full-on dance parties, we love them all, and we bring the same care and attention to each. Every event gets a fresh read.
Private Parties
Whether it's ten people or a hundred, we make your gathering feel like an occasion, the kind people are still talking about the next day.
Corporate Events
Professional enough for the C-suite, fun enough for everyone else; we read the room and bring the right energy for your company's moment.
Fundraisers
We believe in the power of live music to move people in every sense of the word. We'd love to help make your cause unforgettable.
Weddings
Your ceremony and reception deserve music that feels like you. We'll work with you to make sure every moment sounds exactly right.
Cocktail Hours
We set the tone before the night really begins: warm, conversational energy that gets people relaxed and ready to celebrate.
Hear What Our Clients Say
We could tell you what it's like to have Merlot Embargo at your event. But honestly, others say it better.
"Merlot Embargo played at a Wine Tasting event at our private clubhouse. During the planning process, they were so helpful and really wanted to make sure they understood what we wanted. They asked about song selection, attire and more to make sure it suited the event and audience. The event itself went over wonderfully with our members - it's been a few weeks and people are still talking about it! They played for two hours straight (bless them!). Even though we had heard videos of Scarlet's voice online, it did not compare to how beautiful she sounds in person. And Geoff sure played a mean guitar! Thanks a million to this adorable duo for a night to remember." Erinn, Lake Forest, Ca
"I had four people all having birthdays within a few days of each other including a 21st, 30th, 67th and 73rd. So how do you find a band that has the range of music appealing to guests from such a broad age range? Answer: Merlot Embargo. The entire band is quite talented and knows how to dial in their songs to get people up and dancing. During dinner... the music featured more mellow songs allowing people to talk without screaming over the music. They have such a great sense of their audience and playing music that appeals. Be sure to ask them to play a number of their original songs which are all great. The guests all complimented our choice of band and really appreciated the extra touch live music brings to an event. I will most certainly hire them again." Robert, Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca
"Merlot Embargo crushed my boyfriend’s birthday party. They were professional, prepared and sounded incredible. Non stop compliments!! These performers are next level great! Thank you so much." Athena, Rolling Hills, CA
Here's How Our Booking Process Works
We know planning an event can already be a lot. We try to keep our booking process as easy and transparent as possible.
1
REQUEST A QUOTE
Take a minute to fill out the form and we'll be in touch within a day.
2
SCHEDULE A CHAT
We can chat via phone, text, zoom, email, whatever works for you.
3
WE'LL SEND AN AGREEMENT
We'll get all the details so we know where to be and when to be there for your event
4
YOU'LL SEND A DEPOSIT, AND WE'RE BOOKED
After we both sign, you'll send the deposit. Once we receive it, we're officially booked.












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