Now that you’ve got almost everything covered on your wedding preps, it’s time to move on and focus your attention on one of the most important aspects that can either make or break your wedding. We’re talking about your wedding entertainment!
We know it’s quite hard to choose the right one especially that there are gazillions of wedding bands out there offering their services. Before you say I Do to one of these wedding bands, here are 101 tips that you should bear in mind so you can ask them the right questions.
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1. Music style is just about everything
They said it’s all about the style and we couldn’t agree more on this one. With the proliferation of wedding bands, sometimes you couldn’t help but drown in a sea of choices. To avoid this dilemma, make sure that you are 100% certain with the wedding entertainment style that you have in mind.
Now, go ahead and ask what the wedding bands’ style is as this can help you narrow down your choices. You need to know if their music style works well with the wedding theme or vibe you’re going for.
2. Ask how long have they been in the business
Yes, sometimes their number of years in the business can sum up it all especially in this competitive world we live in. We’re not saying that a one-year old band isn’t good enough when compared alongside wedding bands who have been in the biz for a decade or so. What we are looking at is their experience in handling wedding entertainment or the lack of it.
Trust us, you wouldn’t want to spend your wedding budget on an amateurish band and later on be sorry. Sometimes it pays when you look for a veteran wedding band as they know how to kick off and end your parties the right way.
3. Wedding Playlist
Many wedding bands out there already have a specific wedding playlist depending on the mood of the crowd so if you have a particular song that you would want them to learn or play, let them know beforehand. Give them at least a month or so notice so they can learn that specific song you would want to use on your First Dance, Father/Daughter, Mother/Son or traditional song like a Hora for Jewish wedding.
Or if you already have a playlist, let them know if they’re fine with it since most of the wedding bands out there are willing to compromise to make their customers happy. However, give them a little leeway for them to play some of the music they play best so it would be a win-win situation.
4. Entertainment Package and In between Breaks
Most of the wedding bands in the industry offer an entertainment package with certain number of hours. You would want to ask how many breaks they will be taking so you can provide music to fill in while they’re taking a break.
5. What to Wear
If you have a particular theme that you’re going for, it’s typically best to let your wedding band know in advance so that they will be in tune with the crowd. Most of the wedding bands usually don formal wears such as tuxedos and dresses but if you have a specific theme such as vintage glam, let them know beforehand so you won’t have to worry that what they’re wearing is a little out of place.
6. Consider the Size of the Band and your Wedding Venue
This is one important aspect that you have to consider in choosing your wedding entertainment. Make sure that your wedding venue can accommodate the number of your preferred band performers. Imagine having a small venue with a 8-12 piece band, the result? The music might be overpowering and band members would feel uncomfortable to move around with such a cramped space.
7. Consider the Music Taste of Your Family and Friends
Yes, you read that one right. In selecting your wedding band, you will need to take into consideration the music taste and preferences of your guests, in whatever age group they belong.
8. Talk about the Budget
Hiring a wedding band doesn’t come cheap but it has its own perks. You don’t want to compromise the entertainment aspect of the wedding as it can either make or break your special day. Best to talk about your budget with your preferred wedding band or make sure to choose one that is within your price range. Remember that the cheapest is not always the best option, don’t tell us we didn’t warn you.
9. Don’t Forget to Sign the Contract
Don’t forget to make the agreement legally binding with your favorite wedding band by signing the contract. Make sure you specifically indicate your wedding date and the time of your ceremony and reception.
10. Be in Contact With Your Band From Time to Time
If there are any changes make sure to let your band know. It’s best to be in contact with them from time to time if you have further concerns.
