People often wonder why things seem so much more romantic or
exciting in the movies. Here’s a little secret…It’s
the background music. What would
Titanic have been like without Celine Dion’s hauntingly beautiful voice? Yes, it still would have been a beautiful
love story, but the music gave you chills, touched your heart and echoed in
your memory long after the film was over. The same can be said for your wedding. Music can make your wedding an event to
remember or one your guests can’t wait to forget.
Finding the right wedding band is crucial. Their music and interaction with your guests
will set the tone for the entire evening.
If you are considering hiring a wedding band here are some things to
consider and the questions you need to ask, other than discussing price, before you book them.
What type of music do
you play?You need to decide what kind of music you want at your
reception. Do you want a band that can
plan traditional wedding dance music, with something included for every
generation? Or are you looking for more
of a specialty band, like a jazz band, swing band or
Scottish wedding band? Narrow down what you’re looking for then meet
with potential bands. They should be
able to provide you with a playlist of their music, as well as audio samples of
their songs, or even a video of them performing.
Will the band leader
act as emcee during the reception?
Its important that someone directs the activities during
your reception. Typically, the DJ or
wedding bandleader will act as the emcee, usually being directed by your
wedding planner or the site coordinator.
Will the band play
different, softer music during cocktails and dinner so your guests can chat
easily?
Most couples prefer the cocktail hour and dinner to be a
quieter portion of the evening, with soft background music This makes it easier for guests to relax,
enjoy their food and drinks and have conversations without having to yell over
loud music Does the band have the
ability to play dinner music or can they play pre-recorded music on a CD
player?
How long will the band
play? How many breaks will the band take
between sets?
Live bands typically do not play as long as a DJ will, and
they need to take breaks during the evening. Make sure you know how many breaks to expect and how long the band will
be away during each break Also, be sure
to find out if they will play pre-recorded music during their breaks Dead air is sure to put a damper on the party
atmosphere.
Can I watch your band
in action at a wedding?
All the CD’s and videos you watch of a band can’t begin to compare to seeing
them live. Most bands will welcome the
opportunity for you to visit while they are performing at another wedding. This certainly doesn’t mean to crash another
couple’s special day, but you can peek in from the back of the room to see and
hear the band. Is the dance floor full
or empty? How does the band relate to
the guests? These are all important
points to take into consideration.
If the unimaginable
happens and my wedding is cancelled, what is your policy on refunds?
As difficult as it is to think about, these things do
happen. Weddings do sometimes get called off or
family emergencies force a couple to postpone their wedding. Find out up front what their policy is on
cancellations and refunds and be sure that it is spelled out, word for word in
the contract.
When you are just beginning your search for a
wedding band, it may seem completely overwhelming Take your time, do your research and always
remember that it is your day Finding
the right band will make your wedding a day to remember – for you, your new
spouse and all the guests lucky enough to celebrate with you!
