Thursday, December 13, 2007

Wedding Music Quick Tips

Music Quick Tips

  • Make sure you meet with your DJ or bandleader to go over the order of the evening. Listen to their suggestions. Remember, they have done many weddings and usually know what works the best. Ask about announcing the new Mr. and Mrs. and the bridal party as they walk in, the toast, cutting the cake, the bridal dance, throwing the bouquet and garter, the money dance, a dance with you and your father, and any special announcements that you want made.
  • Along with announcing these special parts of your reception, the bandleader or DJ should have music to go with them. Ask to see a list and pick out your favorites. If they don't have "your song" for the bridal dance, ask if the DJ can find it or if the band can learn it. Give a band ample warning however.
  • If the music for the song you request is readily available, give the band four to six weeks to learn it.
  • Give the DJ or band leader a list of songs you would like played during your reception. Your DJ should customize the music for your reception to what you want. Choose categories of music you like and list some of your favorite artists to give your DJ some direction.
  • Oldies are especially popular for wedding receptions today, because they offer lively rhythms for dancing without being too loud for the older guests to enjoy. Music from the Fifties and early Sixties seems to have universal appeal to wedding guests.
  • Estimate the age range of your guests and ask your musician if he can play something for everyone.
  • Ethnic dances will always be popular as well. Brides and grooms often have different cultural backgrounds, and a blend of ethnic music from both sides can make the reception familiar for both families. If either you or your fiancĂ©e has a strong connection to family heritage, find a way to incorporate some of these traditions into the reception.
  • You may want to hire a combination of music services to perform at the reception. For example, it is becoming popular to have a strolling violinist play during dinner. This still provides entertainment to the guests, but allows them to talk as they enjoy their meal. It can also be a lot of fun if the guests get involved.
  • Consider a string quartet or a small chamber music ensemble to provide elegant classical music for your guests to enjoy as they mingle.
  • When selecting entertainment for your reception, listen to tapes or watch videos to get a feel for the band or DJ's style. If possible, go to a public performance to see how well they interact with an audience and how they act as master of ceremonies.
  • Ask for references and be sure to check them, and also check with the Better Business Bureau and the local Consumer Affairs office for any unresolved complaints.
  • Find out how they will dress for your reception (suits or tuxedos are proper) and if they will require dinner.
  • Ask to see the sound system so you can be sure it will not detract from the overall atmosphere.
  • When talking to a band, find out how many breaks they will take. A fifteen minute break every forty-five minutes is usual. Some bands, though, will play pre-recorded tapes during breaks so that there is continuous music. If your band does not provide this service, consider hiring a DJ to cover the band's breaks.
  • Find out as well about backup equipment, and the DJ himself. Will there be someone at the reception to take over if something happens to him?
  • If you'll be dealing with a large service that employs several people, be sure to meet the person who will perform at your reception. Everyone has their own style, and you need to be sure that the DJ will give the kind of performance that you feel is appropriate for your wedding reception.
  • Ask if the company can provide special effects, such as lighting and smoke machines. They will probably cost extra, but some couples like the mood they create.
  • Talk about deposit requirements and payment schedules. Try not to give more than half of the total price before the reception, and never pay in full before the service actually shows up. Also discuss the refund policy, just in case. Find out how much they charge for overtime in case the reception runs longer than you had originally planned.
  • Ask what accommodations they'll need for their equipment. Special necessities such as space requirements and electrical needs are important facts to know so you can make the proper arrangements with your reception hall.
  • Make sure there is enough space for all the band members, especially if a stage or risers are used. Also, the band should be close to the dance floor so they can interact with the audience.
  • When you've made your decision, complete a contract for the band or musicians' services, including the name of the group or DJ, number of musicians, date, and place. It should also contain the starting time, finishing time, total compensation, and any other information pertinent to your reception. A signed contract will guarantee services to be rendered and protect both parties. In addition, you should stipulate the number of breaks and whether dinner will be provided. It is very important to note the name of the group as well as the names of its members, or the name of the DJ you want to perform. This will guarantee that the musicians you hired are the ones who will show up. Get all details in writing to protect both you and the service.

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