Choosing a Wedding Band (Live Music)

Probably not more than once in your life will you ever book a band for an event. Ironically, this will be for one of the most memorable milestones in life - you're wedding day! Not only can this selection process be frustrating (after all you've never done it before - and probably never will again) but also, there is a certain amount of seriousness involved in choosing the primary (3 - 5 hour) entertainment source for the day. Food and music are the fossil fuels of this occasion. We hope that the following tips simplify your process.

1. Friends can be the best referral sources or references. See if they've been particularly impressed by any groups. Do remember however, it's a wedding reception, not a rock concert. Various wedding periodicals may be of assistance. And yes, search the web. Many of the bands that really mean business advertise relatively well.

2. Call or e-mail the musical group. A reasonable telephone conversation could easily last ½ hour. Remember that the social etiquette of the group may translate into there wedding etiquette. Ask them if they can provide appropriate sized/styled groups for the cocktail and dinner hours. You may prefer mood music during these hours and then yoou can bring on the life of the reception after dinner. If the group is a large band - do they have smaller ensembles?

3. What about music samples? The purpose of a demo is to sell you the band. Demos should be polished to the point of perfection. Audio/video engineers are paid well to buff a product. Would you buy a car after viewing a commercial without a test ride? Insist on seeing the group LIVE. After seeing them once - consider a surprise appearance at a later date. This inspection allows you to see their depth and consistency. Be cautious if there are new faces every time you see the group. By the way, were these the same guys that appeared in/on the demo?

4. If the music style is what you want - is their appearance and presentation style of appropriate caliber? Remember that this group is being chosen to entertain a very diverse audience --your friends and colleagues - your parent's friends and colleagues - and the rest of the family. You will have the least time of them all to enjoy the music. They should be wined, dined and danced tastefully. Good luck.