Although DJs and bands are often relatively small wedding expenses, their contribution is one of the largest! Every couple imagines their wedding reception being the most talked about party of the year…in a good way! Whether a band or DJ will provide the entertainment, the following questions are key.
· For outdoor ceremonies and/or receptions without a tent, will the musicians still play in not so ideal weather? I’m not talking rain or snow. Some locations get a bit misty in the afternoon and evening, especially near the water. Most musicians will not even uncover their instruments if there are signs of mist. If for some reason there is no Plan B, musicians are not for you.
· How long is each set? How long is each break between sets and will they provide music to be played during said breaks? Make sure that they’ll be playing more than they’ll be resting. No prerecorded music provided by the band? No problem! Keep the party going by playing predetermined crowd favorites from your iPod or hire a DJ, too.
· Must you choose from a list of their selections or are they capable of playing anything you request? This is especially important for those who desire less traditional wedding music. Chances are a classical string quartet won’t play Lionel Richie; R&B specialists would be a better option.
· How often do they play weddings? Instincts cannot be taught! Experienced ceremony musicians can sense that a Processional is delayed behind the scenes. They’ll know to continue playing until things get back on track. An inexperienced group that only occasionally plays weddings might start the bridal march before all of the attendants reach the altar!
· If a DJ will be used for both the ceremony and reception, does he/she have 2 separate stations that can be set up, one at each location? Subsequently, is he/she comfortable with leaving their equipment at the ceremony location until after the entire event ends? Breakdown while spinning cocktail and dinner receptions is impossible, unless they have an assistant. This is only an option when the ceremony and reception are taking place at the same venue.
· How many extra people attend the event? This is for DJs and bands, especially. Two assistants here, a band manager there, can turn into extra costs for couples. Bands are notorious for requesting that extravagant meals, snacks and beverage selections be provided to them and everyone in their entourage. Find out up front how many people are in that entourage before signing a contract!
· What exactly is included in each package? Bands and DJs offer packages based on a certain number of hours of service. It’s important to know whether or not set up, breakdown, sound check and breaks are included in those spans of time. You don’t want to pay for 4 hours of service only to find out that set up and breakdown require 2 of those hours!
· Last, but certainly not least, do they drink while working? It's not a great idea for DJs and/or band members to be drinking during a reception. A) they will do serious damage to your bar tab if given the chance and B) how well can one truly perform while under the influence? If they cannot go 4-5 hours without an alcoholic beverage, find a different company!
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