Tip: If you choose a band over a DJ, there are some things
you should consider. Hope the following helps:
The
success of the reception following the wedding is 95% or more
determined by the skill and experience of the band playing for
the function.
Without a good wedding band, all the other exorbitant charges
will be a waste, since the party will most likely be a total bore.
How do you find the perfect band? The popular bands that would
be considered "wedding bands" typically do many of these
types of affairs and often travel with extensive light and sound
equipment and personnel. They are well-known in the community.
They often have gimmicks and props, karaoke equipment, exploding
tinsel and dancers to assist your guests in having a good time
by getting them up and dancing. If money is no object, it's the
best investment you will make.
If you are more budget-minded, perhaps you should try these suggestions
to find a less well-known, but still good, less expensive band
to play your wedding event.
1.
Know what you want. It is easy to hire a band that doesn't match
the event.
2. What age group do you primarily want the band to entertain?
3. Does the band play ethnic music to follow your traditions?
4. Do you want them to play for the ceremony as well as the party,
or do you want to hire a string quartet, a singer with an accordion,
or a harpist?
5. What genre of music does the band usually play at weddings?
Some bands don't have the versatility to play the various types
of music for the varied ages usually present at a wedding reception.
Some bands don't know how to get people up on the dance floor
and keep them there. That is the death of any party. There's definitely
a showbiz element to keeping the party alive and exciting, and
that's an important part of your band's function.
Ask
around. If you get a hot recommendation, call the band leader
to see if there is a public venue at which you can sample his
group. As a second opinion, ask if they have a video or at least
a CD so you can hear their music. You may want to ask for referrals
just to make sure.
Try to book a band well in advance. Get a quote on their cost
and find out what is included. Spell out any special requests
in the contract.
If you have specific requests for the band to do, do not wait
until the last moment. Find out in advance if they can deliver
your desired requests.
You can also ask if they give reduced rated on repeat bookings
for your next major event in your family (maybe a Quinceñera,
Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Retirement, Sweet 16, Holiday Party). Maybe a
reduced rate will apply if your event date is not a Saturday.
It never hurts to ask.
With these tips, hopefully you will make the right choice for
your event. When you do, you will look back on the event with
fond musical memories.
Have Fun and Stay Organized!
