How to Hire a Band for a Wedding

The right kind of music will fuel your reception and can make the difference between "just another wedding" and an unforgettable night of fun dancing. Take the time to find the musicians for a reception.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mini Stereo Systems
• Music

1. Get names of recommended bands from friends, newlyweds, site coordinators, clergy and wedding consultants.

2. Check with your wedding site for any noise or space restrictions.

3. Decide what kind of atmosphere you'd like to create based on the music you choose. Do you want your guests grooving in group dances to country music? Do you prefer a more raucous atmosphere, courtesy of your favorite local band? Or do you want a mellow reception, visiting with friends with jazz in the background?

4. Request to listen to audio tapes or - even better - to view videotapes of the bands' performances. Pay attention to how they interact with the audience and the variety of music they play.

5. Ask to see the play list - ideally, you want a wide variety of songs that will appeal to guests of all musical tastes.

6. Discuss room size and equipment needs. Will you have enough outlets? Is the stage big enough to support the entire band?

7. Make a contract that includes dates, times, breaks, musicians, song commitments, emcee duties, clothing, equipment, food, rates, and cancellation and refund policy.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for performers who are fun, excited, sensitive to the crowd and open to your suggestions.
• Hire a band that has played wedding receptions before - they will be familiar with the flow of events and can serve as emcees.
• Have the band arrive at least an hour prior to the time you want them to begin playing, and check their availability to play overtime.

[wedmusicgal]

on 3/8/2008 Very good tips, I just have a couple of things to add...
Be careful with recommendations from site coordinators, often they are getting kickbacks from the vendors they recommend.
Definitely ask to see a song list, but remember you are hiring professionals that should be able to read a crowd and keep the party flowing without being micro-managed. Your band leader should ask you for your "greatest hits" and more importantly your "do not play' and use these to run your reception according to your tastes.
Also specify whether or not you want the band to take audience requests.