Today’s mobile disc jockeys can trace their origins to the mid-1960s. That’s when Englishman Roger Squire launched his “Mobile Discothèque” service to play at parties, dances, weddings and other social events. However, live music acts remain as a popular choice for both ceremony and reception music even after the rise of these mobile DJs. If you and your sweetheart are thinking of booking a band, keeping some important tips in mind will help you select the right one for your venue, theme and budget.
Decide on Your Theme First
It doesn’t make much sense to search for a musical act if you don’t yet know your wedding’s theme. Martha Stewart Weddings recommends picking your desired theme and atmosphere at least six months before the big day. If you don’t yet have ideas, begin by asking yourselves what sort of event you want to create. Remember that it’s also important to narrowing down beyond simple terms and buzzwords. For example, “retro” could mean a lavish soirée with ballroom dancing accompanied by big band classics, a more informal ’50s-style bash with swing dancing, or even an ’80s-themed party with a Soul Train dance line.
Search Locally and Listen
Once you have some descriptive terms in mind—along with a few songs and music genres you’d like to hear on your big day—it’s time to start looking for your musical act. One way you can find a great band or musician is by word-of-mouth. Try asking some of your wedding vendors who they’d recommend, or checking in with friends or family who’ve recently had live music at their nuptials. If you’ve heard a local band you like, inquire with them to see if they play wedding receptions. Also, remember that many bands use an agent or manager to arrange their tours and individual gigs, and their contact information can usually be found on their websites. Finally, entertainment agencies may be a good source for live acts. Most will work with you to find one with the right sound for your event, as well as allow you to listen to their live performances prior to hiring them.
In truth, it’s a good idea to “audition” any band you’re thinking of booking. While a pre-recorded performance should give you some ideas of what they’re like, your best bet is to watch a live gig. Of course, you should listen for sound quality, musicianship and talent. However, it’s also important to observe how musicians relate with each other on stage, as well as how they interact with the audience.
Consider Your Venue
When choosing your wedding day musicians, it’s also vital to consider your venue. If you’re working with a small ceremony or reception space, you could opt for a trio, a duo or even a single performer if it’s appropriate for your theme and atmosphere. Larger halls, banquet facilities or even outdoor locations might be able to accommodate larger ensembles, but you’ll also need to inquire about the group’s electrical needs. Keep in mind that some venues may have power supply or noise limitations, so find those out first before you go searching for musical acts.
Live music acts continue to be an ideal option for couples-to-be desiring to craft more personalized and memorable weddings. Deciding early on the type of sound you both want, searching out local talent and watching a live show will help you narrow down your potential selections. Nevertheless, make sure you think about your venue’s size and house rules when choosing your band. Following these steps will help you find a group to lend just the right sound to your special day, with songs and styles that match your intended theme and atmosphere.
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