Here  Bridal newsletter #6.   

 

LIVE MUSIC- THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT!

                                                                 

One of the most important decisions you will make is the entertainment for your wedding reception. Your entertainment will provide the mood, create the atmosphere and get everyone up and dancing for the time of their lives that they'll never forget! Long after the party is over, one of the strongest memories everyone will share is, "I had a fantastic time at that wedding!"

 

Do you attend live concerts? That's entertainment; a group of real  musicians playing real  music. It is visual, exciting and the ultimate in entertainment for your special day. Would you want anything less for your reception?

 

Live musicians provide sophistication, versatility, and quality of sound that makes a wedding special.  There is also a visual element that makes you and your guests want to dance!  You will deal with people who really know and understand music and can help you plan your party and your selections of music. Live bands also have built-in MCs, who are experienced in wedding traditions, announcements and audience involvement. 

 

What you should look for in a live band - Quality and authenticity of sound: Make sure that the band you choose has the right equipment and sound for the job! For example, you would not want to hear a Swing song from the 40s being played on electric guitars, or a contemporary dance song being played on an accordion. The vocalists and musicians should be of excellent caliber, and their energy level consistent with your concept of your party. The most versatile bands will have quality female and male vocalists. Horns really add to the mix and the good news is that it is not necessary to hire a larger, more expensive group to get all of the above. While videos can be helpful, you should know that almost all are lip-synched and seldom a true representation, but rather a studio enhanced, edited production. Live auditions and demo CDs provide a much more accurate sense of performance, and should include a wide variety of material. Examine song lists for their variety as well.  

 

Versatility - Since you will most likely have guests ranging in age from 8 to 80, a wedding band must be able to perform a wide variety of music, ranging from the 1930s to the present. If your band does only current music, many people will not want to dance. On the other hand, if your band performs mostly older music, again many people will be left out of the fun. Therefore, a band that performs all types of music and gets everyone up dancing would certainly fit the bill. In addition, your band can play your favorite CD on a break, if requested. 

 

Experienced wedding  professionals -When hiring a band for your wedding, make sure that the people you are hiring have years of experience performing at weddings, as well as years of performing together.  There may be a myriad of rituals, traditions and customs inherent in your reception that must be handled appropriately and professionally. There are sometimes delicate issues that must be handled judiciously as well. In addition, your band must be able to connect in a professional manner with other service providers you have chosen to make sure that your reception comes together flawlessly. 

 

Appearance counts - What do they wear? How do they act? Do they smoke or drink on stage (or off stage)? Do they truly look and act professional with you and your guests, as well as in performance? Their energy level should be consistent with the atmosphere you want for your wedding. The band should be enthusiastic in their performance.

 

Communicate in advance - The goal is to find a band that will play exactly the styles and songs you want, do the wedding traditions that you want, and create the atmosphere you want. After all, it is your wedding, not theirs. You should feel comfortable with a band that offers true two-way communication.

 

People who care about you and your wedding - You will be able to tell right away if a band really cares about you and your wedding. This is a must! Avoid those that want you to "sign on the dotted line and see you the day of your wedding." There is a high correlation between communication and a successful reception. Your wedding day is a truly special occasion. Have the wedding of your dreams - choose classic live entertainment.

 

Nothing will help create a great party more than live music- nothing!!!