Planning Music For Wedding Receptions

Music for wedding receptions can be in the form of a soloist for the quieter sections or can be provided by a band or DJ, especially for when you want to vamp it up later.

Book Ahead

When you are considering music for wedding receptions be aware that you may need to book well ahead, because many of the really popular bands and DJs are booked out many months ahead.

The Social Hour

This part of the wedding is also known as "The Cocktail Hour". It is the time in-between the ceremony and the meal, while you are perhaps elsewhere having your photos taken.

Your guests often use this time to catch up with one another and having background music can set a really nice backdrop for them.

The music therefore should be non-intrusive and not too loud. The harp is particularly ideal for this segment.

Choosing Your Band / DJ

Make sure that when you are checking out entertainers for music for wedding ceremonies, that they know exactly what you're after. For a start, do they have a repertoire that suits you and your guests?

Keep in mind that the band leader or DJ is the one with the microphone. so they also need to be a great M.C. (Master of Ceremonies.)

Don't be afraid in instructing them on volume levels, especially during the social hour and meal when people want to talk.

They should have lots of experience in playing music for wedding receptions and be able to give you demos of their music, as well as provide testimonials from happy customers.

They need to be professionally attired for the occasion too? The last thing you want is a motely crew of band members on display. Or maybe you wouldn't personally mind, but it might make someone in your family or a wedding guest feel uncomfortable.

Some Questions To Ask

Do they invite audience participation when they play music for wedding receptions?

Do they provide a light show and is that included in the price being quoted?

Is their repertoire wide enough to can cater for musical requests from some of your wedding guests?

Do they have back-up equipment in case the equipment they are using fails?

Planning Your Music

Some things you will want to think about when making arrangements with your DJ or band are exactly when you want to have the following:

Introductions

Announcements / Speeches

Blessings

Toasts

Cake Cutting

Garter and bouquet tossing

First Dance

Father Bride Dance

Mother Son Dance

Ethnic Dance

Other Special Items

The Band / DJ's Requirements

Ask your band or DJ how much time they need to set up and then make sure that the venue is available to them at that time.

Ask them how often they will need a break and how long will those breaks be? And will CDs will be played during these breaks?

Are they expecting that meals be provided as part of their price?

What are their overtime charges? The party might be really rocking and you may wish them to stay on longer? When will this need to be paid by?

Article Source: http://www.therepozitory.com.au

Susan Graham is a harpist who has been performing as a wedding entertainer for over 12 years. She has a university degree in music and has won various music awards. Find out more about Susan and read about more great ideas on wedding music.

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