Planning a wedding or special event is an exciting process filled with many items on your To-Do list. One of those items is hiring a wedding music band or DJ, right? The Madame Bridal team is quite familiar with the steps involved, so in this blog we share our 5 tips for choosing a wedding music band or DJ in hopes that it will make your planning process easier!
Determine Your Needs & Preferences When Choosing Wedding Music
First, determine your budget for wedding music because this will impact your choices. Then, consider whether you and your partner prefer a wedding band or a wedding DJ, or both if that meets your budget and preferences. For example, you could hire an orchestral band for the wedding ceremony and dinner and a more upbeat wedding band for the reception. Another option to consider is hiring a wedding band for the ceremony music and a DJ for the reception.
Keep in mind each band has their own sound and style. If you’re looking for a particular type of music, be specific when you’re researching wedding music bands. Ultimately, a wedding band should be able to play a variety of music for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception as the energy of the event changes.
If your budget requires an affordable wedding music option, consider hiring one or the other and ask about their pricing options.
Do Your Research about Wedding Music Bands & DJs
Once you’ve narrowed in on your budget and preferences, it’s time to do more research. Conduct an extensive search of wedding music options in your area and make an organized list. If you’re still not sure whether you want a DJ or a band, include both options on your list.
It’s smart to contact people you know that have already had a wedding to hear their recommendations. Think of any other parties you’ve attended that had a great band or DJ, then ask for references. If you’re hiring an event planner, they will most likely have reliable recommendations too.
If you’ve seen the wedding singer movie or musical, you’re probably familiar with how things could go if you blindly choose a wedding singer, band, or DJ. So be smart, do your research, ask around, and make the right choice for you, your partner, and your event.
Ask Questions
After you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to contact the artists. Here are some important questions to ask that will help your decision-making process:
- Do they have experience performing at weddings? If so, ask them to provide a few references from past clients or a video portfolio.
- What’s their wedding play list? It’s smart to be part of the playlist creation process, that way you actually enjoy the music on your wedding day. Ask if they will work with you on the playlist.
- What does the band/DJ need to operate (power, space, equipment, etc.)?
- When will the performer(s) need to take a break and what music will be played while they’re on break?
- How many hours are included in the wedding package and what are the cost options?
- What is the wardrobe? Depending on the dress code of your event, you may want them to wear semi-formal or formal attire.
- Do they provide anything other than music, like lighting, video mapping, etc.?
Agree to a Wedding Music List
Decide which songs you want or don’t want played throughout. Sometimes, a band will agree to learn a new song if it’s not in their repertoire, but don’t assume they will. While it’s important to let your band or DJ know what songs you definitely want played and which songs you definitely don’t want played, it’s also important to let them do their job. If they’re experienced wedding performers, they should know how to adjust their playlist to the energy of the room. Communicate your dos/don’ts and then let them do their thing.
Review & Sign a Contract
It’s vital to have a written contract that details the persons who will be performing, a payment plan, wardrobe requirements, cancellation policy, setup/breakdown schedule, etc. If you’re hiring a wedding band, they might give you a rider, which is a list of requirements from the band (break times, a green room, power requirements, meal needs, etc.)
Be sure to discuss every detail, negotiate as needed, and put it in writing. Contracts hold all parties accountable so everyone’s needs are met and everyone involved knows what they’re getting out of the agreement.
