Weddings – Continued
Timings
We know that timings on a wedding day can be difficult to predict. Who knew that the best mans speech would last for an hour or that the photographs would take longer than you thought? The band that you choose should be flexible in their arrival and setup times, and fit in with whatever happens on the day. We usually take between 1 and 1.5 hours to setup and soundcheck and we usually get asked to do this immediately after the wedding breakfast finishes and before the evening entertainment starts (maybe at 6 or 7pm). This way the bride and groom (and your guests) can have a chance to relax and digest before they get on the dancefloor later!
First Dance
Bands will often agree to play a specified song for your first dance if you discuss this with them well in advance of the event. It will depend on what songs you choose, does this fit in with the style and the makeup of the band? If the song has a female lead and your band has a male one then it may not sound quite the same! Of course an easy option is for the band to simply play a CD for the first dance, but where it works, you can’t beat the sound of a live band playing your favorite song in front of you as you dance!
Cost
With everything else to plan and pay for on the wedding day, often the entertainment in the evening can be compromised by using a DJ instead of a live band. We have no problems with DJs – a good one can really make the difference, but an indifferent one can often just play the same songs at every wedding he or she plays at, with no consideration for the audience or the happy couple! You might want to discuss with the band whether they are able to DJ as well as play at your reception. After all they have a PA and lights in place already! This can often work out much cheaper than hiring a seperate band and DJ, and could mean the difference between booking the band you really want, or compromising with a smaller 3 or 4 piece option. A great party band for your wedding will make the evening special!