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Wedding bands offer lots of add-ons to go along with the baseline service of performing dance music during a reception.  One of those add-ons is the option of ‘continuous music’, which probably means different things to different people, but in the context of the wedding band world, it means that the band will always be on stage performing, aside from stopping for speeches and toasts (admittedly, there are probably many Best Man speeches out there that could use mood music for sentimental moments and cymbal crashes to go along with bad jokes, but coordinating that kind of synchronization sounds unnecessarily complicated).

While the idea of constant live music might sound appealing – making a classy wedding even classier by never using pre-recorded or piped-in music – it detracts from the overall trajectory of the wedding.  The best example of this is when the band starts their first dance set, after speeches and dinner.  They pack the dance floor and everything’s great, but after an hour or so, people start to get tired, or wander off to have conversations with friends where they can hear each other, or head to the bar to grab drinks.  If the band keeps going, then sure, some people will keep dancing, but eventually, the crowd-that-was will lose its energy and dissipate, and then you’ve got a band on stage playing to nobody.  Not fun for the band, and serving no purpose for the guests.

Instead, try this: the band stops after that first killer hour of dance music and takes a short breather, leaving the crowd wanting more.  Guests step off the dance floor to chat, grab drinks, and take a breather themselves, and when the band returns after 10 or 15 minutes, everybody is fresh, energized, and ready to go.  In addition, the band will have made sure to play recorded music during that break, just so there’s no dead air and to keep the general party vibe going.

If the band never breaks, it’s unclear when the crowd should break.  The dance floor stays minimally populated for a large chunk of the night, and oftentimes, it only builds back up to being packed for the last few songs.  If the band breaks before that last rocking set, the crowd immediately returns to the dance floor when the music starts back up, and it stays packed for that entire final hour of live music.  And behind the scenes, the musicians will finish the gig feeling happy and proud of the job they’ve done, instead of exhausted after not having left the stage for four hours straight.

While alluring, continuous music isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.  Yes, it’s a bit counterintuitive, especially when marketed as a great way to elevate your wedding, but keeping the band on stage all night is likely to do more harm than good.  So don’t pay any extra money for it!  Give your band a break, give the crowd a break, and watch the wedding run like clockwork and the dance floor explode with energy for every set.

It’s continuous music throughout the party. The entire time, if the band is not playing dance music, then we’re up there playing music in the background. It’s not obtrusive, people can talk 

while they’re eating, but it’s a nice point of focus that there is still live music going on. There will always be live pieces on the stage. There will always be a couple of pieces up playing background music while people are eating. That gives us a chance to do other artists too that we can’t get in during the dance time: John Legend, Jason Mraz, James Taylor, Van Morrison, and that kind of stuff.   

We go in knowing what our clients want. We go in with a list of all their favorite songs and special moments and things that are unique to them. And then we feel the crowd. We have a huge arsenal of songs in every genre and we are very fluid at going back and forth between one and the other. We take the pulse and we’re always watching and thinking “What is the next great moment going to be?” Then, of course, it’s knowing what the band does well and knowing what those special moments are that we could pull out that are going to surprise and delight everybody. For years I would stand as the guests were walking into the ceremony just to get a lay of the land and see who was there, and what their vibe was, when they walked in because that initial impression is something that will stay with us, as bandleaders, all night long.   

The most successful parties we do are where we get to mix things up a lot, so we have a chance to expand the repertoire and not just play one genre. It becomes much more eclectic; we’re much more pick and choose in terms of what’s going on. We have the same agenda: you want to see the dance floor packed, we want to see the dance floor packed. Mixing it up a lot helps a lot with making everybody in the room feel like the band’s playing for everybody. We have no problem covering requests across the board, all different genres, all different age groups. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for Phish if you’re looking for Biggie, whatever you’re looking for, we can play all of that. The band’s repertoire is very deep, so we have no problem covering all of that material. Keep in mind that part of what you’re hiring us for is the experience. We’ve done so many parties. We’ve seen so many things at different parties. We’ve worked out different materials and we know what works and we know kind of what doesn’t work. 

Do you ever look at pictures of a wedding and find yourself blown away by both the details of the space and the intimate, romantic vibe of the event? You probably have uplighting to thank for that. Though uplighting isn’t a standalone solution for making a reception pop, it is an integral part of the overall lighting design package that will emphasize your décor elements and bring out the beauty of your venue. We can now offer more services to make your planning process easier and your event perfect! With our lighting, we will work with you to create and customize the atmosphere you’ve always imagined for your event, whether you’re hosting an intimate backyard gathering or a full-scale wedding!

To help you determine which type of lighting works best for your venue and your needs, we’ve given you a breakdown of some popular lighting tips below. 

Is Uplighting Necessary at a Wedding?

Though nothing is truly “necessary” at a wedding other than the marrying couple, uplighting is, more often than not, a good idea. If you’re having an indoor or covered reception during the evening, uplighting will add drama and elegance, but it will also indicate points of interest in your venue and help guide guests to areas of the event they’ll be interacting with, such as the bar or photo booth.

Uplighting looks best when it is lighting something. If you’re in [a historic venue] and they have these killer columns with corners at the top and dramatic fluting, uplighting will bring that out. It puts the shadows and all the little details into relief, which makes it pop.

Uplighting is not as necessary during a daylit event, or in a basic square room with four white walls where there is little to call attention to. For that reason, an outdoor wedding in an open field will similarly not require uplighting, as there will be nothing for the light to bounce off of, but that doesn’t mean all outdoor weddings are off the hook.

Don’t forget the outside areas of a tented event. At night, if the tent is 50 feet from the house and down a set of steps, is there enough light to see the pathway? Same with the bathroom trailer – what does the walkway look like between the main tent and the trailer after it gets dark?” For that reason, Toner’s team will look for trees, bushes, and sides of buildings to uplight, so the light can bounce back into the space. This gives guests reference points and sets boundaries for an area so they can more smoothly navigate their way around.

How Much Does Uplighting Cost?

For a professional lighting design package, We estimate that costs will begin between one and three thousand dollars. Uplighting should be one part of a bigger lighting package. Because if you only have uplighting in a dark room, you’ve essentially lit all of the outsides of the room. The dance floor, tables, band, etc. will be much darker than everything else.

We suggest that the ideal lighting package should also include pin spots, splash lights on the dance floor, and lighting on the band so that in photos and video, there’s a balance between all focal points of a wedding. If you take a picture across the room while the couple is dancing, they should be lit along with the centerpieces and the wall in the back.

Uplighting Dos and Don’ts

Here, find a helpful list of dos and don’ts when it comes to uplighting at your wedding.

Don’t develop your lighting plan in a vacuum.

Approach every event from a photography and videography standpoint. The pictures last forever. If it’s not lit the right way, then forever all of your crowd is in the dark, or you won’t see the flowers. To that end, make sure to communicate with the event designer, florist, photographer, and videographer ahead of every wedding. 

DO ask if your vendor uses LEDs.

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are a better option because they don’t heat up the way traditional filament bulbs do, so there’s no risk of anyone burning themselves or a décor element such as drapery catching fire. Bonus: Most LEDs are battery-operated, which means you can eliminate the clunky look and trip hazard of cables.

DO be strategic with color choice.

Amber is the most universally flattering LED shade for wedding uplighting, as it adds a romantic yet formal glow. It also brings out the flesh tones of people. Uplighting can also be used to unify the color scheme of a wedding. For example, if you’re doing a very blue wedding, you could uplight the room in blue and tie it together!

Your wedding band will play a vital role on your big day—and it’s more than just playing music to fill the dance floor. A professional wedding band has many jobs to do, some of which you’ll see, and others that are more under the radar. That’s why taking the time during your wedding-planning process to hire a well-reviewed professional is worth it (meaning, creating a Spotify playlist, plugging your iPhone into some speakers, and calling it a day really won’t cut it). Here are the things you probably didn’t know your rockstar wedding band can do—aside from playing major tuneage, that is.

Helps Enforce the Day-of Timeline

While your wedding planner and/or venue and caterer will likely take the lead on creating your wedding-day timeline, an experienced wedding band will certainly contribute, since he/she knows how long certain parts of the reception will take. What’s more, your wedding band is responsible for executing and enforcing the timeline during your reception, making announcements to ensure that events occur on time, and if there are any hold-ups, adjusting accordingly.

Can Play Music During the Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour

While there’s something to be said for hiring live musicians for your wedding ceremony and cocktail hour, an experienced wedding band can play recorded music for these two portions of the big day. From the wedding party processional to the moment you say “I do”, the right music (and the right wedding DJ!) creates the vibe for your ceremony. And during cocktail hour, your DJ can play light, upbeat music that doesn’t distract from the activities at hand—mingling, eating, and imbibing. 

Provides Sound Equipment

Having high-quality, working sound equipment is an absolute must—and your wedding band will have that all covered. Without microphones, speakers, and the like, your guests won’t be able to hear your first introduction as a married couple, the lyrics to your first dance song, your best man’s toast, or the announcement that dinner is being served, or that the last song is being played.

(May) Supply Lighting

While we do recommend hiring a company that specializes in lighting for more extensive needs, many wedding DJs offer uplighting as part of their services. Uplighting consists of smaller lighting systems that can be placed on the floor and aim light upwards to highlight your tables and dance floor. Talk to your wedding band leader to see if this is something that can be included in your package, or if you’re better suited to hire a professional lighting company.

Makes Sure All Equipment Is Working

There are few things more annoying during a wedding reception than music that’s too loud, too soft, or muffled, or worst-case scenario, dead air due to malfunctioning equipment. Not only do experienced wedding bands utilize top-of-the-line, state-of-the-art equipment, but they also do sound checks at your wedding venue well before the reception begins to ensure that everything is working properly so there won’t be any awkward silences.

Sets the Mood

Sure, you could simplify a wedding band’s role by saying he/she “plays the music.” But it’s really about more than just selecting and playing songs. A wedding band sets the tone for your reception by playing the right songs at the right times and reading the crowd accordingly. If you want your party to be a total rager, they’ll know the right tunes to put guests in a dancing mood. Alternatively, if your goal is a reception with an old-school romantic feel, your wedding band will know how to create that vintage vibe. And, a skilled wedding wedding band knows exactly how to pack the dance floor if your guests are getting a little too comfortable in their chairs.

Helps You Choose Special Songs

Your wedding band can be a great source of advice if you’re struggling to pick songs for any of your special dances. An experienced wedding band has seen first-hand which songs work and which don’t and is up-to-date on the newest tunes. That’s why it’s important to meet with your wedding band a few weeks before your wedding to make your song list (and do-not-play list). Of course, your wedding band will have an extensive library of music selections for you (or your guests!) can request, but the key is knowing if they’re appropriate and when to play ‘em.

Serves As Emcee

The master of ceremonies (also known as emcee) may be the most important role your wedding band plays. Think of your wedding band leader as the host, cruise director, and point person for the evening, making announcements and ensuring that your guests are aware of what’s going on and what’s next. Having your wedding band serve as emcee is far more authoritative and professional than you trying to shout “Dinner is served!” or “Time for the bouquet toss!” over the blasting music. Your guests are more likely to follow directions from an experienced wedding band and will look to your wedding band for information, so your special day will proceed smoothly and you can focus on enjoying every minute as newlyweds!   

Can Create Mashups and Song Cuts 

Worried your cake-cutting song might be a bit too long? Your wedding band has got you covered! Want to start your father-daughter dance with a slow song and then surprise your guests by cutting into a Bruno Mars favorite? A wedding band can create a custom remix just for you. Many wedding bands are skilled at creating mashups, remixes, and adjusting song lengths to fit your needs—just ask!

Covers Up Any Hiccups

Things may go wrong on your wedding day, but fortunately, good wedding DJs are pros at getting things back on track. Let’s say dinner is running slightly behind schedule. Your wedding band can play an extra few songs so that guests are too busy dancing to care that the food’s not ready. Or maybe your dad is in the restroom when he’s supposed to be giving his toast. Your guests won’t notice any potentially-awkward mishaps when you’ve got a pro wedding bands (and an experienced wedding coordinator!) at the helm.

In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of couples choosing to have a live wedding band. There are many reasons why a couple might choose a live band, which we will explore here.

Live Music Sounds Better

There’s a reason why we love going to music festivals and gigs – live music sounds amazing. Watching a live wedding band made up of talented people playing their instruments with passion and enthusiasm adds to the celebratory atmosphere of a wedding and gets people in the mood to party. A powerful love ballad performed by a talented singer will always pack more of an emotional punch than a recorded track.

Live Wedding Bands Aren’t Just About Wedding Music

A live wedding band is a spectacle in its own right. Musicians are also performers and tend to be charismatic and energized. They love what they do, and it will show in their performance. This enthusiasm will rub off on your guests and go a long way to feeding the party atmosphere. If some guests don’t feel like dancing or want to take a break and rest their feet, they have something interesting and fun to look at. 

You Have More Control

A good wedding band will work with you to decide what wedding music you’d like to hear, as well as what you don’t. They will have a repertoire of songs that they will have performed at other weddings, so they will already have a feel of what will go down well with a crowd. They can also speed a song up, or slow it down, depending on the mood of the room. A band can also put their spin on classic wedding songs, which will give you and your guests something different and fun. 

A Live Wedding Band Will Make Your Wedding A Day To Remember

We see live music as something reserved for special occasions, and there’s nothing more special than your wedding day. A live wedding band will bring their brand of magic to your reception. Watching a group of talented musicians rock out will always be more entertaining. If you want to make day one to remember for you, your fiancé, and your guests, hiring a live wedding band is a surefire way of achieving this.

A Live Wedding Band Can Bring Nostalgia

Having live music at your wedding can be a great way to listen to cover songs of all-time classics that appeal to all generations at your wedding. With a plethora of wedding bands in NYC to choose from, you can decide what type of music will be at your wedding. Work with our wedding band before your big day, and you can craft the perfect set list of music for your reception.

Consider who will be attending your wedding. Will you have a mix of different ages and generations? A good wedding band will be able to play some songs from many different genres and decades of music, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Feel the Bass 

With the big speakers and live drums, you and your guests can dance the night away just like you were at your favorite live concert. Having a band on-site means having instruments on-site and feeling the music.

The overall ambiance in the room is just a touch better with a live band, and anybody who loves to dance would agree that dancing to a live drum beat and authentic singer is just more fun than dancing to a few speakers set up around the room. With a live band, you will have a hard time getting yourself, and your guests, off the dance floor! Create a great singalong and dancing experience with live music.

A Live Band Can Add Personality and Interaction

Let that lead singer take over the room. A trained musician, he knows how to engage with the audience and when to change up the tempo of the music. A band is right up front and in the center of the room and becomes an interactive part of the party. This makes the whole wedding feel a bit more personalized, and guests will usually feel cozier and more engaged with a band.

A wedding band is more personable and can even come onto the dance floor. There are more members in the band to engage with guests. Guests can make eye contact, and even have discussions with the band during set list breaks, meaning your guests can walk away truly feeling like they attended both a concert and a wedding at the same time. If you want your guests to remember your wedding more than any other, giving them a unique experience with a great band is a surefire way to create moments they will remember forever.

Live Bands Have a Fan Base

Most people might have a favorite band. While the odds are against you hiring Maroon 5, if your favorite band is smaller in popularity, you might just be able to hire them to play at your wedding. This would eliminate the stress of picking set lists, as you already know you love most of their music. You could trust that they would perform amazingly at your wedding since you have probably already seen them perform in concert before.

A bonus – you would get to meet and greet with your favorite band. While your wedding is going to be special and memorable no matter what, it would truly be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create wonderful memories if you can get your favorite band to perform live at your wedding. Your guests will talk about it for years to come.

Wedding music is more than just a few songs playing in the background – it has the power to transform a boring function into the wedding of the year.

We believe that having a live wedding band perform on the evening of your special day is the finishing touch that every wedding needs. Don’t believe us? Here are reasons why wedding entertainment will completely transform your night.

1: Personalize Your Special Day

No one wants to hear a generic playlist of lackluster songs on their wedding day. The perfect way to bring the dancefloor to life is by selecting your favorite tracks that’ll have everyone dancing, especially if they’re family favorites or songs with funny anecdotes attached.

It’s also an opportunity to hear songs that are meaningful to you as a couple, rather than your stereotypical love songs that you might not care about.

We have an extensive back catalog of over 1000 songs, so there should be something for everyone in our repertoire.

2: Create A Unique Wedding Atmosphere

Hearing a live wedding band is an electric and memorable experience that doesn’t compare to radio-esque pre-recorded playlists. Everyone is guaranteed to feel a rush of adrenaline and experience an outstanding performance that’ll keep people talking for days.

3: Live Wedding Music Will Get Guests On Their Feet

No one wants an awkward evening or an empty dance floor, especially if tiredness starts setting in. By hiring wedding music for your event, you can guarantee that there’ll be a non-stop party on the dance floor, making it a night to remember. There’ll be no awkward silences, no stilted moments, and no unhappy guests!

4: Wedding Music Can Reflect Your Unique Bond

Having wedding entertainment isn’t just for a crazy dance floor, but it’s also about making memories as a couple. Infuse some of your special moments and shared interests into the night through a curated setlist. We’re also committed to learning your first dance song and performing it live, allowing you to create a lovely memory with a song that you cherish.

5: Wedding Music Can Evoke Memories & Reflect Your Relationship

Since songs are strongly attached to memories, including these in your wedding is a lovely nod to your relationship. Whether it’s childhood favorite songs or music that takes you back to your early dating days, each song will become a valued part of your day.

Not only does music evoke memories, but it also helps to create new ones. You never know, people could be talking about that spectacular rendition of Don’t Stop Believing for years to come, and you and your partner may always remember your wedding entertainment when listening to Love on Top.

Music is more than just a few songs during your wedding – it’s a complete experience that will elevate the night and make it an occasion to remember. We’re committed to providing the perfect wedding music for you and making the day feel as special as possible, so get in touch to start the journey together.

6. Live music is always a unique experience

You are going to get one first dance with your new spouse; do you want it to be the same as thousands of other couples who have listened to the same pre-recorded song played in the same way for everyone? Or would you rather be able to say that it was something unique played just for the two of you?

Musicians are living, breathing people so there are going to be subtle variations in the way they play their instruments every time they play a song—even if they’ve played it a thousand times. Each band also has its unique style and flavor that they add to their music. These elements combined make any song that is played unique to your wedding.

Songs that a wedding band would use have been recorded for posterity and it will always sound the same no matter how many times it is played (it has no autonomy, so it has no choice). It will sound the same to your ears as to every other couple who has played it. With musicians you have an option that you don’t with pre-recorded music—you can ask for variations of style or tempo in the song and a great band will be better able to accommodate that request.

7. Live musicians have flexibility

As far as being able to make adjustments on the fly, stop and restart without problems, or being able to react in the moment to anything the room throws at them—live musicians have the advantage. For instance, your young ring bearer starts walking down the aisle, freaks out when all eyes are on him, and makes a run for it. The last thing you want to be worried about is AV problems with stopping and starting the music. A live band can pause and restart exactly where they left off without an issue, and they will be more inclined to spot problems and adjust as soon as they start.

8. Live music is a uniting factor

Live music can bridge gaps and unite generations of people. You’re always going to have one or more generations that aren’t into what’s being played but live music seems to get everyone past their biases, even if the song is particular to a certain generation. The fun of watching and listening to musicians surpasses all that.

We are frequently asked which ensemble is best. However, there’s not a one-size-fits-all answer to this one! 

The string quartet is best known as the classic wedding ensemble which includes two violins, a viola, and a cello. This quartet is the quintessential wedding ensemble. If you want classic traditional elegance, the string quartet is the perfect way to go. While these instruments are two of the most popular options amongst couples on their wedding day, there are many other wonderful options. Since we are on the subject of the string quartet, let’s start there.

String Quartet

The string quartet, comprised of four instruments, is a beautiful ensemble that holds a lot of volume – usually enough volume for 200+ guests at an outdoor ceremony. The string quartet is four string instruments set up into a classic configuration that we recognize from so many wedding movies. The sound is so pretty!

Another advantage to the string quartet is the variety of music arrangements that can be played with a string quartet. For example, if you want some new modern music, you have the best chance of finding it with a string quartet.

The string quartet is versatile. Guests swoon when they hear Canon in D on the string quartet for the bridal entrance, and they cheer when the ensemble surprises the crowd. It can be a classical and modern atmosphere all at the same wedding!

The one drawback: is the budget. Four musicians are more of an investment, but not to worry! We have equally harmonious arrangements that can be played by a string trio, a duet, and a soloist for a wedding ceremony, so you’re being more budget-conscious.

String Trio 

The string trio is a string quartet without the viola, which is two violins and a cello. The string trio has volume and illuminates an exquisite sound. An advantage of hiring a string trio is the budget-friendly element compared to that of a quartet.

We find that the trio pulls off the same elegance as the quartet without quite the price tag, so if you want to minimize costs but still give your guests an elegant evening, the string trio is a great option!

While there are slightly fewer modern songs arranged for a trio, we are more than happy to accommodate and can integrate more modern music into the arrangement for your wedding day. Ask about the song list for the trio before booking, and we will do our best to make the wedding music of your dreams become a reality!

Duets

If you want to stick to two musicians and still play some killer covers of pop songs, we recommend pairing a violin with an accompanying instrument! While this is a great option, the violin violin duet is also the most classical duet that we offer. The violin is a melody instrument that plays the vocals. If you pair it with a guitar, a piano, or a harp, then you still have all the melody and the accompaniment. That’s all you need to pull off pop music successfully (well… as long as you have two skilled players who have a lot of experience playing modern music on strings! Pop music is generally not easy to pull off on strings, so make sure you hear video samples first and hire professionals. It’s not as easy as it looks.

Soloist

We play a lot of solo violin at weddings! One helpful tip is to make sure, when you’re browsing YouTube videos for ideas for your solo violinist, that you’re hearing only a violin. Many solo violin recordings have other instruments in the background. It’s important to us that you’re able to hear exactly how that solo violin is going to sound!

A solo violin can be a pure gorgeous sound! Looking to hear a cover of a rock song at your wedding? We do have that option on violin, but it might not quite sound like the original!

Other Soloist Options

The Organ 

It never underestimates the impact of a good organist. From the prelude to the exit of the wedding party, a good organist can make your ceremony a beautiful and exhilarating experience. Organists typically provide music (at least in part) from stem to stern, and fortunately, almost any other kind of instrument sounds good to them. If it’s a church wedding, most parishes will have an organist or other musician on staff who will work with you to guide your choices, and in most cases, they’ll also have a Rolodex of instrumentalists on hand if you’d like something more than organ or piano solo.

Brass. 

Whether it’s a soloist or a quintet, brass players dress up any part of a service in which they play. From pre-service music to descants on hymns, or dramatic swells as you’re leaving the church, nothing comes close to creating the same experience. Brass players sound good on their own and they sound great with organ.

Cello Solo

Bach Cello Suites and The Swan by Saint-Saens are two very romantic options from the solo cello for a wedding!

Harp Solo

This is a fantastic instrument for creating wonderfully intimate experiences. Even in large spaces, a harp brings a calming effect that can’t be matched. It’s great for quieter portions of the service, including the procession, and can also be used to dramatic effect during songs and hymns. Because the harp is relatively quiet, it can be difficult to balance with other instruments in large spaces. That said, it sounds good with most other instruments as well as simply on its own.

Trumpet

Utilizing the trumpet as a stand-alone instrument allows for a one-of-a-kind performance that will leave your wedding guests in awe.

Guitar Solo

The guitar is so versatile. It offers many songs that sound great and that mimic the originals, and this instrument can be classical or popular.

Piano or Keyboard Solo

If your venue has a piano, take advantage of it! It’s kind of sad to see a piano sitting there and not being played. If your venue doesn’t have a piano, a keyboard rental is a great option!

Flute. 

The flute creates a lovely, tender environment that can be as fresh as a day in spring. Like the harp, it tends to be quieter than other instruments, but its higher pitch tends to carry and it can work well with an organ, piano, harp, guitar, or strings.

Choosing a first dance song seems like it should be one of the easiest wedding-planning decisions. But once couples realize how many great options are out there, the pressure can start to mount overwhelmingly. After all, whichever song you pick will be the one that you define as “yours” for the rest of your lives together. 

But don’t worry! We’ve compiled a few guidelines to ensure that your tune is worth replaying in 40 years. 

Find A Common Musical Interest

Sometimes, opposites do attract, so it’s possible that you and your fiancé don’t share the same taste in music. Narrow down the selection by focusing on one genre you both do like.

Worried that the song you’re thinking of using isn’t typically associated with weddings? You’re not alone. Using the Internet is a great way to find more obscure songs and artist collaborations when the band or artist’s standard music isn’t a good fit

Look For Lyrics That Speak To Your Relationship Together

Finding a set of lyrics that tell your story is the difference between a sweet love song and your love song. Were you friends before you started dating? Did you spend a long time struggling with a long-distance relationship? Did you meet each other later in life with kids and a previous marriage already under your belt? Whatever your story is, there’s a song that speaks to it from both ends of the spectrum. 

Pick a Beat You Can Dance To

You don’t need to hire a choreographer or ballroom dance instructor, but you do need to make sure you feel comfortable dancing to the song you chose. If you have your heart set on certain lyrics but wish the song had a different rhythm, ask your band if they can prepare a customized rendition of the song for your wedding.

Don’t Be Afraid To Be Unconventional

We love a sweet old-fashioned slow dance, but if shuffling along to the likes of Celine Dion just isn’t your style, then choose something a little more upbeat. This is a great opportunity to express yourself and your relationship with the love of your life.

Deciding whether to go the traditional or funky route all depends on what you feel connected to as a couple. Above all, keep in mind that if you and your hubby have a personal connection to a particular song, your guests will feel the love that you radiate on the dance floor, even if it’s not a “typical” wedding tune. 

Listen to your music libraries on shuffle

Play your favorite iTunes or Spotify playlists back and forth for each other on shuffle. Make sure to pause and note particularly dance-worthy tracks. Like the song but not sure whether it’ll fit the mood of the evening? Try giving your partner a spin in your living room. If the pace seems too fast or the lyrics don’t seem to fit, nix it.

Call a friend or family member 

The people who know you best have probably seen, or at least heard about, your significant other since the beginning. If you trust their input — and musical tastes — consider asking them to suggest a song that reminds them of you and your partner. Even if you don’t wind up selecting one of their choices, it might be fun, and enlightening, to see what songs they come up with.

Use your venue as inspiration

Getting married in a century-old barn in the country? Consider an acoustic, country, or folksy track. For a more formal evening in a museum or historical building, consider a classic, such as Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” Ray Charles’s “Come Rain or Come Shine” or Marvin Gaye’s “You’re All I Need to Get By.” For an offbeat location, like an art gallery or brewery, consider “I Found You” by Alabama Shakes or “May I Have This Dance” by Francis and the Lights and Chance the Rapper.

Steal your favorite celebrity couple’s song choice

You look to stars for all sorts of inspiration, from what to wear to what to name your labradoodle, so why not take a cue from the rich and famous when picking a first-dance track? 

Play your favorite movie soundtrack

No one captures romance quite like Hollywood, and luckily, some of film’s most memorable, heart-swooning moments are tied to music. Who could forget Adam Sandler serenading Drew Barrymore mid flight with “I Wanna Grow Old With You” in “The Wedding Singer”? Borrow their happily-ever-after musical moment for your own.

Consider a mash-up.

Looking to add a wow or surprise factor to the dance? Consider a fusion of songs, such as a simple, classic romantic ballad that segues into a happy, upbeat number that will encourage guests to make their way to the dance floor.

Pick something significant and sentimental

Take a trip down memory lane and come up with a list of songs that are meaningful to both of you and your relationship. Maybe it’s the song on the radio during your first date or the encore to an unforgettable concert you attended. Even if one song doesn’t emerge as the winner, a list will help you formulate an idea for what genre and lyrics you both gravitate toward.

Forget all the myths you’ve heard about hiring and handling wedding bands —we’re here to debunk them once and for all.. No, you won’t have total control over every song played (but you can communicate your preferences early and clearly). Here are the top  wedding music misconceptions and why they couldn’t be further from the truth

1. Bands take way too many breaks.

One common concern about hiring a wedding band we hear from clients is that each 30 to 60-minute set they play will be followed by a 15 to 30-minute break filled with music from a compilation CD—and that bored guests will vacate the dance floor. But you can manage your band’s need for downtime so it doesn’t disrupt the party too much. Ask the band members to stagger their breaks so there’s live music throughout the night (it may cost an extra fee). Guests will stay entertained and the dance floor will stay full. 

2. The band will play cheesy tunes.

Worried your wedding band has their mind set on the “Electric Slide” and “The Wobble,” when you’re thinking more along the lines of “Natural Woman” and “This Will Be”? It doesn’t have to be that way—your wedding band wants to play what you want to hear, but you have to communicate your tastes. Don’t rely on words alone—terms like “dance music,” “rock songs” and “slow songs” are vague and can easily be misinterpreted. Make sure you’re on the same music style page and give them a detailed playlist and a do-not-play list. 

3. The MC always talks too much

You’ve probably heard about (or been to) weddings where a MC, in a misguided attempt to emcee, talked more than the audience bargained for—with cringe-worthy results. An 

experienced wedding band MC, however, will only speak when it’s appropriate. To ensure your MC doesn’t abuse their proximity to the mic, be specific about when you want them to talk and when you don’t. If you’re nervous they’ll be a chatterbox, consider sending an example of what you find inappropriate. 

4. You have total control over everything.

You shouldn’t try to micromanage the music. To some extent, your lists should be guidelines for your pro, not hard-and-fast rules. Your wedding band should know the genre you’re interested in, but let them choose the best way to play the music—after all, it’s their job to keep people on the dance floor. Give your band some flexibility to react to the crowd and adjust the pitch accordingly. You need to trust they know what to do. That’s why you paid all that money!

5. Bands love line dances.

The days when it was all the rage for a wedding band to encourage a conga line, the “YMCA” or “The Salsa” are over. Ask for YouTube clips or other footage of previous performances to get a sense of how they interact with the crowd. Just keep in mind you can’t alter a band’s style as easily. If their live act is rambunctious and interactive (complete with line dances), then asking them to change might hamper their performance, and you’re probably better off going with a different group.

6. A band can’t offer enough variety.

You’d be surprised by the musical depth a high-quality wedding band can offer. One indication that a band has versatility is if they have more than one singer—if they have both male and female vocalists, for example, chances are they’re open to a wider range of songs. Though a band may specialize in a style (like big band or soul), they’re professional musicians and should be able to stray at least a little from their niche. If a few of the songs you have your heart set on aren’t in the band’s repertoire, simply ask them to learn the songs before your wedding—most bands will learn between three and five songs if you give them enough notice.

7. Hiring a bar band is a good idea.

Unless they also have a lot of experience with weddings, using a band that’s oriented primarily toward nightclubs is risky since they won’t be adept at pleasing a diverse crowd. It’s much smarter to find somebody who has experience in wedding entertainment. If you’re inviting coworkers, grandparents, and children, the entertainment should offer something for everyone.

8. Slow songs must come first

Some couples request that their wedding band play slow songs early on to please their older guests, and then switch over to more lively beats so the younger crowd can dominate the floor until the last call. But it can be more fun for you and your guests if you have your band mix it up throughout the night. Alternating between speeds, styles, and eras of music will keep wedding guests of all ages more engaged and encourage them to broaden the range of music they’ll jam out to, with truly memorable results so no one leaves early!

9. Bands are loud 

A pair of ears would indeed hurt after a while if they were right next to a drum set being played at full volume against a cranked speaker, but that’s far from the wedding band experience. A sound check is about more than whether the members themselves can hear what they’re doing; it’s a necessary precaution to ensure that everyone – including you – can hear everything they’re supposed to, nothing more, nothing less. Make no mistake, all wedding bands will do this to ensure everyone in the room can enjoy what they’re doing. They’ll also adjust the volume accordingly.

Live music is the best way of creating a special atmosphere and getting your guests on the dancefloor. While some wedding bands can be very expensive indeed, you can still get great live music on a smaller budget. We’ve put together some ideas on how get yourself a talented and reliable wedding band without breaking the bank.

1. Book a local band

Wedding and party bands can charge quite a lot to travel, and the costs soon add up – especially if they’re traveling so far that they need to stay overnight, when you’ll be paying hotel costs as well as a certain amount per mile. To save money by hiring a band in your area, try our search tool on the Function Central website – you can search by act and genre as well as region.

2. Have a winter wedding

Whilst wedding bands tend to be solidly booked during the summer months, many a muso will spend their winter penniless by the fireside supping on broth! In order to fill the quieter months, many bands offer great discounts between October and March, to ensure the bookings keep coming in. If you’re unable to hold your wedding in the winter, bands often offer discounts on Sundays to Thursdays throughout the year.

3. Hire a band with fewer members

Wedding bands come in all shapes and sizes – from premium bands with bolt-on horn sections and several backing singers to three-piece rock bands, acoustic duos and even soloists with backing tracks. If you’re looking to save money without losing danceability, try hiring a band with fewer members, or look at flexible bands who can add or remove members to suit your venue and budget.

5. Save money on early arrival and late finish fees

Venues often ask bands to set up early on in the day, but the reality is that most bands will charge more for arrivals before 5 or 6pm. In our experience, this is unnecessary – if you can arrange a brief window after your meal/speeches for the band to gain access to their performance area, they’ll be able to set up quickly and discreetly and keep noise levels to a minimum.

Likewise most bands charge a premium for finishes later than midnight – don’t get caught out!

6. Beware of false economies

Illness or an unexpected event, such as a family emergency, can sometimes mean that the wedding band you’ve booked might not make it to your reception. If you book through an agency, you’re guaranteed a great band on the day, since they’ll have instant access to replacement bands and musicians at the last minute, and at no extra charge.

You’ll also get an experienced party band who know exactly what to play and how to get everyone on the dancefloor. You might think you’ve got yourself a bargain by booking a band directly rather than through an agency, but you might not actually be saving anything. If you do decide to book direct, make sure you compare their rates to agency rates. Bands who work through agencies often offer cheaper rates anyway, in return for more bookings.

We hope this is helpful! If you’d like to find out more, or get a quote for a wedding or party band in your area, get in touch!

The right music sets the scene for the wedding ceremony, which is why ensuring you hire the best wedding ceremony musician is so key. So how do you know if the string quartet, violinist, harpist, or pianist will be the one? Ask the right questions. From confirming they have availability on your wedding date to song selection and equipment consideration, below, learn the most important questions to ask a musician before hiring them for your wedding ceremony.

How long have you been a wedding cocktail musician?

It’s a fair question to ask your musicians to speak to their level of experience. You do not want to hire musicians that have not had adequate experience performing a wedding ceremony. You only have one chance to get it right and you don’t want musicians learning at your expense.

Do you have testimonials you can share?

That said, don’t just take their word for it. We recommend asking musicians if they can share testimonials, reviews, or references from previous clients. You can also do this on your own by reading reviews on websites like WeddingWire. He adds that you can also ask if they can connect you with other wedding professionals such as wedding planners who can vouch for their experience and recommend them as a wedding ceremony musician. And, of course, ask if you can hear a private or public performance to hear for yourself.

What songs do you typically play at a wedding ceremony?

You should ask for a list of selections they have available to play at a wedding ceremony, This can give you a jumping-off point to see what types of songs they typically play.

Are you willing to learn additional songs for my ceremony?

If you have other songs in mind for your wedding ceremony beyond the list of instrumental wedding songs they shared, be sure to ask if they are willing to arrange special requests for songs to walk down the aisle to, as well as the processional and recessional. For instance, we see  that these days it’s popular to do classical arrangements of contemporary pop songs. And if so, we emphasize that it’s important that the wedding ceremony musician allows you to approve all the final selections, so ask about that as well.

For example, a string quartet should be two violins, cello, and violin, not a trio of two violins and cello. There’s nothing wrong with hiring a trio. You just want to know that you’re getting what you’re paying for.

Have you performed with the same musicians before?

For musician groups, it’s very important that they are accustomed to performing together and do so regularly. That is much better than having them call pick-up musicians they’ve never performed with before.

What will the wedding ceremony musicians be wearing?

A wedding musician’s attire can either blend in beautifully with the wedding’s style and aesthetic or stick out like a sore thumb. To prevent the latter from happening, We advise asking the wedding ceremony musicians what wardrobe they’ll be performing in.

Wedding Ceremony Musician Questions About Equipment And Weather Considerations

Wedding ceremony musicians often travel with a lot of equipment necessary for their performance. Be sure to go over questions about all their equipment needs and any weather considerations to keep in mind.

What equipment will you bring? Do I need to provide anything additional?

Many ceremonies in larger spaces require amplification. Some wedding ceremony musicians will provide a sound system for amplification but others may not and you will need to plan accordingly. So be sure to ask this question so you’re prepared.

Are you willing to perform outside? If so, are there any restrictions?

This question is particularly important if you’re having your wedding ceremony outside. Ask about requirements or restrictions for doing so. For example, some string groups will not play in direct sunlight or cold weather due to the harm it would inflict on their instrument. With all these questions to ask a wedding ceremony musician, by the end of the conversation, you’ll be better informed to make the best decision for your wedding ceremony.

How do you work with couples to come up with a playlist?

Ask your wedding band how they can help you put together a great list of songs that will reflect your taste in music and get your guests out on that dance floor! Do they have a strategy for determining which songs will be best for your event? Will they allow you to choose some “must play” songs and some “do NOT play” songs? Will they take requests from you or your guests on the wedding day?

Have you worked at my wedding venue or with my other wedding vendors in the past?

While it’s certainly not a deal breaker if the answer is “no,” experience with your venue is always a plus! If your wedding  band isn’t familiar with the space, we recommend scheduling a walkthrough together. Even a quick site visit will help them get acquainted with the layout, acoustics, and any idiosyncrasies they may want to be aware of ahead of time.

What are some of your favorite first dance songs?

The answer to this question can give you a great sense of whether their music preferences and overall style align with what you’re looking for. If you’re envisioning a night filled with old classics and your wedding band suggests a bunch of Top 10 hits, for example, that may be an indication that it’s not the best match. This may not be a deal breaker, though—just because a wedding band specializes in a particular type of music, they can likely be flexible and work with your tastes, too. 

How many breaks do you require, and for how long?

Live bands will generally require at least one break during the night. It’s best to know when, and for how long, they plan to be off the floor so you can mix in some other entertainment (like a fun late-night snack) to keep the party going.

Do you have liability insurance?

This may seem like an inside baseball question, but it’s an important one. Liability insurance protects both your music pro and your venue in case of a mishap, such as damage to the property or an injury caused by your band’s equipment. Many venues require vendors to have insurance to work within their space, so don’t forget to ask this one! 

What is your rate?

Before diving into more specific questions, you’ll want to ensure they’re in your price range. You’ll want to find out if they charge by the hour or if they want a flat fee. We recommend you to be specific. Be sure to be clear on their hours; meaning if they play for both your ceremony and cocktail hour, will they need a break where you’ll need to source additional music?