Things to Consider: The Band
Before you go:
  • Take a look at your CD, MP3 or other music collection. What kind of music do you like? Does that type fit the feel of your wedding?
  • Do some research. Contact your local booking agent for good options and listen to them, whether online or at a gig. Make sure you hear your band before you sign.
  • Depending on the band, booking fees start at about $1,000. But remember, you get what you pay for. If you choose to cut corners on entertainment, you may cut into the fun of your reception. If your budget is limited, it may be better to opt for a great DJ instead of a mediocre band.
  • What are your party priorities? Do you want a 10 piece band or will a trio do? Does it matter to you if your lead singer is male or female?
  • What kind of instrumentation do you want represented? Are you a Big Band fan or a Beatles cover band fanatic?

Questions to ask:
  • Get straight to the point, what are the booking fees; payment schedule; band preferences; play time; staging, sound, power and other set-up requirements; meal provisions, travel and accommodations costs?
  • How many members will be present the day of the event, and what do they typically wear?
  • While many bands have specialties, most can play a number of crowd favorites. Ask to see a complete song list. If you don't see your favorites, ask about the possibility, charges or requirements of learning a new piece for your event.
  • For the big moments, will your band leader also serve as emcee?
  • Regarding equipment, will they also have a wireless microphone available for announcements and toasts throughout the night?
  • Discuss band breaks - how many and how long. Do they provide CD or other musical entertainment in the meantime. If not, can you plug an IPOD into their system during those times?
  • Ask about the what ifs: What if equipment or isntruments fail? What if any of the players is sick? What if the group hits difficulties with equipment or traffic in transit?
  • If the party is going strong as the clock winds down, will the band be willing to play overtime if the site allows. If so, what is their per hour overtime charge?
Don't Forget:
  • Keep all payment balance, deadline and contract information in one, easy to find place. And remember, no vendor is yours unless you have a signed contract in your hands.
  • Ask for everything in writing. If during the sales process, your booking agent promises any extras or cost-cutting deals, make sure you can easily refer to that in an email, letter or contract.
  • Make sure you give your band contact a schedule or outline of what to expect on your wedding day so that he or she can be in place and ready to rock when your reception starts.
  • Depending on your contract requirements, don't forget to include band members and equipment crew in your final numbers for the caterer. Musicians have to eat too!



Ways to Save
  • Don't be afraid to do a little club hopping. New and up-and-coming bands may jump at the chance to entertain your crowd for a cut-rate. If you choose a group new to the wedding scene, make sure you get at least an informal contract in writing. It should include: contact names and information; pricing structure; payment schedule; play time requirements; equipment provisions; travel costs and any other special requests.
  • If your band's play time does not cover entertainment for the entire night, ask if you can use their equipment to broadcast your own IPOD song list during the downtimes.
  • Pick a local band and you'll cut the need to cover their travel expenses.