Since music remains a key component of any wedding ceremony celebration, booking entertainment for your event should rate high on your to-do list. While most brides know beforehand that they want either a DJ or a band, what many don't often realize until it's too late is that the most popular musicians are generally booked more than one year in advance. So whether you're considering a charismatic DJ, a 6-piece band or a single strolling violinist, meeting with potential musicians as soon as possible will enable you to secure your final choice early on.

   How do you go about actually choosing musical entertainment for your wedding? Big Hits Entertainment Inc. President Gerry Anton suggests thinking about entertainers you may have heard yourself and asking for recommendations from people you know. Ideally, what you're looking for is a known quantity and quality, says Anton, who is himself an example of a successful DJ booked far in advance. If you experience difficulty identifying any musicians, try contacting your caterer since many caterers offer their own house bands and DJs. You also have the option of attending some of the regularly scheduled bridal showcases or wedding expos to sample different musical groups and DJ presentations in person.

   DJs are more popular now than ever before largely because brides are more aware of them as a musical option and because the music requested is the music you get — not a band's rendition. "The music is the real thing," says Anton, and that's the number one reason why brides choose a DJ. With a DJ, you also have an infinite selection of music and sounds to choose from with no worry that a band may have to learn some of your favored selections before the wedding. On the other hand, some couples may already have a special band in mind or they may prefer the romantic sounds of a 3-piece woodwind and string ensemble for all their musical wedding needs.

   Visiting the DJ or band in person to assess their credentials and experience and preview their videotape is essential. When evaluating an entertainer, Anton points to "great music, professionalism, good sound systems and reliability," as the benchmarks to rely on. Meeting with musicians gives you a chance to get to know their tastes and vice versa. You should be prepared to give the musician a list of the music picks you prefer. For mixed denomination weddings, music for both groups can be selected.

   DJs are responsible for playing the music and they often work alongside a Master of Ceremonies who introduces guests, makes announcements and serves as a party motivator if required. If you choose a musical group instead of a DJ, one of the band members will serve as the MC. Be sure to give the MC the names of bridal party members for the introductions and any special announcements you plan. The right professional will then "fill in all the blanks," says Anton.

   Gone are the days of snaking wires strewn across the dance floor. Today, most DJs and bands work with cordless microphones to make music entertainment even more enjoyable for guests. One recent wedding trend that Anton notes is the decreasing popularity of group dances like the Funky Chicken, YMCA or the Macarena. Anton attributes this to the fact that most people have danced these dances so many times before that they're no longer viewed as special wedding touches. Brides and grooms today also consider these dances too "hokey" and opt for regular, open floor dancing instead.

Source:

Gerry Anton, President
Big Hits Entertainment Inc.
2338 Plymouth Place
East Meadow, NY 11554
800-BIG-HITS