YOUR WEDDING SOUNDTRACK

Cocktails And Dinner Music

Receptions normally begin with a cocktail hour to allow guests to mingle while awaiting the arrival of the guests of honor. Background music is a must for this but conversation is key during cocktails and dinner. The music should set the mood, but not intrude. You have three main options: use the musicians that played during your ceremony, use the band or DJ that will be playing at your reception, or hire entirely different musicians.

VENUE & DANCING MUSIC

Your ceremony and reception site might impact your choice of music and entertainment. Make sure it meets their needs in terms of space, electricity, and lighting.

It’s now time to hit the dance floor! The best musicians can be booked up to a year in advance, so reserve your entertainment as early as possible. This way, once you find someone you like, availability is less likely to be an issue

Band Vs Dj

For a large, formal dinner and dance reception, consider hiring a band. Live music gives the evening a festive energy and is a wonderful option if your budget allows. The key is finding a band that caters to weddings. These musicians offer versatility and will appeal to guests of all ages.

Bands are typically multi-member ensembles. To find a band, elicit the help of a booking agent who represents the kind of entertainment you’re looking for.

A DJ is usually more cost-effective and can offer an almost infinite variety of music. Additional services such as specially lighting, floor monograms, and audio-visual services can be added to a package but usually include additional cost. The added bonus with a DJ isno breaks.

An important factor in selecting a DJ is personality. Are you looking for a crazy-fun party animal or an upscale, keep-it-classy entertainer? They will probably be your emcee as well, handling introductions, toasts and special dances. We recommend you watch a live performance to confirm you are on the same page. A quality DJ can read the crowd and ensure the dance floor stays full of dancing guests.

The Nitty Gritty

Ask for and follow up on several references. Make sure that your musicians can play the song for your first dance, or that the DJ has a clean copy of the original recording. Communicate clearly and clarify what songs and events you do or do not wish to include.

In terms of expense, a live band will almost always cost more than a DJ. Keep this rule in mind: if you can’t afford a good wedding band, hire a DJ.

As with other wedding vendors, make sure the ins and outs of your agreement with your musicians is very clear and in writing, including payment, start and end times, fees for playing overtime and alternate plans if a musician is sick. Confirm all the details with your musicians about two weeks prior to your celebration.

Once you’ve done your homework, hired musicians for each stage of your wedding day, and worked out the details, you can rest easy. That is, until it’s time to start practicing your dance moves.

THE ‘BEST DAY EVER’ SOUNDTRACK

Can you imagine a wedding without a soundtrack? Neither can we. From emotional ceremony songs to lowkey cocktail hour tunes to late-night party anthems, the music sets the tone for your wedding. We’re here to ensure that your wedding mix goes off without a hitch.

Sarah S.

“Top notch and extremely professional! From the early dealings with Will, to having Jay at the reception, everything was excellent! Couldn’t have asked for nicer people to work with! Great music selection, dance floor was alive all night, and everything was taken care of with ease by Jay! I would 100% recommend Will Nye to anyone!”

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(920) 891-5770 will@willnyethedjguy.com