Tips on choosing wedding musicians

You've got the ring, your ceremony and reception sites are booked, and now your attention turns to the selection of entertainment for your wedding reception. Be sure your decision will have a great impact on the outcome of your party.

You know, music is a key element in setting the mood for the affair.

Lots of factors will influence your choice of music for your reception.

• How large a group will you be entertaining?

• What size band will suit your room size and your budget?

• Most wedding audiences will include guests whose ages span from teenagers to grandparents.

• How can you be sure that your friends and your relatives will all rave to you about your band or DJ?

Begin shopping for bands 9 to 18 months in advance of your party, especially if your reception will be held on a Saturday night.
All popular bands will often have their prime dates taken up to a year or more in advance, so get started early to ensure that you will have a good selection to choose from.

Look for a band or DJ that has substantial experience performing at weddings.

Seasoned professionals can provide you with a list of country clubs and caterers that recommend their services.

While interviewing a band or a DJ, ask for a list of the songs that they can play. Diversity is a key ingredient to your party's success!

You also can create a list of the songs that you want to hear or to provide a list of "please do not play"!

"Make certain that you feel comfortable and can communicate easily with your bandleader", advises Betsy Greene of Ariel Entertainment.

" She or he should be willing to learn your wedding song and to spend time helping to coordinate all the special touches at your celebration.