Trends in Wedding Music and Planning
This article will explain some recent trends in wedding planning and wedding music. Some recent trends include:
1) THEME WEDDINGS
2) DESTINATION WEDDINGS
3) RETURN TO ELEGANCE
1) Theme Weddings - These theme weddings include some of the following:
A) Multiple bands at a wedding reception combining American as well as authentic Ethnic dance music: Some examples of Multi Bands receptions are an American Band and Greek Band with Bouzouki and Greek Singers, or an American Band and Latin/Salsa Band, or perhaps an American Band and Portuguese Band.
B) Big Band Swing Weddings- Jazz, Swing and Ballroom Dance Music makes a big comeback:
Jazz Weddings
50’s wedding-guests invited in 50’s attire-only 1950’s music played
At one wedding the bride and groom dressed in attire from the movie “Gone With The Wind”. Music for the first two hours was only from that era.
At another wedding the music was completely from The Great Gatsby era.
Bride, Groom, Bridal Party and Guests were all attired in Great Gatsby era attire.
2) Destination Weddings:One bride and groom rented the Wadsworth Athenium Museum in Hartford, Connecticut for the wedding. A chamber ensemble played for the wedding ceremony in one location of the museum. A jazz trio played the cocktail hour in the outside exhibition pavilion. Formal dinner was served in the sculpture gallery with the music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Dancing to a full Orchestra in the main exhibition room –among the paintings of Picasso and Monet.
Brides and Grooms are searching for exotic, out of the way places such as Country Inns, Country Bed and Breakfast locations and old Mansions.
Some weddings have become two and three day events. For one wedding the bride and groom arranged for a multi day stay at a hotel. The guests spent one day at a golf tournament, another day on a fishing excursion. The pre-wedding dinner (night before the wedding) was for all the guests with a jazz band. The wedding reception the following day was with a full dance band performing everything from swing to the latest hits on the radio.3) Return To Elegance
Brides and Grooms are taking Ballroom Dancing lessons. There’s a dramatic increase in requests for Ballroom Dance Music. The trend is away from anything gimmicky such as give-aways, light shows, fog machines etc. The trend is also away from throwing the bouquet and garter. The trend is to present the bouquet to someone special (bride’s mother, special friend, relative).A recent wedding had the need of an additional coordinator due to the multiple musical groups and arrangements. A string quartet performed for the wedding ceremony 6 PM to 7 PM (one hour-music as guests arrived and then the ceremony).
The cocktail hour was 7 PM to 8:30 PM with a Jazz Trio. The wedding reception was 5 hours (including Viennese hour) 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with a full dance band. At 12 Midnight an 8 piece Mariachi band in full Mariachi attire was brought in to serenade the guests. The elegant trends for wedding ceremony music have been towards String quartets and Harp-Flute-Cello ensembles.Cocktail hour trends have been for Steel Drum Bands, Strolling Mariachi Bands, Jazz ands, Strolling Violins as well as elegant piano music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin.After the wedding reception guests retire to a Cigar Room with a Jazz Pianist, Jazz Duo or Jazz Trio.
There is also a noticeable increase in Black Tie weddings – both in the catering establishments and country club settings.
Written by Stan Wiest
A. Stan Wiest Music
пятница, 24 августа 2007 г.
Trends in Wedding Music and Planning
Trends in Wedding Music and Planning
This article will explain some recent trends in wedding planning and wedding music. Some recent trends include:
1) THEME WEDDINGS
2) DESTINATION WEDDINGS
3) RETURN TO ELEGANCE
1) Theme Weddings - These theme weddings include some of the following:
A) Multiple bands at a wedding reception combining American as well as authentic Ethnic dance music: Some examples of Multi Bands receptions are an American Band and Greek Band with Bouzouki and Greek Singers, or an American Band and Latin/Salsa Band, or perhaps an American Band and Portuguese Band.
B) Big Band Swing Weddings- Jazz, Swing and Ballroom Dance Music makes a big comeback:
Jazz Weddings
50’s wedding-guests invited in 50’s attire-only 1950’s music played
At one wedding the bride and groom dressed in attire from the movie “Gone With The Wind”. Music for the first two hours was only from that era.
At another wedding the music was completely from The Great Gatsby era.
Bride, Groom, Bridal Party and Guests were all attired in Great Gatsby era attire.
2) Destination Weddings:One bride and groom rented the Wadsworth Athenium Museum in Hartford, Connecticut for the wedding. A chamber ensemble played for the wedding ceremony in one location of the museum. A jazz trio played the cocktail hour in the outside exhibition pavilion. Formal dinner was served in the sculpture gallery with the music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Dancing to a full Orchestra in the main exhibition room –among the paintings of Picasso and Monet.
Brides and Grooms are searching for exotic, out of the way places such as Country Inns, Country Bed and Breakfast locations and old Mansions.
Some weddings have become two and three day events. For one wedding the bride and groom arranged for a multi day stay at a hotel. The guests spent one day at a golf tournament, another day on a fishing excursion. The pre-wedding dinner (night before the wedding) was for all the guests with a jazz band. The wedding reception the following day was with a full dance band performing everything from swing to the latest hits on the radio.3) Return To Elegance
Brides and Grooms are taking Ballroom Dancing lessons. There’s a dramatic increase in requests for Ballroom Dance Music. The trend is away from anything gimmicky such as give-aways, light shows, fog machines etc. The trend is also away from throwing the bouquet and garter. The trend is to present the bouquet to someone special (bride’s mother, special friend, relative).A recent wedding had the need of an additional coordinator due to the multiple musical groups and arrangements. A string quartet performed for the wedding ceremony 6 PM to 7 PM (one hour-music as guests arrived and then the ceremony).
The cocktail hour was 7 PM to 8:30 PM with a Jazz Trio. The wedding reception was 5 hours (including Viennese hour) 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with a full dance band. At 12 Midnight an 8 piece Mariachi band in full Mariachi attire was brought in to serenade the guests. The elegant trends for wedding ceremony music have been towards String quartets and Harp-Flute-Cello ensembles.Cocktail hour trends have been for Steel Drum Bands, Strolling Mariachi Bands, Jazz ands, Strolling Violins as well as elegant piano music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin.After the wedding reception guests retire to a Cigar Room with a Jazz Pianist, Jazz Duo or Jazz Trio.
There is also a noticeable increase in Black Tie weddings – both in the catering establishments and country club settings.
Written by Stan Wiest
A. Stan Wiest Music
This article will explain some recent trends in wedding planning and wedding music. Some recent trends include:
1) THEME WEDDINGS
2) DESTINATION WEDDINGS
3) RETURN TO ELEGANCE
1) Theme Weddings - These theme weddings include some of the following:
A) Multiple bands at a wedding reception combining American as well as authentic Ethnic dance music: Some examples of Multi Bands receptions are an American Band and Greek Band with Bouzouki and Greek Singers, or an American Band and Latin/Salsa Band, or perhaps an American Band and Portuguese Band.
B) Big Band Swing Weddings- Jazz, Swing and Ballroom Dance Music makes a big comeback:
Jazz Weddings
50’s wedding-guests invited in 50’s attire-only 1950’s music played
At one wedding the bride and groom dressed in attire from the movie “Gone With The Wind”. Music for the first two hours was only from that era.
At another wedding the music was completely from The Great Gatsby era.
Bride, Groom, Bridal Party and Guests were all attired in Great Gatsby era attire.
2) Destination Weddings:One bride and groom rented the Wadsworth Athenium Museum in Hartford, Connecticut for the wedding. A chamber ensemble played for the wedding ceremony in one location of the museum. A jazz trio played the cocktail hour in the outside exhibition pavilion. Formal dinner was served in the sculpture gallery with the music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Dancing to a full Orchestra in the main exhibition room –among the paintings of Picasso and Monet.
Brides and Grooms are searching for exotic, out of the way places such as Country Inns, Country Bed and Breakfast locations and old Mansions.
Some weddings have become two and three day events. For one wedding the bride and groom arranged for a multi day stay at a hotel. The guests spent one day at a golf tournament, another day on a fishing excursion. The pre-wedding dinner (night before the wedding) was for all the guests with a jazz band. The wedding reception the following day was with a full dance band performing everything from swing to the latest hits on the radio.3) Return To Elegance
Brides and Grooms are taking Ballroom Dancing lessons. There’s a dramatic increase in requests for Ballroom Dance Music. The trend is away from anything gimmicky such as give-aways, light shows, fog machines etc. The trend is also away from throwing the bouquet and garter. The trend is to present the bouquet to someone special (bride’s mother, special friend, relative).A recent wedding had the need of an additional coordinator due to the multiple musical groups and arrangements. A string quartet performed for the wedding ceremony 6 PM to 7 PM (one hour-music as guests arrived and then the ceremony).
The cocktail hour was 7 PM to 8:30 PM with a Jazz Trio. The wedding reception was 5 hours (including Viennese hour) 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with a full dance band. At 12 Midnight an 8 piece Mariachi band in full Mariachi attire was brought in to serenade the guests. The elegant trends for wedding ceremony music have been towards String quartets and Harp-Flute-Cello ensembles.Cocktail hour trends have been for Steel Drum Bands, Strolling Mariachi Bands, Jazz ands, Strolling Violins as well as elegant piano music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin.After the wedding reception guests retire to a Cigar Room with a Jazz Pianist, Jazz Duo or Jazz Trio.
There is also a noticeable increase in Black Tie weddings – both in the catering establishments and country club settings.
Written by Stan Wiest
A. Stan Wiest Music
воскресенье, 12 августа 2007 г.
Wedding Day Dancing
Wedding Day Dancing
The Wedding DanceGroom: C'mon, honey...It's time for our first dance together as Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.Bride: OK, but remember, you promised you'd help me out with this. Groom: I know...Hey, wait! This music is a lot faster than I remember it! Bride: Just fake it, and smile. You're the one that wanted this song. Groom: At least your dress is long enough to cover up what your feet are doing! Let's just kiss a lot. They love that. Bride: (sniffing away tears) Groom: Honey, you are so sweet! You're crying because you're so happy! Bride: No, John. I'm crying because you just stepped on my foot!
DON'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU!
Now that you've made the decision to take the big step, how about making another decision to take a lot of smaller steps? Learn to dance for your wedding. Plan to start soon. Allow yourself time to learn at a relaxed pace. Start as early as possible. The closer you get to your big day, the more hectic life becomes. Dancing is not like an 8th grade social studies quiz. You can't cram for it and expect good results. You will want to look well rehearsed and polished when you're out on the dance floor with all eyes upon you.
Every aspect of your wedding is being mapped out very carefully. The food, the gown, the music and flowers all arranged in advance to give your special day every chance of going smoothly. Will you be at ease when you step out on the dance floor in front of family and friends for your first dance together as man and wife?
You’ve made a big investment in the food, flowers, music, etc. These are things that only last a day. Learning to dance is an investment in your relationship. Its something you will continue to share at every upcoming special occasion, and for a lifetime of social pleasure together.
So many couples today are seizing the opportunity to shine on the dance floor, personalizing their celebration by learning to dance. For many couples and their wedding guests the first dance is the highlight of the reception, and what everyone remembers most vividly.
Dancing with someone you love is one of life's great pleasures. Find out for yourselves today!
By Elaine LehmertContinental Dance Club, Bloomfield NJ www.continentaldanceclub.com
The Wedding DanceGroom: C'mon, honey...It's time for our first dance together as Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.Bride: OK, but remember, you promised you'd help me out with this. Groom: I know...Hey, wait! This music is a lot faster than I remember it! Bride: Just fake it, and smile. You're the one that wanted this song. Groom: At least your dress is long enough to cover up what your feet are doing! Let's just kiss a lot. They love that. Bride: (sniffing away tears) Groom: Honey, you are so sweet! You're crying because you're so happy! Bride: No, John. I'm crying because you just stepped on my foot!
DON'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOU!
Now that you've made the decision to take the big step, how about making another decision to take a lot of smaller steps? Learn to dance for your wedding. Plan to start soon. Allow yourself time to learn at a relaxed pace. Start as early as possible. The closer you get to your big day, the more hectic life becomes. Dancing is not like an 8th grade social studies quiz. You can't cram for it and expect good results. You will want to look well rehearsed and polished when you're out on the dance floor with all eyes upon you.
Every aspect of your wedding is being mapped out very carefully. The food, the gown, the music and flowers all arranged in advance to give your special day every chance of going smoothly. Will you be at ease when you step out on the dance floor in front of family and friends for your first dance together as man and wife?
You’ve made a big investment in the food, flowers, music, etc. These are things that only last a day. Learning to dance is an investment in your relationship. Its something you will continue to share at every upcoming special occasion, and for a lifetime of social pleasure together.
So many couples today are seizing the opportunity to shine on the dance floor, personalizing their celebration by learning to dance. For many couples and their wedding guests the first dance is the highlight of the reception, and what everyone remembers most vividly.
Dancing with someone you love is one of life's great pleasures. Find out for yourselves today!
By Elaine LehmertContinental Dance Club, Bloomfield NJ www.continentaldanceclub.com
Trends in Wedding Music and Planning
Trends in Wedding Music and Planning
This article will explain some recent trends in wedding planning and wedding music. Some recent trends include:
1) THEME WEDDINGS
2) DESTINATION WEDDINGS
3) RETURN TO ELEGANCE
1) Theme Weddings - These theme weddings include some of the following:
A) Multiple bands at a wedding reception combining American as well as authentic Ethnic dance music: Some examples of Multi Bands receptions are an American Band and Greek Band with Bouzouki and Greek Singers, or an American Band and Latin/Salsa Band, or perhaps an American Band and Portuguese Band.
B) Big Band Swing Weddings- Jazz, Swing and Ballroom Dance Music makes a big comeback:
Jazz Weddings
50’s wedding-guests invited in 50’s attire-only 1950’s music played
At one wedding the bride and groom dressed in attire from the movie “Gone With The Wind”. Music for the first two hours was only from that era.
At another wedding the music was completely from The Great Gatsby era.
Bride, Groom, Bridal Party and Guests were all attired in Great Gatsby era attire.
2) Destination Weddings:One bride and groom rented the Wadsworth Athenium Museum in Hartford, Connecticut for the wedding. A chamber ensemble played for the wedding ceremony in one location of the museum. A jazz trio played the cocktail hour in the outside exhibition pavilion. Formal dinner was served in the sculpture gallery with the music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Dancing to a full Orchestra in the main exhibition room –among the paintings of Picasso and Monet.
Brides and Grooms are searching for exotic, out of the way places such as Country Inns, Country Bed and Breakfast locations and old Mansions.
Some weddings have become two and three day events. For one wedding the bride and groom arranged for a multi day stay at a hotel. The guests spent one day at a golf tournament, another day on a fishing excursion. The pre-wedding dinner (night before the wedding) was for all the guests with a jazz band. The wedding reception the following day was with a full dance band performing everything from swing to the latest hits on the radio.3) Return To Elegance
Brides and Grooms are taking Ballroom Dancing lessons. There’s a dramatic increase in requests for Ballroom Dance Music. The trend is away from anything gimmicky such as give-aways, light shows, fog machines etc. The trend is also away from throwing the bouquet and garter. The trend is to present the bouquet to someone special (bride’s mother, special friend, relative).A recent wedding had the need of an additional coordinator due to the multiple musical groups and arrangements. A string quartet performed for the wedding ceremony 6 PM to 7 PM (one hour-music as guests arrived and then the ceremony).
The cocktail hour was 7 PM to 8:30 PM with a Jazz Trio. The wedding reception was 5 hours (including Viennese hour) 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with a full dance band. At 12 Midnight an 8 piece Mariachi band in full Mariachi attire was brought in to serenade the guests. The elegant trends for wedding ceremony music have been towards String quartets and Harp-Flute-Cello ensembles.Cocktail hour trends have been for Steel Drum Bands, Strolling Mariachi Bands, Jazz ands, Strolling Violins as well as elegant piano music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin.After the wedding reception guests retire to a Cigar Room with a Jazz Pianist, Jazz Duo or Jazz Trio.
There is also a noticeable increase in Black Tie weddings – both in the catering establishments and country club settings.
Written by Stan WiestA. Stan Wiest Music
This article will explain some recent trends in wedding planning and wedding music. Some recent trends include:
1) THEME WEDDINGS
2) DESTINATION WEDDINGS
3) RETURN TO ELEGANCE
1) Theme Weddings - These theme weddings include some of the following:
A) Multiple bands at a wedding reception combining American as well as authentic Ethnic dance music: Some examples of Multi Bands receptions are an American Band and Greek Band with Bouzouki and Greek Singers, or an American Band and Latin/Salsa Band, or perhaps an American Band and Portuguese Band.
B) Big Band Swing Weddings- Jazz, Swing and Ballroom Dance Music makes a big comeback:
Jazz Weddings
50’s wedding-guests invited in 50’s attire-only 1950’s music played
At one wedding the bride and groom dressed in attire from the movie “Gone With The Wind”. Music for the first two hours was only from that era.
At another wedding the music was completely from The Great Gatsby era.
Bride, Groom, Bridal Party and Guests were all attired in Great Gatsby era attire.
2) Destination Weddings:One bride and groom rented the Wadsworth Athenium Museum in Hartford, Connecticut for the wedding. A chamber ensemble played for the wedding ceremony in one location of the museum. A jazz trio played the cocktail hour in the outside exhibition pavilion. Formal dinner was served in the sculpture gallery with the music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Dancing to a full Orchestra in the main exhibition room –among the paintings of Picasso and Monet.
Brides and Grooms are searching for exotic, out of the way places such as Country Inns, Country Bed and Breakfast locations and old Mansions.
Some weddings have become two and three day events. For one wedding the bride and groom arranged for a multi day stay at a hotel. The guests spent one day at a golf tournament, another day on a fishing excursion. The pre-wedding dinner (night before the wedding) was for all the guests with a jazz band. The wedding reception the following day was with a full dance band performing everything from swing to the latest hits on the radio.3) Return To Elegance
Brides and Grooms are taking Ballroom Dancing lessons. There’s a dramatic increase in requests for Ballroom Dance Music. The trend is away from anything gimmicky such as give-aways, light shows, fog machines etc. The trend is also away from throwing the bouquet and garter. The trend is to present the bouquet to someone special (bride’s mother, special friend, relative).A recent wedding had the need of an additional coordinator due to the multiple musical groups and arrangements. A string quartet performed for the wedding ceremony 6 PM to 7 PM (one hour-music as guests arrived and then the ceremony).
The cocktail hour was 7 PM to 8:30 PM with a Jazz Trio. The wedding reception was 5 hours (including Viennese hour) 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with a full dance band. At 12 Midnight an 8 piece Mariachi band in full Mariachi attire was brought in to serenade the guests. The elegant trends for wedding ceremony music have been towards String quartets and Harp-Flute-Cello ensembles.Cocktail hour trends have been for Steel Drum Bands, Strolling Mariachi Bands, Jazz ands, Strolling Violins as well as elegant piano music of Cole Porter and George Gershwin.After the wedding reception guests retire to a Cigar Room with a Jazz Pianist, Jazz Duo or Jazz Trio.
There is also a noticeable increase in Black Tie weddings – both in the catering establishments and country club settings.
Written by Stan WiestA. Stan Wiest Music
Hiring a DJ: Points to Consider
Hiring a DJ: Points to Consider
When you plan a party of any sort, your objective is to ensure that your guests have a good time, period. Your choice of entertainment, particularly if you are considering a DJ, is crucial to that end. Who you choose for your wedding reception or special event will have a greater degree of effect than any other factor, such as food or location. The DJ you choose is a direct reflection on you. Here are some important points to remember when you interview a DJ company.
Prompt return of your phone calls or Emails: You should expect to get a call back or an Email back within 24 hours. Many DJ’s are out working and may not be able to return your call within an hour or two.
Willingness to meet with you and present his/her service: Will the DJ try to meet with you soon, or is he/she just trying to book the date sight unseen? Is their material neat and professional looking, and is their presentation organized and informative?
Is the price too good to be true? It seems that the DJ is often the last service chosen, after much of the budget is expended on a venue, food and clothing. This often leads brides and party planners to shop for the cheapest price possible because of a lack of resources. This often backfires when holding out for the lowest price. However, if you have adhered to the guiding principals noted here, you will know to avoid services that have a rock bottom price because they will not be able to display the level of quality and attention to detail that EVERY client deserves!
Do you LIKE the person that shows up? There is NOTHING worse in the world than having to do business with someone you do not like. Choosing the person who “feels” right is the most important factor in picking the right entertainer for your party or reception. The DJ you choose should be very open about what he/she can do for you and should volunteer information and “show” you that knowledge base.
Is the person knowledgeable about your type of event? There are all kinds of DJ’s. Club DJ’s, wedding DJ’s, Rave DJ’s…the list is endless!! Can the DJ you interview handle your type of event? Ask the DJ how many events of your type that he/she has done.
What sort of documents does the DJ use to procure your business? In a good interview, the DJ should show you several documents. First and foremost is a planner. This planner should impress you enough to the point where you begin to understand that the DJ you are hiring is a professional, and is capable of handling your event. A sample copy of the CONTRACT to be used should be available as well as a schedule of pricing information. A DJ may also give you a list of references. CALL THEM!! Ask if there were any issues or problem areas when the person dealt with the DJ.
Does the DJ have a viewable music database? It shows you what sort of music he or she has available. Many DJ’s do not use music lists, others do. In some fashion, you the client, need to be assured that the DJ you hire not only has a sizeable collection, but has a variety of music, especially for wedding receptions, where many different styles of music and guests will be in the same room together.
Does the DJ use professional grade equipment? If the DJ does not have pictures of his or her gear, you should ask to set up a time to see the equipment or see pictures of the DJ’s set up. Although there are many fine home stereo equipment components made, they are not suitable for commercial or repeated use and varying room conditions. The DJ should be able to tell you what he/she uses and characterize the equipment as professional grade.
Will the DJ offer to meet with you AFTER signing the contract to plan your event? A professional DJ is ALWAYS willing to discuss your event at any time before the event starts, and should display the flexibility to accommodate changes and help you solve problems. Meeting your DJ to plan your event is of paramount importance to a successful event such as a wedding reception.
Will the person that you interview be the person that will perform at your event? This is THE most common complaint about the DJ industry today. The person you meet turns out NOT to be the person that actually does your show. Often, you are not made aware of this. Ask the DJ you interview if he/she will be the actual person performing, or will someone else perform the event. You need to know this UP FRONT before you sign a contract.
Consider this when pricing your DJ service: You should consider your DJ service an insurance policy that ensures that all of the other money you spend will not result in bad memories or a less than enjoyable occasion. You do get what you pay for. Good entertainment is NOT cheap, and cheap entertainment often is NOT good!! And yet many people will pay far more for a cake, flowers, or food than they will for the most crucial ingredient at a party – the music. When was the last time you saw a cake reading a crowd and spinning a CD, motivating a dance floor crowd, or making announcements in a dignified elegant way? Further, when was the last time you heard a guest tell you “Boy, that prime rib was great, I can’t wait until I go to another party to have that again”? No, that DOES NOT HAPPEN. Instead, they talk about the music that was played, and whether they had a good time or not. The music is always what they will talk about and whether the DJ was any good or not.
Your DJ, if you have chosen a good one, will display many of the following skills and attributes before and at your event:- Master of Ceremonies- Party organizer- Sound technician- Light technician- Ability to read a crowd and pick the right music- Flexibility to adapt to sudden changes- Follow the plan that you and he/she have worked out using the planner- Seamless continuous music at all times unless otherwise specified- Extensive library of music- Professional grade of equipment- Audience motivator- Ability to co exist and coordinate with other professionals at your event
By Bill SmithBill Smith and the Magic of Music
When you plan a party of any sort, your objective is to ensure that your guests have a good time, period. Your choice of entertainment, particularly if you are considering a DJ, is crucial to that end. Who you choose for your wedding reception or special event will have a greater degree of effect than any other factor, such as food or location. The DJ you choose is a direct reflection on you. Here are some important points to remember when you interview a DJ company.
Prompt return of your phone calls or Emails: You should expect to get a call back or an Email back within 24 hours. Many DJ’s are out working and may not be able to return your call within an hour or two.
Willingness to meet with you and present his/her service: Will the DJ try to meet with you soon, or is he/she just trying to book the date sight unseen? Is their material neat and professional looking, and is their presentation organized and informative?
Is the price too good to be true? It seems that the DJ is often the last service chosen, after much of the budget is expended on a venue, food and clothing. This often leads brides and party planners to shop for the cheapest price possible because of a lack of resources. This often backfires when holding out for the lowest price. However, if you have adhered to the guiding principals noted here, you will know to avoid services that have a rock bottom price because they will not be able to display the level of quality and attention to detail that EVERY client deserves!
Do you LIKE the person that shows up? There is NOTHING worse in the world than having to do business with someone you do not like. Choosing the person who “feels” right is the most important factor in picking the right entertainer for your party or reception. The DJ you choose should be very open about what he/she can do for you and should volunteer information and “show” you that knowledge base.
Is the person knowledgeable about your type of event? There are all kinds of DJ’s. Club DJ’s, wedding DJ’s, Rave DJ’s…the list is endless!! Can the DJ you interview handle your type of event? Ask the DJ how many events of your type that he/she has done.
What sort of documents does the DJ use to procure your business? In a good interview, the DJ should show you several documents. First and foremost is a planner. This planner should impress you enough to the point where you begin to understand that the DJ you are hiring is a professional, and is capable of handling your event. A sample copy of the CONTRACT to be used should be available as well as a schedule of pricing information. A DJ may also give you a list of references. CALL THEM!! Ask if there were any issues or problem areas when the person dealt with the DJ.
Does the DJ have a viewable music database? It shows you what sort of music he or she has available. Many DJ’s do not use music lists, others do. In some fashion, you the client, need to be assured that the DJ you hire not only has a sizeable collection, but has a variety of music, especially for wedding receptions, where many different styles of music and guests will be in the same room together.
Does the DJ use professional grade equipment? If the DJ does not have pictures of his or her gear, you should ask to set up a time to see the equipment or see pictures of the DJ’s set up. Although there are many fine home stereo equipment components made, they are not suitable for commercial or repeated use and varying room conditions. The DJ should be able to tell you what he/she uses and characterize the equipment as professional grade.
Will the DJ offer to meet with you AFTER signing the contract to plan your event? A professional DJ is ALWAYS willing to discuss your event at any time before the event starts, and should display the flexibility to accommodate changes and help you solve problems. Meeting your DJ to plan your event is of paramount importance to a successful event such as a wedding reception.
Will the person that you interview be the person that will perform at your event? This is THE most common complaint about the DJ industry today. The person you meet turns out NOT to be the person that actually does your show. Often, you are not made aware of this. Ask the DJ you interview if he/she will be the actual person performing, or will someone else perform the event. You need to know this UP FRONT before you sign a contract.
Consider this when pricing your DJ service: You should consider your DJ service an insurance policy that ensures that all of the other money you spend will not result in bad memories or a less than enjoyable occasion. You do get what you pay for. Good entertainment is NOT cheap, and cheap entertainment often is NOT good!! And yet many people will pay far more for a cake, flowers, or food than they will for the most crucial ingredient at a party – the music. When was the last time you saw a cake reading a crowd and spinning a CD, motivating a dance floor crowd, or making announcements in a dignified elegant way? Further, when was the last time you heard a guest tell you “Boy, that prime rib was great, I can’t wait until I go to another party to have that again”? No, that DOES NOT HAPPEN. Instead, they talk about the music that was played, and whether they had a good time or not. The music is always what they will talk about and whether the DJ was any good or not.
Your DJ, if you have chosen a good one, will display many of the following skills and attributes before and at your event:- Master of Ceremonies- Party organizer- Sound technician- Light technician- Ability to read a crowd and pick the right music- Flexibility to adapt to sudden changes- Follow the plan that you and he/she have worked out using the planner- Seamless continuous music at all times unless otherwise specified- Extensive library of music- Professional grade of equipment- Audience motivator- Ability to co exist and coordinate with other professionals at your event
By Bill SmithBill Smith and the Magic of Music
суббота, 14 апреля 2007 г.
Wedding Reception Music
Wedding Reception Music
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. Your decision will have a great impact on the outcome of your party. You know that music is a key ingredient in setting the mood for the affair.
Many 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. 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. Most seasoned professionals can provide you with a list of country clubs and caterers that recommend their services.
When interviewing a band or a DJ, ask for a list of the songs that they can play. Versatility is a key ingredient to your party's success! You should be able to create a list of the songs that you want to hear or to provide a list of "please do not plays"! "Make sure that you feel comfortable and can communicate easily with your bandleader", advises Betsy Greene of Ariel Entertainment. "He or she should be willing to learn your wedding song and to spend time helping to coordinate all the special touches at your celebration. You should be encouraged to express your preferences on all of the party's details, including the control of the band's volume."
Some questions that should be asked include:
• How many breaks will be taken?
• Will live music or taped music be provided during the breaks?
• How long will the dance sets be?
• Am I guaranteed to have the same musicians or DJ that I have seen on video or at a live showcase?
• Does the company have liability insurance?
• Should I plan to feed the entertainers?
If your budget is tight, or if you are looking to create the atmosphere of a night club at your party, choosing a DJ might be right for you. DJ companies offer services that range from a single DJ entertainer to an elaborate DJ package that includes a DJ, an MC-entertainer, costumed dancers and laser-like light shows.
Whether you choose an exciting dance band complete with male and female vocalists and a horn section, an elegant smaller band, or a DJ package, try to see the entertainers perform live at a showcase or other event. There is nothing like getting the real feel of a performance by previewing the entertainers in action. Most importantly, have fun shopping, and planning for the most significant and exciting day of your life!
By Betsy Greene
Ariel Entertainment
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. Your decision will have a great impact on the outcome of your party. You know that music is a key ingredient in setting the mood for the affair.
Many 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. 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. Most seasoned professionals can provide you with a list of country clubs and caterers that recommend their services.
When interviewing a band or a DJ, ask for a list of the songs that they can play. Versatility is a key ingredient to your party's success! You should be able to create a list of the songs that you want to hear or to provide a list of "please do not plays"! "Make sure that you feel comfortable and can communicate easily with your bandleader", advises Betsy Greene of Ariel Entertainment. "He or she should be willing to learn your wedding song and to spend time helping to coordinate all the special touches at your celebration. You should be encouraged to express your preferences on all of the party's details, including the control of the band's volume."
Some questions that should be asked include:
• How many breaks will be taken?
• Will live music or taped music be provided during the breaks?
• How long will the dance sets be?
• Am I guaranteed to have the same musicians or DJ that I have seen on video or at a live showcase?
• Does the company have liability insurance?
• Should I plan to feed the entertainers?
If your budget is tight, or if you are looking to create the atmosphere of a night club at your party, choosing a DJ might be right for you. DJ companies offer services that range from a single DJ entertainer to an elaborate DJ package that includes a DJ, an MC-entertainer, costumed dancers and laser-like light shows.
Whether you choose an exciting dance band complete with male and female vocalists and a horn section, an elegant smaller band, or a DJ package, try to see the entertainers perform live at a showcase or other event. There is nothing like getting the real feel of a performance by previewing the entertainers in action. Most importantly, have fun shopping, and planning for the most significant and exciting day of your life!
By Betsy Greene
Ariel Entertainment
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