HOME 
 
DIRECTORY 
 
EVENTS 
 
SPECIALS 
 
SHOP 
 
ADVICE 
 
SUBSCRIBE 
 
REGISTER 
 
ADVERTISE 
How To Decide On A Band For Your Wedding
By Daria MacGregor • Circle of Love Weddings
404-513-5037 • www.circleofloveweddings.com

A band can be a great choice for entertainment at your wedding, but how do you go about choosing the right one? Here are some tips.
 
There are several companies in Atlanta that specialize in booking bands, and talking with their representatives is a good way to learn about the various types of bands available in your area. Once you have decided on the general style of music you want to hear (current music, jazz, Motown, Latin, etc.), you can begin to narrow down your choices. Do you plan lots of dancing, or do you envision mainly having background music so you can spend time visiting with your guests?
 
First Check On The Basics
Of course, you’ll first want to research the obvious questions, such as:
  1. Whether bands are allowed at your venue
  2. Availability on your wedding date
  3. Whether the cost fits into your budget
  4. Whether the band can provide a proper contract (the answer to this should be yes)
  5. If they have a reasonable rider (a rider is a list of requirements that need to be met in order for them to perform)
Questions To Help Narrow The Options
Once you have identified several good candidates, make your final decision by considering these points:
  1. Have they performed at weddings before?
  2. Are they flexible with their set/break schedule? Can they work around already scheduled events such as introductions, dinner, toasts and cake?
  3. Are they reliable and responsive? Can they provide references?
  4. Do they seem professional?
  5. Do you like their general style of music? Many bands are able to play a wide variety of music, but will tend to gravitate to one specific style that they prefer to play and are best at. In order to get the best results, it is usually better not to force a band out of its comfort zone.
  6. Another way to think about it is this: can they play the style of music that you like, and play it well?
  7. Are they willing to learn songs not in their repertoire (for your first dance, etc.)?
  8. Will the band leader emcee the event (even if there is not a vocalist)?