If you’re thinking of hiring a live band for your wedding, you’re obviously going to want to find the perfect match! But how can you be sure a band is the right fit for your wedding? Here are the questions you’ll want to ask when interviewing live wedding bands!
Are you available on our wedding day?
Seems obvious, but it’s good to confirm the band’s availability before you go any further!
How long have you been performing together? How long have you been performing at weddings?
It’s a good idea to get a sense of their history and how comfortable they are together. It is also wise to make sure they actually have a good amount of experience performing at weddings. You’ll want a band that knows how to work a wedding crowd, and that understands the general flow of a wedding reception.
Have you performed at our venue? If not, will you check it out beforehand?
The band may need certain supplies or equipment (extension cords, a generator, etc.) in order to work with the unique requirements and obstacles of your venue. It’s helpful if they’re familiar with the space so that they’re fully prepared.
Will you act as the host during the reception?
Some bandleaders are comfortable acting as the “master of ceremonies”, and will announce your first dance, tell people when toasts are happening, and so on. However, others prefer to solely perform the music and lead the hosting to someone else. Make sure you’re clear on exactly what their role will look like on the night of the reception.
How much input can we have on the set list?
While you should trust the band to build a killer set list that goes with the flow of the night, you’ll likely want to request certain songs that you love. There’s no guarantee they’ll be able to play all of your requests, and if there are any songs that they don’t know that you really want to be played at your wedding, you may have to pay an additional fee to have them learn it. However, you’ll want to work with a band that has some flexibility to ensure you’re fully happy with the music.
Do you take song requests from guests?
Many bands will allow song requests from your guests, but they may require that there be a certain system in place for them to receive those requests.
Can we take a look at your full songbook?
Bands will typically have a songbook with all of the song titles they are able to play. Ask if you can take a look, as it’ll give you a good idea of what they can do.
Who is involved in the set-up of the sound equipment?
There may be an additional person or two who needs to come and set up the equipment the day of the event. You should be aware of everyone who will be present on the day so that you know who to expect.
What happens if someone is unable to perform last minute?
An emergency may mean that someone else needs to step in for one of the original band members. Make sure the band has backup performers so that the show can still go on without a hitch.
Will you bring backup equipment?
In case a piece of equipment malfunctions during the night, you’ll want to make sure the band has backup equipment so they can keep going.
What will you wear?
If you’re having a black-tie affair, you probably don’t want the band to show up in jeans and a t-shirt. Ask what they typically wear during a performance so that you can ensure it works with the ambiance of the wedding.
Do you use any lighting or special effects in your performance?
Some bands will offer their own special effects equipment – like a fog machine or a strobe light – to add a little extra something to the performance. If this is something you’re interested in, you’ll want to confirm if it’s part of their package, or if it comes at an additional fee.
Where can we see you perform?
It is always advised that you actually see a wedding band perform live before booking them. That way, you’ll get the most realistic view into how they’ll perform on their wedding night. Don’t rely on YouTube videos or studio recordings!
Do you have any references?
It can be helpful to reach out to past clients to see what their experience was like working with the band.
If you are in the process of planning your wedding, come to the next Georgia Bridal Show near you. You will have the chance to meet with professional wedding vendors of all talents who can help bring your vision to life!
Georgia wedding vendors, as well as other wedding professionals across the Southeast, can contact us about opportunities for exhibition and online marketing with Georgia Bridal Show.