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Once you say "I do," it's time to celebrate! And there's nothing quite like an awesome live band to get your guests on the dance floor. Before you sign on the dotted line, take a look at these 10 common mistakes so you know what to avoid.
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Booking at the last minute. Like venues, great wedding bands book up quickly. So put this task on the top of your to-do list once your wedding date is set.
Going the cheap route. An excellent band is going to be in high demand, and therefore expensive, says Austin Booth and Joel Robeson, co-owners of Steel Toe Stiletto. "You’d be better off hiring an expensive DJ than a cheap band."
Waiting until the wedding day to meet them. Too many couples these days find bands online, listen to recorded samples, then make the decision to hire them for their weddings, says Sophie Darling of WeddingDresses.com. "Then, come the big day, they find that the band is not what they had thought—be it style, behavior or volume."
Skipping a sound check. "This is one of the biggest mistakes I see with wedding bands. Everything has been decided and agreed upon, but come the big day, it's discovered that the band is just too loud for the venue. People can't even talk comfortably," says Darling.
Forgetting about costs. Make sure to read the contract carefully to ensure that you’ve factored in all the band needs into your budget, says Skylar Caitlin of Chancey Charm Houston. "A nine-piece band can run up a hefty cost in vendor meals. And added rentals, like stage set-ups and lights, can bring up the total higher than the base price."
Choosing a niche band. Some couples pick a band that they've seen at a club or tavern they may have frequented that works well for a niche audience. However, that band may not be the right fit or have a broad enough appeal for a diverse wedding audience whose demographics and music taste will run the gamut, says Greg Jenkins of Bravo Productions. "In essence, the bride and groom may hit the dance floor, but a lot of their guests may not."
Assuming the band leader will be the MC. Don't just assume somebody from the band will emcee the reception, says Janessa White from Simply Eloped. "If you'd like a band member to do so, discuss that with them well in advance of the big day."
Not communicating before the day. Many couples don't communicate enough about the important details when picking the wedding band, says Jenkins. For example, set a dress code for the band. It's wise to be clear about how they should be attired.
Booking through an entertainment company. If possible, contact the band directly and avoid paying an additional 15-30 percent to cover the agency’s commission, says Booth and Robeson. For unbiased recommendations, you are better off asking your planner, your venue manager or your other vendors.
Not considering older guests. While you and your friends might love club music, your older relatives and parents' friends will probably be miserable listening to it for three-plus hours. So be sure to choose a band that can play music all of your guests will enjoy.
