48 FINDING THE PERFECT WEDDING ENTERTAINER Organising a wedding comes with a multitude of choices, and one of the most crucial is picking the ideal musician or entertainer to shape the atmosphere, bringing energy to the festivities, stirring emotions, and crafting unforgettable memories. Here’s a helpful step-by-step guide to assist you in selecting the perfect entertainment for your big day. Define your vision When you’re on the hunt for suppliers, take a moment to reflect on the vibe and atmosphere you wish to achieve. Are you envisioning an elegant and traditional celebration, a relaxed and rustic gathering, or a vibrant and festive occasion? For a timeless feel, you might want to consider hiring a string quartet, harpist, or pianist. If you’re aiming for a fun party atmosphere, a DJ or an energetic cover band could be just the ticket. For those rustic or bohemian themes, an acoustic guitarist or folk band can add a lovely, laid-back touch. Set your budget Wedding entertainment can play a major role in your overall budget, so it’s important to decide how much you’re ready to invest early in the planning process. Prices can differ significantly depending on the type of entertainment, how long they'll perform, and their level of experience. If you’re considering unique options like tribute bands or cultural acts, be prepared for potentially higher costs due to their specialised nature. Make sure to clarify what is included in their fees – like travel expenses, equipment, or additional performance time –to prevent any unexpected costs down the line. Do your research After you’ve limited your choices, it’s time to jump into the research stage. Reach out to friends, family or your wedding planner for recommendations. They usually have valuable insights or trustworthy connections. Visit the suppliers’ websites to explore their wedding services, available packages, and get a glimpse of their team’s personality. Pay close attention to reviews and testimonials. Look for mentions of professionalism, punctuality, adaptability, and how well they engaged the crowd. Evaluate their experience and style When you discover potential entertainers, make sure they fit your vision. Request live recordings or videos, as seeing them perform in real-time is essential. For musicians, studio recordings might sound great, but they may not showcase their actual skills. Confirm that they can play your favourite songs or adjust to the style you desire. Remember, wedding entertainment is unique, so focus on those who know how to navigate a wedding timeline and keep the audience engaged. Wedding shows Meeting entertainers in person or attending one of their live performances can give you a better sense of their personality. Ask questions such as: •Have you performed at weddings similar to ours? •Can you adapt to song requests or changes in schedule? • What equipment do you provide, and do you need anything from us? This is also a great opportunity to discuss your expectations for the day. After you’ve narrowed down your choices, consider the practical details. Ensure that the setup and breakdown times fit well with your wedding timeline. Check if the venue can support the equipment and staging requirements of your suppliers. Be aware that some venues may have noise limitations or might need special permits for live performances. Seal the deal with a contract After selecting your musician or entertainer, make sure to finalise their services with a contract. This document should cover the following details: •The date, time, and venue of the event. •The length of the performance and any scheduled breaks. •Payment details, including deposits and the final amount. •Policies regarding cancellations or refunds. A well-defined agreement safeguards both you and the entertainer, making sure that everyone understands the expectations. Plan ahead for a flawless day In the weeks leading up to your wedding, it’s crucial to ensure that every detail is in place, especially when it comes to your entertainment. To facilitate smooth communication, share a copy of your wedding timeline with them to clearly outline all the key events of the day, ensuring that everything flows seamlessly. Additionally, it’s wise to designate a point of contact for the day of the wedding. This could be your wedding planner, a trusted friend, or a family member who is familiar with the schedule and can handle any last-minute adjustments or questions that may arise. Trust the professionals to deliver an unforgettable experience. httpsunsplash.com@gettyimages httpsunsplash.com@aperture_andy httpsunsplash.com@gettyimages
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=