 |
| Select the wedding services to find the local vendors in your area. |
|
|
|
 |
 |
Music Makes the Magic
"All we really want is for people to have a great time," says Susan of Plainview, who will wed Bill in a formal black-tie affair this coming October. "We want them to leave feeling good." No matter what kind of affair you plan, music will set the mood and help make the memories that guests will take home with them.
To get you top-notch music guidance for your wedding, we spoke with Erik Marshall, partner at the Roslyn-based Hank Lane Music and Productions, one of the leading music/entertainment companies in the world.
"When it comes to entertainment, reputation is number one. Listen to people who've been there. Not just as guests, but those who have thrown the party," advises Marshall.
Hank Lane, one of the most highly rated sources for live bands and orchestral acts, is the exclusive entertainment provider for some of the most high-end wedding venues and its 30 bands are preferred and recommended by countless others. They have worked with everyone from P. Diddy, President Bush, Donald Trump, to probably many people you know.
Hiring the music:
- "Seek out a professional via a referral and then trust your instincts," suggests Marshall.
- Versatility is vital, according to Marshall. "A band should have a wide range. They should be able to perform music in all genres. Unfortunately, some great bands are limited. If they don't play Motown and your guests love it, then you'll be disappointed. Great entertainment has to respond to the needs of the audience." Every Hank Lane band can perform all types of music, from jazz to big band, rock, reggae, Latin, classical, soul, contemporary, to disco, Motown and more.
- Reliability is key. Make sure the entertainment can be counted on to show up on time says Marshall.
Budget:
- "Don't try to get the biggest band for the budget," Marshall tells us. "Get the right band. A 5-6 piece band can work very well. Look at the Beatles…they were a four piece band!"
- DJs cost less than most bands. Some of the most elegant weddings use DJs. You can always incorporate live music in the ceremony and cocktail hour.
- Check out the cancellation and overtime policies. Make sure you sign a contract with your musicians that covers all costs, even if it's a one-man show.
Working with the music:
- Think about who you are inviting when you work on a plan. Marshall advocates a 'no play' list for every wedding.
- Vary the segments of the wedding by music type. It changes people's moods. Marshall suggests classical for the ceremony, for example. Then, jazzy background music for the cocktail hour. "Remember, it must be right for the couple and the setting," he adds.
- "A good band leader knows the moment to play each style during the reception. Sinatra might be good at the start, but not in the middle when the energy level is high. Dance music might work well here."
- Make sure the band is dressed for the affair Marshall tells us. Communicate your needs to the band up front.
Remember that some bands will be booked far in advance, especially the pros, so book your talent as soon as you set the date and decide on the location. The right music will put harmony into your wedding from the start!
|
|
|
|
