It's your wedding and you naturally want everything to be perfect. As for your entertainment you've spent weeks going through potential musicians and your inbox is steadily filling up with quotations. You've had multiple conversations with band leaders and your head is spinning. Before you make the final decision and ink that contract, here are a few things to remember in handling wedding entertainers. Take a look at the 5 top action points:
1. Hungry musicians won't give a great performance. These entertainers, whether variety acts or function bands, probably spend a lot of time travelling to get to the wedding destination When they reach the venue they'll probably be too busy setting their equipment up to tend to their hungry tummies. As the host make sure there is ample food prepared and available for your musicians when they arrive.
2. A little TLC will go a long way. Prepare a good area for your musicians to enjoy their meal. Give them enough time to unwind, talk amongst themselves and gear up for their performance.
3. Reserve a nice place for your entertainers to change in. They'll probably show up in jeans and a t-shirt and change into their performance attire at the event venue. Plus, they'll have instrument cases with them. It's best to book a spare hotel room for your wedding entertainers to keep their equipment secure and organized. If you're holding your event at a hotel, book a spare room for a couple of hours. It won't hurt your budget and it will keep things hassle-free. Don't let your musicians change in the toilet, its' too tight and they won't be able to stay there for long. A makeshift standby area is the best option.
4. Provide your musicians a steady supply of water and soft drinks. A common sense tip, sure, but it's something that could be sorely overlooked. The sweet gesture will keep your musicians rested and energized.
5. Get a point person to brief your wedding musicians the night before. Make sure they know what time they are expected to arrive, leave, and what songs they will sing. Keep your band updated on any last-minute schedule changes (something that usually happens in a wedding).
These are the 5 critical action points but the most important tip of all is this: taking care of your performers will give you value for your money. A little TLC will make a lot of difference for both you and the band.
Author Resource:
Brad Lazarus is manager of Motown tribute band , The Milestones, the ultimate function band . Available to hire for all corporate and private events. Brad's knowledge of the event entertainment market stretches back over 10 years.