Top Tips for Selecting Your Reception Entertainment
DJs - Bands - Entertainment - And More!
The vendor you select for your reception entertainment can completely change the vibe of your event. Do you want a traditional, classic feeling with a string quartet? An energetic DJ that will make it feel like you’re in a club? A live band that will pull all your guests to the dance floor? Whatever you decide, make sure they are able to meet your expectations for your reception. Below are some top tips to consider when selecting this vendor.
Before You Book
Here are the 3 things that you should think about before booking your reception entertainment:
Style
Services
Set-Up
Style
Before you book, you should definitely meet with your entertainment vendor either in person or talk with them on the phone. This will help you determine if you can have a good working relationship with them. You may also consider asking if there are any upcoming events they will be performing at where you can see them in action.
Services
Don’t forget to check your vendor’s contracts! This goes for any vendor, not just entertainment. Specifically for entertainment, here are the things you want to look out for:
How many hours are included in their contract? Do they offer additional hours? Do they have required breaks throughout the night?
Will they be able to serve as the “Master of Ceremonies” for the event (i.e. announcements, introductions, etc.)?
Does their music library match the songs/genres you will want to be played?
What materials do they provide? (i.e. stage, wireless/lapel mics, lights, etc.)
Set up
In addition to the services your entertainment vendor provides, what setup do they provide or require from your venue?
If your event is outside, is there a covered space for them to set up in case of inclement weather?
Are there enough outlets available?
Is there enough space for them in your venue?
Check out this post on “Black Owned Wedding and Event Vendors”
After You Book
After you have decided on what type of vendor you’d like to pursue, found your perfect match, and signed on the dotted line, it is time to make sure you are clear with outlining your expectations for your wedding.
Expectations
Music
Do you have a “do not play” list?
Do you want to make sure your event doesn’t turn into an open mic night?
Do you want to allow requests from your guests throughout the night?
Have you double (even triple) communicated and checked that your entertainment has the correct song and version for each of your event milestones (e.g. processional, first dance)?
Activities
Do you plan to do a grand entrance with your wedding party? Be sure to communicate how to properly pronounce each person’s name.
Announcements: everything from reception activities, dismissing tables for dinner, or calling out questions for the shoe game. Make sure to clarify if your entertainment will be emceeing these and when they need to do this.
Check out this post on “Ultimate Wedding Tips from Past Brides”
Now that you’ve successfully completed the above you’re ready to get your reception started! Remember: this is YOUR wedding - so feel free to make the calls and be as specific as you need.
Do you have any other tips you’d like to share? Comment below and share your lessons learned for other couples.