Music For Wedding Receptions
Melbourne, Australia

Music for wedding receptions can be in the form of a soloist for the quieter sections or can be provided by a band or DJ, especially for when you want to vamp it up later. I have many years experience as a wedding entertainer in Australia, so the following tips should set you in the right direction in planning your wedding reception music.
Book Ahead
When you are considering music for wedding receptions be aware that you may need to book well ahead, because many of the really popular bands and DJs are booked out many months ahead.
The Social Hour
This part of the wedding is also known as "The Cocktail Hour". It is the time in-between the ceremony and the meal, while you are perhaps elsewhere having your photos taken.
Your guests often use this time to catch up with one another and having background music can set a really nice backdrop for them.
The music therefore should be non-intrusive and not too loud. The harp is particularly ideal for this segment.
Choosing Your Band / DJ
Make sure that when you are checking out entertainers for music for wedding ceremonies, that they know exactly what you're after. For a start, do they have a repertoire that suits you and your guests? Keep in mind that the band leader or DJ is the one with the microphone so they also need to be a great M.C. (Master of Ceremonies.) Don't be afraid in instructing them on volume levels, especially during the social hour and meal when people want to talk. They should have lots of experience in playing music for wedding receptions and be able to give you demos of their music, as well as provide testimonials from happy customers. They need to be professionally attired for the occasion too? The last thing you want is a motely crew of band members on display. Or maybe you wouldn't personally mind, but it might make someone in your family or a guest feel uncomfortable.

Some Questions To Ask
Do they invite audience participation when they play music for wedding receptions? Do they provide a light show and is that included in the price being quoted? Is their repertoire wide enough to cater for musical requests from some of your guests? Do they have back-up equipment in case the equipment they are using fails?
Planning Your Music
Some things you may need to think about when making arrangements with your DJ or band are exactly when you want to have the following:
- Introductions
- Announcements / Speeches
- Blessings
- Toasts
- Cake Cutting
- First Dance
- Father Bride Dance
- Mother Son Dance
- Ethnic Dance
- Other Special Items
The Band / DJ's Requirements
Ask your band or DJ how much time they need to set up and then make sure that the venue is available to them at that time. Ask them how often they will need a break and how long will those breaks be? And will CDs will be played during these breaks? Are they expecting that meals be provided? What are their overtime charges? The party might be really rocking and you may wish them to stay on longer? When will this need to be paid by?

More On Wedding Music

Servicing Greater Melbourne, Australia

|