Wedding Bands And What You Need To Know...

If you've not booked a band before but are determined to have one for your special day (and why on earth shouldn't you!), then the following information should make everything go smoothly from beginning to end.

• Check the venue allows Bands and holds the appropriate licenses

Sometimes, even if the venue does have the correct licenses you should enquire as to whether the performance area contains obstructive noise or decibel limiters. Sometimes, if these limiters are set too low it may be that a Party style band will not be able to perform due to the risk of equipment damage and it may be worth thinking about a quieter style act (i.e. a Swing or Jazz act) or a Warble Entertainment professional DJ.

• Check the venue has enough space and power for everything you want!

Remember, if your venue only has a 6 x 6 ft performance space then booking a 10 piece Party band just isn't going to work!! As a general rule 14 x 14 ft is enough space for a band with 3 - 4 members, but the larger the line-up the more space required. However, many bands are flexible with regards space and are happy to accommodate wherever they can.

Also, please remember, any band that uses a PA, lighting, amplifiers, etc. are going to require a safe supply of power. Normally, a minimum of 3 plug sockets is required but this can vary so it may be worth checking just in case. And, don't forget - if your event is in a marquee; confirm with the marquee suppliers that they will be able to supply an adequate generator.

• Consider when it is best for the Band to set-up

Nobody would want the band setting up right in the middle of the wedding speeches or starting to sound check halfway through the Wedding Breakfast! So, if the room where the band is to perform is the same one where the rest of the day's events are taking place it may be worth arranging for the band to set-up earlier in the day. It may incur a little extra cost, but it will mean the ambience of your big day is stress free. In addition, in some venues it is normal practice for guests to ‘retire' to another area while the room is rearranged between the meal and the evening reception - this may be the perfect time for the band to set up.

• The Band will need looking after too!

Don't forget - the band are only human! They may have had to travel to be with you, they will have had to carry equipment and unload, set-up their performance area, sound check... and this is before they are expected to give the performance of their lives... which, don't worry they will! But, treat them well- make sure that they are adequately provided for by allowing refreshments, unlimited soft drinks and tea, coffee, etc. Also, make sure that they have somewhere to prepare themselves so that they can look their best. Check with the venue to ensure they have somewhere to change and relax before they take to the stage.

• Consider the Band's payment

And, finally... ensure that you have thought about paying the band... no act likes to go looking for somebody at the end of the night to ‘collect'. Think about this before and maybe designate payment of the band as one of the ‘best man's' duties?

Warble Entertainment represents only the most professional and outstanding Party Bands. So, you can rest assured that when booking a Party Band with Warble your event will be one to remember!


By M. Warren
M. Warren – Warble Entertainment Agency

www.warble-entertainment.com