|
|
Advice on Hiring Entertainment for Your Wedding or Event 
Your wedding day is probably the most important day of your life. It's a day that will bestow many precious memories for years to come. These are memories that can be enhanced by the addition of music to your wedding and reception. Music can bring back memories of days long past and it can also create new memories that will be cherished long after your wedding day. The music will then be where memories begin. The same applies for any event you are producing, whether it's a Sweet 16, 50th wedding anniversary or a corporate function. You want people to have a great time. Hiring a deejay, live band or entertainment service should be easier for you after you consider the following helpful tips.
Is the entertainer experienced or how long has the company been in business? An experienced company or performer is not likely to make mistakes that a beginner will make. These range from knowing how to read your crowd to making sure they carry backup equipment.
Should I ask for references? Most companies, individuals or performers will supply you with a list of references that they readily have available. Some of these people may be relatives or friends. Ask for references from other vendors they work with on a regular basis. Include references from previous clients as well. This should give you diverse opinions on the entertainment you are considering for your wedding or party.
Get and sign a contract It's for your protection as well as the entertainer. Make sure the contract isn't one sided in the entertainer's favor. Ask to have a particular word, phrase or even an entire paragraph changed if you don't like it the way it is. Don't assume or take anything for granted. Get it in writing. There is nothing worse than for someone to verbally guarantee something for you and then know nothing about it on the day of the event. Be sure the contract covers all the basics. These include the total fee, overtime rate (if overtime is even available), deposit requirement, cancellation fee (if any), number of hours, any breaks that they may take, when the balance is due and other pertinent details.
What types of music or song titles are available? Most weddings or parties usually require a wide variety of music. You may personally dislike Polkas, but your uncle from Cleveland may not be able to have a fun time without hearing one or two. Music at large gatherings should be diversified - something to please everyone. However, it's best to stay away from Heavy Metal or Hardcore Rap! If your function has a theme to it (Hawaiian, Sock Hop Oldies, etc.), then find out if the entertainer will have enough music to cover that particular genre. Ask questions and don't assume anything!
Will the entertainer also act as an emcee? This would include announcing the introduction of the wedding party and other functions throughout the course of the event
How long in advance is it necessary to book my entertainment? The best deejays and entertainers are commonly booked at least one year in advance for some dates. Other times, you might be able to hire someone on short notice. In this business, it's first come, first served.
What will you need to provide the entertainer? Staging or risers, table(s) with tablecloth and/or skirting, electrical outlets, protection from the elements if outside and even a meal if the event is going to last a while. These are just some things that may be required or asked for by the entertainer. By the way, if you will be providing a meal to the entertainment, you might consider having the caterer or hotel fix a lesser priced meal instead of feeding them the same food your guests will be eating.
If I hire a single entertainer, such as one deejay, is it acceptable for them to have other people with them? Depending on their function (dance motivator, techie while the deejay emcees, etc.), it is acceptable for the deejay to merely have an assistant, but never more than one person.
How will the entertainer be attired? This is something you need to talk to the entertainer(s) about. For formal weddings, it would be appropriate to have them dressed in a tuxedo or suit. More casual attire may be permitted if the event is taking place outside or under a tent. Unless it's a picnic, it is never acceptable for the entertainer to wear a tee shirt, even if it does have their name on it.
Of all the advice listed above, about the best thing to remember is get it in writing. It doesn't matter if it is someone you've never done business with or they are a relative or best friend. A written contract between you and them is worth every penny.
You may have other concerns or questions not addressed above. Ask the person you're hiring. Believe me, no question is too strange or different. Find out everything you need to know. A reputable company will be glad to answer all your questions or at least, research the information you requested. If they don't, or you get the impression that you're wasting their time, call another company. It's your big day and you should feel relaxed and secure about your entertainment.
|
