How to Select Professional Musicians for your Destination Wedding

In the fast-paced world in which we live, it's harder than ever to be able to spot the genuine article from imposters in every industry. When it comes to selecting music for such an important day, the right entertainment company becomes a critical element in making the day special.

The music will be remembered by everyone. Make it a good memory. Here are some essential questions to ask prospective vendors:

1. How much experience do you have? - It might seem like a common sense question, but it is a must. No one wants to be a company's first job in the wedding business.

2. How versatile are you? - Now more than ever, versatility is key: There are several companies who specialize in one genre of music, but select few can masterfully arrange an array of versatility with substance and flair. So if you want a variety of musical tastes, from Pop, to Jazz, to Funk, Latin, Swing, Reggae, Metal, Ballads and even New Orleans Zydeco, make sure you're clear in advance.

3. Do you have testimonials? - Make sure you receive at least three references. Be specific. Ask for addresses and phone numbers, so that you can contact the clients directly. Often they will be willing to give you additional information and feedback over the phone.

4. Where or how can we see you perform? - Ask for a list of upcoming events where the entertainment company you are reviewing can be seen live. This way you know what you can expect on your special day.

5. What kind of musical training do they have? - Experience and training separates the average from the exceptional. Have they taken music lessons? Do they continue to study? Did they go to an accredited music school or take private lessons? Can they play any style of music, in any rhythm, in any feel and in all levels of sound, from ultra soft to ultra loud? This is particularly important, because many musicians can play quickly and loudly, but only professional musicians can play quickly and softly or loudly and slowly.

6. How comfortable are they in front of people? – Intelligence and affability, both on and off stage, is important. Musicians not only perform the music, they also serve as a master of ceremonies. They will be announcing the bridal party and coordinating each phase of the reception. This includes guiding you through the entrances, your first dance, parent dances, cake cutting, etc. These are all important moments within your day.

7. How do Band/Deejay combinations work? – Quite often the bride wants a Deejay and the Groom wants a band or vice versa. So this question becomes increasingly important. The answer is not necessarily a short one. It depends on who you are working with and how much experience they have had in Band/Deejay combinations. For this issue, refer to questions #1 & 4.

8. How does the process of coordinating the band and their equipment work with respect to destination weddings? - This is a question that is not often considered, but is a good one. Usually when musicians are traveling for a destination wedding. The musicians have the option of shipping their equipment via a major shipping company, but often they will elect to use equipment from trusted music vendors in the area where the event will occur. The entertainment company or wedding coordinator should address these issues directly.

9. Get it in writing. - Once you have selected the entertainment company you will utilize, get everything in writing. This includes the contract terms, deposit and payment options, and any additional services required by the band, such as special songs to be played, special dances for family members, the time the musicians need to show up, attire to be worn, and the specific type and brand of equipment they should use during the wedding.

10. What if I don't like the instrumentation, arrangement of a song, or a specific band member? - The better bands and entertainment companies will offer you flexibility. Many expect to choose the type of music played, but most do not realize it is also possible to choose the number of musicians from four to twelve pieces, types of instruments available, and specific singers or performers. This is a great way to help you to determine who will be right for you. With all the choices you have these days, you don't have to settle, but remember to prioritize the factors that are most important to you.

11. How long has the band been together? - How often do they change members, if at all? This is important to know for all of the members of the band, not just with the singers. Unless musicians are accustomed to playing together, their timing and rhythm could be compromised. The chemistry of the band will affect the outcome of their musical performance.