THINKING OF HIRING A BAND?

There are pros and cons to hiring a band for mixed events such as receptions or parties of any kind. Remember, the party is what your guests generally remember the most. I always advise my clients to plan the event around the guests and their diversity to make it truly memorable for the vast majority. Here is what I think about bands and personal events.....

Pros: As a guy who loves to sing and perform live outside of my disc jockey business, I love the energy and vibe in a room when the crowd and band feed off of each other and everyone is into the music. You can't replace that.

Cons:
1) Lack of flexibility. What happens when you have guests with diverse backgrounds and age groups such as a wedding reception or 50th birthday party? A band can't really change their playlists or the genre they play. They usually don't take requests either
2) Higher Cost. A GOOD 4 or 5 piece professional band is not cheap, nor should they be. You definitely GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR in the entertainment business.
3) Bands play sets. You are going to have to entertain your guests throughout the night between sets. If not, your guests will lose interest.

So, if your guests are all into the same music, around the same age and do the same thing in the same place....a band might be the way to go if you can afford it. Most events need a variety of music, and the flexibility to entertain based on the guests' individual and group preferences. For if it is not for the guests, then why do it at all? Just a thought.....

Til next time...

It's been awhile. After a very busy Christmas party season, the time is now to focus on the upcoming summer wedding season. A few tips for people searching for the right DJ for their wedding.
A. Make sure the DJ is a professional who is holding a valid AVLA license to play music. There are disc jockeys on Vancouver Island who are not licensed with the Audio-Visual Licensing Agency of Canada.
B. Make sure that the DJ meets with you at the earliest opportunity and presents a proper contract for the event. While it won't do you any good if he skips town, a proper contract and event planning sheet usually means that the DJ knows what he/she is doing and is prepared to put their reputation as a professional on the line. I received at least 3 inquiries last summer at last minute because their DJ was nowhere to be found.
C. A professional DJ will normally insist on a monetary deposit to 'reserve' your date for you, along with the contract. This is a first come first serve business and most professional DJ's are busy enough that a reservation is required. Beware of fly-by-night operations. Get a receipt for any money you give a DJ.
D. Don't be afraid to ask questions regarding playlists, what the DJ will wear, knowledge of the venue etc. Also, a good experienced DJ will be able to offer advice regarding music selection for first and second dances, garter and bouquet protocol and the need to keep on schedule. You don't want to 'lose' your audience, especially older/younger guests who may have to leave early. You don't want your guests to miss out on all the fun involved in the bouquet/garter toss or any other things you have planned.

TTYL

DJ Big Eye