1. You need to book your band or DJ at least 8-12 months ahead of time. Most bands cost between $300 to $750 per musician for four hours. DJs can cost between $250-$500 per hour.
Photo: Geoff White Photographers
2. There are many ways to find a great band or DJ: Ask photographers, site managers, and caterers for suggestions. Call your local musician's union, or check out entertainment "brokers," who manage and book bands, DJs and other performers. If you're on a budget, local music schools and community colleges are great places to search for a band.
3. Interview a few different acts. Find out if they are open to playing the songs you want them to, and learn what styles of music they love. If you want a certain genre, go straight to the source. No use hiring a classical vocalist to sing power pop. By the same token, if your wedding needs a mix of pop and jazz, classics and country, you'll need to find a band that has the chops for your eclectic requests.
4. Make sure the musicians can take care of their own amplifiers, instruments and sound systems. Depending on the size of your venue, your DJ will likely need at least four speakers, two amplifiers and two CD players so there's no break in the music. And back-up equipment is imperative in case equipment fails.
5. It's also important to be aware that generally, for every 45 minutes of music, a band will expect a fifteen-minute break. Sometimes these breaks can throw off the pacing of your reception -- but if the band or DJ is familiar with the wedding circuit, they will be able to space their breaks to coincide with opportune times. On occasion, musicians will play through their break for an extra fee. Ask ahead of time.
6. Will your band leader or DJ make a good master of ceremonies? In other words, can your guy (or gal) play and talk at the same time? Most couples rely on their DJ or band leader to guide them through the wedding celebration, announcing everything from the first dance to the garter toss. Is your pick up for the job?
7. What are the hidden costs? Will your band charge more for learning your first dance song? How much will they charge for overtime? Is there an early load-in charge? What about meals for the band? Also, who's your contact if anything changes? Be sure to get the phone, cell and pager numbers you'll need.
8. Be clear about what you want your band or DJ to wear to your wedding. You probably won't want them in t-shirts and shorts, so make sure they know what you expect.
9. Be sure they perform their sound checks well before their talents are needed. You probably don't want your guests arriving to the ear-piercing sounds of feedback!
10. Check the written proposal to ensure it includes all the points you've discussed when you first met.
See More: Budgeting , Entertainment , Planning , Receptions , Wedding Music