As with anything else, wedding entertainment is a minefield. There are thousands of Wedding DJ’s, Bands, magicians and Singers alike out there, waiting, eagerly to take your money for a service that could be either fantastic, or not so good. The key is this: THOROUGH RESEARCH!
With this particular product, you cannot always see exactly what you are buying until you have actually bought it. You can’t easily see the full product range as there are so many types out there. And when you’ve finally found something you like, can you have it? And will it be reliable enough to show for the biggest day of your life?
Here are a few simple measures you must take when researching and booking your wedding entertainment:
• Use the Internet - You will find some of the largest directories for entertainers this way. Browse various websites for Bands and Singers. Use various search methods and phrases such as “London Wedding Singer” or “Wedding entertainment in Liverpool”, paying attention to sponsored ads that highlight your chosen phrases.
• Take your pick! Once you’ve found something you like the look of you’ll want to find as much information on this service as you can, even before the contact stage. For example if it’s a band, do they have online demos? Images? Testimonials? You want to be at least semi-sure before you hand over your contact details. Narrow it down to say, your favourite 5 singers, before you start any contact.
• Obtain a quote and Availability - Money is always an issue for most of us! I wouldn’t want to spend half of my wedding budget on a band or singer, no matter how good they are, so I’d be on the look out for realistic pricing. You don’t want to book someone who is overly expensive, but you also don’t want to pay £200 for a singer who will tell you “yeah, I’ll sing for you and I’m also a DJ!” When you first contact the entertainer(s), you would first enquire about availability for the date in question, and then a price. Also how long will your entertainer perform for? Performance times can vary, though most singers and bands perform for 1 or 2 x 45 minute sets, depending upon their pricing structure.
• More information - If you can, get more information about their service. Can you visit them live? Do they have more demos? A repertoire? It is always good to meet with someone first, however, remember that this may not be possible for many entertainers who work solely in the private market.
• Book and Secure - This is the most crucial part. Most Bands and Singers will take a deposit or booking fee (anything up to 50% is normal), so you must be completely sure of your choice at this stage. It is always wise to obtain some sort of receipt and a contract of agreement. This way you can be 99% sure that they WILL be turning up on the day and if they don’t, you have the necessary means to be compensated in full.
By this stage you are well on your way to having an unforgettable and entertaining wedding. You can use the remaining time before your wedding day to liaise with the entertainer, making sure that they have all of your particulars and preferences.
Organising wedding entertainment can be stressful, but if you make the right choices early and are prepared to research and book in advance, you will save yourself and your partner at least one set of Wedding worries.
About the Author: Luca has worked as a Manchester Wedding Singer for many years. He now provides Wedding Services and Wedding DJ packages to private clients throughout the whole of the UK. He also provides Private Party and Corporate Entertainment in places such as Liverpool, Birmingham and London. Visit http://www.vocalshow.co.uk for more details.
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