Guest Blogger: Becca Kaufman & Claire Bao, BeatMix Music

The search begins. Amidst the wardrobe and venue, between the invitations and appetizers, weddings are a series of decisions. Each one leads to the day you’ve dreamed of, and the celebration culminates with your reception. Here are a few pointers on how to make the RIGHT choices when it comes to your wedding entertainment.

1. Hire the Right Band/DJ

First impressions go a long way.The most important part of the hiring process is connection. You have to have confidence that he/she is the right person for your party and understands your vision. One way to check compatibility is to see if the song list reflects your tastes. Another is in response time. Is s/he easy to reach? Open communication is key to making sure you stay on the same page. Feeling comfortable with and trusting your band leader or DJ will provide ease of mind at your reception.

2. Song Selection

Weddings are unique in how diverse the attendees can be. Music can bridge generational and cultural gaps, catering to a broad audience. When it comes to song selection, pick songs from different decades that will appeal to the majority of your guests. Too many obscure picks can be harmful to the party by alienating your audience. On the other hand, don’t be afraid to customize music selection because your tastes reflect you and your lifestyle. So personalize your list, but be aware of including songs your guests will recognize. Your band leader or DJ will help find the right balance.

3. Keeping Feet on the Dance Floor

Depending on the layout of your venue, there are certain decisions you can make to keep people on the dance floor. Namely, make sure the bar is in the same room as the entertainment. If you can, keep the sweet table and photobooth in there too, so people aren’t constantly wandering off for another drink or cookie. Also, as the guests of honor, you ARE the party. By staying on the dance floor, your guests will gravitate there too.

4. So Let’s Raise Our Glass…

Weddings are a special night. But with an excessive number of “special treats” and “special songs”, the novelty wears off. Receptions can get bogged down with too many interruptions. Not everyone in your extended family needs to prepare a toast. For a party to have a smooth flow, keep the “special treats” and toasts to a minimum to keep the celebration moving. Trust the people you’ve hired. Together, your entire vending team from consultant to band leader will work with you to create the party you’ve envisioned.

Have more questions?

Becca Kaufman is the founder and owner of BeatMix Music, providing entertainment for weddings and special events. Moreover, she is also the band leader/ vocalist for Becca Kaufman Orchestra. Following a long career in music including performances with multiple Chicago society bands and her own radio show, Becca is excited to share her expertise about wedding entertainment with Bouquet Catcher.

Claire Bao is a recent addition to BeatMix Music and Becca Kaufman Orchestra from the logistical end. In addition to BeatMix, she works at Concord Music Hall as the box office coordinator and marketing assistant. Her growing knowledge on the wedding entertainment industry is based off Becca’s guidance and her own experience at being the most fun at receptions.