Hints and tips from Kathryn O'Leary from bsharpduo.co.uk
Underneath those thoughts of wedding dresses, food, venues, flowers, guest list, gift lists and honeymoons, is that often long-buried thought of the music for the reception! 'Oh the least of my worries,' I hear you cry, but when you are forcing a smile trying to dance at your reception to that dodgy old DJ with a twenty year old PA system and an extremely offensive mullet, the words 'I told you so!' will ring loud and clear!
As one half of a successful function duo and disco, we are often faced with the two extremes-those who are not bothered whatsoever about entertainment and think about it at the last possible moment, and those who phone up every week for 18 months discussing 'the tenth song in the DJ set,' or 'make sure that you don't wear purple because it will clash with my colour scheme!'
Firstly, spend the time thinking about the type of entertainment that you would like...a seventies DJ, a live duo or band, a mix of live and disco, a swing band, a soloist, a close up magic act during dinner? Then have a scoot on the net to see what you come across in your area.
We take most of our wedding bookings direct via our website, although many couples prefer to use an entertainment agent to find them the package that they require. Lists of agents can be easily located in The Yellow Pages. You must be aware though, that you will often be paying around 15% more for your disco or entertainment through a reputable agent in order to cover fees.
One piece of advice from experience is that although extremely difficult, you must trust the professional capacity of the artistes/dj that you book. They have done hundreds of weddings just like yours, and have a wealth of experience from which to advise you about the format of your night. Many djs do accept 'playlists' from their clients, but this may bring a situation where the dancefloor is empty whilst you and your new hubby/wife are bopping in the middle! I have seen it happen, where the dj was requested to play some tunes that your granny would not be wanting to listen to!
So think about what to do, don't leave it until last, and make sure that the entertainment that you book comes with references, public liability insurance and contracts.
Kathryn O'Leary
www.bsharpduo.co.uk
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