Shake Your Groove Thang!

I talked to one of my favorite local musicians last night and booked him for our wedding reception - Keith Williams.

He's a very talented guy, and he has quite a few talented friends too! He plays a mix of music - a little something for everyone - and he can also play your own music, you know, for your first dance and things like that. I've hired him, along with a second guitarist and a female singer.

He was nice enough to accommodate me, considering there is no elevator and the reception hall is on the second floor. And that means all that equipment and those huge speakers will have to be lugged up the stairs and back down again post-event. Some of my security will have to double as moving men for the event - but I think an extra bit of money will help motivate them.

So what do I think makes great musical entertainment for a wedding reception?
#1 - Someone with a great attitude. Keith is such a nice guy, and he's always upbeat! The room always feels good when he plays, because you can just feel that he loves his music. You want someone you can spend a good amount of time with and who you know will keep the party light and fun!
#2 - Someone willing to work with you. When I mentioned the stairs-only problem, he never hesitated to say it was no problem as long as he had a little help. And you need to make sure they are willing to play the things you want, not just what they always play. Make sure to decide whether your event is more formal or casual and convey those wishes to your musician.
#3 - Someone with some talent! Go listen to some of your potential musicians play! If you're thinking about a d.j., ask for some references so you can call past brides to see how they did. Most would be willing to give up some people for you to contact - if they won't, I would move on to your next choice... better to be safe than sorry.

For our wedding, we are surrounding ourselves and our guests with people who have great personalities and who love their jobs. I feel that the entire feeling of the event hinges on the great attitude and congeniality of the vendors - it really shows in their work! And adding Keith to the mix just makes it that much better.