OK- we have been there and have seen it all. More small tips for a great reception or party

DON’T: Call for group photos when the dance floor is packed:

When your photographer decides to take group shots when the dance floor is rockin’, either 1/2 the dance floor goes outside to take the picture, or the bandleader has to clear the dance floor to do these shots. This kills the momentum of the party.

DO: Try having the photographer do group shots during background music time. The bandleader will be happy to coordinate this with your photographer.

DON’T:  No dance music during the meal:

Quite often, the caterer or venue asks the band to stop the dancing and get everyone seated for dinner, and then does not bring out food for 10 or 15 minutes. We know the importance of having everyone seated to enjoy the main course while it is hot.

However, we are  very skilled at taking the cue from watching the servers, and will automatically slow the music down once service really begins.

DO: It is also important to play some DANCE music between courses. If you play only slow music while all of the courses are served and eaten, everyone may get very full and it will be difficult to get them up and dancing afterward. How much dancing that goes on at the event is directly proportional to how much FUN they have. This is what they’ll talk about for years to come.

DON’T: No dance music until after dinner:

Similar to the previous tip is when the client asks the band to wait until after dinner to start playing upbeat music. Often this leaves guests to initially enter the room to background music, instead of lively music that says “there’s a party goin’ on!”

DO:  Have the band play as soon as the banquet doors open allows the band to warm up the crowd. It also goes a long way toward pleasing those guests who might not be into the all out fast dancing that often takes place after dinner. Herein begins the energy.

DON’T:  Meeting with the band between songs:

Whenever the client, a guest, or party planner attempts to micro manage and instruct the band frequently on the night of the event, it can hurt the flow of the party, and can quickly clean the dance floor. Anything more than just a note or a quick statement is a distraction.

DO: All of the details will worked out, and make all of your requests known, prior to the party.

DON’T: Be selective but leave the rest to us:

We know it is your day, and we tailor the music to your tastes. However, the bandleader knows the songs that work well with each other, and how to organize those songs to get the best response from the crowd.

Clients often think they know what their guests are going to like, only to be surprised during their event at what songs their guests respond to.

DO: We found that what works best is to pick some of your FAVORITES and let the band work them into a performance that will energize ALL of the guests attending your event.

You can also put together a list of songs you do not want played, so the bandleader knows to avoid playing these songs.