Live Music For Your First Dance: Dos and Don'ts

 

Tommy & Claire dance to a live band for their first dance at Coopers Hall

Live music is fun. It's raw. It's entertaining. So it's not surprising that it's a popular choice for weddings instead of having a DJ (or in addition to). Having a band play or someone near and dear to you sing your first dance can be an utterly romantic thought...but is it a wise choice? 

I say a resounding YES! (Your day, your way...remember?) However live music can be unpredictable and especially in the summer when wedding musicians are often playing several nights a week, sometimes things can get a bit blurry. I've seen first dances where the band was supposed to end the song, the couple dipped, and the band kept playing (and the groom then, one handed as he held his bride, gave the "cut" motion to the band). I had a couple who had their band start the song differently than the original song, therefore throwing them off kilter first thing. They were able to recover and continue with smashing success, but still...that's a stressful way to start your performance with ALL your family and loved one's eyes on you.

So how can you avoid these bloopers? Here are a few tips to get you off on the right foot (pun intended):

1. Have your band or vocalist record your song to practice with. This is KEY. Each musician will play a song slightly different. Have them record your song so you get used to their intonations, their tempo, and where they pause to breathe as your practice. This is especially important if you're wanting them to cut your song somewhere or change lyrics. It's also a great insurance plan to have on hand in advance JUST in case the worst case scenario happens and your singer can't attend the day of your wedding due to injury, illness or another emergency.
   
2. Reach out to them with reminders the week before your wedding. Send them a quick note to remind them that you're doing a special first dance to THAT song. Remind them of your edits and any other requests you may have at that time.
3. Pick a song and musician that go together. Try to have your song match the artist you've chosen. Hired an 80s band to play your wedding? Maybe pick a first dance song from that era. Hired a country band? Well, you get the gist. If you pick a song that's in their "wheelhouse" - or vice versa, pick a band that fits your song - you'll have much greater success with your song lining up with your hopes & dreams the day of. 
   

Lucas & Steph dance to a live band (John Ross Music) at The Evergreen

Photographer: Yasmin Khajavi Photography

Planner: Your Perfect Bridesmaid 
 

I know these are extra steps that take more time and thought in what might already be a packed agenda of wedding planning, but please trust me - these 3 simple tips can help eliminate any unfortunate surprises and mishaps during your first dance on your wedding day.