5 Things That Truly Make a Difference!
You've set the date! Now, it's time for some exciting decisions. You're about to choose venues, flowers, food, music, napkins, table linens, seating arrangements, colors, invitations, guest list, attendants, officiant, caterer, photographer, videographer, event planner, and let's not forget the honeymoon. It’s a thrilling journey, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming!
Here are 5 fantastic tips from Cloud 9 musicians who have dazzled at over 1000 weddings.
We hope these insights will bring calm and ease one of the major stressors in your planning adventure.
Tip #1 - Hire Pros
The difference in quality and expertise with professional musicians is huge! Steer clear of "weekend warriors": amateurs, Uncle Jimmy, or student ensembles. Discover talented musicians by consulting event planners, venues, and simple online searches. Here are some questions to ask before making your choice.
Have you ever played at this venue? A pro group knows most venues in your area and what to expect.
How many weddings have you played? Pro event ensembles typically book between 20-80 weddings each year, plus corporate events, parties, etc.
Are your musicians members of the American Federation of Musicians, the professional union?
What other musical organizations do the members of the quartet play with? Seek players who perform with symphony orchestras, recording artists, Broadway touring shows, etc. Find a quartet whose players are in high demand.
Pros will know what you want and how to make it happen.
Tip #2 - Ask the Musicians for Advice
It's completely okay if you're new to this. Most people haven't planned an event with live music before. Musicians can be a fantastic resource to help you decide what will sound incredible at your event. We've played weddings where the bride chose every song and others where we selected all the music. My suggestion is to find a balance. Definitely choose the music for the bride's entrance. If you don't have a dream song, ask the quartet manager for recommendations. Always feel free to ask questions. Here are some topics to discuss with your musicians.
Songs that the players know work well
Dress - formal, casual, etc.
Wedding Planner or on-site coordinators cuing the musicians
Style of wedding - classical, pop, country, video game music, etc.
Weather restrictions
Parking at the venue - shuttle bus, gondola, etc.
Officiant - recessional cue, cues for special music, unity candle music, etc.
Working with singers
Tip #3 - Look For Music You Love
Explore the playlists on the group's website. While no group will have every song you love, a good one will offer a wide range from classical to modern pop music. We've played weddings featuring only Disney songs, video game music, Star Wars, or Sci-fi themes. If there's a must-have song not on the playlist, the musicians can likely find or arrange it for a string quartet. Expect an additional fee for the music arranger's services.
Tip #4 - Relax
Congratulations, you've come this far! You've hired amazing live musicians and crafted a playlist unique to your dreams. You've tackled one of the planning giants.
Your wedding is going to be SPECTACULAR!
Tip #5 - Enjoy the Moment
This is your day. Let go of the anticipation, conversations, instructions, and supervisions.
Slow down, savor each moment, and smile as this day, this event, this future memory unfolds; the people, the promises, the music, the joy, the surprises, the mistakes, and the laughter are all part of this - your wedding day.
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