Chicago Wedding & Party Resource 2017 Spring / Summer

41 / 132

C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
39
BUDGET FOR SOUND
You can expect 10 percent of your wedding
budget to go toward music. Of course, if
you have a string quartet for the ceremony
and a jazz trio for cocktail hour and a
10-piece band for your reception, you’ll
spend a lot more. As with all things
wedding, though, if you’re getting married
in one of the less-popular months, you
might be able to negotiate a better deal.
Make sure the contract you sign details:
• The date.
• Arrival time (or times, if the musicians
are playing at more than one location),
the location and address.
• Number of hours they’re scheduled to
perform.
• Who is expected to provide
what equipment. Most
bands will tote everything
they need to a gig but don’t
assume.
• Attire guidelines. Within
reason.
• The names of the musicians
who will perform that day,
as well as alternates.
• Base fee and overtime rates.
• Cancellation and/or refund policy.
Hiring a band is a big decision. There
are a slew of resources on the web to
help you make up your mind. But there’s
no substitute for legwork. Stick with
professional musicians who understand the
kind of event you are planning, listen to
them perform live if you can, and ask for
references. The best musicians have solid
reputations and are happy to refer you to
satisfied clients.
Musicians are often booked for gigs more
than a year in advance. No matter when
you’re getting hitched, you can’t start
deciding on music soon enough.
© CTW Features
Away
WWW.DISCOMPL.COM
We have been providing professional DJ entertainment services at
weddings for over 20 years. We take pride in our great professional team
of DJs. Sound systems with the latest state-of-the-art technology, lighting,
displays and a variety of shows available giving you the best atmosphere.
Reserve for your wedding now. Call: 847-658-2959 / 847-514-0748