[lchick]

My fiance is a musician, and neither of us are too crazy about the standard pop/funk/disco most wedding bands play. we have musician friends who can play jazz standards beautifully, and know a salsa band that can also sit in - but will people, especially our younger guests, dance to that sort of thing? I know it will make our parents happy, but every wedding I've been to in the last several years has had the usual old top 40 wedding band - I really want people to be up and dancing at my wedding...

[The Video Pros]

Please do consider hiring a DJ with good sound equipment and wireless microphone. Just be sure that the DJ you hire has a good compilation of the type of music that you like. By getting a DJ, the "younger folk" will be able to request specific dance music that appeals to them. Basically, with an experienced DJ, you will be able to provide a nice variety that pleases everyone.

A lot of DJs are now all digital, mixing straight from their laptop computer and using larg 200+ gig hard drives to store thousands of crystal clear songs. By planning ahead you will be able to submit a detailed song list to your DJ, and coordinate with them as to when to play the songs (first dance, dance with dad or mom, cutting the cake, garter event, etc.). The list can include some of your favorite Jazz, great slow dancing music.

A good interactive DJ will have everyone dancing and having a great time, without you having to worry about that aspect. Concentrate on enjoying your reception and let the DJ what they do best... Entertain your guests!!

[lchick]

since my fiance is a musician, a DJ is out of the question [crazy] - he's determined to have live music. but thanks for the suggestion - any other thoughts on this?

[Etiquette Now]

Live music is fine. But, think of your guests and try to mix the music for their age group. I'm over fifty and love to dance to it all. Jazz would get me up on the floor. But, my children would be rolling their eyes.

[The Video Pros]

If you have plenty of time to plan before the wedding, interview several bands and explain the mix of people who will be attending. The more established live bands will often have a better mix of songs, plus originals to choose from. Request a demo tape or demo CD of their music, so you can get a better idea of their style and versatility. Often, they will send to you via mail.

Regarding the "younger" audience, we are still amazed that they will dance to anything with a good beat. At a recent New Year's Eve event at a ski resort, a little girl of about seven years requested "Sugar Shack"! Depending on how young some of your guests will be (teenagers), they like the slow songs just as much as adults, especially if they have a dance partner.

Salsa is a definite hit at any party, regardless of age! Finding a band that provides salsa, along with jazz standards would be make for a very interesting party.

[lchick]

Thank you! Great advice - i appreciate it.