Timing • Confirm your musician’s arrival time. You should expect them to arrive at least an hour in advance and plan on contracting them for at least three hours. Be sure to ask about extra fees if the reception goes longer than antic- ipated. • Ask about breaks and “continuous flow.” As your reception will most likely last around 4 hours, odds are that your performer will have to take a break at some point. Ensure that music will continue to play whether it’s by the remaining band members or recorded music. Equipment • Figure out what the equipment re- quirements are, such as power outlets, space needed, speakers, and anything you may be expected to supply. If the musicians are bringing all of their own equipment, record any extra charges. • Verify with your reception site manag- er whether the facility has any restric- tions on the number of musicians and/ or pieces of equipment you may bring in. You should also ask about electrical power supply and noise limitations. Introductions • Before the reception, inform your DJ or bandleader on how to properly pro- nounce the names of your bridal party for announcements, their relation to the newlyweds (Maid-of-Honor, par- ents of the bride, etc.), and a timeline of the reception’s events. Contact Info • Make sure you have the names and contact info of the musicians who will play at your wedding, plus the names of acceptable substitutes in case of an emergency. Song Selections • Discuss song choices for key events like your entrance, first dance, bouquet toss, and cake cutting. • A do-not-play list is perfectly accept- able to include if you have certain art- ists, genres, or even specific songs you’d like to avoid. • Similarly, a must-play list is okay to re- quest, as well. Any songs that you defi- nitely want played at your reception should make it to the playlist. Attire Guidelines • Let your performers know the dress code beforehand. Contract Points • Ask about and confirm deposit require- ments, payment plans, and deadlines. • Make sure the cancellation/refund pol- icy is included. If something unfore- seen happens to a musician who’s not under contract, you could end up with- out wedding music. • Find out about any hidden fees or extra costs you might have. Above all, don’t be afraid to ask all the questions you want answered. ❤ the details All in 1. BCR Studios by Brad 1 58 | TODAY’S BRIDE READ MORE AT TODAYSBRIDE.COM