How to really experience a wedding band/DJ before booking

It's not really easy to do that unless you happen to be invited to a wedding where that band or DJ are playing.

Many bands and DJs exclusively perform at weddings only, so you can't exactly crash someone else's wedding to experience them.

Others might do live performances in public venues, but as a professional entertainer myself I can tell you that my public performances are completely different to what I would provide for a wedding.

Each wedding is tailored highly to the client, so not even two weddings are the same.

I suggest the best thing you can do is read reviews from other couples as your best source.

Its a hard one. Maybe ask them for videos or check out their social media. We upload every gig we do

Experience the band in the context of how you want them to play for you. I always encourage the Bride and Groom to come and see me play live if they can. I put bands together to suit the clients' requirements so even if it is not possible to view the exact lineup, by the time they have come and seen me play solo or in a band then it helps picture the sound and quality they will receive on their special night. Another guide is who recommends the band and how many people are recommending them. I usually find that personal recommendations from clients, suppliers and venue owners are a good guide. Beware of glossy photos and videos. You really don't want to risk your special night by making a decision based on a highly edited/auto tuned music and video soundtrack. Also, it's good to establish if a band is reliable . I wish I had a dollar for every phone call I've had at the last minute from a client whose band has pulled out in the last week. A meeting with the artist over the phone or at a coffee shop face to face (which I prefer) can establish rapport and talk through expectations for the day which, in addition to the sound of the band, can help establish terms of booking etc. If your band doesn't charge a deposit and give you a written agreement  and isn't recommended by local suppliers - beware. 

See them play!!   We offer regular live showcases where you can see our musicians and DJs playing live - so you can be 110% sure you're getting the right option for you :) 

You’re at a wedding. You look around and see people of all ages enjoying themselves on the dance floor. The energy in the room is electric and you find yourself tapping your feet along with the music.

This is the power of a good wedding DJ.

They have the ability to create an atmosphere that is both festive and classy, making your wedding an event to remember. But how do you ensure that you book a DJ who will create this kind of atmosphere?

The best way to experience a DJ before booking them is to attend one of their weddings... still most couples will not allow a supplier to bring someone into their wedding for a sneak peek.

So, the best way to check if the DJ is the right one for you is to:

1- Check their online reviews.

2- How much do the couples enjoy their service.

3- How many clients have reviewed them and lastly, how old the reviews are.

Finally, to speak with the company to get a feel - as at the end of the day, there is no better connection than a personal one.

Hi!
You can always ask the vendor if they are playing any shows publically prior to your wedding date so you can confirm that you like their sound for your big day. :)
However, many musicians exclusively work as wedding musicians full-time! I offer to casually record and email over asong of my couple's choice if they are unsure, so they can hear how I sound singing a song they love! Hope this helps!

U Can Always Check-Out Bands & Other DJs 2 Get A Feel Of How They Work....& U Can Always Shop Around & Always Check-Out There FB Page With There Video's & U Can Always Make A Decision On Who U Want....Some DJs MC.....But I Don't & Choose Not 2 MC.....All I Do Is Just DJ Only.....

• Watch them live prior either at pub/club gigs if they perform outside of weddings.
• Get a video chat or coffee meeting prior to booking to see if they are a good fit
• Get all your points on pen and paper prior to cover all your questions and points of concern
• Ask about set list flexibility, the music selections process (if they have one) and how much input you get

You can certainly ask to see if a band/dj is playing any shows so you can watch them live, however, it's unlikely that you'll be able to attend a wedding to watch them perform. In our case, we can do a high-quality live streamed performance for you to give an idea of what to expect.  Thanks, Frances.

You sure can! If a client wants to come check out an artist I prefer for them to see them 'in action' at a real gig. I find 'showcases' very staged and don't often show the actual product you end up booking. I will always try to accomodate clients seeing the band or DJ prior to the event for peace of mind.