Based in Southern California available for events worldwide
Helpful Hints
Before you start your journey to select vocalists, musicians, an MC or DJ, it is wise to first speak to your ceremony or event site. Find out if they have any rules or restrictions. Many venues (i.e., churches, hotels, garden sites) have rules about what is and is not allowed in the events that take place there. Find out first so as not to spin your wheels needlessly.
Start a rough outline of how the order of the event will unfold. Speak to your event coordinator about where in the event you would like to have music, introductions etc.
Select one person to be the single contact person for all musicians and entertainers involved in your event. This person could be you, your spouse, or a trusted individual. Having only one contact point person minimizes confusion and helps to keep everyone on the same page.
Designate one person to oversee the coordination of all musicians, and entertainers on the day of your event. This person should make sure every entertainer has a print out of the program, specify where the musicians should set up, and be able to relay any changes that have been made. Event coordinators are accustomed to these responsibilities, But many times they're tied up during an important moment and may need someone else knowledgeable to step in.
In the case of a wedding, choose someone to give the musicians cues in the prelude and during the ceremony. Again, it often works well for the coordinator to do this, but this isn't always the case. Also, make sure your ushers know not to start seating grandparents or mothers until the right song is being played.
Many wedding sites will recommend their own accompanist, and this usually works out to be a good option, as this person will likely be very familiar with the venue, process, etc. Nonetheless, if you would prefer to use another accompanist I can provide a list of exceptional options with references.
For a wedding usually musicians will not need to be at the rehearsal the night before. If there are other musicians involved, a rehearsal will be coordinated either an hour or so before the ceremony, or at sometime earlier that week. For banquets, receptions, parties and all other types of events your MC and musicians arrive well rehearsed with your song choices and research done behind the scenes so you can focus your attention on enjoying your special day.
Lastly, remember that just like in a film, music carries the emotion and heart of any event. It sets the atmosphere of your wedding, and an MC makes your reception or banquet run smooth with the right introductions, humor and inclusion of everyone in attendance, so the program stays on schedule and you can effortlesly enjoy it and be honored graciously. So take some time to think about what you really want. Whatever you envision, I have the know how, and will work tirelessly to make it happen !