Arranging for live wedding music is just one of about a thousand chores facing brides and wedding planners. Between flowers, photographers, locales, gowns, parties, rings, video recording, and more, even a modest and low-keyed wedding takes a large amount of planning. It can be a stressful time because if even one of these areas falls through the cracks, your big day can end up being a tremendous letdown.

Here are five hints to hiring live wedding bands for your ceremony and reception:

1. Make sure you rent a dance band with a tried track record of professionalism. Does the director return your phone calls promptly? Does the dance band have a web site? Business cards? Other promotional materials? Or do you get the impression you’re speaking to a guy practicing in his garage with his pals? The way the band shows itself as you begin speaking with them is a great indicator of how they’ll come on (or not!) on your big day.

2. Punctuality is essential. When you set an meeting to connect in person or on the telephone, it’s like a mini-contract. If the band handler is late to meet with you, it’s a cautionary sign that they don’t take their agreements seriously. If they can’t make it on time in the preparation phase, what other arrangements will they abandon with you on your wedding day? This extends on to you, likewise - being timely is just one way you can live a life that shows that you abide by your commitments.

3. Make sure the dance band is easy-going rather than being a bunch of prima donnas. By now you’ve likely heard a million Bridezilla stories, even if you’re not hard-to-please or unreasonable. Imagine renting the equal in flakiness for your wedding band. The last thing you need on your wedding day is to have to wait on your musicians hand and foot, fetching them food and beverage, having the thermostat adjusted for them, or catering to other exacting demands. The greatest band for you is one that can take care of itself, one that’s easy to get along with, and one that does all it can to make sure your day is sweet and fun for you.

4. Employ a wedding band that’s fun. Getting married is one of the heaviest choices you’ll ever make. It’s serious business. The music on your wedding day should be beautiful and fun. You don’t want to see your invitees inattentive, groggy, and wishing the day was all over. You want them up, dancing, singing, and glad. If you select a live wedding music band well, your choice will do a good deal to make your wedding day unforgettable in a fabulous way. This is the big day you’ve been waiting for, and music is such a important part of it. Be sure you engage a dance band that makes the day idyllic - gratifying for you and your invitees.

George Pollis is the handler and a musician with Reel Ting Steel Drum Band. For a professional, timely, easy-going, talented, and fun live wedding music band, check into Reel Ting at http://www.reelting.com.