Evaluating wedding bands in Chicago, or any location, involves assessing several factors to ensure that the band matches your vision, your budget, and your style. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice:

1. Identify Your Musical Style & Wedding Atmosphere

• Type of Music: Determine what kind of music you envision for your wedding. Do you want a band that plays classic wedding songs, pop hits, jazz, or a mix of everything? Be clear about your musical preferences.
• Formality: Consider the level of formality you want for your wedding. Are you looking for a high-energy party band, a sophisticated jazz ensemble, or a versatile group that can play both classical and modern hits?
• Mood: Do you want the band to create a fun, energetic vibe, or do you prefer something more laid-back and elegant?

2. Check Experience & Reputation

• Reviews and Testimonials: Look for online reviews on sites like Google, The Knot, WeddingWire, or Yelp. Feedback from other couples who have hired the band can provide insights into their performance, reliability, and overall experience.
• Word of Mouth: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or wedding planners in Chicago. Personal recommendations often carry a lot of weight.
• Check the Band’s Website & Social Media: Look for videos, photos, and setlists on their website or social media pages (e.g., Instagram, YouTube). Live performance videos are especially helpful to see how they engage with guests and their overall stage presence. Of all the Chicago Wedding Bands, Drs Music has the best reputation with over 300 5 star reviews and winners of Best of the Knot and Wedding Wire 17 years in a row.

3. Evaluate the Band’s Repertoire

• Setlist Options: Ask for a sample setlist to understand the type of music they can provide. Ideally, they should be able to play a mix of different genres to keep guests entertained throughout the evening (e.g., ceremony music, cocktail hour tunes, dinner music, and dance hits).
• Flexibility: Ensure they can accommodate any special song requests or particular preferences for key moments, like the first dance or the bride and groom’s entrance.
• Genre & Style: Some wedding bands specialize in specific genres (e.g., jazz, 90s hits, classic rock), so make sure their style aligns with what you want. While most Chicago Wedding Bands play the same 20 songs over and over, DRS Music have a huge song list and even give their couple unlimited song requests.

4. Check the Band’s Professionalism

• Communication: Reach out and gauge their responsiveness and professionalism. Do they reply promptly to emails or calls? Are they open to discussing your preferences and special requests?
• Contract & Terms: Make sure they provide a clear contract outlining the details (e.g., pricing, performance time, setup requirements, cancellation policies). Avoid any bands that are unwilling to put things in writing.
• Attire & Appearance: Consider whether the band’s look will match the tone of your wedding. If it’s a black-tie event, you’ll likely want a band that can dress formally.

5. Review Band Size and Performance Options

• Band Size: Some bands offer smaller ensembles (e.g., a trio or quartet), while others offer larger groups (e.g., 8-10 members). The size of the band will affect the energy level and sound.
• Sound System: Ask if they provide their own sound system and whether they have experience working with venues in Chicago. A good wedding band should be able to adjust to different room sizes and acoustics.
• DJ Services: Some bands also offer DJ services for the parts of the evening when they are not performing live. If you’re looking for a seamless mix of live and recorded music, this could be a good option.

6. Watch Live Videos

• Seeing live videos is the best way to evaluate any Chicago Wedding Band.
• These live videos from actual weddings will help you see the actual musicians look and sound like.
• Most importantly, you’ll be able to see the reaction of the bride and groom as well as their guests. That’s what really counts.
• When a band uses audio tracks that were recorded in a studio and highly edited, are not a realistic representation of what they’ll do for their Chicago Wedding!
• DRS Music is the only Chicago Wedding Band that uses live videos instead of audio tracks. Other Chicago Wedding Bands are hiding behind editing. DRS Music doesn’t need to hide at all.

7. Get a Price Estimate

• Cost Factors: Understand how pricing works for the band. Factors that can affect the cost include the number of musicians, the length of performance, travel fees (if they are coming from outside Chicago), and any additional services (e.g., sound equipment, DJ services).
• Budget: Wedding bands in Chicago can vary widely in price depending on their experience and reputation. Ensure you clearly know what your budget allows and get quotes from multiple bands.
• Games Band Play: While other Chicago Wedding Bands show a super cheap initial cost, they end up charging you extra for services you have to have for the band to play. They charge extra for an MC, DJ, Sound System, Wireless mics, and Stage Lights. This is a game. Imagine buying a new car and then being charged more if you want an engine, steering wheel, and doors. The Chicago Wedding Band you can trust is DRS Music. They include everything you need for their band to play for your wedding!

8. Confirm the Band’s Availability

• Wedding dates fill up quickly, especially in a busy wedding market like Chicago. Make sure the band is available on your wedding date before you proceed with booking.
• Some popular bands might require booking months (or even a year) in advance, so plan ahead.

9. Discuss Logistics and Set-Up

• Venue Coordination: Ensure the band is familiar with the venue or can work with the venue staff to set up and take down their equipment efficiently. They should have experience with different types of venues, from large ballrooms to outdoor spaces.
• Space Requirements: Ask about the space they need to perform and whether there are any restrictions (e.g., noise limits, stage requirements).
• Schedule and Timing: Be clear about when the band will perform (ceremony, cocktail hour, reception) and for how long.

10. Trust Your Instincts

• Lastly, go with your gut. You should feel comfortable with the band, their professionalism, and their ability to bring your wedding vision to life. A positive relationship with the band will ensure a smoother experience on your big day.

Additional Considerations:

• Band vs. DJ: Some couples prefer the live music experience, while others may want the flexibility and broad range of a DJ. You could also consider a hybrid option of a live band for part of the evening and a DJ for the rest.
• Special Requests: If you have any special musical requests (like a specific song for a key moment), make sure the band is willing to accommodate it.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wedding band in Chicago is a key decision that can set the tone for your celebration. By carefully evaluating their experience, repertoire, professionalism, and fit with your wedding style, you’ll ensure that your wedding day has the perfect soundtrack.