Live music means involvement

A group of wedding guests usually comprises of two separate family groups that are only just beginning to get to know each other. Even within each family, there will perhaps be members who seldom see each other. The bride and groom will probably have separate sets of friends that have not yet had a chance to become really intimate.

There's no two ways about it, in such a situation, live music is an excellent ice-breaker.

A tremendous party involves a great shared release of energy. To complete your special day in an unforgettable way, you'll want everyone on the dance-floor, laughing and dancing.

Live Music ... centre stage

The guys on the stage are going to lead your party. No matter what the style of music, an infectious sense of fun is an essential ingredient in getting a party going. If the band is having fun on stage, so will you on the dance-floor.

You need a band that wants to party as much as you do.

As in any human situation, a happy band of musicians is a well-looked-after one. Carefully think through the logistics of the event beforehand. As a rule of thumb, the larger the band, the longer the set-up time. A six-piece pop-band with a lighting rig can take up to two hours or more to set-up. Make sure the band have enough time to get their equipment in position. If the band has to set-up early and then wait while the wedding breakfast takes place, make sure that you provide a comfortable place for them to go ... and that they, too, have some refreshments (a plate of sandwiches and some drinks will usually suffice).

Including perhaps an hour or two's travelling to and from the gig, then the set-up and break-down, a wedding performance is a long day for the band. To get the very best from them at this important time for you, it's in your interest to make sure they are comfortable and well cared for.

Let your hair down and boogie

So which way do you want to party the night away? There are lots of options. Hot rhythm is the key to getting everyone out of their seats. Evoke Hollywood glitz and glamour with Swing Jazz, Sinatra-style. A steel band gets the party going with a Caribbean holiday feel. Samba the night away with Brazilian-style Latin Jazz. Jump and jive with R'n'B and Boogie-Woogie, a la Jools Holland. Get into a really funky groove with a Soul/Disco/Funk band. Everyone enjoys the Pop Classics of the last five decades. Or you could settle for a traditional Irish-style family ceilidh. The list is endless.

If your wedding is in the UK, check out the selection of bands at Hop Till You Drop A - Z of Bands. Look and listen to what's available. Take your time deciding which option is for you.