Setting Up for live wedding music is just one of about a hundredjobs facing couples and wedding planners. Between flowers, photos, venues, dresses, showers, rings, video recording, and more, even a smaller and tranquil wedding makes for a tremendous amount of planning. It can be a trying time because if even one of these areas falls through the cracks, your big day can end up being a serious letdown.

Here are five secrets to engaging live wedding instrumentalists for your wedding and reception:

1. Be sure you rent a musician with a established track record of professionalism. Does the director return your calls promptly? Does the band have a website? Business cards? Other promotional materials? Or do you get the feel you’re speaking to a guy rehearsing in his garage with his pals? The way the band represents itself as you begin speaking with them is a honest indicator of how they’ll turn up (or not!) on your wedding day.

2. Punctuality is critical. When you set an appointment to connect personally or on the telephone, it’s like a mini-contract. If the band handler is tardy to meet with you, it’s a warning sign that they don’t take their agreements seriously. If they can’t make it on time in the planning phase, what other agreements will they break with you on your wedding day? This extends on to you, too - being prompt is just one way you can live a life that displays that you abide by your commitments.

3. Make certain the band is easy-going rather than being a bunch of divas. By now you’ve likely heard a dozen Bridezilla jokes, even if you’re not hard to please or outrageous. Imagine employing the equivalent in craziness for your wedding band. The last thing you want on your wedding day is to have to wait on your musicians hand and foot, fetching them food and drink, having the thermostat set for them, or tending to other demanding needs. The best 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 easy and fun for you.

5. Charter a wedding band that’s fun. Getting married is one of the heaviest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s serious business. The music on your wedding day should be splendid and fun. You don’t want to see your invitees inattentive, dazed, and wishing the event was done with. You want them up, dancing, singing, and smiling. If you select a live wedding music band well, your selection will do lots to make your wedding day unforgettable in a good way. This is the big day you’ve been ready for, and music is such a essential part of it. Make sure you engage a dance band that makes the day complete - pleasurable for you and your guests.

George Pollis is the managing director and a player with Reel Ting Steel Drum Band. For a professional, prompt, easy-going, gifted, and fun live wedding music band, check into Reel Ting at http://www.reelting.com.