strike up the band
Pick the right entertainers and your guests will leave on a high note
by Laura J. Vogel

"Guests always remember a wedding's music," says L.A. event planner Julie Pryor, who has orchestrated fêtes for Quincy Jones, TV Guide Channel host Debbie Matenopoulos, and other celebrities. "If you get up and dance and lose yourself in the music, you have a much better time." So whether your taste runs to sultry tango or nonstop disco, picking a music vendor is key. A stellar band or DJ ensures that you and your guests turn the beat around and get footloose all night long.

Think beyond your own musical tastes. "People won't want to listen to Nine Inch Nails all night," planner Julie Pryor says.

As you begin thinking about reception music, certain songs will no doubt begin flooding back. A smart idea, Julie Pryor says, is for the bride and groom to keep a running list of their favorite songs when they think of them or hear them on the radio.