You’ve asked and we’ve answered! Welcome to your weekly column ‘Planning Your Happily Ever After’ with wedding consultant Shikima Hinds.

There’s nothing like live music at a wedding. The smiles on the faces of your guests will convey just how much fun they’re having, especially if they’re in Jamaica where music is part of our DNA.

From a steel band to a mento band, from calypso to reggae, from instrumentals to vocals — live music will bring vibrancy, life and enjoyment to your wedding.

Whether you prefer traditional music, classical songs, or modern tunes, your musical preferences will set the perfect tone for your day. The genre, pace, and amount of music will create the right mood and ambiance for the occasion.

Types of music

A steel band

Steel drums are a popular form of entertainment for wedding celebrations in Jamaica.

Acoustic singers

A solo acoustic singer or duo act is ideal for those gatherings when a full band isn’t the right fit. A solo acoustic wedding singer or a duo can light up an intimate space while feeding off the energy of the guests.

Band

There’s no shortage of wedding bands. A reggae band is an ideal way to get your guests on the dance floor. Our jazz musicians and cabaret performers are also worthy of note.

Tips: There are many details which should be considered when considering live music:

Bands take up more space than a DJ, so when you book your wedding venue, consider how much space the venue has if you’re leaning toward hiring live musicians.

If you love music and can’t decide between a band or DJ, it is possible to have both. When hiring both a band and a DJ, think about the mood of your wedding. A live band and DJ can shift the atmosphere drastically, so be mindful of sudden changes in the tone of the wedding music set.

Sticking to either a band or DJ makes it easier to keep the party consistent and fun for all. However, if you do opt for both, talk to your band and DJ about making transitions smooth.

A band’s music can be tailored to you and your partner’s specific tastes, but bands have less overall variety than DJs.

Guests can request songs from a DJ, who can play more songs, which may get more guests on the dance floor at your wedding reception.

Do ensure that musicians are familiar with those songs that are important to you on your wedding day before you confirm them.

Since bands specialise in particular genres of music, you can have your playlist filled with songs you love.