ECE is no stranger to weddings. In 2017, we booked entertainment for over 2,500 wedding-related events. The booking season for 2018 (and even 2019!) weddings is currently in full swing, and our entertainment consultants are seeing the following five trends emerge.

1. CONTINUOUS MUSIC
Rihanna said it best, “Please don’t stop the music.” 2018 couples are heeding these wise words and opting for bands that perform nonstop shows. While the traditional format is a 4-hour show with two 20-30 minute breaks, many bands have the ability to perform one 3-hour continuous set. Some bands can even offer a 4-hour continuous set!

2. DJ AND LIVE MUSICIANS
Forget about asking yourself the age-old question of do you want a band or a DJ. In 2018, couples are opting for a band and a DJ. DJ + live musician combos (think, Hey DJ and DJ & Instruments) feature a DJ who is accompanied by the client’s choice of live musician(s). The combinations are endless and many clients love the a la carte aspect of adding their favorite musical elements to the combo. On the flipside are full bands who offer DJ services during breaks and for after-parties.

3. MORE WEDDINGS IN JANUARY, FEBRUARY, AND MARCH
We are seeing more and more couples opting to get married in traditionally ‘slower’ months (January-March and late summer). Availability is less of an issue during these months which allows couples the opportunity to secure not only their first choice of entertainment but other vendors, as well. In some instances, vendors will even offer discounts for booking during slower times of the year.

4. THEMED WEDDINGS
From Great Gatsby-esque 1920s glam to understated rustic elegance to seaside nautical chic, some couples are coordinating their big days around one cohesive theme. When it comes to entertainment, they are eschewing the traditional party band that plays a wide array of musical styles and genres and instead opting for entertainment that fits their particular motif. Swing, jazz, Rat Pack throwback, yacht rock, bluegrass bands that play current covers, even 80s… the list goes on and on. There is perfect entertainment for every theme.

5. VENUES ARE REQUIRING VENDORS TO BE INSURED
While perhaps not as sexy as a band that plays for four hours straight or a DJ who performs with a killer electronic violinist, we can’t ignore the trend of venues requiring liability insurance for outside vendors. No one wants to think about wedding day disasters, but when they do occur, it’s important that everyone is covered financially. Contracting with reputable vendors who carry the appropriate liability insurance gives everyone, including the bride and groom, peace of mind.

Originally published at https://www.bookece.com/blog/2018/01/25/top-5-wedding-trends-for-2018/