As we write this, Boris has announced a road map for getting things back to normal, and frankly, we can't wait!
The arts and entertainment industry has taken a real battering over the last 14 months and like every other band, we've had to sit it out and just wait for the forecast to improve. And finally, it looks like we'll all be back in the world by July. Hurrah!
So if you're thinking that your wedding party or event can finally go ahead later in the year, you're probably right. As long as things don't decline again, now is the time to start looking around for wedding entertainment to delight your guests and make things really memorable. But before you leap in to book whoever you had lined up (and hopefully if you're reading this, that includes us), there is some basic housekeeping you'll need to make sure the band has taken care of. So here are our 3 tips to ensure that you get the party you want and nothing gets in the way
(terms and conditions apply, especially in a pandemic!)
Over the last 14 months, 99.9% of bands will have had their electrical equipment in storage. That means that any safety certification they may have held at the start of 2020 will now have expired and it's very unlikely that they'll have renewed it. So, make sure that your chosen act confirms they have PAT-tested equipment and that they've checked everything still works as it should. [Candy and the Sound have all necessary equipment checked annually]
Most bands will use the PA system that is already in place at the rehearsal venue they use. Very few will bring their own. So remember to ask the band if they've tested their gear before they turn up at your event and find that due to being in storage bits of it no longer work or haven't been repaired. The last thing you want is for your event to be memorable because only half of the lighting, or one side of the PA, doesn't switch on as expected. [Candy and the Sound test all equipment thoroughly before every performance]
All bands should have Public Liability Insurance just in case anything happens to anyone or the venue is damaged. No pub band that we've ever come across has this, but every professional or semi-pro band should have it in place. Ask to see the certification so you don't become liable for damage caused by your band. Many bands will have let this lapse in lieu of performing live, whilst others may believe they can get away without it, so take the time to check before you make the booking. [Candy and the Sound have Public Liability Insurance to the value of £10M]
Safety concerns aren't necessarily at the forefront of everyone's minds when they're booking entertainment, but they're important and bands shouldn't be avoiding them to save money.
If you'd like to find out more about booking Candy and the Sound and how to ensure a great time is had by all, from how we communicate when you make the initial booking to how we safely pack away at the end of the evening but leave music playing till the very last minute, get in touch today. We'd love to hear from you.
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