Entertainment for Events in Omaha
We had the honor of sitting down with one of the top bands in Omaha for events, The Downtown Collective. An award-winning live band, servicing Nebraska and Midwest areas, known for their insatiable ability to keep everyone on the dance floor. Ether, co-founder, manager, and musician in the band gave us all the details on what to consider when selecting entertainment for your event, including unique corporate event entertainment ideas and other event entertainment options that ensure an unforgettable celebration.
Selecting Entertainment
First things first...Selecting Entertainment...
When deciding between a DJ and a band, you will want to make sure you know how much space you have available and how many guests will be in attendance. If your event is larger, a band is a great way to elevate your reception with lots of energy and guest interaction. If your venue is a more intimate situation, A DJ can usually fit just about anywhere, versus a band who might require 12 x 20 ft space at a minimum.
Ultimately, you will also want to select someone you feel you can trust to entertain your event attendees. Entertainment can really make or break the night, as bands are responsible for handling the energy and overall vibe, keeping your guests entertained throughout the event
Ether highly recommends doing extensive research by either asking for videos of DJs and bands performing or asking if there are public performance opportunities for you to see their performances live. And don’t forget about the reviews! Previous clients and customers are a great way to gauge previous work.
Booking a Band
Things to consider when Booking a Band...
Does your band offer emcee options?
This is vital to any event. Yes, event bands are incredible at keeping the event fun and entertaining, but most events also need someone to host the evening. Downtown Collective will make sure everything is announced during an event; from a wedding grand entrance to announcing speeches, and even giving instructions or shout-outs through the night. Every event planner knows that an event without a host to guide guests through a timeline or through the flow of the event can often feel messy. For a flawless event, a great MC is a necessity.
If your event is a wedding, something else to consider might be whether your band offers ceremony music. Whether you envisioned a vocalist, pianist, guitarist or stringed instrument, ensure you ask these questions before booking. Bands like Downtown Collective offer to play music up to thirty minutes before the ceremony, the processional, bride’s entrance, a song for any ceremonial needs, and even the recessional.
Musical Selection
We must reiterate that entertainment and music can make or break an event. Whether you are working with a DJ or a band, song selection is key. If you, as the client, have certain expectations of the type of music to be played at the event to create a certain ambiance, it is pivotal to discuss with your entertainment. If you are going for an Earth Wind and Fire vibe vs a Cardi B vibe… that is something for your band or DJ to know ahead of time. Bands in particular need time to rehearse new songs or even learn new ones (Downtown Collective will learn new songs just for you!).
Ambiance
There is no doubt that music influences the mood of event guests, adding a wow factor to any occasion. Music can help guests feel excited, have fun, or feel welcome. It also cues signals for event timelines; when it's time to dance, when it’s time for speeches, or when it’s time for special dances. Selecting entertainment for your upcoming event can be a hard decision, but asking the right questions of your prospective bands and DJs can help ease the decision-making process.