Wedding Entertainment

Your wedding day should be a memorable and magical celebration, and no Philadelphia wedding is complete without engaging entertainment. Most couples opt for a DJ or wedding band, but there are so many other forms of unique wedding entertainment that you’ll want to choose one as special as your love story. From classical to contemporary, these non-traditional options are sure to add a touch of elegance, excitement, and individuality to your big day. Unsure what’s out there?

Here are five unique entertainment options to incorporate at your Philadelphia wedding in 2023.

Acapella Groups. Are you a Pitch Perfect fan? Maybe you were in an acapella group in high school or college or simply like the art of making music with multiple voices. Regardless of why you got into the art, you can hire an acapella group to perform at your wedding. EBE offers acapella wedding bands in Philadelphia that can bring thick harmonies, deep bass, and percussion with their mouths! Our acapella vocalists can amplify your wedding event, whether they’re part of cocktail hour, the reception, or a closing performance at the end of the night.

DJ Violinist. If you’re looking for a wedding DJ in Philadelphia but want something a bit more than a traditional DJ, EBE has DJ violinists at the ready! When you hire a talented violinist who doubles as a DJ to perform at your wedding, they can cover the whole day from start to finish. Whether they play a violin set during your ceremony and then move into DJing your reception, or they play the melody along with the recorded tracks of your favorite songs, our DJ violinists can amplify any wedding. This option is ideal for couples working within a smaller budget.

Solo piano player. Do you want a classy performance to make your wedding extra special? A solo piano player who can cover a range of musical styles is the answer. Have them play at your cocktail hour to set the tone for the evening or throughout the reception — an ideal option for those couples who want something more subtle than what a traditional wedding band or DJ would play.

Piano and guitar. Another viable option for the couple who isn’t interested in having a wedding DJ is having a piano and guitar player perform at the wedding. Pairing piano and guitar together can accommodate any portion of your wedding, whether it’s the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, or end of the night. You can choose whether you want acoustic guitar or an energetic electric guitar to pair with the piano, making the option completely customizable.

DJ and Vocalist. If you want a live performer at your wedding but don’t have the budget to invest in an entire band, having a DJ and vocalist perform is the next best thing. EBE’s talented DJs will play background music while a male or female vocalist sings the songs that you choose. A DJ and Vocalist combo will energize the night and put on a fantastic performance that leaves your guests talking.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and choose entertainment that represents your and your partner’s musical taste and style. When you provide unique entertainment at your wedding, like DJ hybrids or notable ensembles, you will create an unforgettable night for you and your guests.

When you are ready to make decisions about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, EBE is here to help. Contact us today to find out more information about the best wedding DJs and live bands in Philadelphia!

Your first dance is one of the most significant moments that’ll take place on your wedding day. That means it should be fun for your guests to watch and, more importantly, special for you and your partner. Whether you’re considering sauntering around the dance floor lost in conversation or you want to do something more specialized, like a custom choreographed number, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Here are some of the pros and cons of choreographing your first dance.

Pro: You’ll create a lasting and romantic memory. As we said, your first dance is one of the most memorable parts of your wedding. Working on a choreographed dance number together can not only bring you closer during the process of planning your wedding — it takes a lot of practice! — but it can also create a unique memory you and your guests will remember for years to come.

Con: Choreographing your first dance can add to the stress of wedding planning. Putting on a wedding can be emotionally taxing, so if you’re already feeling overwhelmed by all of the other details planning a wedding requires, don’t add to that stress. Instead of choreographing a first dance number, which can take months of preparation and planning, do something simple so you can focus on other details.

Pro: Choreographed dances can save money if you do them yourself. Regardless of your dance ability, there are plenty of YouTube tutorials to get your brain going when choreographing a wedding dance. You don’t necessarily have to shell out hundreds of dollars and hire a professional choreographer to help you, though that’s certainly an option if your wedding budget allows it. If you’re able, working with a pro dancer can save time planning your first dance; however, if you’re sticking to a strict budget, you can always choreograph your own dance with enough time, patience, and practice.

Con: Choreographed dances can look awkward if you’ve never danced before. Whether you work with a professional or choreograph your first dance on your own, the whole bit can look and feel awkward if you and your partner don’t have enough time to practice. This is especially the case if the dance is too complex. If you’re working with a professional choreographer, push back on them if the moves become too much. Similarly, if you’re choreographing the dance yourself, make sure to include moves you and your partner feel comfortable and confident performing.

Pro: You’ll give your guests something to talk about and remember. Typically, the first dance is only notable for the newlyweds. But when you perform custom choreography for your friends and family, that gives them something exciting to watch and talk about years later. If you’re worried about your wedding not giving your guests enough to talk about, a custom first dance will do the trick.

If you do choose to choreograph your first dance, you’ll want to have a conversation with your Philadelphia wedding DJ or wedding band to ensure they’re aware and it goes smoothly. In some cases, you may be able to book time with them to practice your custom dance number ahead of time, leaving less room for errors.

When you are ready to make decisions about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, EBE is here to help. Learn more about our upcoming showcases.

No wedding is complete without getting your guests out of their seats and onto the dance floor. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional stuff, like the line dances of yesteryear, or looking for a playlist comprised of today’s hits, we’ve got your back.

Fun dance songs played at your wedding reception!

Ensure your wedding reception is an unforgettable night by having these fun dance songs played at your wedding reception.

1. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA — This 1976 song is still a beloved hit today thanks to the Mamma Mia! play and films. Get your wedding guests out of their seats with this easy-listening bop that will remind them anyone can dance, jive, and have the time of their lives.
2.  “Levitating” by Dua Lipa — A 2020 smash hit, this song will get the younger crowd involved on the dance floor. It’s catchy, easy to sing and dance to, and appropriate for all ages.
3. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston — Whitney’s iconic “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is another song that will inspire your wedding guests to get out of their seats and onto the dance floor. The best part is it’s a cross-generational song that can please a crowd of any size.
4. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars — This song might be from 2015, but it’s still a crowd favorite at today’s wedding receptions. Like so many of these songs, this has a beat and lyrics that will appeal to all ages.
5. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen — Weddings are such a good time; who wants them to end? Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” will inspire your guests to keep the party going all night long.

Bonus 5 Dance Songs For Your Wedding Reception!

1. “Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone — Made new again by the Guardians of the Galaxy movies, this 1973 hit will remind all your wedding guests why they’re celebrating: your love!
2. “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes — This 2022 hit is for all the country music fans in your life. Not only is “Fancy Like” a great sing-along song, but it’s also set to a tempo that’s easy to dance to, no matter how young or old.
3. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder — Yet another easy-listening song that’s great to dance to, Wonder’s hit will appeal to your older wedding guests and maybe inspire the younger ones to start listening to “Little Stevie.”
4. “Cha Cha Slide” by DJ Casper — If you need help getting your wedding guests on the dance floor (and actually moving!), play this easy-to-follow line dance song.
5. “Levels” by Avicii — This fun dance song is perfect for keeping your wedding guests’ energy high. If you’re not ready to go home, have the DJ play this song before the night’s end.

Remember — there’s no right or wrong when it comes to your wedding playlist. It’s all based on your tastes as a couple and the crowd you invited to celebrate with you. If you’re getting married in Philadelphia, make sure you hire a DJ or wedding band that communicates with you and gets to know your musical preferences. After all, they’re responsible for keeping everyone on their feet!

Are you looking for the best wedding DJ and wedding bands in Philadelphia? EBE is the premier place for both! When you are ready to make decisions about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, EBE is here to help. Learn more about our upcoming showcases.

Nowadays, it’s rare to find a couple who wants all the traditional elements of a wedding on their big day. Instead, couples are looking for ways to stand out from the bunch with nontraditional wedding ideas. Do you consider yourself a modern couple looking for out-of-the-box wedding concepts?

Here are five ideas to consider when planning a nontraditional wedding.

1. Keep the party going and host a cocktail-style reception. Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, a cocktail-style wedding puts the focus on food, drink, and conversation. Choose hearty hors d’oeuvres to keep your guests’ appetite at bay, and don’t forget to include bite-sized desserts! This wedding reception style is ideal for the party crowd or if you’re planning to have a smaller wedding. If you take this route, make that clear on your invitation so your guests don’t come expecting a sit-down meal.

2. Encourage your guests to take part in karaoke. If you’re worried about your guests having a good time at your wedding, karaoke is one way to ensure they’re having fun. Dedicate a portion of your cocktail hour or reception for guests to belt out their favorite songs. Choose from over 2,000 songs spanning every genre, including Motown, classic rock, R&B, pop, country, and more. Let your friends show off their hidden talents with the option of having the performances recorded and able to download as a wedding favor.

3. Forgo the wedding cake for a more unique dessert. What better way to stand out from the crowd than nothaving a wedding cake? Instead, delight your guests with an unexpected dessert like cotton candy or a DIY ice cream sundae bar. Your guests will love the interactive element dessert brings and leave them talking about your nontraditional wedding for weeks to come.

4. Incorporate fun and games into your nontraditional wedding. Instead of the traditional photo booth, have casino or arcade games set up throughout your wedding reception. These activities will keep people of all ages entertained and is a unique way to give your guests a break from the dance floor. From dome hockey to classic arcade games like PacMan and even table games like Blackjack and Roulette, EBE offers dozens of wedding enhancements to entertain your crowd.

5. Opt for a unique guestbook. Instead of having your guests sign their well wishes into a scrapbook, collect these memories in a nontraditional way. Whether it’s a photo matte you’ll use to frame a picture from your wedding or an audio guest book where guests can record their regards instead of writing them down, there are plenty of unique options available, allowing you to choose one that you and your partner will appreciate.

Incorporating nontraditional elements into your wedding

Incorporating nontraditional elements into your wedding does not make your day any less special. It enables you and your partner to celebrate how you want and not how you’re expected to. When you’re ready to plan all things wedding-related, EBE is here to help.

Want to learn more about our EBE Team Members? Vendors We Love? New Products? Contact us today!

Slow songs aren’t just for the newlywed’s first dance — they’re a key component of any wedding reception. When you’re putting together the list of songs you want to hear on your big day, don’t skip out on the slow songs. Here are a few for inspiration, plus some tips and tricks for having slow songs played at your wedding.

Slow Songs to Play During Your Wedding Reception

1. “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing” — Aerosmith
2. “You’re Still the One” — Shania Twain
3. “A Whole New World” — from Disney’s Aladdin
4. “God Bless the Broken Road” — Rascal Flatts
5. “Keep on Loving You” — REO Speedwagon
6. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” — Frankie Valli
7. “You Are the Best Thing” — Ray LaMontagne
8. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” — Various artists, including Elvis Presley and Ingrid Michaelson
9. “Love on the Weekend” — John Mayer
10. “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” — James Taylor
11. “The Furthest Thing” — Maren Morris
12. “Anyone” — Justin Bieber

Incorporating slow songs into your wedding ensures all your guests will hear something they can relate to, no matter their musical tastes.

Tips for Playing Slow Songs at Your Wedding

When considering which slow songs to play at your wedding, consider these tips and tricks:

Too many slow songs can bring down the energy you want at your reception. A good rule of thumb is to play one slow song for every five upbeat songs. Eventually, guests want a chance to catch their breath or take a break. This ratio of 5:1 can provide that break every 20 minutes, allowing guests to slow down.

Don’t play slow songs off the bat. The best wedding DJs and wedding bands in Philadelphia know that to kick off a wedding reception, you want to get everyone on the dance floor. Starting with a slow song can single out those who come to your wedding without a plus one. It also won’t help get the fun started. Have a designated time for slow songs or mix them into the other songs on your must-hear list for balance.

Don’t skip out on slow dances!

As the newlyweds, you should make it a point to try and get to the dance floor every time the entertainment plays a slow song. Sure, you get your first dance together, but your entire wedding day should be one memorable moment after another. Make time to enjoy each and every second of it.

Are you looking for a wedding DJ or wedding band that knows how to strike the perfect balance between slow and fun upbeat songs? EBE is here to help. When you are ready to decide about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, contact us to see which band, DJ, or ensemble is right for you.

Before you begin looking for venues, you and your partner need to determine how many people to invite to your wedding. Your guest list will be an unofficial guide for every decision you make after deciding on the number, from entertainment to food choices. Numbers can quickly skyrocket if you and your partner aren’t on the same page, meaning your budget will also grow.

According to The Knot’s Real Weddings survey, nearly 50% of couples reduced their guest count in 2021, making the overall average for the year 105 guests. And RSVPify reports that 83% of people invited to weddings reply yes, while 17% decline. As you plan your guest list, you can keep these statistics in mind.

Here are some tips on how to plan your Philadelphia wedding guest list:

• Decide what kind of affair you want to host. Do you want your wedding to be a lavish party, small and intimate, or somewhere in between? Knowing the type of event you want your wedding to be will help you start creating your guest list.
• Determine your budget. What amount can you comfortably spend on the wedding? How much help are you getting from other parties? These factors will come into play when looking at venues and seeing the cost per plate.
• Figure out who must be invited. Have an honest conversation with your partner about who you both want attending your nuptials. Immediate family and your closest friends may make the “must invite” list. But how do you both feel about extended family, coworkers, and kids?
• Think about the past and the future. Have you and your partner both met and spent time with the people on your guest list? If only one of you knows them, you might be able to leave them off the list. You can also ask yourself if this person will still be in your life down the road.

There is no magic number for how many people you should invite to your wedding. It all comes down to how big or small you want your special day to be and what you can afford.

After you have a solid guest list and a venue booked, you can start thinking about the entertainment you will hire for your wedding.

Hiring Wedding Entertainment Based on How Many People are Invited

For weddings with under 50 people:

Bring in a single musician or DJ. From an acoustic guitar player to a violinist or harpist, single musicians can help amplify the feeling of romance at your micro wedding. Since it’s only a single performer, you’re not taking up a lot of space, and you’re saving more money than you would be hiring an entire ensemble. You can also have a wedding DJ in this instance, as they’ll be able to play to your crowd and set up shop in smaller venues.

 For weddings with 50-100 people:

Hire a boutique micro wedding band instead of a complete ensemble. If you’re having a small wedding, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice live entertainment. EBE now offers Boutique Micro Bands with expandable sizes, 2-9 pieces, and it won’t expand your budget! Whether you’re looking for a four to nine-piece band with a violin, saxophone, and integrated DJ or a six to nine-piece band with a violin and saxophone, we have several options available when it comes to micro bands.

Consider a duo or trio. Another cost-effective way of entertaining guests at your wedding is to hire a duo or trio to play live music. Depending on your musical preferences, you can choose anything from a vocal jazz trio to a guitar and vocal duo, string duo, or piano, flute and violin. In some cases, you can also use the same duo or trio you hire for your reception to play the music at your ceremony.

For weddings with over 150 people:

Go with a full band. When you have a lot of people at your wedding, you want to ensure they’re having a good time. There’s no better way to do that than with the best wedding bands in Philadelphia. EBE has over 15 bands ready to start your party and keep your guests on the dance floor all night long. Each band has its own sound, so you’ll be able to choose the right one for you and your partner.

Opt for a DJ. Hiring a DJ for your Philadelphia wedding is a great way to pump up the party since they can play any song you and your guests desire. When your reception has over 150 people, there are many different musical tastes to satisfy. DJs can easily accommodate all of your and your guest’s music requests. Additionally, most wedding DJs can bring elements like lighting, customized dance floors, and props that can help make the night more special and fun.

Hiring the right entertainment sets the tone for your evening and can make the night much more memorable. With full bands, boutique micro bands, DJs, and solo artists available to perform, all you have to do is choose the option that matches the size of your guest list.

When you are ready to make decisions about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, EBE is here to help. Learn more about our upcoming showcases.

Want to learn more about our EBE Team Members? Vendors We Love? New Products?

You may think having a DJ or band is enough to get the party started at your wedding reception, but we’re here to tell you how to turn it up another notch with customized dance floors. Custom dance floors can show your personality, complement your theme, and give your venue a club-like feel⁠—if that’s what you’re going for. Additionally, customized dance floors can help set the tone as your event unfolds.

5 Ways to Customize Your Dance Floor

Wedding event production companies in Philadelphia often offer a variety of ways to spice up the dance floor. Here are five of our favorites.

Over-the-pool dance floors. If your event space has a water feature like a pool, opt for an over-the-pool dance floor. With clear acrylic flooring, you can instantly transform the event space into an epic dance arena, giving your guests a memorable experience from the start.

Pattern wash your dance floor. Pattern washing is one of the easiest ways to transform any space. The right lighting can instantly transform your dance floor into a dramatic stage. From colorful lights to scenic designs and patterns, a pattern wash on your dance floor can capture the essence you want to evoke. At EBE, our knowledgeable event technology professionals are outstanding at on-site logistics, including CAD schematics, floor plans, equipment specifications as well as lighting, sound, video support, draping, and more. We can light up any dance floor anywhere.

Use area rugs to make anywhere a dance floor. If your event is outdoors, area rugs are a great way to designate where the dance floor is. Multiple throw rugs scattered on the ground can easily create the ideal dance floor for events with a rustic or bohemian theme. Make sure you try and find rugs in colors and patterns that complement the overall color scheme of your wedding.

Make the dance floor a destination. If you’re looking for a custom dance floor that’s going to encourage your guests to get out there and bust a move, add a must-see element to the dance floor. From neon signage to globe lights, disco balls, paper lanterns, and even indoor fireworks, these unique features incorporated into your dance floor will capture your guest’s attention throughout the entire event.

Purchase a custom floor wrap. Custom wraps are a viable option if you’re looking for a way to make your dance floor unique. You can have coverings made that depict anything, so the sky’s the limit! But it is best to choose something meaningful to you and your partner and ensure it matches the other elements of your big day.

We can help you plan the wedding of your dreams.

When you are ready to decide on everything wedding-related, EBE is here to help. Contact us today to see how we can help you plan the wedding of your dreams.

Want to learn more about our EBE Team Members? Vendors We Love? New Products?

5 Things to Help You Select the Perfect Philadelphia Wedding Band

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey filled with many decisions. One of the most important choices you’ll make is selecting the perfect Philadelphia Wedding Band. This decision can set the tone for your entire celebration, making it a memorable event for you and your guests. But how do you make that choice? Here are some key factors to consider to ensure you make the right decision.

1. Consider the Band’s Musical Style

First and foremost, think about the type of music that you and your partner enjoy. Do you want a band that can play a variety of genres, or do you prefer a specific style of music? The best bands in Philadelphia offer a wide range of musical styles to cater to diverse tastes. Remember, the music will set the tone for your celebration, so choose a band that reflects your personal style and taste. Additionally, a band’s ability to adapt to the mood of the crowd can greatly enhance the overall experience.

2. Want The Best Wedding Band in Philadelphia? Check Out Their Experience and Reputation

Experience matters when it comes to performing at weddings. An experienced band will know how to read the crowd, keep the energy high, and ensure that your guests have a fantastic time. Look for bands with positive reviews and a solid reputation in the wedding industry. For example, LA Starz, one of the best bands in Philadelphia, has a track record of satisfied clients and successful events. In fact, our bands have over 2,500 5-star independent reviews from sites like Wedding Wire and The Knot, demonstrating their consistent ability to deliver exceptional performances.

3. Think About Your Wedding Budget

While you want the best entertainment for your wedding, you also need to consider your budget. Different bands come with different price tags, depending on factors like their experience, the number of musicians, and the length of their performance. It’s essential to find a band that fits within your budget without compromising on quality. Remember, investing in a high-quality band can significantly enhance your guests’ experience and leave them with lasting memories of your special day.

4. See The Band Live Before You Decide

Before making your final decision, try to see the band perform live. This will give you a better idea of their energy, style, and how they interact with the audience. If you can’t see them live, check if they have videos of their performances. Better yet, you can see all our bands perform live at our showcases. This will help you visualize how they will fit into your wedding day. Seeing a band live can also give you a sense of their professionalism and how they handle unexpected situations, which is crucial for a smooth-running event.

5. Remember, It’s Your Wedding, So It’s All About You!

Ultimately, the best Philadelphia wedding band for your big day is the one that feels right for you. It’s your day, and the music should reflect your personality and love story. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. With the right band, your wedding will be a memorable event filled with joy, love, and fantastic music! Remember, your wedding is a reflection of you as a couple, and the music should be a soundtrack that tells your unique love story. So, choose a band that understands and respects your vision and can translate it into a musical experience that you and your guests will cherish forever.

When it comes to wedding music, most couples spend their time focused on what will play at the reception. But the music that plays at your ceremony is equally as important! From the prelude (while guests are entering) to the processional songs, interludes, and recessional (after you’re married), you’ll want to choose music that speaks to you and sets the tone for your special day.

Here are three things to consider when selecting your wedding ceremony music.

1. Choose between live or recorded music.If you’re having a DJ or Philadelphia wedding band play at your reception, there’s a good chance they’ll be available to perform during your ceremony, too. Typically, couples opt for a DJ to play the reception, which is more of a party vibe, and live musicians are a better fit to play the ceremony portion of your wedding. Plus, live musicians can adapt as events transpire — think the flower girl or ring bearer delaying your walk down the aisle — whereas recorded music has a specific cadence.

2. Estimate your budget. If you hire someone to play music at your ceremony, it will be an additional cost to whoever will play your reception. With that in mind, know that the price can vary for live musicians depending on what they play, the size of the group, the location of your ceremony, and the time of year. Having a realistic budget in mind can help when you start researching musicians to play your wedding ceremony.

3. Think about your interests. Sticking to what you like is the most important aspect of any wedding planning you do! The type of music you want to hear at your wedding ceremony should have the most significant influence on who you hire to play it. For example, you may love acoustic guitar sets and want someone to perform the song of your choice as you walk down the aisle. Or, maybe you want a pianist to play an instrumental version of your favorite love song during the wedding party processional. Go with what you love.

Hire a Live Band for Your Wedding Ceremony

If you decide you want a live band to play at your wedding ceremony, here are some more specific considerations to think about:

• Venue — the size of your venue will help you determine whether you can fit a single guitarist or an entire string quartet at your wedding ceremony.
• Guest list — if you’re only having 50 people at your wedding, a full band might be a bit much, but for a wedding of 300 people, a full band would be appropriate.
• Style — the kind of wedding band or musicians you hire should fit the vibe of your wedding, so string ensembles pair well with formal events, whereas guitarists or keyboardists are appropriate for more casual weddings.

When you are ready to decide the entertainment that will perform at your wedding ceremony in Philadelphia, EBE is here to help. Learn more about our upcoming showcases.

Want to learn more about our EBE Team Members? Vendors We Love? New Products?