When planning a destination wedding, finding the perfect band to elevate your celebration is crucial. Morgan, the lead vocalist and owner of On the One, a wedding band based in Tulum, Mexico, offers expert advice on selecting a band and ensuring a seamless musical experience. Here’s a simple guide to hiring a wedding band for your destination wedding based on her insights:

Ask the Right Questions

Morgan emphasizes the importance of connecting with your band on a personal level: “To me, it’s most important that our clients really vibe well with us. Music is such a visceral part of all of our lives, and we all have songs that evoke some big feelings in us.” She encourages couples to consider both emotional and logistical aspects by asking:

• Do you have a technical rider for the venue or wedding planner?
• What does your contract include? Are dressing rooms, meals, and break spaces outlined?
• Can someone from the band do a site visit to coordinate with the venue?
• Are there additional fees, such as for travel or outside vendor charges?

 

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Understand Sound Setup and Venue Requirements

Destination weddings often take place in outdoor or remote locations, which can present challenges for sound setup. Morgan explains that some venues have in-house audio-visual (A/V) teams, but many bands can bring their own professional-grade equipment, including speakers, monitors, and generators for remote locations. Additionally, bands like On the One provide staging solutions for unconventional spaces, such as sandy beaches or grassy fields. Clear communication between the venue, wedding planner, and band ensures a flawless setup.

Book Early

Morgan advises booking your band at least a year in advance: “We are already booking for 2026, and our Saturdays get filled up rather quickly.” However, she encourages couples to reach out even if their wedding is only a few months away: “There’s no harm in asking! We have booked a few weddings with only a couple of months’ notice.”

Customize the Music to Fit Your Vision

Live music offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable moments. Bands often allow couples to tailor their playlists, choosing from extensive song lists and even requesting a few special tracks. Morgan’s band provides a list of over 350 songs spanning genres like pop, Latin, rock, and funk, ensuring a setlist that reflects the couple’s tastes and the atmosphere of the destination.

Additionally, bands can incorporate guest musicians or special dedications, adding personal touches to the performance.

Create a Playlist for Every Moment

To maximize the impact of live music:

• Limit slow songs during the party to keep the energy high.
• Choose a mix of upbeat dinner music and crowd favorites for the reception.
• Trust the band to arrange songs in a way that enhances the flow of the evening.

The Impact of Live Music

Couples consistently rave about the magic a live band brings to their weddings. Morgan recalls: “Months later, our clients tell us their friends and family are still raving about the band at their wedding. One guest, who had attended 42 weddings, called us ‘the best wedding band ever!’”

Hiring a live band for your destination wedding is about more than music—it’s about creating a vibrant, unforgettable atmosphere. With the right questions, early planning, and a personal touch, your band can turn your celebration into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For couples planning a destination wedding in Mexico or beyond, Morgan’s advice is a helpful resource to ensure a harmonious and stress-free experience.

Click here to learn more about On the One or book them for your wedding!