<p>Hi,</p>
<p>I've been thinking about possible career directions and ways to potentially make some extra money, and my step-mom suggested looking into the wedding industry. Does anyone know anything about getting into the industry? I'm a vocalist. I've been looking around online, but I haven't really been able to come across any definitive information - mostly just posts about people ranting about the cost to hire a musician (haha). Any insight is appreciated.</p>
<p>Thanks,
FrayedPages</p>
<p>Have you looked at the website called the knot? Also, there are usually wedding fairs right after the holidays where people planning weddings can meet vendors. Look for one of those and go to it. You might be able to make contacts with wedding bands needing vocalists. Also, put an ad on craigslist if they have that in your area. </p>
<p>Thank you for the suggestions! I will definitely look into that.</p>
<p>Does anyone have any tips about navigating the industry, necessary songs, etc?</p>
<p>Thanks,
FrayedPages </p>
<p>Are you thinking ceremony vocalist or party vocalist? </p>
<p>When I wrote the post, I was thinking more ceremony, but I’d really be fine with either.</p>
<p>This is an extremely difficult area to make any money in now, for you see, everyone seems to have a relative or friend who fancies herself/himself able to warble a tune, and they are always quick to volunteer their services at no cost to the happy couple.</p>
<p>The best way to try to be hired for ceremonies is to have a church gig- a regular, paid Sunday job as a soloist and/or section leader. After you’ve established a relationship with the congregation, let it be known that you’re available to sing at events and see what comes up.</p>
<p>If you have a certain faith tradition, find out what the important, popular, ethnic, and favorite pieces are that are selected for weddings (+ funerals/memorials, if willing) in your community. Learn them. Get some high-quality samples of your work on video. Meet with local faith houses’ wedding/funeral coordinators to show your demo. Maybe even offer a deep discount for someone who’d book you soon. Start in with social media to build your brand. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram are your “business cards.” Inspire some good Yelp reviews. Just brainstorming here. </p>
<p>BTW, rather than big, regional wedding fairs, some of the more popular/big faith houses in your area might have their own local wedding fair each year. Get in on that. </p>
<p>BTW, if you’re still in school, maybe a TV or filmmaking student could shoot your demo video (also have a CD). A mutual exchange? </p>
<p>I agree with MM. Instrumentalists can make money at wedding gigs (if they are immune to Pachelbel’s Canon. But vocalists do better with church gigs. (And you can make connections at the church, as MM says.)</p>
<p>Find out who the wedding planners are in your city and send them a video and handouts/business cards. If there are historical homes or other venues (such as country clubs, hotels) where weddings are typically held get in touch with their event planners also. Create a marketing handout that you can provide to those who inquire. Do you have a website that gives information about yourself and your repertoire available? If this is something you want to do, be prepared with marketing materials, repertoire and prices. Even references.</p>
<p>Your college might offer a website hosting or building service through the career center or alumni association. Check it out. </p>
<p>George Clooney got a “freebie” for his wedding and reception! His 17 yr old God-Daughter sang…And this after paying about 1.6 million for the whole event.</p>
<p>MM makes a good point–most people today want something for free, or they will use recorded music.</p>
<p>It was a different market 35 years ago when I started performing at weddings, but as a flutist it was easy. I started performing at my church when I was around 14, for free. Soon the church organist asked if I wanted to play in weddings, and after that it was easy. I got a lot of referrals, some “repeat” customers. I think that the key is working with church organists. They play lots of church gigs, and can include you if they think you add something to the ceremony.</p>
<p>Sorry I haven’t responded in some time. School has been really busy. Thanks for all of the input. Seems like it was a bankrupt idea. Whoops! Back to the drawing board, then. Again, thanks.</p>