NIGHT SAGE Frequently Asked Questions 2023

Why should we hire Night Sage?

Night Sage is one of the DMV areas' top-rated and in-demand wedding event bands because we provide custom booking options by combining live music performances and DJ/MC services that create an exciting entertainment production from the ceremony to cocktail hour and to the reception.

 

What is your booking procedure?

Once the client decides to move forward, we will send a detailed contract stating the scope of work /performance, deposit information, final payment information, and terms & conditions.

 

What are the band's favorite songs to perform?

Our band members come from very different backgrounds and influences. We love to perform the classic party standards in addition to modern Top 40 dance hits that create a fun and exciting atmosphere. Some of our most popular covers are "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston, "Don't Stop Believin" by Journey, "Closer" by The Chainsmokers, "Country Roads" by John Denver, "Wagon Wheel" by Darius Rucker, and "Purple Rain" by Prince.

 

What's your setlist? Will you work with us on the song list?

Our setlist can be found at this link----> MASTER SETLIST. We encourage our clients to create a "do not play" list by striking through songs on our master setlist.

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Does the band take requests?

We allow three special song requests per reception and three song requests for the ceremony (processional/recessional). The requests must be submitted and approved by the band leader or soloist 4 weeks before the event. We do not take requests during the event.

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How many singers and instruments are available?

We have 2 singers (1 Female & 1 male), drums, keys, bass, and guitar. Additional female vocals and horns are available by special request.

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Will someone in the band act as the MC?

Yes, our MC is one of our vocalists, or our DJ (Grammy and Platinum options) will also serve as an MC.

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What type of wardrobe do you wear to perform?

For weddings, we wear formal attire (black suits for the guys & formal dresses for the ladies). For private events, we match the dress code for the event.

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Do you provide ceremony and cocktail hour music?

Yes, we can provide ceremony & cocktail hour music with live musicians or our DJ/Sound engineer playing pre-recorded tracks through the PA system. Costs may vary depending on requirements.

 

How many breaks will the band take, and what will play when they're on a break?

We usually perform 2-3 sets of 55-60 minutes and take 1-2 x 15-minute breaks. Our DJ/MC will play background or custom playlist music through the PA system.

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Are there overtime fees?

Yes, overtime is depicted in the contract.         

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What type of equipment do you bring?

Night Sage is 100% self-contained and provide all production elements needed to perform. This includes all instruments (backline), sound systems, monitors, microphones, and essential stage/dance floor lights.

 

How long does it take for the band to set up?

We request access to the venue for load-in and setup 3-hours before the event starts, with soundcheck 1-hour before the event. Soundcheck usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

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Do you provide your own stage?

No, we do not provide staging. It is the responsibility of the purchaser or venue to provide. Some venues have a stage onsite for special events. However, the bands do not require a stage as long as the performance area is clean, level, dry, covered, and protected from all-weather elements.

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What are your stage or performance area requirements?

Our minimum performance area size is 14' x10', 20' x 12 is ideal. Performance areas must be clean, level, dry, covered, and protected from all-weather elements.

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Example Wedding Day-Of Schedule

(Please note this is an EXAMPLE timeline based on most of our wedding day flow and experiences. This may differ slightly from your chosen schedule, but this will give you a decent idea of how the music and production will fit into your overall timeline.)

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2:00pm - Production Crew arrives onsite for load-in and setup

4:00pm - Band arrives for setup and soundcheck

5:00pm - Ceremony seating. DJ/Audio Engineer begins background music, or the soloist begins.

5:30pm - Ceremony (performer for processional/recessional or pre-recorded music through PA)

5:50pm - Cocktail hour (performer or pre-recorded music through PA)

6:50pm - Guests move to the reception hall or ballroom

7:00pm - Bridal Party Introductions (with the band performing or pre-recording music). Announcements will be made by our MC/DJ.

7:05pm - First Dance (Father/Daughter dance, Mother/Son dance might be here or later). Music can be performed by the band or pre-recorded through PA system via DJ/Sound Engineer

7:15pm - Dinner. Music is usually pre-recorded easy listening through PA system or couple's choice.

8:00pm - Speeches (we will provide wireless microphones)

8:15pm – Father/Daughter Dance & Mother/Son Dance. Band Set 1

9:15pm - Band Break

9:30pm - Band Set 2

10:55pm – Last Song

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Please note we are very adaptable and flexible regarding the day-of timeline and will work closely with your wedding planner/day-of coordinator to ensure everything flows smoothly.