Frequently Asked Questions

What Sets Us Apart?

Distinguishing ourselves from “conglomerate/roster” companies that assemble musicians randomly, often leading to a lack of cohesion, or band leaders with confusing multiple lineups, leaving you uncertain about your wedding performers, and even giant entertainment companies managing numerous similar weddings, sounding like a mass market of wedding bands, is our “bespoke” approach. We offer a one-lineup band with committed, dedicated players who rehearse regularly and boast a history of performing together at hundreds of weddings over many years. Every musician in the band signs with us for a minimum of 2 consecutive years.

Exclusive service for your date – we never book two events on the same day.

No double booking – your event receives our undivided attention.

We avoid “bait and switch” tactics; if we’re available for your date, we are your band. Otherwise, we won’t push an alternative.

Customization of our song list to align with your preferences.

Can you provide ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner music?

Yes, this can be done with the number of musicians and instrumentation that fit your event and budget.

Where the bands are located?

We are based in Boston, MA and perform regularly all over the east coast including: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, New York.

What type of events are you available for?

Weddings, corporate events, charity galas, holiday parties, reunions, anniversaries, conventions, fundraisers, festivals, bar mitzvahs, birthday parties and celebrations of all types…

How many band members are there?

The Sweetbeats’ most popular package is a 7-piece band, including: one male and one female lead vocalists, male keyboards//lead vocalist, sax, drums, bass, guitar/lead vocalist. The lineup can be expanded, adding any or all of the following: trumpet, trombone, additional singers. All of the musicians sing back up vocals.

How long do you play and how many breaks do you take?

In a 4 hour time frame, we typically perform three 1 hour and 10 minute sets with two 15 & 25 minutes breaks between sets (Depends on the length of dinner). However, we can adjust our sets and breaks to accommodate your event schedule.

During our breaks, we can play recorded music (provided by us or you) through the band’s sound system (this is a great way to play particular songs or genres the band may not play) and you also may use the band’s microphone during breaks for announcements, toasts, raffles, etc. As an alternative, by special request and for an extra fee, we can arrange to have a DJ spin during band breaks or the after party (recommended)

Do you provide MC services?

Yes, absolutely! Our MC services are always included free of charge with all reception packages. Unlike many competitors who nickel and dime for each extra service, we never charge separately for MC services.

Our experienced MCs handle all announcements throughout your event. They line up and call the couple and wedding party (for weddings) or speakers and presenters (for corporate and private events) at the appropriate times. They announce special moments such as the first dance, parent dances, speeches, or any requested shout-outs.

After booking, we send a detailed questionnaire to gather all the important event information. Our MCs review this in advance to ensure a smooth and personalized experience for you and your guests.

May we use the band’s microphone for toasts, announcements, etc?

Absolutely! Typically, we have wireless mics available at no extra charge.

Will you learn special song requests?

We are happy to learn up to three special request songs for your event at no charge, as long as we have the request at least 90 days before your event. Also, keep in mind that if you require certain songs that are not on the band’s play list, they can always be put on the break iPod mix.

How do you control the volume?

It’s easy to keep the volume “just right”. For cocktail hour and dinner, we play at a lower volume that allows your guests to easily carry on conversations. After dinner, we increase the volume just enough to provide energy and get the crowd dancing. Regardless, the volume can always be raised or lowered with the slide of a button.

How does the band dress?

Always appropriate for your event. For most events, the males will wear black suits and various matching colored ties,, female singer in formal dress.

How does the band plan for our event?

The band’s manager will send you a planning sheet for your event and together we develop a timeline that fits your needs. We are also happy to work with a coordinator and the venue and are happy to accommodate the given master timeline.

Why The Sweetbeats?

The Sweetbeats has great reputation and track record of making wedding receptions unforgettable! Check out our reviews from happy clients on Wedding Wire, The Knot, and Google. The Sweetbeats is a band with great musicians, amazing male & female lead singers, a tight rhythm section and a great variety of all kinds of music. Reliability and professionalism are guaranteed as is an exciting night of great, dance music!!!!

Power, Space & Setup Needs: Sound, Lighting & Performance Requirements

We provide a full sound system, stage lighting, and dance floor lighting, along with wireless microphones for toasts — everything needed to ensure your event sounds and looks amazing.

Here’s what we need from you and/or your venue:

Performance Area (Reception Band):
For our 7-piece band, we require a performance space of at least 8′ x 20′, with 10′ x 20′ or larger being ideal.

Electrical Requirements:
Two 20-amp electrical outlets within 30 feet of the stage area.

Stage and Flooring (Reception Only):
While stages, risers, and dance floors are optional and typically arranged through your venue or rental vendor, the band does require a flat, sturdy surface (such as wood or similar material). We cannot perform on grass or dirt. If the event is outdoors, the band must be fully covered by a tent or canopy in case of precipitation.
Note: This applies to the reception band only. Ceremony and cocktail musicians (such as solo piano, duos, or string ensembles) can absolutely perform on grass.

Meals:
For events lasting 4 hours or more, we kindly request hot vendor meals for all band members and sound crew.