And the Band Played On

What if you could pay Macy Gray to sing her version of the "Hokey Pokey" at your wedding? Well, she might be out of your price range, but for a fraction of the price you could book The Slammin' Band, a group that once opened a concert for the sultry songstress.

The Hartford Courant reports that booking web sites like Gigmasters.com have seen unprecedented traffic from talented bands eager to get wedding gigs. It seems that popular bands are increasingly looking to the wedding circuit for a chance to get some extra cash between creative projects, even if it means learning a couple of extra Jimmy Buffet tunes.

This is great news to you if you're planning a wedding. Now, when you're searching for entertainment, you won't be stuck with some guy in a mullet…who prides himself on being just like Adam Sandler in "The Wedding Singer." Sophisticated bands will be professional and often come with references. If you find a group you like, ask to see their MySpace page or listen to one of their MP3s.

Maybe you’ll score such a great deal on a band that you’ll have money left over. Definitely to be used on concert tickets for that performer who won’t be able to make the big day!

What’s your method for picking a wedding band? [The Hartford Courant]