What to Look for in a Wedding Musician: A Santa Barbara Couple’s Guide
Planning a wedding in Santa Barbara is nothing short of magical. Between the ocean views, timeless architecture, and refined venues, couples here are crafting truly one-of-a-kind experiences. But when it comes to choosing your wedding musician, the process can quickly feel overwhelming.
I’ve performed at over 100 weddings and private events now. I wrote this guide to help couples understand what to look for in a professional wedding musician for their wedding in Santa Barbara—so you can book with confidence and enjoy your big day without worry.
1. Professionalism and Communication Matter More Than You Think
While talent is important, your musician’s ability to communicate and stay organized will impact your entire planning experience. From your first inquiry to the final song, responsiveness and professionalism go a long way.
What to look for:
Replies within 24 hours
Clear quotes and contracts
Timeline confirmations and event reminders
Willingness to coordinate with your planner or venue
Thorough questioning to discuss logistics
The right musician will make the process easier—not more stressful.
2. Musical Versatility for Every Part of the Day
The best musicians can tailor their song list for you and your guests depending on what the moment calls for: a romantic acoustic ballad as you walk down the aisle, an upbeat tune for cocktail hour, or something warm and subtle during dinner.
Ask yourself:
Can this musician cover multiple genres—pop, soul, country, classic rock, and more?
Can they play both ceremony and cocktail hour music with different moods?
Will they help you customize your setlist?
Will they create a timeline of songs to be played for each part of the day
Can I request specific songs not on their list?
Versatility ensures your wedding has a cohesive, personalized soundtrack from start to finish.
3. Request Real, Live Samples
Beautifully edited promo videos are great, but they don't always reflect how a musician sounds in real-time. Ask for raw audio or video clips from real weddings. You want to know exactly what your guests will hear on the day.
What to request:
iPhone videos from past ceremonies
Live gig recordings without studio polish
Full performances, not just highlight reels
Hearing a musician in their natural setting can reveal far more than a polished edit. You can get a small glimpse in to what it might be like to be in attendance when this musician is performing.
4. Actual Wedding Experience—Not Just Live Music Gigs
Weddings are a unique environment. Unlike bars or concerts, they require extensive planning , sensitivity to emotion, and the ability to adapt in real time with planners, photographers, and officiants.
Look for musicians who:
Understand the many parts of a ceremony
Have an expansive repertoire
Are recommended by other couples
Have a strong reputation with other vendors
A wedding-experienced musician will not miss a beat—even when things don’t go according to plan.
5. Equipment Preparedness and Sound Quality
The last thing you want on your wedding day is feedback from the mic, a speaker cutting out mid-vows, or music that’s too quiet to hear. A seasoned musician comes prepared with high-quality gear and backup solutions.
Ask them:
Do you bring your own PA system, mics, and mixer?
Do you carry backup equipment?
Can you perform wirelessly for multiple-room setups?
Can you provide a microphone for the officiant or speeches
When I perform weddings, I always account for wind, heat, indoor/outdoor changes, equipment failures, and power needs—because no two venues are the same.
6. Customization and Song Requests
Your wedding isn’t generic—your music shouldn’t be either. A great wedding musician will happily learn a special song or rearrange a version to suit your style.
Consider:
Will they learn a song that’s not in their current repertoire?
Are they open to arranging a personalized version of your first dance song?
Do they send a full list of available songs?
You can view my full wedding music repertoire here if you’d like ideas for your big day.
7. Reviews and Testimonials Tell the Truth
What past couples and vendors say speaks volumes. Take time to read through reviews—especially those that mention professionalism, punctuality, communication, and overall experience.
Where to look:
Google Reviews
WeddingWire
The Knot
Client testimonials on their website or social media
Look for recurring comments that highlight trustworthiness and performance quality.
A Few Santa Barbara-Specific Considerations
If you're getting married in Santa Barbara, ask whether your musician has worked at your venue. I’ve performed at nearly every type of venue – from the Santa Barbara Courthouse to private estates along the coast. I understand local logistics, sound ordinances, and the importance of backup plans for unpredictable weather.
Additionally, working with vendors who already know each other creates a more seamless, collaborative atmosphere on the day. Santa Barbara planners, florists, and photographers appreciate musicians who can adapt and communicate quickly on site.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your wedding musician is more than checking a box on your planning list—it’s about finding someone who can elevate the entire atmosphere of your day.
If you’re looking for a musician who is experienced, organized, and passionate about crafting a custom experience, I’d love to chat. Whether you're having a beachside elopement or a full wedding weekend in wine country, I’m here to bring the right vibe to every moment.
Reach out to tell me more about your dream day!
