1. You need to book your band as early as possible. Eight to twelve months ahead of time is ideal. If time is winding down, book a band immediately. You most likely will not get your first choice, but try. Most bands cost between $200 to $750 per musician for four hours. Do not take that statement as absolute. ALWAYS check with the band you would like and do not be afraid to ask for a better rate.

2. There are many ways to find a great band : Ask photographers, site managers, and caterers for suggestions. Call your local musician's union, or check out entertainment "brokers," who manage and book bands, DJs and other performers. If you're on a budget, local music schools and community colleges are great places to search for a band.

3. Interview a few different acts. Find out if they are open to playing the songs you want them to, and learn what styles of music they love. If you want a certain genre, go straight to the source. No use hiring a classical vocalist to sing power pop. By the same token, if your wedding needs a mix of pop and jazz, classics and country, you'll need to find a band that has the ability to play your eclectic requests.

4. Make sure the musicians can take care of their own amplifiers, instruments and sound systems.

5. It's also important to be aware that generally, for every 45 minutes of music, a band will expect a fifteen-minute break. Sometimes these breaks can throw off the pacing of your reception -- but if the band is familiar with the wedding circuit, they will be able to space their breaks to coincide with opportune times. On occasion, musicians will play through their break for an extra fee. Ask ahead of time.

6. Will your band leader make a good master of ceremonies? In other words, can your guy play and talk at the same time? Most couples rely on their band leader to guide them through the wedding celebration, announcing everything from the first dance to the garter toss. Is your band prepared for the job?

7. What are the hidden costs? Will your band charge more for learning your first dance song? How much will they charge for overtime? Is there an early load-in charge? What about meals for the band? Also, who's your contact if anything changes? Be sure to get the phone, cell and pager numbers you'll need.

8. Be clear about what you want your band to wear to your wedding. You probably won't want them in T-shirts and shorts, so make sure they know what you expect.

9. Check the written proposal to ensure it includes all the points you've discussed when you first met.