Frequently Asked Questions

+ Can I choose more than one ensemble?

Yes! One of the things we consistently hear from clients is that it is helpful to have one streamlined music vendor throughout your whole event. More vendors means more planning and more complications. You shouldn’t have to worry about the string trio for your ceremony playing your first dance song.

Having distinct divisions allows us to preserve the integrity of each ensemble and to provide a tailored soundtrack for each part of your event. For example, you can have SpeechLess Strings for your ceremony and cocktail hour and Zookeepers for your reception, and know that you are getting musicians who are specialists in their styles for each distinct part of the day.

Bundling our services can also save your budget from getting inflated. Each additional vendor you hire comes with a “startup cost.” When you book us for multiple styles, we can discount the price of each ensemble in one package.

+ What do your packages include in terms of AV?

Almost all of our packages always include state of the art amplification suitable for broadcasting high-quality sound to groups of 25-200+ guests (the sole exception to this is Wilder Strings, who typically perform acoustically. More info here.)

We have additional options available for AV services for ceremonies or private parties. You can choose to add these before you book, or wait and add them later in the planning process. DJs and reception bands always include microphones for toasts as well as MC services.

+ Will you travel for my event? How will that affect pricing?

One big perk of our job is that we get to travel and see new sights while performing music. We routinely travel between 1-4 hours for events, and with the exception of ferry fees, travel is always included in our packages.

For events that require travel of over 3 hours and end after 10 pm, we occasionally ask for a small additional fee for accommodations or for lodging to be provided for ensemble members.

+ Will there be musician turnover before my event?

We support our artists as they tour, record in LA, Nashville or NYC, or work on their own projects. Happy, working, busy musicians means that your band is going to sound super fresh. For this reason, we do not promise specific performers, but we do guarantee quality and the energy and vibe that makes us who we are. We like to think of it like a 5-star restaurant - we deliver a consistent experience.

+ What is planning like?

The planning process is simple and easy, our job is to make sure you have zero anxiety about planning your music! We’ve created planning documents that are half educational and half organizational to make sure you don’t miss any details. Furthermore, as far as we know we are the only musical group in the area with a dedicated event planner on staff, so you can rest assured knowing that you can always reach us.

+ What time will you arrive?

Unless venue requirements call for a later arrival time, we always arrive at least 1.5 hours before we play our first note. Though we’re capable of setting up and being ready to go within 15-30 minutes, we find that leaving extra time to account for unexpected traffic delays and the like gives us a measure of safety that translates to consistent service. If you book a party band or DJ ensemble, it is likely that the sound team will arrive 2-2.5 hours ahead of time if the venue allows.

+ Can I choose the songs for my event?

Generally speaking, yes! However, each ensemble treats song requests a little differently. In addition to allowing requests from our song lists, all of our ensemble packages include up to two special requests that the ensemble orchestrates, rehearses and performs specifically for you. DJ ensembles include unlimited song requests.

+ What do the musicians wear?

We dress to impress but not to steal the show. No uniforms here, you’ll see us in blazers, cocktail dresses, button downs and heels. Our YouTube and Instagram pages have good examples of our look. We are happy to accommodate dress codes such as black tie upon request.

+ Can you MC for my event?

Basic Emcee services are included in your package, should you reserve us for your wedding reception or corporate event. Typically, this role is given to one of our talented vocalists.

+ I’d like to book you for my event - how do I reserve an ensemble?

Awesome, we can’t wait to work with you! The booking process is a breeze. Email us at booking@speechlessmusic.com or set up a time to chat with our booking director here. Once we get a sense of what you need, want, and love we put together a package. We consider a date booked when a contract is signed and deposit is made (see below for more info). We do not grant “soft holds” but upon request we can keep an eye on your date and let you know if we receive any inquiries.

+ My venue requires insurance - are you insured?

Yes, we carry full General Liability Insurance that covers up to $2,000,000 and meets even the most stringent venue requirements. We are happy to send a certificate to you or your venue upon request. Additionally, because we maintain close relationships with partner vendors, we find that many venues already have our insurance information on hand.

+ How do deposit and payment work?

To reserve SpeechLess for your date, we’ll need to draft up a contract. We consider a date reserved once that contract is signed and a deposit is made (generally 50% but we’re flexible). We use a website called Hire Notes and accept credit cards or check for the initial deposit. The remainder is due the week of your event and can be made in the payment method of your choice (direct deposit, cash app etc.)