Italian novelist and poet Cesare Pavese once said, “We do not remember days, we remember moments.” While you will remember many moments from your wedding, wouldn’t it be great if your guests did too?
Often, the most memorable weddings are those which feature a full dance floor with friends and family dancing, singing along, and having a great time. Your wedding band is your partner in conjuring collective experiences like that. And no entertainment option is better prepared to fill the floor than a show band — like Hot Mess Band.
Based out of Boston, the Hot Mess Band boasts a passion for performing that is evident in their high energy. In turn, that energy creates a party atmosphere, whether they are playing a stadium-style rock show or a sophisticated wedding. We spoke with Jason Silverman, Founder, Vocalist and MC, of Hot Mess to learn more about what a show band is — and how entertainment can make a wedding live on for years after.
See an example of a show band in action below…
First, what exactly is a show band?
The term “show band” typically refers to a musical group known for their elaborate stage performances and entertaining shows, often incorporating elements like choreography and costumes. Bands like Hot Mess focus not only on the music itself but also on creating a visually engaging and memorable experience for everyone present.
“For those looking to take their event to the next level, incredible music is a great start. But what you really need is the full experience,” Silverman shares. When he refers to a “full experience,” Silverman is talking about everything from attire and emcee to musical diversity and seamless transitions.
ballroom wedding: photographer: Zev Fisher Photography | event planner: Erin Davies Consultancy | design & floral: The Petal & Root | venue: The Newbury Boston | entertainment: Hot Mess Band
What should you expect when you hire a show band for your wedding?
Elevate service and attention
Silverman says, “From the client’s initial inquiry, they get attentive, personalized attention. We usually respond in less than 10 hours. Our team likes to learn all the details of the event, so that the band can work with the couple’s timeline to make sure everything runs without a hitch.
“Before Hot Mess even hits the stage, our management team works with you on logistics and coordination.” Meanwhile Silverman himself meticulously prepares setlists and consults with the couple on musical tastes, special moments, and color schemes. All of this preparation means that on the day of the wedding, everything runs smoothly.
casino wedding: photographer: JP Elario | event planner: Christine Wheat Special Events | design & floral: Fleurtacious Designs | venue: The Canfield Casino | entertainment: Hot Mess Band
Coordinated, elevated dress
“From the minute you enter the ballroom, you know you are in for the ultimate celebration with Hot Mess on the stage. We like to call it elevated luxury entertainment. The band is always dressed to impress in upscale coordinated attire to match the aesthetic of your wedding. Sparkly gowns and tailored jackets are all part of how we wow in every aspect of the event,” says Silverman.
Engaging emcee
Jason Silverman is the Hot Mess Band emcee. He brings his experience in engaging audiences to every performance and moves through the whole evening seamlessly, sweeping the crowd along and connecting with guests.
vintage wedding: photographer: Carl Heyerdahl Photography | event planner: Contagious Events, LLC | venue: Brick South | entertainment: Hot Mess Band || cultural wedding: photographer: Servidone Studios | event planner: Erin Davies Consultancy | design & floral: Fleur Events | venue: The Boch Center | entertainment: Hot Mess Band
Performance history
Silverman shares, “I make sure they never leave the dance floor as one awesome song rolls into the next. This is what you get when a band has been together for 12 years and are like a family. Each member of Hot Mess knows what is expected of them, and their goal as soon as they hit the stage is to entertain!!”
photos courtesy of: Hot Mess Band
Personalized moments
Silverman affirms, “We happily provide a consultation to chat about any special requests — from learning a new song for a special dance to working with a ‘special guest’ on a performance. We have an ever-evolving setlist and are adding new songs constantly.”
Additional entertainment options
Hot Mess features a core nine-piece band to which couples can add performers and instruments. But there are other customizations available, as well. “Some of the most popular add-ons are Hot Mess’s award-winning Jazz ensemble, dancers, LED performers, or electric violin,” shares Silverman.
photos courtesy of: Hot Mess Band
Next-level staging
“For every show we bring our stage manager — who is also a dedicated sound engineer. He makes sure the staging is immaculate and the sound is incredible,” says Silverman. He adds, “During the show, it allows the client to have a direct link to the emcee, which means no running up to the stage with a scribbled note on a piece of paper.”
To sum up the show band ethos, Silverman says, “During a Hot Mess show, you can expect costume changes, great crowd interactions as our performers venture into the audience, seamless musical transitions, and unparalleled emceeing. Each client gets a customized experience, no matter where they are in the world — from weddings in Iceland to charity galas in Seaport to gigs at the Rainbow Room in NYC. The customization is next level; we curate the song list especially for our clients, and our costumes always work with your vibe.”
photo courtesy of: Hot Mess Band
People Also Ask…
What should I do first when planning my wedding?
We always recommend first hiring an experienced wedding planner. Your skilled planner will advise you on venues to see based on your wedding vision and budget. Use PartySlate’s venue directory to find even more options, and click through to each venue’s profile to see real weddings in their space.
Your planner will also suggest vendors to meet your specific needs. Then visit PartySlate’s vendor directory to filter based on your preferences and follow the links to their profile to see real examples of their work.