As the experts in live music entertainment and productions, The Replicas know how to put on a successful event that gets a whole crowd on their feet. Each of The Replicas talented bands and musicians has their own style and sound that sets them apart, however, we spoke with the agency’s executive director as well as lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Veronica Puleo to get her take on planning the music at a wedding.

Read on to learn more about Veronica’s best wedding music advice and a couple of her favorite tunes to incorporate into a setlist.

Q - What is your music specialty?

A - Variety Bands, Jazz and Classical Ensembles

Q - What are your thoughts about scheduling a dance set between cocktails + dinner? Yes or no, and why?

A - This should be the norm! This is how it's done on the East Coast. You've had people sitting though the ceremony, you lubed them up with libations and passed canapes through cocktail hour. The correct next move is to open the room to awesome music, announce the grand entrance, get the first dance done and invite guests to join the dance floor for a short lively set. After all, guests came to this event to celebrate the couple.

Having guests go right to their seats after doors open without a dance set sets the energy in a downward motion. Having a celebratory short dance set sets the perfect high energy tone for the rest of the night.

They just had hors d'oeuvres! Let them dance some of that off before stuffing them with more food. And your photographers will thank you for the early dance set. Why? Because everyone's lipstick, ties, and shoes are still on ... and perhaps there's still some natural light pouring into the room for better ambient light photos.

Q - What is the #1 advice you give to couples planning their wedding with you?

A - Have a short dance set after your grand entrance and first dance.

Q - What is your favorite first dance song, and why?

A - "Knocks Me Off My Feet" by Stevie Wonder. It's just an incredibly perfect written song. The lyrics, melody, and instrumentation are just so on point! Look it up and listen to it on great speakers. You will thank me. It's one of the most glorious love songs ever written.

Q - What is your favorite last song, and why?

A - It truly depends on the vibe of each couple. After the last 18 months we've all had, "Under Pressure" seems to be a big last song favorite at the moment. In the past, my quirky and fun couples would still ask for "Sweet Caroline". My East Coast couples love "Born to Run" and so do I. That will always be my favorite last song of the night.

Photo 1, 2, 4, 7: Rewind Photography | Photo 3: Vitae Weddings | Photo 5: Jenny Quicksall Photography | Photo 6: Brian Saculles Photography

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