Rock a wedding in 10 easy steps!

We’re in the middle of wedding-planning season, that curious time of year when I spend the most time and energy telling people about my band – and the least time and energy actually playing with them. It’s a curious gig. 

Here, in honor of the season, are my 10 rules for doing weddings well. 

1. Show up early. No – earlier than that.
2. Leave artistic idiosyncrasies, idealistic crusades and “precious frontman” tendencies at the door. Recognize that this is absolutely not about you.
3. Get a garment bag. You will spend many hours in your underwear in bathroom stalls, where you’ll make awkward small talk with the people you’re about to play for.
4. Pack deodorant.
5. And get there early.
6. Make friends with the caterers. Help them. Remember, they don’t work for you. But if you’re nice, you might score some hot tea.
7. Be friendly even if there is no tea. Recognize that this is absolutely not about you.
8. The bride’s the boss.
9. The groom’s the boss, too. So’s the father of the bride, the wedding planner, and the catering director. But guess what? You’re the one with the microphone.
10. Never use the microphone unless you already know what you’re going to say. If you’re unsure what to say, consult the boss.