Entertainment can make or break a wedding as it plays an important role throughout the entire day.
The team at Andy Kushner Entertainment are all musicians inspired to create unique and special experiences. Their team creates experiences taking couples and their guests on a journey that heightens the emotional connection and fashions memories for a lifetime. They call this process Entertainment Design.
Entertainment Design is more than just providing music. It’s the synergy of premium musical talent and exceptional stage performance married with a personally crafted vision. From elegant galas to highly-energized dance parties, AKE's design evokes the atmosphere you envision.
I sat down with Rebecca Steele, Vice President of Andy Kushner Entertainment to talk a little bit more about this process and more!
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent. ”
SPE: What makes AKE unique in the entertainment business?
AKE: Entertainment Design is our creative philosophy and process to design something custom and unique for each client. Our Acts are the brushes we use to paint the picture and realize their vision. Unlike many companies that work as a third-party to broker bands, we personally own, manage, and produce every one of our five acts.
Of course, if we don't have what a client needs we can put it together or find it for them!
SPE: What is your favorite part wedding day?
AKE: The ceremony :)
SPE: What do you think are the top questions couples should ask when they are considering AKE (or another company) for their wedding day entertainment?
AKE: 1. Do I want more from my entertainment than just checking off boxes of songs we like and special requests for the band to perform? Or do I want a team that will listen to what we want and who will help us make the best decisions to personalize our wedding day?
We love getting to know our clients and couples on a personal level so that each experience is customized. We not only listen to what you know you want, but make suggestions to ensure you have the best experience.
2. Do I want a band who will help drive the party accordingly or just someone who will play off a set list?
Of course, we have a setlist, but it's important to be able to monitor the crowd on-site and make changes on the fly based on how they are interacting with each other and on the dance floor. We pride ourselves on keeping your guests engaged and happy all night!
SPE: What do you see as a couple's biggest fear or obstacle when it comes to choosing their wedding day music/entertainment?
AKE: The biggest obstacle is understanding the value of live music. We often are asked to include musicians for the ceremony and cocktail hour, which is wonderful, but they would prefer not to invest any more of their budget because "the band is already here".
Devaluing the time, hard work, energy, talent, passion, and artistry that it takes to be a performer hinders clients from really investing in the right entertainment. When people want the cheap and easy solution, I suggest they just rent a PA system and hook up their iPod.
SPE: What wedding or event trends do you currently love?
AKE: I am not sure if it is technically a trend, but I absolutely LOVE when we can have the band perform the first dances of the brides' and grooms' parents. It is a beautiful way to recognize and honor your family and their marriages.
SPE: Any other advice for couples considering entertainment for their wedding?
AKE: Remember that there is no right or wrong way to do anything! This is YOUR wedding, so if you want to include/exclude any tradition or song, do it. Don't be afraid to throw the box away and do it your way.
“We were together. I forget the rest. ”
SPE: If you were a beverage, what would you be?
AKE: A glass of pinot noir
Andy Kushner Entertainment Design transforms events into unforgettable experiences!
Performances are tailored specifically to our clients' specific needs and dreams. The goal: to provide a seamless, interactive, engaging, and meaningful experience that captivates all in attendance and exceeds expectations. The result: the creation of more opportunities for moments to cherish.
Rebecca Steele
Multi-talented, award-winning Entertainment Designer Andy Kushner turns simple ideas into extraordinary celebrations. Multiple awards include Entertainer of the Year and Best Entertainment Production. He was named one of Modern Bride's Top 25 Trendsetters of the Year, along with Colin Cowie, Ivanka Trump, and other industry elites. Washingtonian Bride & Groom has presented Andy Kushner Entertainment and SoundConnection with multiple awards. He has launched/owns the acclaimed bands, SoundConnection, Rhythm6, SoundNation, Marquise, and PopCulture Strings to support his entertainment design/productions.
Are you engaged and have questions about how to have a beautiful and meaningful wedding?!
We'd love to chat with you about our services and make that dream a reality!
About Sincerely Pete
Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company based in the Washington, D.C. area. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality & events industries, the team at Sincerely Pete are pro's at making sure timelines, budgets, and important details are all perfectly managed. Each Sincerely Pete groom or bride-to-be can relax knowing they have an educated and experienced team bringing their vision come to life.
We believe in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple h work wit, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world.
