Music is one of the most powerful parts of a wedding day. Whether you picture guests dancing all night to a DJ, swaying to a live band, or listening to a soft string quartet at your ceremony, the right music brings emotion, energy, and unforgettable moments.

At Half Moon Empire, we want couples to have the freedom to choose the style of music that feels most true to them, while also making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about DJs, bands, ceremony musicians, sound setup, and our venue policies so you can feel confident and prepared.

🌙 1. What Types of Music Are Allowed at HME?

Short answer: pretty much anything you dream up.

We welcome:

✔️ DJs
✔️ Full live bands
✔️ Acoustic artists
✔️ String quartets
✔️ Pianists
✔️ Violinists
✔️ Harpists
✔️ Jazz trios
✔️ Mariachi
✔️ Live worship musicians
✔️ Solo guitarist/singer
✔️ Cocktail hour musicians

If you envision it, we will do our best to make it happen.

Every wedding is different — and your music should reflect your personality as a couple.

🌙 2. Ceremony Setup: What Your Musicians Need to Know

Our ceremony area is fully prepared for live or amplified music. Here’s what we provide:

✔️ Power outlets available

Musicians or DJs can plug in speakers, microphones, or instruments without extension issues.

✔️ Flexible placement

Your musicians may set up near the front of the ceremony space or off to the side depending on the look you want.

✔️ Microphones recommended

We highly encourage a microphone for vows, officiant speaking, and readers — especially outdoors.

✔️ String quartets & acoustic artists love this space

The natural acoustics with the trees, pond, and stonework create a beautiful echo.

✔️ Clear sound checks

Your DJ or musicians should arrive early enough for a quick rehearsal so everything is balanced before guests are seated.

🌙 3. Cocktail Hour Music Options

Cocktail hour is one of our favorite moments of the day, and the music helps set the tone for the celebrations ahead.

At HME, your musicians or DJ can set up:

✨ On the cocktail patio
✨ Near the oak trees
✨ In the breezeway
✨ Inside (if weather requires)

We provide:

✔️ Outdoor power sources
✔️ Patio-friendly setups
✔️ Space for a small acoustic group or speakers
✔️ Freedom to shift from ceremony to cocktail hour

Many couples choose:

• acoustic country
• jazz trio
• live guitarist/singer
• DJ with soft background music
• mariachi band
• bluegrass duo

Music during cocktail hour brings your wedding weekend to life — especially with golden-hour lighting across the venue.

🌙 4. Reception Setup: DJ, Band & Stage Details

Once the doors open and guests walk into your reception, music becomes the heartbeat of the night.

Here’s what to expect:

✔️ Indoor Stage for Bands

Our stage is set up to accommodate:

• full bands
• drum kits
• lighting setups
• keyboard rigs
• sound boards

We love live music — and bands love performing at HME.

✔️ Designated DJ Area

Most DJs set up near the dance floor but we also love a balcony set up. Our coordination team helps finalize placement at your 60-day walkthrough.

✔️ Ample Power Outlets

No tripping hazards, no running cables through guest seating — everything is ready for your vendor.

✔️ Dance Floor Options

Whether you’re dancing directly on our concrete floors or customizing a dance floor add-on, the space flows beautifully.

✔️ Sound Levels

Your DJ or band controls sound inside the venue.

🌙 5. Requirements for DJs & Bands

To keep your event running smoothly and safely, here are our music vendor policies:

✔️ Liability Insurance Required

All DJs, bands, and musicians must provide proof of liability insurance.

✔️ Arrival & Load-In Times

Your music vendor will coordinate arrival time with our HME team so setup doesn’t overlap with ceremony or décor installations.

✔️ Check-In Upon Arrival

Vendors meet with our coordination team so everyone is informed about timing, cues, and layout.

✔️ Use of Approved Equipment

DJs and bands must bring their own sound equipment. Our house speakers are not used for outside vendors.

✔️ Clean-Up & Load-Out

All equipment must be loaded out by the end of your contracted rental period.

🌙 6. Working With the HME Coordination Team

Your DJ or band will work closely with our in-house coordination team to ensure smooth transitions all day long.

We guide:

✔️ ceremony timing & cues
✔️ wedding party entrance music
✔️ first dance, father-daughter, mother-son dances
✔️ toast order
✔️ grand entrance
✔️ bouquet/garter (if applicable)
✔️ cake cutting
✔️ last dance
✔️ grand exit timing

We help your music vendor stay on track so you don’t have to think about a single detail.

🌙 7. Tips for Choosing the Right Music Vendor

✔️ Think about your crowd

South Texas weddings LOVE:

• two-step
• waltz
• line dances
• Texas country
• polka
• The Grand March

Make sure your DJ or band can handle your vision.

✔️ Ask how they transition between moments

Smooth timing = smooth guest experience.

✔️ Think about variety

A great DJ or band can read the room and adjust for all ages and all vibes.

✔️ Review their MC style

Some brides want a big personality.
Some want someone more behind-the-scenes.

🌙 8. FAQs

Can we have a DJ or live band at HME?

Yes! We welcome both.

Can bands perform outside?

Bands typically play inside on our stage, but musicians can play outside during ceremony or cocktail hour.

Do DJs and bands need to be insured?

Yes — liability insurance is required.

Can musicians play during rehearsal dinner under the oaks?

Absolutely. Acoustic artists and small groups work beautifully there.

Can we have live music in the bridal suite or groom’s lounge?

Live musicians are allowed for special moments — just coordinate with our team.

Do you allow polka bands or mariachi?

Yes! We love cultural music additions.

What about ceremony microphones?

Your DJ or musicians must provide all mics and stands.

What Comes Next

Coming soon on the blog: curated playlists and song inspiration for every moment of your wedding day — from getting ready to your final dance.