Q:What is a second-line?
A: In New Orleans’ African-American traditions, the brass band plays a dirge proceeding the funeral, accompanying the hearse and mourners for the processional. For the recessional, the band strikes up with the upbeat, “second-line” music, celebrating the life of the deceased. Today, the second-line has evolved to encompass almost any celebratory occasion here in New Orleans, including memorials, birthdays, weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and even corporate gatherings.
Q:Can we make stops along the parade route?
A: Yes and no. For example, if a couple wants to stop by the front of the hotel where they got engaged, or pause in the street briefly to snap a photo (1 or 2 minutes), that is perfectly fine. However, stopping the whole party along the way to get a fresh round of drinks, or to use the facilities, or any other stop that lasts more than a minute or two is strongly discouraged. The police escorts ensure that the parade continues to flow, start-to-finish, without pause.
Q: How do we pick a route for the parade?
A: Planning a parade has many idiosyncrasies, which is why it’s best to work with a professional to help you plan the right route. Please keep in mind that the parade must go in the direction of traffic (most streets in New Orleans are one-way). Also, there is no second-lining through Jackson Square. If your wedding is at St. Louis Cathedral, or in the park, the band will meet you and escort you to the corner, where you will meet the police escorts.
Q: What about parasols, handkerchiefs, and other second-line accessories?
A: If you’d rather leave the details up to us, we’ll take care of the accessories for you – customized, and delivered! We also offer parasol rentals, delivered by our on-site coordinator.
Q: Do I need Permit and Police Escort for my Wedding Parade??
A: It is required to have proper City Permit and Police Escort for any Wedding parade that will be parading on city streets especially in the French Quarter Area.
Q: How can I make a payment to secure my date?
A: It’s a few ways you can make a payment… (US Mail, PayPal, or Credit Card Payment-Visa, Master Card, and American Express).
Q: What is a Wedding Cocktail Hour??
A: The Cocktail Hour is normally the time after the wedding ceremony when you are having your photographs taken and your guests are milling around having drinks and perhaps snacks while waiting for your arrival.. So, The Kinfolk Band would host your pre-reception music……….Whether you are hosting your cocktail hour at your ceremony venue, reception venue or at a nearby spot like a hotel court-yard or park, having music to entertain your guests will always be welcome and will set the tone for the rest of the celebration. While jazz and swing music generally work particularly well as pre reception music, the type of wedding music played during your cocktail hour will depend greatly on the mood you are trying to create, your venue, whether you are using live or recorded music, and your theme in some cases.