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This week's topics: wedding bands, live wedding music, Nebraska wedding vendors, The Downtown Collective Band, wedding reception entertainment, live horns in wedding bands, multi-piece wedding ensembles, wedding vendor collaboration, hiring a wedding band, creating a lively wedding atmosphere, wedding entertainment tips, TikTok wedding trends, personalized wedding entertainment, Midwest wedding bands
In this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, hosts Sonja Babich and Brooke Beise—Publisher of Nebraska Wedding Day and Minnesota Bride—sit down with Cornell Leffler and Ether Saure, the duo behind Nebraska-based The Downtown Collective Band. Known for their high-energy performances and ability to create unforgettable celebrations, they share how their band grew from casual jam sessions to one of the most sought-after wedding bands in the Midwest.
The episode begins with the story of The Downtown Collective's inception. Growing up as "technically cousins" (they note) and reconnecting after college, they started with jam sessions in an attic, which evolved into performances at church dances. Their first wedding gig in 2016 set them on a path into the wedding industry. By 2022, their standout performance at the Nebraska Wedding Day Best Of catapulted their bookings from 15 weddings annually to over 50, showcasing their magnetic stage presence and ability to bring any room to life.
One of the band's defining features is its minimum nine-piece ensemble, which includes vocalists, horns and a rhythm section. They emphasize the impact of live horns, which elevate the energy of songs and create a full, dynamic sound. From classics like September to modern hits like Uptown Funk, their diverse instrumentation ensures an unforgettable experience for couples and guests alike.
When working with clients, they prioritize understanding each couple's unique vision. They start by asking clients to describe the atmosphere they want for their reception. This approach helps focus on the experience rather than just a checklist of elements. Whether couples envision a lively dance party or a more intimate celebration, the band adapts seamlessly. They also work closely with other wedding vendors, like photographers and planners, to ensure a smooth flow of events throughout the evening.
A standout feature of The Downtown Collective is its collective model, which allows it to maintain quality across multiple events. With a deep roster of musicians from Lincoln and Omaha, they ensure that every performance meets their high standards, even when handling multiple bookings on the same day. The musicians are all trained in what they call the "Downtown Collective way," ensuring consistency and professionalism.
The episode concludes with reflections on the joy and spontaneity of performing at weddings. They share how they create core memories for couples by bringing them onstage for a song or including unique elements like medleys inspired by TikTok trends. While handling occasional curveballs, like enthusiastic guests wanting to join the stage, they remain focused on making the event both safe and special.
Tune in to this episode to hear more about The Downtown Collective Band, insights into their creative process and the band's dedication to making every wedding unforgettable.
This episode is powered by The Downtown Collective Band and The Farnam Hotel. Special thanks to members Linen Effects, Continental Diamond, Warpaint International.
