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H A Sent on 09/18/2022

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Amazing band

Doug and his band were everything we wanted and more at our wedding! He really went out of the way to make sure everything was special for us. Leading up to the wedding, Doug was professional, and easy to communicate with (even letting us add terms to the contract without any issue and answering all our follow-up questions) and stayed in regular contact about the itinerary. On the wedding day, Doug arrived early and the ceremony music and officiant sounded clear. During the cocktail hour and reception, he made sure everything moved seamlessly, keeping things moving along seamlessly. Doug, Shaliek and the rest of the group brought THE PARTY and kept everyone on their feet from start to finish. The sound and vocals were excellent and their song selection was perfect -- a mix of classic wedding songs, pop songs and new hits. They played music continuously (no breaks with recorded music), which was important to us, and during dinner service the tremendous trumpet player (Jim Hynes) did some solo pieces. He and the band enthusiastically went along with the sister of the bride to sing a song, learning it ahead of the wedding. After the reception, a bunch of guests were asking Doug for his business card. The only downside was our venue required them to stop playing at 11! We would recommend Doug and Best Kept Secret to anyone!

Jenny Sent on 07/19/2023

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Simply The Best!

If you want to dance all night and have guests rave about your band, hire Doug Winters Music!

We had the best time working with Doug in preparation for our June 2023 wedding. Doug was always available to answer questions, brainstorm, and listen to our special requests. Our biggest goal for the wedding reception was for everyone to HAVE FUN, and the band 1,000% delivered.

Not only are Doug and his musicians incredibly talented, but their infectious energy spread like wildfire among guests.

Our three lead singers captivated our guests with their vocals, stage presence, and crowd work! The singers were out on the dance floor with our guests throughout the night, which brought the party to the next level - their crowd work is unmatched!

My only complaint is that we can't turn back time and re-live the night! We had the best time at our wedding and have Doug Winters Music to thank!

So, if you're looking for a band to keep your guests entertained, look no further. Doug Winters Music will create an atmosphere you and your guests will cherish forever. We're beyond grateful for the joy they brought to our big day!

THANK YOU, DOUG!!

Debra Sent on 10/12/2021

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The very best band ever. Loved them.

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Doug Winters and the Best Kept Secret. Doug is the easiest person to talk with and he is a true professional who knows the business as well as how to make you feel special for whatever affair you are planning. This is the second time we have hired him and his band. When we attended our cousin’s daughter’s wedding many years ago we said, “Wow. This band is the best we have ever heard. They got the crowd dancing all night and the voices and instruments were amazing.” In fact we were so impressed that we hired Doug and his band the following week to play a B’nai Mitzvah for our twins. Ten years went by and our daughter got engaged. We then immediately called Doug and hired him for her wedding. This past weekend we had the wedding and we could not have been more pleased. This band is awesome and your friends and family will be raving about them for years to come. We had a ten piece band with a trumpet and a sax. Amazing. I can’t say enough about this exceptional band. Except don’t wait. Call them today so you can get a contract and secure your date. Doug is the absolute best. And his band is bar none.

Madeleine Sent on 03/13/2020

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Doug Winters Music... Beyond our wildest dreams!

Last Monday night, after four or five days of cancelling our big(ger) June wedding at a NYC hotel, we decided (because of a happy accident arriving next October) to hold a big reception following our private ceremony at my parents' home on the Upper West Side. Yes, it was smaller and sooner than we expected and yes, it was the greatest night of our lives. And most of that was due to Doug Winters and his band, Best Kept Secret...who turned up in great spirits and played and sang their hearts out with great celebration for us on March 9, 2020! They brought the "elegant funk" they use to describe themselves online -- AND SO MUCH MORE! We had thousands of dollars worth of takeout food, flowers from florists all over the city ( and a dozen bunches bought at West side corner delis) and nothing was as we planned. Except for the utterly fantastic music Doug and his group brought. Doug, we'll never be able to thank you enough! Your flexibility and total client approach (and Sari's) was refreshing from the first time we exchanged emails. I first heard you a bunch of years ago at my cousin's wedding at the Central Park Boathouse. This past Monday, at the apartment I grew up in on the UWS, you were better than ever! You kept the volume under control and still rocked our party and played everything we asked you for...last Friday! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Will Sent on 03/10/2020

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I would recommend Doug Winters Music to everyone I know!

No idea how to express how awesome Doug and his band were at my wedding just this past Saturday night. In the midst of health concerns, the ONLY thing we knew would we didn't have to worry about for our long-in-the-works wedding on March 7, 2020 was Doug and his band, Best Kept Secret. They played every single song we requested during the reception and they . The ceremony was enhanced by their guitar and Doug's beautiful performance and the jazz trio Doug put together was smooth and the perfect appetizer for the evening. Once the night started, Doug read the crowd with the PERFECT mix of contemporary and some throwback tunes -- they learned many obscure alternative songs for us for during dinner and most of all, kept everyone -- including our parents up and dancing for four hours straight. No one wanted the night to end and kept chanting: "one more song." They obliged and they performed with so much passion and enthusiasm -- with all four singers out (we had an extra vocalist) out on the dancefloor ALL NIGHT LONG. Every genre of music was represented and they were flawless. One of my wife's bridesmaids said they were "delicious." I just want to say they exceeded our wildest expectations. I would not only recommend them to everyone I know -- I'd recommend Doug to every bride and groom out on Wedding Wire...they were truly beyond incredible! We love you Doug! ANd a special shout out to his wife and partner, Sari -- you were awesome -- you calmed my bride's nerves so often during this process and really helped with so many emotional decisions! What a phenomenal pleasure to deal with such a remarkable company! Hire them today!

Ava G. Sent on 01/29/2020

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Thank you, doug winters!

We just got married last weekend and are about to leave for our honeymoon but we had to thank Doug Winters Music before taking off. You were the best vendor of everyone we hired! The venue and the food were outstanding, but Doug Winters Music was flawless. Thank you for all the time you spent helping us plan our wedding and for totally "bringing it" on the night of... you totally MADE THE WEDDING the crazy success it was! Your energy and that of the band's was so infectious, everyone keeps saying the "room was filled with love!" My new husband and I didn't hop from table to table, we found everyone on the dance floor and danced and celebrated with them. It was so perfect, Doug read the room perfectly and you knocked it out of the park. Thank you for everything! Your phone must be ringing off the hook -- everyone keeps asking us, where did you find these guys? You delivered everything you promised -- and SO MUCH MORE! We can never thank you enough!

Sophia Sent on 12/21/2019

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Our wedding was spectacular and Doug is the reason why!

Last Friday August 2, I married the love of my life and for me that was enough. I found Jules and he was -- and is -- all I ever needed to be happy. It was all I thought I'd need for my version of a fairy-tale wedding. We had thought, early on, that we'd have a city hall kind of low-key ceremony with a dinner after but my parents really wanted to celebrate because I was the last (and oldest) daughter getting married in our family. So I went on auto-pilot and let my mom and the planner do whatever they wanted and that turned out to be the "big wedding thing" -- the big dress, the beautiful venue, and they pulled out all the stops and to our complete surprise, it was amazing. And when we look back on it, most of all, what made it all so perfect was our band. And especially, our bandleader, Doug Winters.
What is so fantastic about Doug is how far out of his way he will go to make you feel cared about, important, comfortable, completely informed with all of our needs totally taken care of. That was for the months leading up to our wedding. During the night of, the band was absolutely electric and magical. They turned up the energy way past "High" and they sang and played their hearts out. Doug remembered every toast, every introduction and every single song we wanted him to play. When people talk about my wedding at a farm upstate, they don't talk about the beautiful mountain views and the rustic chic. They rave about the music. When we booked Doug less than six months before the wedding, we knew we could trust him. it felt like an instant lovefest from the beginning. But still, we could never have expected what he and the band brought that night. The planner had this idea to have socks in a basket for the girls to dance in and since everyone danced their feet off all night, it turned out we really needed them. All we remember is that Jules and I NEVER left the dance floor. That's where we hugged our friends and families and laughed and partied -- the dance floor WAS the party. THANK YOU DOUG WINTERS MUSIC for making our wedding the best night of our lives!

Charlotte Sent on 12/11/2019

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A super high-energy, exciting band that will keep you dancing all night long!

My husband and I happen to come from families who love celebrating and especially, love to dance. We needed a band that would understand and deliver. And Doug Winters and his band, way more than delivered. Although Doug and his partner and wife, Sari, constantly begged us for song choices, we left everything up to him. I have a very demanding sales job and my husband is working on his dissertation, so we were really thrilled to have someone as expert and talented as Doug completely "take over." I know this is quite unusual! But we knew we could trust Doug -- he has such spectacular word-of-mouth awareness, we basically gave him suggestions and trusted him and he was brilliant. Having said that, we did speak and text each other extensively during the months before the wedding about the kinds of music my husband and I both loved and Doug made it happen! His singers are versatile and warm, and constantly engaging with the crowd. Doug is the ultimate emcee, he has a beautiful voice and he handles every announcement flawlessly. Most of all, they were the best band we've ever heard at a wedding -- and we've been to more than a dozen in the past few years. More than that he's just a great, funny, understanding, and person who is so easy to work with; he and his wife both felt like trusted members of the family by the time we met him on our wedding day. Don't hesitate; book him today! You'll love them as much as we did!

Julian Sent on 12/11/2019

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Doug Winters Music was our best vendor choice at our Thansgiving Eve wedding.

My wife and I just got married on November 27th and are heading off for our honeymoon but we had to write about how unbelievable Doug and his band were. Doug gave us non-stop dancing all night, the best song selection and all the hand-holding my then-fiancee need. Doug is so experienced and knowledgeable about weddings, he was not only a hugely talented bandleader and keyboard player but he also became the wedding planner we didn't hire! That, in itself speaks volumes about Doug's wide-ranging expertise; it was no surprise he also does a podcast about weddings. We're just so grateful for his commitment to us throughout the process and his and the band's performance at our wedding. Out of all the people we contracted for our wedding at my grandparents' beautiful home, Doug delivered the most, truly going way above and beyond anything we could have ever hoped. People danced all night, thanks to Doug's keen ability to read the crowd. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, Doug Winters!

Antonia Sent on 12/10/2019

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Everything we wanted and more.

Doug and his band learned so much special music for my wedding. He and his band were unforgettable. They played at a friend's wedding that I was a bridesmaid in in 2016. Doug went above and beyond to make our wedding a real party. He gave us a celebration that was really exactly what we wanted...he really listened to everything we wanted, including the songs we specifically did not want to hear, which was a surprisingly long list! But they were totally fabulous and it was all thanks to Doug. We apologize that we are so late in responding. We were married last January! But we just got a holiday card from him!

Sasha Sent on 12/10/2019

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Doug Winters Music has done four weddings in my family!

Over the past ten years, my family has used this phenomenal band for my wedding (just this past October), my brother's, and two of my cousins. Doug is like a treasured family friend. My cousin used him first ten years ago and they were absolutely incredible. I held onto his business card for almost a decade. At every wedding he has proven himself to be the "real deal" and so has his incredible band, Best Kept Secret. His amazing vocalists go out of their way to interact with guests and they sing their hearts out. And the singers were all the same as they were almost ten years ago. If it's possible, they were better at every wedding and my husband and I couldn't have asked for anything more. Doug promised me he'd keep the dance floor packed because that was what was most important to us and he did! He really knows how to read the crowd and he and his wife and partner, Sari, worked closely with us on song selection from the very first day --until the wedding -- and they exemplify the meaning of exceptional personal service. I've never a heard a band that comes close. They were the best part of our wedding --- besides getting married of course!

Nick Sent on 10/28/2019

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Doug Winters Music went above and beyond our wildest expectations.

Doug and his band played at our wedding in September and they killed it. From my first encounter with Doug, we were bowled over with his honesty and expansive knowledge of weddings, planning and of course, music. He's a phenomenal keyboard player but perhaps his greatest talent is his ability to "read the room" and just KNOW what will work. He made our wedding the greatest party we could have ever dreamed of. If you want to dance all night, THIS is the band for you. We cannot recommend him more highly. His wife, who was our initial contact, is terrific, as well. She helped us negotiate a great fee, But in retrospect, Doug and Best Kept Secret are worth way beyond what we paid. We'll never be able to thank them enough! P.S. we also went for the string quartet we wanted for the ceremony and they were awesome.

Kerry Sent on 10/24/2019

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We can not recommend this band highly enough. The absolute best choice we made among vendors!

We looked at way too many bands when we first got engaged. But the moment we heard Doug Winters Music, he and his band stood out from the very packed crowd of pretty good available bands in our area. Doug is so much more than that. He's a gifted musician and the band dazzles with the singers and players' incredible music. Doug is really unusually helpful, understanding and always accessible, so my wife and I never worried about anything having to do with music from the moment we signed the contract. GREAT price (he worked with us to make it affordable); UNBELIEVABLE music that keeps the party exciting all night; and OUTSTANDING customer service and attention to detail. The best band we've ever heard and the best guy to work with --he's not like a "regular" vendor -- don't hesitate one second to book them. You will love them!

Phoebe Sent on 10/14/2019

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We had the greatest time at our own wedding!

What's so special about Doug Winters Music? He is a phenomenal musician and one of the loveliest humans I've ever gotten to know. And his band is so highly spirited and full of talent, they set the mood for four hours of unforgettable celebration. Before the wedding, he was always available to talk (sometimes for 90 minutes!) as he steered us in the right direction about music. And while everything at the wedding wasn't totally perfect, it doesn't matter. We will always look back at this night with tremendous affection for Doug and his band, who more than made up for it. My brother just got engaged and they already booked him...for 2021!

Juliette Sent on 10/12/2019

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The best band you'll find anywhere!

Doug Winters and his band are so amazing, I wish I could give them a ten star review. From the very beginning, Doug was warm, kind and endlessly accommodating. We had a very eclectic playlist and Doug and the band flawlessly learned everything we wanted. And when it came to the wedding, they outdid themselves. They put out incredible passion and energy and Doug and the musicians and singers over-the-top outdid themselves. The music was flawlessly perfect and Doug, as he promised, kept the dance floor packed all night long. If you want excellence beyond anything you can imagine and soulful, hot can't-sit-down music all night, choose the band that will have everyone saying, "the band was the best band we've ever heard." Most of all, YOU will get everything you have dreamt the music at your wedding could be. Doug Winters Music is extraordinary -- and like he did with us, he will become your favorite vendor. He became more like family to us; he and his band are "simply the best."

Marshall Sent on 09/09/2019

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Surprise BDay Party

I can’t say enough positive things about Doug and his band. Doug was accessible and accommodating throughout leading up to the event. They had our guests up and dancing throughout the evening and were an absolute highlight. Doug also helped me with a lot of the planning around the party in areas outside of the music. He has a ton of experience and is happy to share with amateurs (like me). Doug is a great guy and a terrific musician. Would use him again no questions asked!

Hallie Sent on 07/07/2019

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Best band EVER!!!

Where do I begin?? Doug became what felt like a member of my family before I ever met him and his band. My husband and I had hired Doug and the band without ever hearing them play live- and it was best decision we ever made. From the first conversation with Doug he made me feel at ease, answering any questions I had whether it was about the music or any other part of the wedding. He was available whenever I needed him, late night texts or weekend phone calls- it was always welcomed. Doug ended up feeling more like my event planner in the end and had great advice for us on how to best to set up the day.

When our wedding day finally came, his band exceeded even my highest expectations. They were fabulous and the party started from the very first song and went all night. Our guests didn’t sit down all night! The amount of energy and talent these guys have is unlike any wedding band I have ever heard.

As if my husband and I weren’t impressed enough, our wedding guests are still calling to tell us how incredible they were and how it was such an amazing party thanks to the band. Doug and the band- you made the wedding of our dreams come true, and we wish we could relive it all over again! If you are looking for a party that you and your guests will never forget, don’t hesitate in hiring Doug and this band.

We got lucky enough to have an unbelievable band for our wedding and make a lifelong friend!

Jackie Sent on 07/02/2019

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Best band EVER!

The Doug Winters Band is truly amazing--working with Doug was an incredible experience and we felt so taken care of and understood. He was a great listener and he went above and beyond to make our vision come true! He and his band were an integral part of making our wedding day such a memorable, magical, incredible experience. Everyone couldn’t stop talking about how great they were and still talk about it to this day!! They kept people on the dance floor all night long and were interactive with the crowd which we loved. The band even had learned a few songs just for us :) It was truly a pleasure to work with them and I couldn't recommend the Doug Winters Band more!!

Eileen Sent on 06/25/2019

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Fantastic Crowd Dancing Band

I got the pleasure of working with Doug and his band this past weekend. Guest were pulling me aside and telling me how great they were. They never skipped a beat and so flexible to work with. One of the singers got on the dance floor and started singing and dancing with one of the guest. One of the best bands in the area! Loved It!!

Jill Sent on 05/18/2019

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My 60 th Birthday Bash- Best music ever !!!

Doug Winters Music played at my 60th Birthday Bash- Music was outstanding, my guests danced the night away. Couldn't have asked for a better night ..Doug was super easy to communicate with and he did not leave a stone unturned.. He was always available and answered all my questions quickly...His band made the night sooooo much fun!!!!!!!!! It will be a night I will always remember and to date the BEST night of my life!!!!

Christina Sent on 05/02/2019

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Made the wedding night unforgettable

The Doug Winters band is beyond amazing! I highly recommend! Everyone kept asking about the band and saying they’re the best band they’ve heard- I agree completely. We had everyone on the dance floor. Made us feel special on our big day!

Beth Sent on 11/14/2018

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Kept Us Dancing All Night!

It was like love at first call and I’m not talking about the person I married. Doug was so personable and easy to work with and we hit it off the first time we spoke. After hearing their music on YouTube and having great recommendations I knew he was the band to go with. We stayed in constant contact through out the whole planning process and he even learned a whole bunch of songs we wanted because he wants to make your day extremely personal and special. The day of was no different and he and the band killed it! We had people coming up to us if they weren’t on the dance floor asking where we found him and how great the music was. Go with Doug Winters if you want the best party ever!

Richard Sent on 10/30/2018

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Benefactor

Doug Winter and his group were excellent. They played the music we requested without our having to specify individual songs. They captured the mood of the environment. The volume was perfect. I would hire them again.

Trisha Sent on 07/23/2018

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The Doug Winters band was the best decision I made for my wedding! They are SO much fun and sound absolutely amazing. All of us had to keep reminding ourselves that it was live music because the singers sounded so much like the original artists. At several points, the singers came out into the crowd and sang surrounded by the crowd - it was exhilarating and a blast. Don't hesitate - book this band today.

Jane Sent on 05/04/2018

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We were referred to Doug Winters by a friend who had been to a wedding where the band had played. As soon as we spoke with Doug on the phone to introduce ourselves to see if he would be available to play at our wedding, we knew it was a great match. His positive energy and enthusiasm for music made working with him such a blast. Doug was always available whenever we needed to hop on a call and he had amazing advice on all music related parts of the day. Even our wedding planner told us how much she liked working with Doug because he was more organized than any other band she'd worked with before. When we finally met him at the reception he did not disappoint! Everyone was up and dancing the entire reception. Even days after the wedding we had friends and family calling us to tell us how amazing the band was and how much fun they had. Thank you, Doug, for living up to your reputation and making sure we had the best night ever. It wouldn't have been the same without you! If you're looking for energy, a smiling face, and a night full of dancing, then look no further than Doug Winters Best Kept Secret.

Denina Sent on 03/22/2018

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Doug and his team were a God send. I planned a 120 person wedding in 2 months, and the least of my worries was the band! Doug worked with me on budget, the evening's itinerary, including details of ceremony music, special requests, all the way to the end with an after party! Now that is just the planning. The band executed with professionalism and literally had people asking me who they were and where I found them -- all night! So I had to explain that they were God sent. I cannot recommend Doug & the Best Kept Secret in any higher terms. YOU WANT THEM. TRUST ME. They will make your night! I'm still in the after glow of the glory! THANK YOU!!!

Martin Sent on 11/05/2017

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We loved working with Doug Winters and his band, all total pros. He and the whole team showed generosity and panache, and most of all showed that they know how to put on a real party. The band could read the room, and kept our guests on the dance-floor. We only wish we could've had them play until dawn. And though we've never even met the guy, we consider Doug a new friend. We cannot recommend the Doug Winters band more highly.
— Emily & Martin

Sarah Sent on 09/13/2017

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We had a terrific time dancing to the music of The Doug Winters Band at our daughter's wedding. The music was so much fun to dance to and the band members read the crowd well. The dance floor was packed all night long with all ages having a great time. We highly recommend this band and enjoyed working with them in the months preceding the wedding.

Jill Sent on 07/18/2016

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Doug Winters was a pleasure to deal with from start to finish. A friend had recommended him and his band saying they had "made their daughter's wedding." My son's wedding was 2 days ago and we are all still in the glow of it and what a fantastic party it was thanks in large part to Doug. He is knowledgeable and helpful every step of the way and delivers a polished professional band. They played all of the hot dance music from any era you want plus the hot summer hits from right now. The singers sounded terrific and our guests danced and danced and sang and partied the night away.

Jeff Sent on 06/05/2016

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The only thing that can match Doug Winters enthusiasm is the amazing music that Best Kept Secret was playing during our wedding. Doug made planning the music part of the wedding painless, and I LOVED talking to him. I requested he learn some songs for us which he was more than happy to do, and Best Kept Secret played them flawlessly. They were able to make last minute changes on the day of with amazing results. I forgot to mention to Doug that our venue had a piano where we held the cocktail hour; he asked me if I wanted him to play it about an hour before the cocktail hour started. He did a fantastic job, as did Best Kept Secret did during the reception itself!

Literally every single person that I talked to LOVED the music - A couple of people mentioned it was the best wedding band they'd ever heard. They got everyone moving both for fast and slow dancing, and played a very wide variety of different music. The dance floor was full at almost all times. My bride told me that she regretted not getting a videographer so she could have seen and heard more of the band!

If you are looking for a wedding band, you could not possibly do better than Doug Winters and Best Kept Secret. I am so glad we booked with them and next time I have an event where a band is needed, it will be Best Kept Secret.

User2610265 Sent on 05/16/2016

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My husband has preached the Three B's to our four daughters since they began dreaming of their future wedding days: Best Friends, Bar and BAND.
Doug Winters delivered a huge sound from the band. He brought 3 singers and 8 musicians to our wedding (the horn section was tremendous value add) They began by playing a set as everyone walked into the tent. From that moment on it was hard to get people to sit. All they wanted to do is be on the floor for 4 hours dancing to Doug's band. My husband declared in his father of the bride toast, "We have all our best friends here tonight, the bar is never going to run out of liquor and we have the BEST WEDDING BAND EVER!" The crowd went nuts! Book Doug today for your wedding celebration. Count your blessings if he is available. You deal with Doug directly so there is no overhead charge and you know just what you are getting. He's is a steal- and his music will steal the hearts of you and your guests. We can't wait until our next wedding! Doug will be our first call!

Heather Sent on 10/27/2015

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Doug was amazing to work with... We had several special requests and he was able to accommodate every one of them! Our dance floor was filled the entire night and our guests are still raving about how great the band was! My own feet are still recovering from all the dancing I did. Recommending the band to all my friends who have upcoming weddings just so we can party with them again :)

Reissa Sent on 10/17/2015

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Doug and his band was an amazing addition to our wedding. My husband and I are both musicians and we wanted a great live band that could do a variety of styles and keep the party going. We threw so many curve balls at Doug and his band--- both my husband and I wanted to do last minute performances, my maids of honor performed a song--- and Doug MADE IT HAPPEN BEAUTIFULLY. Our first dance was to a very not well known song--- and it was flawless and amazing. Every musician in the band was incredibly talented and had heart. They all made our day incredibly special. I cannot recommend Doug Winters Music/Best Kept Secret enough. You cannot go wrong. Thanks, Doug!!!

David Sent on 09/17/2015

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Best band ever. Very versatile. People danced all night. Probably the highlight of the wedding. My wife and I met with Doug well
In advance of the wedding to talk about the options/music. Doug coordinated music for the ceremony, had jazz playing for the cocktail hour and the full band rocking out after. They played our song to perfection and did a great job with the hora! Loved our band

Sean Sent on 07/14/2015

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The best expense of the wedding! This band got the party going within 3 minutes. Everyone was out on the dance floor from the first song through the night begging them not to stop. I can hear a good voice but multiple musicians at the party told me they were flawless in every instrument across the board. Thank you for the best day and wedding I have ever been a part of.

User1903682 Sent on 11/03/2014

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Thanks to Doug Winters--our wedding felt like a party. It was amazing to see have so many of our friends and relatives up on the dance floor with us--we basically didn't have to go table to table to make the rounds because we were able to spend time with everyone on the dance floor! Doug works with you from the very first time you contact him--he even responded to a request that I sent the night before the event! He listens to all of your ideas, and tells you which ones will work, even the ones you think won't, and has suggestions for how to make everything even better. My husband and I had a fairly esoteric first dance song, which they learned very well!

Doug not only lead his amazing band and made sure the music was top notch, but he kept the party kept the evening going smoothly, and had great ideas on how to time the speeches and special dances to avoid breaking the flow of the evening. The father daughter dance was sort of an inside joke, and Doug suggested (though it wasn't planned) that my father give a little explanation behind our father-daughter dance. This suggestion is one of the examples of how Doug understands how to do a great job with events to make everyone at the reception feel included in the experience.

The band was great- when the guests were hesitant to stop partying to come watch the cake cutting, the lead singer broke into an impromptu rap about it being time to cut the cake, which got a lot of laughs and people's attention.

We were married months ago, and everyone who we talk to about the wedding mentions the band. Thanks!

User1891679 Sent on 10/28/2014

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Doug Winters Music played at our wedding, and they were fantastic ! My friends are still talking about them a month later. Doug is very professional, flexible, easy to reach, and he and his band did an amazing job !!!! Hire them !

Alexandra Sent on 10/20/2014

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Doug Winters / Best Kept Secret was spectacular at my wedding! They had the dance floor PACKED even before our bridal party was introduced at the very beginning of the reception! Doug was a pleasure to work with during the planning process, and his and his band are so incredibly talented. They listened to our requests and truly made the evening so special for us. Throughout the 4 hour reception, the dance floor was packed. Even the solos that were performed during dinner took my breath away. I had to stop walking around greeting people at one point to just watch them sing and take it all in! My family and I are so happy to have had them play at our wedding, and we were complimented on them throughout the evening by our guests and by the manager of the club. I highly recommend Doug Winters' Best Kept Secret, they were amazing!!!

Dania Sent on 10/07/2014

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Forever grateful to Doug Winter's Music Band for he was amazing from our initial contact prior to booking, to the last song of the night! He was receptive to our needs and a great listener with lots of great ideas too. He played the perfect music with perfect acoustics for the Ceremony, Cocktail Hour and Reception. He had our guests dancing from the moment they entered the Reception. We had a packed dance floor with our guests saying over and over that this was the best Event Band they have ever heard. They were able to play and sing every special song we needed. From the teenage guests to the 93 year old Grandma, our dance floor was rocking all night! He coordinated the night's events seamless, just like we wanted. His vocalists and musicians were incredibly talented and sooo much fun. They lifted the energy of the entire Reception venue. It is true that 'The Music' is at the top of the list to make a wedding perfect and this was true with our wedding! We could not have been more pleased and thrilled with our music, Doug Winter's Music!

Juliana Sent on 08/07/2014

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Doug Winters Music/Best Kept Secret is HANDS DOWN the BEST Wedding band out there. They played everything we asked and more, even if it wasn't on their playlist. They even learned a song on the fly during the wedding so my wife could sing! Every band member is great. Doug is the most professional band leader, he was the only band leader we met with, and we hired his band on the spot. All of Doug's suggestions were great and made the day so special for everyone. All of our guests said they were one of the best bands they've ever heard. Whether it was Bruce Springsteen or Montell Jordan every song sounded great. The dance floor was packed from beginning to end. Hire this band if you want your wedding to be as good as ours was! Thanks for everything Doug!

Lianne Sent on 07/17/2014

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The band was fabulous which made it a great party!!!!

Eileen Sent on 07/14/2014

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Doug Winters band played at my wedding in New Canaan 6/21/14. They knocked it out of the park, our guests were going nuts dancing and the floor was packed the entire evening. It was by far the best $ I spent.

I heard them play at a friend's wedding and I knew immediately I would hire them for the same reason, they had unbelievably awesome energy and momentum, never did the evening drag as can happen in so many weddings. Kept the floor packed all night. Loved the variety in what they played, they managed to nail every song, from the classics (Neil Diamond) to the contemporary stuff (Daft Punk). Each of the players brings a bit of different variety so they don't play the same type of music all night. Their song list is extensive and the one song I wanted to play not on there they learned and played which was a huge hit!

One of the best parts about working with this band is Doug. We communicated throughout the entire process. Doug loves what he does, he knows how to read a crowd, and he knows how to make a great party. It spends time and makes an effort to get to know every couple he works with. We talked and became friends during my planning process. I've heard that some bands the manager isn't present at the event which is not the case with Doug. I wouldn't want to do the planning with someone who wasn't going to be present the day of. Doug was a pleasure to work with, very responsive and flexible.

We had so many compliments on the band from guests - "hands down best band I have ever heard at a wedding ever" "the band was to die for" "that band rocked the house" "epic wedding band" I just can't wait to get our video and relive it all again.

The advice I'd give any couple considering a band for a wedding over a DJ. Do not second guess. Get a band. It will make the wedding. And when you make that decision, give Doug a call. It will be the best decision you've made.

Jon Sent on 07/14/2014

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Doug is great to work with. He listens and makes suggestions on how to make what you want even better. As people walked into the reception, they just started dancing. The floor was filled all night. Doug and his band can "feel" where the crowd is and he just keeps the party going. Not once did he need to ask people to dance, there was no need to, they were already up and dancing. Doug and his band were a major factor in the success of the wedding. We cannot recommend him highly enough. Everyone who has called us after the wedding has mentioned how great the music was. They are right!

Tracy Sent on 04/14/2014

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Doug and his band are simply the best! I couldn't have asked for more professional attention and I am still receiving compliments on how everything was simply perfect. I am overjoyed!

Kathleen Sent on 12/28/2013

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We danced all night!
The band was very engaged with the audience and the audience responded!

Doug was very easy to work with and met all the special requests we asked for. It was a great party!

User1311415 Sent on 09/02/2013

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they rocked everyone was blown away, great for all ages

User1172489 Sent on 05/23/2013

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This band is truly the best kept secret. What a find. Professional from beginning to end. A great value.
But, most of all Doug and his band of talented musicians know exactly how to make a wedding party dance all night - no breaks! With very little effort on our part, Doug was able to determine the kind of music that would entice everyone and I mean everyone at our daughter's wedding get up and move!
Doug met with us beforehand to look over the venue. He worked with the Bride and Groom to help them come up with music for the ceremony and cocktail hour as well as for the reception. Doug answers e-mails and phone calls immediately and spends a great deal of time getting to know the people who hire him. He is a one in a million! The entire band interacted with our guests and made us feel very special, and connected! Thank you Doug and your band for making Molly and Alex's wedding extra special. We could not have imagined finding a better band!

Liz Sent on 02/12/2013

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Doug Winters Music was incredible!! Doug was a pleasure to deal with before our wedding, was so responsive to any and all emails we had and was extremely flexible. The band learned our first dance song since they hadn't played it before and did a great job! We got so many compliments on the band, everyone thought they were amazing and I've had a few friends that have since booked Doug, including my mom who is now getting married! Doug and his band are truly the best at what they do and they helped make our wedding day so special. They are the best!!

Jeannie Sent on 02/12/2013

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Brides and Grooms,
If I was able to give 10s across the board I would.
DougWinters is the best and incomparable to the band leaders and bands that are out there, Not only was I crazed with making sure everything was (perfect) (I bet you dont know how that feels) but I was concerned with how all of my guests would feel.

As a musician and the daughter of a renowned musician, there was NO greater investment we made than to have the best kept secret play. Doug overlooked NO detail and can do this in his sleep--- yet makes you feel like you are the only bride on earth, He has been doing this for years but is full of youth and has a great spirit, EVERY song we selected was cd quality and as we danced our first dances there wasnt a dry eye in the room.

With the utmost confidence and sincerity I can vouch for doug, his remarkable band and his willingness to work with his clients, He is one and a million and frankly due to the complments we recieved through facebook, email, calls etc, we would have paid double, and we were nervous in the beginning with people pressing a dj agenda, MISTAKE. Not one regret and his kindness and professionalism did so much for the vibe of our wedding. After a few drinks I actually got the professional man on the dancefloor for a Michael Jackson tune......He doesnt like to dance, but he commits to all he does and our happiness was his goal. SUCCESS.!!!!! Best money we ever spent and uforgettable grammy worth performances. A genius.

Lindsey Sent on 02/03/2013

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Best band ever!!!! Best Kept Secret made the wedding a success and had the whole crowd going from beginning till end! They had a great play list and played contemporary music everyone could dance to! Super friendly and would definitely recommend them to anyone getting married!

User794152 Sent on 02/03/2013

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Best Kept Secret and Doug Winters were an absolute pleasure to work with. They played awesome music and my wedding guests were dancing all night long. They were terrific and I have no regrets at all about working with them. They were worth every penny.

Whitny Sent on 10/11/2011

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Doug and his band were phenomenal. Doug was extremely attentive to all of our needs from the start and made every effort to accommodate all of our special requests (including the 8 special songs we requested they perform during our reception. We did a somewhat atraditional wedding to break from the 'hallmarkification' of weddings and Doug was there every step of the way to help make our vision a reality. Doug also made me feel like I was the only bride in the world and had a special way of keeping in touch with me and connecting on a personal level throughout our wedding journey. From the minute Doug took over the mic, we knew we were in great hands. Doug's band executed everything to perfection and seem to really have fun in the process. They were the talk of the night! We highly recommend the Doug Winters Band for any occasion.

Jodi Sent on 09/30/2011

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I heard Doug Winters Music years ago at my brother's wedding and knew immediately that I wanted to use his band for my own wedding. My wedding was just a few weeks ago and we couldn't have asked for a more amazing night! We keep getting so many rave reviews on how great the band was. They had the whole crowd up and dancing the whole entire night. They really made the party! Thank you Doug Winters for making out wedding the most incredible night of our lives!

Elizabeth Sent on 09/28/2011

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Doug is fantastic and extremely talented. Booking his band was hands-down one of the best wedding-related decisions we made and really defined our wedding. Tons of people came up to us at the wedding and after and said that they were the best wedding band they'd ever heard. On top of being a great musician and great at keeping the party going, Doug is also a really nice guy and really easy to work with. So happy we booked him!

Linda Sent on 01/23/2011

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They were so amazing I am using them again for my other daughters wedding.

Ryan Sent on 08/23/2010

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I would recommend Doug Winters and The Best Kept Secret to anyone who is in the process of planning a wedding. Doug knows how to get the party started, and keep it going throughout the entire night. Leave it to him and he will make your wedding an unforgettable night. I have friends who are still talking about the music at my wedding years after it happened. If you want to have a memorable, fun, energetic wedding, this is the band for you. And not to mention how easy Doug is to work with. He will listen to your requests and work with you to learn specific songs you may want to hear. Book Doug Winters and The Best Kept Secret immediately!

Marina Sent on 08/06/2010

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Doug Winters and his band were absolutely amazing!!!!!!!!! Everyone at the wedding raved about how great the band was, they got almost everyone on the dance floor. Doug and team did such a fantastic job with the music. I loved how the band intermingled with the guests- the drummer getting guests to hit the drum, the singers interacting with the dancing crowd. Everything was awesome, superb and outstanding. They infused the party with a fabulous, energetic vibe, and we couldn't be any happier. They played all our favorites, and we didn't even discuss how to end the night and they did a phenomenal job with Disco Inferno- which inspired a dance-off among the crowd. I could just gush and gush how elated I am about Doug and the band. Thank you so much for making our wedding celebration so much FUN!!!! Everyone had a blast!!!!!! I would send any and all
business their way. Doug and his band were incredible. Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!

Matthew Sent on 08/05/2010

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Listen, If you are going the band route for your wedding, you need to contact Doug. His crew is phenomenal! They play well-known relevant music from ALL genres that keeps the entire party dancing the entire night (See our video for proof). I actually saw Doug perform at one of my buddies weddings and instantly knew i would hire him at my own. It worked out very well. We even had a favorite song (Jason Mraz, I'm Your's) that Doug's band learned specially for us upon request. They good like that. killer wedding band, trust me!

Grace Sent on 07/21/2008

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We had the 12-piece band, and they were AMAZING! I can't say enough good things about them. They kept the dance floor packed for the entire night, and our guests couldn't stop raving about them! While they didn't play all the songs on our must-play list (we had about 25, so we didn't blame them), they definitely knew what type of music our guests would like, and there wasn't a single song played that we disliked.

Karen Sent on 09/18/2013

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Doug Winters Music/Best kept secret was amazing!!! They had everyone on the dance floor. They played the old school classics as well as current hits on the radio. So many guests came up to me after the wedding and told me how much they loved the band!!

Vanessa Sent on 08/09/2010

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Doug's band "Best Kept Secret" was the band at our wedding in November 2009 and we could not have been more thrilled. The comments we received from everyone -- literally everyone -- following the wedding were all along the lines of either "WHERE did you find this band??" and "that was the best band ever!!" I had learned of BKS from a friend who I had asked for recommendations as she had done extensive research and she said her absolute favorite choice for a band, as she had seen them perform twice at other weddings, was Best Kept Secret. She was 100% right. I cannot recommend Best Kept Secret highly enough as they were a pleasure to work with from start to finish, even when we had to switch the date on them after signing the contract because of a problem with the original venue. They have a wide range and are more than willing to learn anything not on their extensive playlist. I am positive you will share the same sentiment!

Liz R. Sent on 10/27/2018

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Best Kept Secret!

Doug Winters is a very talented musician. He is extremely easy to work with and provides a lot of one on one time before the wedding to understand what the couple desires for their wedding entertainment. I planed my wedding myself and booking this band was the best choice I made. Everything worked seamlessly with no added stress. I received many band compliments from my guests and most said that Doug Winters made the wedding fantastic. I would highly recommend booking him if you want live music and a very memorable experience.

Phyllis Sent on 10/26/2016

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What people remember about an event and wedding is the party. Music makes the party. Doug and his band were completely awesome. They kept all the guest on the dance floor the entire night. I highly recommend them.

Katie Sent on 02/01/2011

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You rocked it out!

Marisa Sent on 06/11/2010

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Doug Winters Music was wonderful--we are still getting comments (from guests who usually prefer a DJ, nonetheless) about how great our band was. Our dance floor was constantly packed and they really got things started without getting cheesy. They are a bit pricey, but if you can swing it, it really makes the wedding classy. We had a few snafus that I think only I (and a few of my musically inclined guests) realized--our first dance song's tempo was MUCH faster than was played at the wedding, and they forgot/didn't know the lyrics to 1 or 2 songs, and they played a couple of my 'do not play' songs (but they fit in well with the rest of the music, so I let it go and was okay with it). Otherwise, they put on a great party--highly recommend them.

Laura Sent on 08/19/2010

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Doug Winters and Best Kept Secret are an awesome band! Doug is a delight to work with. If you live in the NY area try to meet with him in person - it will make planning your playlist so easy. Take his advice about what songs to use for parent dances, etc., and don't worry too much about making special requests - he has such a long list of great songs the band has down perfectly. Your guests will be telling everyone for weeks afterward what a great party your reception was!

Dan Sent on 09/07/2019

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Brings the energy! GREAT sound

Doug's band played for my brother's wedding and we loved the group so much that we hired them for ours.

He got everyone on the dance floor and the music was amazing. The musicians he works with are true professionals and they sounded incredible! We requested some Latin songs, which they were able to learn, and it really made the night special for us.

Highly recommended if you want someone who will really bring the energy for your event!

Christina Sent on 02/15/2013

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Doug is a fun great guy to work with and the band was FANTASTIC! My guests danced the night away and I couldnt have been happier :)

User1101863 Sent on 03/03/2013

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4 out of 5 rating

The and was amazing during the reception. They really kept the party flowing and people danced all night! The lead singer was excellent. My only problems I had were the order of my songs during the ceremony got a bit mixed up and the owner was a bit opinionated at times. But my husband spoke to him and then everything was smooth sailing again. Check out their video you won't be sorry

Alyson Sent on 08/18/2010

4.5 out of 5 rating

Quality of service
5 out of 5 rating
Average response time
3.5 out of 5 rating
Professionalism
4.5 out of 5 rating
Value
5 out of 5 rating
Flexibility
4.5 out of 5 rating

“Wow” is all I can say. Doug Winters and his band created the most amazing night at our wedding. I cannot tell you how many people came up to us raving about the music and the band. The whole night was EXACTLY as we wanted it—high energy and dancing the entire night. We had so much fun and we know that our guests did as well.

Doug Winters Music/Best Kept Secret Reviews

Reviews

Doug Winters Music/Best Kept Secret