Hi jasminesc, I have also been in contact with Sharlene/Erika, and have received responses fairly quickly (3 - 7 days). Unfortunately I don't have many answers to your questions, except I have heard that an outside vendor is $300 per day. Certain vendors (photographers) may pay for this fee, or include it in your package price. Just ask them about it. As far as your musicians are concerned, I believe they charge hourly. I read on someone's post that the reggae band at 9 PM is very loud, so the wedding toasts and speeches were difficult for everyone to hear. I hope this helps!