Ah, weddings! Who doesn’t love them except jilted lovers and scrooges?
A beautiful celebration of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new chapter in life, sure, but also a rollercoaster of emotions, stress, and endless decision-making. From choosing the perfect venue to selecting the most delectable menu, every detail matters. And while some decisions may seem minor compared to others, there’s one choice that can truly make or break your reception: the wedding band.
Nope, we’re not talking about something as innocuous as your ring, but rather, the group of talented individuals who will serenade you and your guests as you dance the night away. So, how do you choose the best wedding band for your big day? Fear not, dear reader, for we have compiled a list of top tips to help you find the perfect musical match. Ready to rock and roll? Let’s dive in!
Know Your (& Your Guest’s) Music Style
First things first – what kind of music do you and your partner enjoy? Are you fans of classic rock, jazz, pop, or perhaps a mix of everything? Knowing your preferred music style will help you narrow down your search and ensure that the band you choose can play the tunes you love. Remember, it’s your big day, so pick a band that reflects your taste and personality.
All that said, the hard part here lies in finding entertainment which appeals to all of the diverse tribes typically attending a wedding. This is particularly pertinent when considering the tunes; though the happy couple may love death metal or DnB, it may not go down quite so well with Great Aunty Mavis.
As such, when choosing your wedding entertainment, of course, you want to go for something that you’ll yourself enjoy, but really, it’s just as important to consider the crowd.
Set (& Stick To) A Budget
Let’s face it, weddings can be expensive. But before you start panicking and considering a DIY garage band, take a deep breath and set a realistic budget for your wedding entertainment. Keep in mind that professional bands come with different price tags depending on their experience, reputation, and size. It’s essential to strike a balance between quality and affordability – after all, you don’t want to break the bank but still want your guests to have a fantastic time.
After all, what’s a wedding without some toe-tapping tunes to get your guests grooving?
First things first, let’s talk about the average cost of hiring a wedding band. In general, you can expect to pay between £1,200 and £2,000 for a decent band, according to Alleycat Entertainment. Of course, this price range depends on factors such as the band’s size, style, and experience. But fear not, budget-conscious couples! There are options available for tighter purse strings. Now, let’s break it down by band size.
For a small but mighty three-piece band, you’ll be looking at an average cost of around £1,023.76 (or £945.20 if you’re savvy enough to find a good deal). If you’re after a four-piece ensemble, the average cost jumps to £1,432.91 (or £1,330.58 with some smart shopping). As for those of you with grander visions of a five or six-piece band, prepare to shell out a bit more. With a budget of £1,400 to £2,000, you can secure a top-notch five or six-piece group that will undoubtedly impress your guests and keep the dance floor packed all night long.
Now, let’s talk location. Somewhat surprisingly, considering it’s the home of one of the UK’s most sought after wedding destinations, The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire takes the crown as the most affordable county for hiring a wedding band, with an average cost of £1,286.25 (or £1,254 if you know where to look). So, if you’re planning a countryside wedding, you might want to consider this charming county.
Of course, every love story is unique, and so is every wedding band. Ultimately, the cost of your dream band will depend on various factors, such as their experience, style, and location. But armed with this handy guide, you’re well on your way to securing the perfect soundtrack for your big day without breaking the bank.
Do Your Research
Once you’ve got a clear idea of your music style and budget, it’s time to hit the internet and start researching potential wedding bands.
Start by scouring the internet for reviews, videos, and testimonials to get a feel for each band’s style and energy. Don’t forget to check out their social media pages for some behind-the-scenes action and candid moments. Remember, variety is the spice of life, so consider the band’s repertoire and their ability to adapt to your guests’ musical tastes.
Watch Live Performances
While recorded music and promotional videos can give you a general idea of a band’s sound, there’s nothing quite like experiencing a live performance. If possible, attend a gig or showcase event to see how the band interacts with the audience and how they perform under pressure. This will also give you a chance to chat with the band members and ask any burning questions you might have.
Consider Your Venue
When choosing a wedding band, it’s essential to consider the size and layout of your wedding venue. A 12-piece orchestra may not be the best fit for an intimate garden ceremony, while a solo acoustic guitarist might struggle to fill a grand ballroom with sound. Talk to your venue coordinator about any restrictions or requirements, such as noise limits or space constraints, before booking your band.
If your venue has any sound restrictions, in particular, then make sure the band you choose can comply with them. Additionally, if your venue is located in a residential area, you’ll need to ensure that the band’s sound won’t disturb your neighbours or violate any noise ordinances.
Check Their Flexibility
A great wedding band should be able to adapt to your specific needs and preferences. Are they willing to learn your first dance song if it’s not already in their repertoire? Can they play background music during cocktail hour or dinner? Make sure the band you choose is flexible and accommodating to ensure a seamless flow throughout your wedding day.
Read The Fine Print & Don’t be Afraid To Negotiate
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you carefully read and understand the band’s contract. Look out for details regarding deposit amounts, cancellation policies, and any additional fees for travel or equipment. It’s better to iron out any potential issues beforehand than to face unpleasant surprises later on.
Once you’ve found a wedding band that meets all your requirements, it’s time to negotiate the contract. Make sure to read the contract carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear. Ensure that the contract includes all the details such as the performance time, the number of musicians, the cost, and also the cost of any additional services like lighting or sound equipment. Also, make sure to include a cancellation clause in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Plan Ahead
One of the most important tips when looking for a wedding band is to start your search as early as possible. Many popular wedding bands get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. Therefore, it’s best to start your search at least six to twelve months in advance. This will give you enough time to research different bands and their availability, as well as negotiate prices and contract details.
To avoid disappointment, start your search early and secure your chosen band as soon as possible. This will also give you ample time to discuss song choices, special requests, and other important details.
Communicate Your Expectations
Don’t be shy about expressing your expectations and preferences to your wedding band. After all, they’re there to make your big day as magical and memorable as possible. Discuss your desired playlist, dress code, and any specific announcements or introductions you’d like them to make during the reception. Clear communication is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Read: How to choose the IDEAL music for your wedding day
Trust Your Instincts
Last but not least, trust your gut feeling when choosing (both your future spouse and) a wedding band. If something doesn’t feel quite right or you’re not entirely convinced by their performance, it’s probably best to keep looking. Remember, this is your big day, and you deserve a band that will make your wedding celebration truly unforgettable, whether they’re belting out the latest BTS hit or serenading the squad with a roll call of Whitney Houston’s biggest songs. Or both, you can, of course, have both!
The Bottom Line
Selecting the perfect wedding band may seem like a daunting task, but with these top tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the musical maestros that will have you and your guests dancing the night away. So go forth, dear reader, and let the harmonious hunt begin!
Should you prefer a more carefully curated wedding music situation, then you might be wondering how much a wedding DJ costs. You know what to do to find out…