Maine Wedding Band: Do I Do

If you're looking for a wedding band in Maine, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're after a small, intimate duo or a large, lively 14-piece band, Maine has something to offer.

For a unique twist, you could opt for a steel drum band, a bluegrass band, or even a Zimbabwean marimba band. Or, if you're looking for something more traditional, there are plenty of bands specialising in pop, rock, and indie.

Many Maine wedding bands are versatile and can tailor their setlists to your preferences, ensuring your special day is exactly how you want it.

Wedding bands in Maine: Genres and styles

Wedding bands in Maine offer a diverse range of musical genres and styles to suit different tastes, budgets, and wedding themes. From timeless classics to modern hits, here's a breakdown of the genres and styles you can expect:

• Timeless Classics and Jazz: Bands like Wavelength offer a blend of timeless classics, including Frank Sinatra, and jazz standards. They create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere for weddings, with their smooth and soulful tunes.
• Pop and Rock: Many Maine wedding bands cater to a wide range of musical tastes by covering multiple genres. For example, The Usual Suspects, a multi-genre band, offers a mix of pop, rock, and indie tunes to keep the dance floor packed.
• Folk and Festival: Bands such as Paper Boats add a unique twist to their performances with folk and festival-inspired spins on popular songs. Their repertoire includes folk classics and modern hits with an acoustic, roaming style.
• Soul and Motown: Southside Sparkle is a soul and Motown band that puts a unique "1920s goes pop" twist on their performances. They perform soul-stirring classics that are sure to get guests of all ages dancing.
• Latin and World Music: For a bohemian wedding vibe, Latin Corner brings the sultry and passionate sounds of Latin America to life. With influences from Cuba and Brazil, they offer a unique and exciting musical experience.
• Indie and Alternative: Bands like Stan Darsh offer an alternative and indie music experience with unique song choices. Their setlist includes indie rock anthems and alternative hits to create a less formal and more celebratory atmosphere.
• Classic Rock and Blues: Bands such as The Little Cornbread Muffins specialize in funk and soul hits from the 1970s, blended with classic rock and blues songs. Their upbeat performances are sure to keep the wedding party grooving.
• Country and Oldies: Duos like The Gibbonses offer an extensive repertoire of country, TX country, oldies, rock, and Motown. With their multi-instrumental talents, they create a fun and familiar atmosphere for guests of all ages.
• Customizable and Premium Ensembles: Some bands, like The Silver Arrows, offer customizable options, allowing couples to choose the number of band members (3 to 14 pieces) to fit their preferences and budget. These bands aim to infuse energy and create full dance floors.

Live music vs. DJs for Maine weddings

Music can make or break a wedding, so it's important to choose the right entertainment for your big day. When it comes to live music vs. DJs for a Maine wedding, there are several factors to consider.

Cost

The cost of hiring a wedding band vs. a DJ can vary significantly. In 2022, the average cost of a live band was $3,900, while a wedding DJ cost $1,500. DJs are typically cheaper because they work solo or in pairs, whereas bands usually have more members. When creating your wedding budget, consider that entertainment should ideally take up no more than 20% of your total budget. If a live band is a priority for you, you may need to make adjustments elsewhere.

Vibe and Genre

Think about the atmosphere and energy you want to create at your wedding. The type of music you choose can set the tone and solidify a theme. Consider the genre that best reflects your and your partner's personalities and the ambiance you want to create. '70s disco, romantic string quartet, throwback big band, or kick-off-your-shoes rockabilly? The way the music is delivered, by a band or a DJ, will also impact the vibe.

Space

If you have your heart set on an eight-piece band or a DJ with a large sound system, you'll need to ensure your venue has the space to accommodate them. Check if there are any restrictions on the number of musicians or equipment, and if there are any power supply or noise limitations.

Interaction

If you prefer minimal interaction with the crowd, a DJ is a better option. They can seamlessly switch between genres and styles and are generally less intrusive. On the other hand, a live band can bring a unique performance factor and interact with the crowd, creating a magical and energetic experience.

Timing

When it comes to booking, it's recommended to secure your DJ or band at least 9 months before your wedding date, especially if you're getting married during Maine's peak wedding season, which spans from late spring to early fall.

Combining Live Music and DJs

If you can't decide between live music and a DJ, you can always have both! One option is to hire a DJ to fill the breaks between band performances or to take over for an after-party. Alternatively, fusion bands combine a central DJ with live instruments like guitars, drums, and horns, giving you the best of both worlds.

How to choose a Maine wedding band

There are a variety of wedding bands in Maine to choose from, each offering something unique to make your special day memorable. Here are some tips on how to choose a Maine wedding band:

Define Your Vision and Preferences:

Start by considering the style of your wedding and the type of music you want. Do you prefer a particular genre, such as jazz, rock, pop, or country? Are there specific songs or artists that hold a special meaning to you and your partner? Defining your musical preferences will help narrow down your choices and ensure the band aligns with your vision.

Experience and Reputation:

Look for bands with extensive experience performing at weddings. Experienced bands, such as Soul City Band, which has been performing since 1988, can adapt to the energy of the crowd and ensure your guests have a fantastic time. Read reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge the band's reputation and the quality of their performances.

Flexibility and Customization:

Choose a band that offers flexibility and customization options. For example, Every Other Sunday, a nine-piece dance band, allows you to customize each set to create the perfect blend of genres to match your preferences. Some bands also offer customizable band sizes, song lists, and emceeing services, ensuring your day is tailored to your unique vision.

Venue Compatibility:

Consider the size and location of your wedding venue when choosing a band. Some bands, like East Coast Soul, regularly travel to Maine for performances and are familiar with various venues. They can navigate the nuances of different locations and have experience performing at rustic barn weddings, classy beach weddings, and more.

Book in Advance:

Popular wedding bands in Maine may be in high demand and get booked up quickly. Once you've found a band that suits your needs, don't hesitate to secure their services for your special day. Contact them, discuss your vision, and finalize the booking to ensure their availability.

Remember, the right wedding band will enhance the atmosphere, engage your guests, and create lasting memories. Take the time to review your options, connect with the bands, and choose the one that best fits your musical preferences and wedding vision.

Cost of hiring a wedding band in Maine

The cost of hiring a wedding band in Maine varies depending on factors such as the band's experience, the number of members, instruments, location, and duration of the performance. While some sources do not provide specific figures, others state that the cost can range from $8,000 to $30,000 for four hours of performance.

For instance, in Palm Beach, Florida, the cost of hiring a traditional wedding band with multiple members playing classic hits and contemporary songs ranges from $15,000 to $30,000, according to event planner Heather Lowenthal. In Chicago, Illinois, wedding planner Regina Brooks mentions that the average cost falls between $8,000 and $10,000. Kaitlin Ford, a wedding planner in California, notes that experienced bands in areas like Monterey and Pebble Beach typically charge between $10,000 and $20,000.

The size of the band can also influence the price. For instance, Red Soda Band in Maine offers various packages for wedding ceremony and reception music, including a violin and cello duo, an acoustic duo, or a larger 8-piece band. The cost will depend on the number of musicians, the style of music, and the duration of their performance.

When hiring a wedding band in Maine, it is essential to consider factors such as the band's experience, reputation, and ability to perform your desired music genre. Reading reviews, watching performance clips, and requesting quotes from multiple bands can help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your special day.

Reviews of Maine wedding bands

When it comes to wedding bands, Maine has a lot to offer. From Boston-based bands that regularly perform in the state to local groups, there's something for everyone.

Wavelength

One of the most popular Maine wedding bands is Wavelength, which plays a mix of timeless classics and today's top hits. They have been packing dance floors and entertaining guests at weddings and events throughout Maine and New England for years. The band includes professional musicians and gifted vocalists who can play everything from light jazz to Motown, country, and classic rock. Wavelength is praised for its high energy, versatility, and responsiveness.

East Coast Soul

East Coast Soul is another highly sought-after wedding band in Maine, also based in Boston. They specialize in creating a unique and energetic atmosphere, whether it's a rustic barn wedding in the woods or a classy beach wedding on the coast. The band performs in various venues across Maine, including Bald Mountain Camp, Granite Ridge Estate & Barn, York Harbor Reading, and more. East Coast Soul offers a range of ensembles to suit different preferences and has received numerous positive testimonials from couples and guests alike.

Other Notable Mentions

Other well-known wedding bands in Maine include The Right Track, an 11-piece dance band from Camden specializing in soul, funk, and classic R&B; The Waiters, a dynamic and experienced 6-piece band based in Portland; and The Little Cornbread Muffins, a wedding band from Rockland, Maine, specializing in Funk and Soul hits from the 70s, as well as rock and blues songs.

Additionally, there are various other bands catering to different musical tastes, such as The Middle Men Band, The Boneheads, Cozmik Zombies, Novel Jazz, and many more.

Frequently asked questions