Wedding Bands: How Many?

There are many aspects to consider when planning a wedding, from the venue to the flowers and, of course, the entertainment. When it comes to wedding bands, there are two types to consider: the rings exchanged by the happy couple and the musicians who perform at the reception.

The cost of wedding bands, whether on fingers or on stage, can vary greatly.

Wedding band costs: $8,000 to $30,000 for a band, $1,000 to $5,500 for a DJ

Wedding bands can cost anywhere from $2,850 to $6,488, with the average cost being around $4,500. This price can vary depending on the number of musicians, the length of time they are performing, and the location of your wedding. Wedding bands typically consist of six musicians, but can range from trios to orchestras of nearly 20 people. The more musicians in the band, the higher the cost will be.

Wedding DJs, on the other hand, cost significantly less than wedding bands, with the average cost being around $1,000. However, this price can vary depending on the DJ's experience, location, and the length of time they are performing.

When deciding between a wedding band and a DJ, it is important to consider your budget and the type of entertainment you want for your wedding. Wedding bands can provide a full, rich sound and abundant energy, while DJs can offer a wide variety of genres, sounds, and artists. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and budget.

Wedding band vs DJ: A band is more expensive but offers a fuller sound

When it comes to wedding entertainment, you might be weighing up the pros and cons of a wedding band vs a DJ. While a DJ might be a more affordable option, a wedding band offers a fuller sound and a more lively performance.

Cost

The first thing to consider is your budget. Wedding bands are almost always more expensive than a DJ. This is because there are more people in a band and more equipment is required. The cost of a wedding band varies depending on location and the number of musicians, but in the US, the average cost is $4,500, while a DJ costs an average of $1,000. In the UK, the average price of a wedding band is £1000-£1800.

Vibe

Think about the type of wedding you're having. Is it a small, intimate dinner party or a big blowout bash? If you're having a Great Gatsby-style wedding, for example, you might want a band that specialises in 1920s music. A string quartet could be perfect for a small, romantic reception, while a big band ensemble will get the party started. A band creates a focal point and provides entertainment for guests who don't want to dance, whereas a DJ can easily switch between genres and styles.

Space

Check with your venue manager to see if your reception space can accommodate a band. A band typically needs more space than a DJ and there may be restrictions on electricity use. A larger band will also require more equipment and more space to set up.

Time

Consider how long you want the band or DJ to perform for. Most charge for a set number of hours, and you'll have to pay additional fees for overtime.

Extras

Think about any "extras" you might want. Some bands can provide lighting, projectors or other equipment, but this will add to the cost.

Repertoire

If you have a specific song in mind for your first dance, a band might be unwilling to learn it or may charge an additional fee. A DJ, on the other hand, can easily acquire songs that are not already in their collection.

Sound

Finally, consider the sound you want. A DJ will play recorded songs that your guests will know and might sing along to, while a band can add unexpected twists to favourite tunes. With a band, the more musicians, the fuller and more lively the sound will be.

Wedding band types: Traditional, acoustic, jazz, string quartet

Traditional Wedding Bands

Traditional wedding bands are a great choice for couples who want to create an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere at their wedding. These bands typically consist of string instruments such as violins, violas, and cellos, which produce a rich and refined sound. When choosing a traditional wedding band, couples often opt for classical or modern pieces that have special meaning to them or their relationship.

Acoustic Wedding Bands

Acoustic wedding bands are a popular choice for rustic or outdoor weddings. These bands typically feature acoustic instruments such as guitars, violins, and percussion, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Acoustic bands often play a mix of folk, pop, and rock songs, providing a unique twist on modern and classic hits.

Jazz Wedding Bands

For couples who want to add a touch of vintage glamour to their wedding, jazz bands are an excellent choice. Jazz bands typically feature instruments such as saxophones, trumpets, pianos, and upright basses, creating a sophisticated and classy sound. Jazz bands can perform a range of songs, from classic jazz standards to modern pop songs with a jazz twist.

String Quartets

String quartets, consisting of two violins, a viola, and a cello, are a classic choice for weddings. They offer a versatile sound, with a wide repertoire that can include classical, modern, and even Bollywood music. String quartets are a good option for couples who want to create a refined and elegant atmosphere at their wedding, and they are particularly well-suited to outdoor weddings as they can project their sound effectively.

When choosing a wedding band, it's important to consider the venue, the age range of the guests, and your budget. By selecting a band that suits your style and venue, you can create an unforgettable atmosphere that will keep your guests entertained and dancing all night!

Wedding band extras: Lighting, projectors, learning new songs, travel costs

Wedding bands can offer a range of extras to enhance the experience, and some of these may come at an additional cost.

Lighting and Projectors

Lighting and projectors are often included in a wedding band's package, but this is not always the case. Some bands can provide lighting and projectors for an additional fee. This is a great way to enhance the atmosphere and create a unique setting for your wedding.

Learning New Songs

Most wedding bands will be happy to learn new songs for your special day, and some may include this in their standard package. However, others may charge a fee for this service, so be sure to ask in advance. It is important to give the band enough time to learn and practice the songs, so provide them with your requests as early as possible.

Travel Costs

If your wedding band has to travel a long distance, you may be charged extra for their travel expenses, including mileage, gas, airfare, and/or accommodations. These costs can add up, especially if the band is travelling from another city or state.

Other Costs to Consider

In addition to the extras mentioned above, there are a few other costs that may be associated with hiring a wedding band. Firstly, the number of performers can impact the price, with larger bands typically costing more than smaller ones. Secondly, the time of performance can affect the cost, with bands usually charging for a set number of hours. If you want the band to perform beyond that, such as during a cocktail hour or after-party, additional charges may apply. Finally, some bands may charge for early set-up or sound checks, so be sure to discuss these details with your band in advance.

Wedding band sizes: Solo, duo, trio, 4/5-piece, 6-8-piece

When it comes to wedding bands, there are a variety of options to choose from, ranging from solo acts to larger ensembles. Here is a breakdown of the different wedding band sizes and what you can expect from each:

Solo:

A solo musician can be a great option for more intimate weddings or venues with limited space. They typically require a minimal setup and can easily adapt to most spaces. A solo act can be a singer or an instrumentalist, such as a violinist, providing a simple yet elegant performance for your special day.

Duo:

A duo act typically consists of two musicians, such as a singer and an instrumentalist, or two instrumentalists. They will require slightly more space than a solo act, especially if they are a jazz or acoustic duo with multiple instruments. A duo can create a more dynamic and varied performance while still being adaptable to the venue.

Trio:

A trio adds another layer of complexity and versatility to the performance. This could be a combination of a vocalist, guitarist, and percussionist, or a string trio with two violins and a cello. A trio is ideal for creating a fuller sound while still being relatively compact and flexible. They can adjust their setup to suit most spaces and are a good option for small to medium-sized weddings.

4-piece/5-piece Band:

A 4-piece or 5-piece band is a more substantial ensemble, usually including vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and possibly additional instruments like keyboards or saxophone. They will require a larger performance area, typically around 4 x 3 metres for a 4-piece band and 5 x 3 metres for a 5-piece band. This size band is perfect for creating a lively and engaging atmosphere at your wedding reception.

6-8-piece Band:

For an even grander celebration, you can opt for a larger band with 6 to 8 members. These ensembles often include a mix of vocalists, instrumentalists, and additional horn sections or choreography. They require a significant amount of space, typically 6 x 4 metres or more, to accommodate their equipment and provide room for the band members to move around and interact with the audience.

In conclusion, the size of your wedding band will depend on your venue, the number of guests, and the atmosphere you want to create. Each band size has its advantages, and by considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect wedding band to make your big day memorable.

Frequently asked questions