Finding Your Dream Irish Wedding Band

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but choosing a band in Ireland shouldn't be! There are plenty of options to choose from, including bands that play everything from pop to rock to jazz to R&B. To find the perfect wedding band, it's recommended that you see them perform live first, either at a showcase or a wedding. You can also check out online videos, photos, setlists, reviews, and social media pages to get a sense of the band's style and performance. When you've found a few potential options, it's important to ask the right questions, such as pricing, deposit, and their ability to be reactive and play to the crowd.

Where to find wedding bands in Ireland

Finding the right wedding band in Ireland to suit your taste and budget can be a daunting task. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you find the perfect band for your special day.

Online Directories

Start your search by checking out online directories that list wedding bands in Ireland. These platforms provide a convenient way to browse and compare different bands. For example, websites like WeddingBandList.com offer a comprehensive list of over 1,200 wedding bands, DJs, and other wedding entertainers across Ireland. You can search by location or entertainer type to find options that match your criteria.

Wedding Band Websites

Once you've identified some potential bands from the directories, take the time to visit their individual websites. This will give you a more detailed overview of each band's style, experience, and services offered. Websites typically include media content, such as videos and audio samples, which can help you get a better sense of their performance and whether they align with your vision.

Recommendations and Reviews

Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a valuable source of information. Ask friends, family, or recently married couples for referrals. They can share their first-hand experiences and provide insights into the quality of the band's performance, professionalism, and ability to engage the crowd. Additionally, online reviews on websites or social media can offer a broader perspective on the band's reputation and level of customer satisfaction.

Live Performances

If possible, try to catch your prospective wedding bands performing live. This could be at a wedding showcase, a wedding industry event, or a live gig. Seeing them perform in person will give you a true sense of their energy, stage presence, and how they interact with the audience. It's also an opportunity to meet them and ask any questions you may have.

Wedding Planners and Venues

Wedding planners and venues often have extensive networks and can recommend wedding bands they have worked with or hosted. They may have insider knowledge about the bands' performance style, reliability, and suitability for your wedding theme or venue.

Wedding Entertainment Agencies

Consider reaching out to wedding entertainment agencies or booking agents. These agencies often have a roster of bands they represent and can help match you with options that fit your preferences and budget. While using an agency may incur additional fees, they can handle the logistics and provide a certain level of assurance regarding the quality of the bands they represent.

Sample Wedding Bands in Ireland

• The Hitmen Trio: Acoustic trio covering a wide range of genres.
• The Brass Monkeys: Four-piece ensemble based in Co. Clare, travelling nationwide.
• The Mixtape: Tailors their setlist to each couple and wedding.
• Electric Circus: Five-piece band providing music for ceremonies, drinks receptions, and more.
• Sax on Fire: Performs up to three hours of non-stop floor-filling anthems.
• Off The Wall: Seasoned musicians who have played alongside big names.
• The Vinyls: Over 10 years of experience, playing everything from Elvis to AC/DC.
• The Beat Boutique: Three-piece evening band with a huge setlist catering to all ages and tastes.
• Perfect Day: Sought-after wedding band with experience playing at over 100 weddings and events per year.
• A Few Good Men: High-energy band with a diverse lineup and extensive setlist.

Remember, this list is just a starting point, and there are many other fantastic wedding bands in Ireland to discover. Happy planning!

How to choose a wedding band

Your wedding band can make or break your wedding night, so it's important to choose wisely. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect band for your big day:

• Consider your taste and that of your guests: While it's your special day, remember that you're entertaining a crowd with varying musical tastes. Opt for a band that can play a variety of genres to suit all ages and keep the dance floor packed.
• Experience: Choose a band with wedding experience. They will know how to read the room and adapt their set to suit the crowd.
• See them live: Whenever possible, try to see your potential band perform live, either at a showcase or a wedding. This will give you a good idea of their style and energy and help you decide if they're the right fit for your wedding.
• Reviews and recommendations: Check out reviews and testimonials from past clients to get an idea of the band's performance and professionalism. Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family who have seen the band perform at a wedding are also valuable.
• Variety of services: Some bands offer additional services such as DJ sets, ceremony music, or drinks reception entertainment. Opting for a package deal can save you money and hassle by providing all your entertainment needs in one go.
• Budget: Discuss your budget with the band and ask about their pricing options and packages. Be sure to factor in any additional costs, such as travel fees for bands coming from outside your area.
• Timing: It's never too early to start looking for your wedding band. Once you've booked your venue and ceremony, begin your search to ensure you have the best choice of bands within your timeframe and budget.
• Location: Most bands will travel throughout Ireland, but there may be additional travel fees. Consider local bands to save on these extra costs, or if you have your heart set on a band that's further afield, factor this into your budget.
• Size of the band: Depending on your venue size, you may need to consider the number of band members. A large band with a brass section may not be suitable for an intimate venue, so ensure you choose a group that can accommodate your space.
• Other considerations: Ask about the band's setup requirements, such as staging and power needs. If your venue has any restrictions or unique considerations, be sure to discuss these with the band.

Wedding band vs. DJ

There are a few key factors to consider when deciding between a wedding band and a DJ for your wedding reception.

Cost

The average cost of a wedding band vs. a DJ in 2022 was a $2,400 price difference. Bands are generally more expensive, often anywhere from four to ten times more costly than a professional DJ. This is because you are hiring more people and there may be additional costs such as renting a stage or generators. However, there are exceptions, and a DJ could be equally as expensive as a band if you are booking a major talent.

Vibe

Think about the atmosphere you want to create at your wedding. The type of music you pick can set the tone and solidify a theme. Consider what genre best reflects you and your partner's personalities and the ambiance you want to create. A DJ can be more versatile and switch between genres and styles quickly, whereas a band may be limited by their repertoire. However, a band can offer a unique performance with a special twist on old favourites.

Space

You will also need to consider the amount of space your venue has. If you are set on an eight-piece band, you will first need to check if your venue has any restrictions and whether there are any power supply limitations. A band will also need a green room, which may incur an additional rental fee.

Interactivity

If you want high crowd interaction, a band may be the best option as they can feed off the energy in the room. However, some DJs offer lighting packages and projectors, which can elevate the experience without the need for a separate A/V company.

Combination

If you are still unsure, you could always book both! A DJ can play during the band's breaks to keep the energy up, or they can take over for a wedding after-party. This combination can ensure a diverse range of music and a lively atmosphere throughout the night.

Finding a Wedding Band in Ireland

When looking for a wedding band in Ireland, you can use online directories such as Wedding Bands Ireland, which features over 1,200 wedding bands, DJs, and other wedding entertainers. The website includes videos, photos, setlists, and reviews to help you make an informed decision. Another option is One Fab Day, which features a curated list of the best wedding bands in Ireland, guaranteed to fill the dance floor and bring the party.

It is recommended that you start looking for your wedding band as soon as you have booked your venue and ceremony. This will give you the best choice and allow you to manage your budget effectively. You can also attend wedding band showcase events, which many bands organise to allow prospective clients to see them perform live.

When deciding on a band, there are a few key questions to ask, such as how long they will play for, what size band can be accommodated, and whether the venue provides staging and power. It is also important to consider any additional services you may require, such as church music or a DJ for after the band has finished performing.

How to book a wedding band

Start Looking Early

As soon as you've booked your wedding venue, start looking for your band. This will give you the best choice within your timeframe and budget.

Consider the Type of Band You Want

Think about the style, genre, size and vibe of the band you want. Do you want a band that plays a particular genre, or one that can play a variety of styles? Do you want a large band with multiple singers and brass instruments, or a smaller, more intimate set-up?

Watch Them Perform

Before booking, try to see your potential band perform live. Many bands organise wedding showcases, or you might be able to see them play at a friend or relative's wedding. This will give you a good idea of their style and whether they're right for you.

Ask Questions

When you've found a band you like, ask them some questions to make sure they're the right fit. Ask about pricing, deposits, set-up times, song choices and whether they can be flexible and adapt to the crowd. It's also a good idea to ask about their experience and whether they have backup plans in place if something goes wrong.

Book Your Chosen Band

Once you've found the perfect band and are happy with the details, it's time to sign the contract and officially hire them for your wedding. Congratulations! You've now booked your wedding entertainment and are one step closer to your dream day.

Questions to ask your wedding band

When it comes to finding a wedding band in Ireland, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to remember that you are entertaining a crowd with varying musical tastes and ages, so try to find a band that can play different styles and genres to suit everyone.

Logistics:

• Are you available on our wedding date?
• How much space do you need for your performance and equipment?
• Do you have any special requirements for your vendor meal?
• What is your plan for inclement weather for outdoor events?
• Will you do a soundcheck on the day?
• Do you require liability insurance?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• How many breaks will you need throughout the evening, and what will happen during those breaks?
• What time will you arrive at the venue?
• Do you perform at more than one event per day?
• What will you wear to our wedding?
• Do we need to rent any instruments or equipment for your performance?

Background and Experience:

• How long have you been playing at weddings?
• Can we watch you perform before the wedding?
• Have you worked at our venue before?
• Can you send us a list of reviews from your other clients?
• How many people are in the band, and do you ever make member substitutes?
• Are there different options for how many musicians we can hire?
• What makes you different from other live wedding bands?

Budget and Packages:

• What is included in your pricing package?
• Will you also act as an emcee?
• Does your contract include an overtime clause?
• Does your rate include setup and breakdown services?
• Does your package include lighting or special effects?

Music Style:

• What is your performance style?
• What type of music do you specialise in?
• How do you ensure a comfortable sound level for all guests?
• What are your favourite wedding songs to play?
• Does your band perform live or to tracks?
• Can we give you a list of must-play and do-not-play songs?
• Will you take song requests from guests during the event?
• How do you encourage a shy crowd to dance?

Remember, it's important to have a clear understanding of what is included in the package and pricing to avoid any surprise fees later on.

Frequently asked questions