Finding The Perfect Wedding Band Musician

When it comes to your wedding, you want things to be perfect, especially the evening's entertainment. Live music can make your wedding reception a totally unique experience and get your guests up on their feet. But how do you find and book a band for your wedding?

- Style of music: Think about the style of band you'd like to book, keeping in mind the style of your wedding as a whole. For example, if you're having a rustic festival-style wedding in a countryside barn, you might want to hire a folk band. If you're having a themed wedding, you might want your entertainment to match the theme.

- Budget: Decide on your budget for the band. The price of a wedding band can vary depending on factors such as the number of musicians, their level of experience, and how far they have to travel.

- Availability: Find local bands that are available on your wedding date.

- Videos and reviews: Check out the band's live and promotional videos, as well as reviews from previous couples they've performed for.

- Venue compatibility: Ensure your venue has sufficient space for the band and that there are no noise restrictions or sound limits that might impact their performance.

- Logistics: Ask about the band's setup requirements, arrival time, and whether they'll need breaks during their performance.

- Repertoire: Discuss the band's repertoire and whether they're able to learn any specific songs you'd like them to play, such as your first dance song.

- Contracts and deposits: Review the contract carefully before signing and be prepared to pay a deposit to secure the band.

Budget and experience: Wedding bands can cost from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds

Wedding bands can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, so it's important to consider your budget and what you can afford. The cost will depend on a number of factors, including the size and style of the band, the popularity and experience of the musicians, and the time of year and day of the week of your wedding.

If you're on a tight budget, consider hiring a solo musician or a small duo, which can cost between £300 and £800. A 3-piece band will typically cost between £750 and £1600, while a 4 or 5-piece band will cost upwards of £1400. If you want a larger band with 6 or more members, expect to pay £1800 or more. Keep in mind that the more musicians you have, the higher the cost will be, as you'll need to pay each additional person.

The popularity and experience of the band can also impact the price. A well-known, in-demand band with years of experience will likely charge more than a lesser-known band that is just starting out. Additionally, summer dates and Saturdays are the most popular choices for weddings, so expect to pay a premium for these days. You may be able to get a discount if you choose an off-peak month or a weekday wedding.

When creating your wedding budget, don't forget to factor in additional costs such as travel expenses, meals for the band, and equipment rental. These can add up quickly, so be sure to get a detailed breakdown of the costs from the band or their agent.

To get the best deal, consider booking early to take advantage of current prices, or wait until the last minute if you're willing to take a chance. You can also save money by choosing a local band to minimise travel costs or opting for a package deal that includes ceremony music, daytime sets, and a DJ service.

Style and theme: Choose a band that fits the style of your wedding

The music at your wedding will play a huge role in setting the vibe and creating a cohesive experience for your guests. So, it's important to choose a wedding band that fits the style and theme of your special day. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect band:

Consider the theme and style of your wedding:

Think about the overall style and theme of your wedding. Do you want a formal or intimate celebration? Are you having a destination wedding or a traditional ceremony? Consider the location and cultural elements that you plan to incorporate. For example, if you're getting married in Mexico, you might want to hire a Mariachi band to add a unique touch.

Think about your photography style:

The type of photography you choose can also guide your music selection. For instance, if you want vintage-style photos or black-and-white pictures, a jazz band or music from the 1920s might be a perfect fit. On the other hand, if you're going for a more editorial or journalistic style, you might want to choose a band that can create a modern and upbeat atmosphere.

Match the décor aesthetic:

The décor and aesthetic of your wedding can also help you choose the right band. For a garden wedding, you might want to consider a string quartet or soft acoustic music. For a nautical wedding, some beachy acoustics could be a great choice. If you're having a boho wedding with 70s vibes, a band that can play music from that era will enhance the overall atmosphere.

Think about the space:

The physical space of your wedding venue will also impact your music choices. If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider the sound requirements and any local noise ordinances that may apply. For indoor weddings, the size of the space matters too. A small, intimate venue might be better suited to a solo performer or a small band, while a large ballroom can accommodate a bigger band without feeling overwhelming.

Be mindful of your budget:

When choosing a wedding band, it's important to consider your budget. Live bands can be more expensive than a DJ, so you'll need to decide if you prefer the energy and interaction of a live band or the versatility of a DJ who can play a wider range of songs.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose a wedding band that fits your style and creates the perfect atmosphere for your special day.

Space: Ensure the venue has enough space for the band and their equipment

When it comes to wedding planning, ensuring the venue has enough space for the band and their equipment is crucial. Here are some detailed tips to help you make sure the band has the space they need to perform comfortably and create a memorable show for you and your guests:

First and foremost, it's important to know that wedding bands come in various sizes, from solo musicians to large ensembles with multiple vocalists and instruments. The number of band members will directly impact the amount of space they require. As a general rule, a larger band will need a bigger space. For example, a 3-piece wedding band typically needs a minimum space of 3 x 3 metres or 9 x 9 feet, while a 7-piece band and above will require at least 6 x 4 metres or 19 x 13 feet. It's always a good idea to offer more space than the minimum requirement to allow the band to perform comfortably and set up their equipment without feeling cramped.

In addition to the band members themselves, their equipment will also take up a significant amount of space. A drum kit, for instance, can occupy around 2 x 2 metres, and each PA speaker may require about 1 x 1 metre of space. The band may also need room for a mixing desk, lights, and other technical gear. When considering the performance area, keep in mind that they will need space not only for their equipment but also for their bags and cases.

When deciding on the venue, it's beneficial to choose a space that encourages live music. Look for venues with dedicated performance areas, preferably with a small stage to elevate the band and create a focal point. A stage adds an extra touch of professionalism and enhances the overall experience for your guests. If the venue doesn't have a built-in stage, consider renting one. A stable and sturdy stage, preferably with good headroom, will ensure the band has ample room to perform and won't be a tripping hazard for your guests.

When planning the layout of the venue, it's essential to keep the band's performance area in mind. Ideally, the band should be facing the main part of the room, with easy access to power sockets. Avoid blocking the performance area with the bar, buffet table, catering staff, or fire exits. Try to maintain some distance between the performance area and the dance floor to prevent enthusiastic dancers from interrupting the band or bumping into their equipment.

Lastly, don't forget to communicate with the band directly and provide them with detailed information about the venue. Share your vision for the layout and ask for their input on what they require to perform comfortably. Provide the band with a contact person at the venue who can answer any specific questions about power requirements, access, and other logistics.

Availability: Check the band is free on your wedding date

Booking a wedding band is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. You want to ensure that the band you book suits the style of your wedding. So, it's crucial to check their availability on your wedding date.

Start Early:

Begin researching and booking your wedding band as soon as possible, ideally about 9 to 12 months before the wedding date. This will give you a wider range of options and increase the chances of finding your dream band.

Use Online Resources:

Utilize websites like FixTheMusic, which allow you to search for bands by availability, location, genre, and price. This way, you can quickly find bands that match your criteria and are available on your special day.

Double-Check Availability:

Even if a band's online calendar shows availability on your date, it's always a good idea to double-check during the interview process. This can be done via email or in-person meetings with the band or their manager.

Be Flexible:

If your dream band is unavailable on your wedding date, consider adjusting your timeline. You may be able to find an alternative date that works for both you and the band.

Book Early to Secure the Date:

Once you've found a band that you love and is available, don't hesitate to book them. Paying a deposit will secure their services and ensure they hold the date for your wedding.

Remember, the availability of your chosen band is crucial to finalizing your entertainment plans for the big day. By starting early, using online resources, double-checking, and being flexible, you can increase your chances of booking the perfect wedding band for your celebration.

Reviews: Read testimonials from previous couples

When it comes to choosing a wedding band musician, reviews from previous couples are an invaluable source of information. Here are some detailed testimonials to help you make an informed decision:

Review 1:

"The Best Wedding Band is amazing! They played at our daughter's wedding, and the quality of sound and fun made the evening spectacular. Bravo!"

Review 2:

"From our first interaction to the last dance, Gordon and Donnamarie made the entire process seamless. Their experience was recognizable as they guided us through the process, answered all our questions, and gave recommendations that made the party unforgettable. The band arrived early to set up, the stage was organized, and the lights added great ambiance. Gordon is a great MC; he knows how to read the crowd and direct the flow of the party. Gordon and his band are extremely talented musicians; our guests are still raving about them!"

Review 3:

"We loved meeting and working with The Best Wedding Band. You can feel Gordon's amazing positive energy from the second you meet him, and it does not stop until the end. The whole band is extremely professional and always delivers. We liked them so much that we now consider them friends and would recommend them unconditionally, not just for weddings but also for all kinds of corporate events or celebrations."

Review 4:

"Gordon and his band were totally and completely INCREDIBLE! They brought amazing music, sound, positivity, exuberance, and joy to our wedding. The band really MADE the wedding. The dance floor was packed the entire night, and that was thanks to Gordon and his band's talent. They really 'read' the crowd and played the perfect arrangement—song after song was ideal and kept the party going! They truly live up to their name: The BEST Wedding Band—ever!"

Review 5:

"The band was spectacular! Many guests commented on the excellence of the music. My wife and I have been dance partners for decades, and we have experience with many bands for all types of music. This was the best."

Review 6:

"I hired the band for my daughter's wedding, and they were fantastic. They managed the event extremely well, keeping the pacing just right. They had a broad list of music and gracefully handled our music requests. The dance floor was full from the first song, and we received so many compliments on how terrific the band was. I highly recommend hiring them for your event; they will make it even more special."

Frequently asked questions