Wedding Bands: Where To Look

There are several ways to find a wedding band, from attending bridal shows and events to asking for recommendations from friends and family. You can also search for bands online, either via a live music agency or a more general website. When it comes to choosing a band, it's important to consider your budget, the style of music you want, and the size of your venue.

Live music agencies

• Warble Entertainment Agency: Vets all their musicians for quality and offers a huge choice of groups, including Rock, Pop, Jazz, Swing, Ska, Soul, and Motown bands. They also provide other unique entertainment options like saxophonists, harpists, DJs with live musicians, string quartets, and more.
• Tailored Entertainment: The UK's leading live music agency, representing the country's best bands, musicians, and DJs. They hand-pick their roster of professional wedding entertainment, ensuring an exceptional booking and planning experience for their clients and acts.
• Bands For Hire: A one-stop entertainment agency with over a decade of experience in the events industry. They offer wedding bands, wedding musicians, DJs, and function bands in various genres, including soul, swing, rock 'n' roll, pop/rock, indie/rock, jazz, and acoustic. They also provide ambient wedding background music, perfect for drinks receptions or wedding breakfasts.

Using a live music agency can make finding a wedding band easier, as they have already curated a selection of talented and trusted musicians. These agencies often provide additional benefits, such as round-the-clock customer service and assistance with logistics and song requests.

When choosing a wedding band through a live music agency, it is important to consider your budget, the style of music you want, the size of your venue, and the number of band members that will be suitable. These agencies will work with you to find the perfect entertainment for your big day.

Local music scene

One of the best ways to find a wedding band is to watch live bands on the local music scene. This way, you can experience their performance first-hand and decide if they are a good fit for your wedding.

To find local wedding bands performing near you, you can search for upcoming gigs and events in your area. Local magazines, newspapers, and online blogs often have dedicated sections for local music events. Social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram can also be useful tools to discover local bands and their performance schedules.

Attending live music events and festivals is another great way to scout for wedding bands. These events often feature a diverse range of musical acts, allowing you to explore different genres and interact with the bands directly. You can also ask your friends and family for recommendations or check out reviews on wedding planning forums and apps.

When checking out local bands, pay attention to their musical style, repertoire, and stage presence. Consider the theme of your wedding and the atmosphere you want to create. For example, if you're having a vintage-themed wedding, a 1920s swing band or an indie-folk band for a rustic outdoor wedding could be perfect.

Don't forget to discuss the logistics, such as their availability, pricing, and technical requirements. It's also essential to ensure they have adequate time and space to set up their equipment and that your venue can accommodate their needs.

By exploring the local music scene, you can discover talented wedding bands that will make your special day memorable and ensure your guests have an unforgettable time on the dance floor!

Recommendations from friends

When it comes to finding a wedding band, recommendations from friends can be a great way to go. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the perfect band for your big day:

Ask Around

Start by asking your friends and family if they have any recommendations. Chances are, someone you know has recently attended a wedding with a great band or has hired a band for their own wedding. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a fantastic way to find talented and reliable musicians for your special day. Don't be shy to reach out to recently married friends or family members and ask about their experience with their wedding band. They will likely be happy to share their thoughts and may even provide contacts or suggestions.

Consider Your Music Preferences

When seeking recommendations from friends, it's important to keep your music preferences in mind. Think about the style of music you and your partner enjoy and ask your friends if they know of any bands that fit that description. For example, if you're looking for a band that plays a lot of classic rock, ask your friends if they've heard of any great classic rock wedding bands in the area. This will help you narrow down your options and find a band that suits your tastes.

Think About Your Wedding Theme

If you're having a themed wedding, be sure to mention that to your friends when asking for recommendations. For instance, if you're planning a vintage-themed wedding, you might want a band that specializes in music from a particular era, such as the swing bands of the 1920s. Your friends can keep an ear out for bands that fit your theme and suggest options that will enhance the atmosphere of your wedding.

Ask About Budget

Budget is an important consideration when hiring a wedding band. When asking for recommendations from friends, be open about your budget constraints. Your friends may be able to suggest bands that fit within your price range or offer advice on how to get the most bang for your buck. They may also have insights into pricing variations based on factors like day of the week or time of year. This information can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial plans.

Request Demo Recordings or Videos

When your friends recommend a band, ask if they have any demo recordings or videos of the band performing at a wedding. This will give you a chance to hear the band's sound and see their performance style before making a decision. Many bands have promotional videos or demo reels that can give you a good sense of their talent and stage presence. This can be especially helpful if you're unable to see the band perform live before booking them.

Get Feedback on Band's Professionalism

In addition to the band's musical talent, you'll want to ensure they are professional and reliable. Ask your friends about their experience working with the band, including their communication, punctuality, and overall professionalism. This can give you peace of mind and help you feel confident in your choice. A band that is easy to work with and responsive to your needs can make the planning process much smoother.

By following these tips and seeking recommendations from friends, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect wedding band to make your big day unforgettable!

Facebook recommendations

Facebook is a great place to start your search for a wedding band. Here are some recommendations and tips from Facebook users:

Facebook Groups

Join Facebook groups specifically for wedding planning and entertainment. These groups are often filled with engaged couples and vendors, making it easy to connect and ask for recommendations. Search for groups in your local area to ensure the suggestions are relevant to you.

Facebook Pages

Search for Facebook pages dedicated to wedding bands and entertainment. These pages often showcase different bands, provide reviews, and allow you to connect directly with the bands.

Use the Facebook Recommendations feature by making a post asking for suggestions. Be sure to include details such as your location, wedding theme, and musical preferences to receive tailored recommendations from your Facebook friends.

Facebook Marketplace

The Facebook Marketplace is another place to find wedding bands and entertainment. You can search for bands in your area and connect with them directly through the platform.

Facebook Events

Attend local events featuring live bands by finding them on Facebook Events. This way, you can experience the band's performance and decide if they are a good fit for your wedding.

Facebook Reviews

When you've narrowed down your options, be sure to check the Facebook reviews for each band. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the band's performance, professionalism, and overall experience.

Remember to consider your wedding theme, budget, and musical preferences when making your decision. Happy planning and congratulations!

Wedding planning forums and apps

Wedding planning can be a stressful process, but digital tools can help you get a handle on the logistics. Here are some wedding planning forums and apps to help you find a wedding band:

Wedding Planning Forums

• WeddingWire: A comprehensive platform that offers a searchable database of local wedding professionals, including vendors and services. It also provides additional tools such as invitations and a wedding planner. WeddingWire has active wedding forums with Q&As from other engaged couples, making it a great place to ask for recommendations and advice on choosing a wedding band.
• WeddingBee: A forum-based website that covers various wedding-related topics, including rings and wedding bands. Users can seek advice, share experiences, and connect with other couples planning their weddings.

Wedding Planning Apps

• The Knot Wedding Planner App: This free app is a one-stop shop for all your wedding planning needs. It allows you to source vendors, manage tasks, update your website, edit your guest list, and much more. The app also includes a vendor marketplace, making it easy to find and connect with potential wedding band options.
• Airtable: A project management application that serves as a catch-all place for your wedding details. It allows you to store, track, and update information quickly. You can create tabs for different aspects of your wedding, including vendors, and track their status (contacted, booked, deposit paid, etc.).
• Trello: A project management tool that helps you visualize and organize your wedding planning tasks. You can create different boards for various aspects of your wedding, such as vendors, and easily move tasks through different stages of the planning process. Trello is great for creating checklists and collaborating with others.
• The Venue Report: While not exclusively a wedding app, it can help you find unique venues and hidden gems for your wedding. If you're looking for an unusual location or a specific theme, like a barn or a castle, this app will provide you with plenty of options.

Frequently asked questions