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Today we have a guest blog from Music8 Agency that say when planning your wedding, one of the decisions you will make is, hiring a live band. A live band can make or break your wedding reception, so it is important to choose wisely.
So here are there top tips for hiring a live band for your wedding:
1. Do your research.
There are many different styles of wedding bands out there, so take the time to research your options. Read online reviews, listen to sample music, watch videos, and talk to friends who have booked bands in the past.
If in doubt, hire a band for your wedding from a music agency, then you will be sure that you are getting a high-quality group of musicians who are experienced in performing at weddings. The music agency will have a wide range of bands to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste and budget. The agency will also be able to provide you with helpful advice and guidance on choosing the right band for you.
BusyBrides Top tip also suggest that when looking at bands videos, if the music overlay does not match what they are singing, keep looking until you find a video of them singing live.
2. Set a budget.
Wedding bands can be expensive, so it is important to set a budget in advance. Once you know how much you are willing to spend, you can narrow down your options.
Prices.
Prices vary for a band, but we will give an average cost for an evening’s entertainment.
Solo singer/musician £500
Acoustic Duo around £850
3 Piece band £1250-£1400
4 Piece £1500-£1800
Larger bands will be from £2000 Plus
A band will usually price for a 6 pm arrival with a midnight finish which includes 2 x 60-minute sets. Most bands will also provide a DJ service.
Depending on how far the band has to travel, there could be travel expenses and accommodation to add on.
BusyBrides suggest here that you make sure that your band has long enough time to set up and sound check, because it can have a knock on effect to the start of your party so get it set in stone from the start what time you need your band to arrive so you can factor in any early arrival costs within your budget.
Also take note that many bands will require a hot meal before they play live, so make sure that their arrival time falls in line with your wedding breakfast service where possible in case this becomes a challenge for your venue to supply later.
3. Speak to the band in person.
Once you have a few bands you are interested in, set up a phone call or a zoom meeting to get to know them better, this allows you to discuss your vision for the wedding and see if the band is a good fit.
Ask if they can perform your song for the first dance and if this would cost any extra.
4. Ask for references.
Once you have spoken with the band, ask where you can find references from past brides and grooms, this will give you a good idea of what it is like to work with them and what results you can expect. All good wedding bands will have testimonials on their website and social media pages.
5. Check your venue for a sound limiter.
When booking your wedding venue, always ask if they have a sound limiter fitted. A sound limiter Limiters are becoming quite common in wedding venues due to neighbour complaints. A limiter is set to a certain decibel, and when it reaches that level, it will cut the electrical supply to the band's equipment. Depending on what the decibel level is set to, this could restrict the type of band you can have at the venue. Some bands are used to this and will have an electric drum kit which helps reduce the noise levels. You can go here to find out all about sound limiters.
6. How much space does a band need?
A rule of thumb is a four-piece band space of 4x3 meters is ideal with an electric supply close to the stage. Also, check out how close they can park to the venue, as they will have a lot of gear to unload. The average time for a band to set up is 90 minutes.
7. Hire a Roaming Band
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you could consider hiring an acoustic roaming band. These bands don't need an electrical supply and will play unplugged with acoustic guitars, snare drums, double bass and saxophone. They can wander freely amongst your guests performing the music you love to hear.
8. Make your decision.
After all the research and meeting with the band, it is time to make your decision.
Choose the band that you feel is the best fit for your wedding and your budget, and make sure the band provide you with a contract, a copy of the band's insurance, and a PAT certificate (a certificate to prove their equipment is safe to use).
You can also ask if they could do an afternoon set if you require the music for your drink's reception, as this would save money on hiring another artist.
We hope you find these tips helpful in finding the right band for your special day.
BusyBrides also suggest that you make sure that your band has long enough time to set up and sound check, because it can have a knock on effect to the start of your party.
You may also want to ask if they can offer 3 x 40 mins over the 2 x 1 hour sets if this suits your timeline better.
BUSYBRIDES BIGGEST TIP.... If you don't have a wedding planner making sure your suppliers are well looked after, make sure you ask someome from your venue to keep your band plied with water/drinks throughout. I am a true believer that the better the experience all your suppliers have on your wedding day, the happier they are the better they perform! So some love and care is a small price to pay for a successful wedding day!
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