Wedding Band Tips

Considering a wedding band to entertain your guests? You’re not alone! Live music completely changes the feel of an event. A crowd can really engage with a band and talented musicians will know how to work the crowd. Let’s look at some of the things to consider when hiring a wedding band.

Space Requirements

Chat to your venue first. A wedding band will take up more space for obvious reasons. Your venue may have a dance floor but do they have a stage? Will the band be responsible for all sound equipment or does your venue have an in-house system? A single entertainer or duo or even trio may be the best idea if your floorplan is tight. On the other hand, if you have a full stage or bandstand at your disposal you can go all out!

Sound limitations

Your venue will be able to advise you on any noise curfews. Alternatively, check with your local council. Make sure your chosen wedding band is aware of the requirements. All of a sudden you could have a visit from the local Sergeant – not something anyone wants to deal with on their wedding day! Keeping without a sound curfew can be as easy as a smart set list. Make sure any booming numbers are planned for earlier in the evening. In addition, leave the smooth ballads for later in the evening to help wind everyone down.

Request a wedding band trial

Any wedding entertainer worth their salt will have plenty of examples online for you to check out. However, there’s nothing like the real thing. Perhaps you can visit a local wedding expo where one of your shortlisted bands are showcasing? Do what you can to get along and see them in person. There’s so many music styles and you want to ensure the wedding band you pick is the right feel for your day.

Look into plenty of reviews

Reviews are everything. Don’t forget to read reviews that aren’t on the supplier’s own website. Anyone can name themselves ‘Australia’s #1 Wedding Band’ on their own website! What awards do they have backing this up? Do you have a friend or family member that has first-hand experience? Perhaps you know someone who attended a wedding where they played previously.

Agree on a set list with your wedding band

Many a couple has been upset because their chosen entertainer didn’t play a special song. Investigate your supplier’s song list options. Can you provide a request list? Will guests be able to request songs on the night or will they stick to the plan? How flexible would you like them to be to get the crowd going? Part of the skill of a talented band is reading the crowd. Remember they have entertained many a crowd before. To put it another way, your wedding band will be able to get the crowd going, even if it’s not on your song list.

Don’t end up with starving artists!

Obviously musicians need to eat! Check with your venue about supplier meals. For instance most venues will provide a certain number of vendor meals as part of your package. Your photographer and the band (and your photo booth attendant!) may require a meal as part of your contract. This is because most venues don’t allow external food to be bought onto the premises. Clarify this with your suppliers and venue prior to the day to avoid any rushed meal runs for hungry suppliers.