How to choose your wedding band
The time has finally arrived to plan your wedding, and you naturally want it to be a fantastically memorable occasion. There are many factors to consider – from the menu to the venue itself – but choosing your music is crucial and fun!
Choosing a band for your wedding will help set the mood and tone for your big day celebrations. But what if you’ve never booked a live band before? How do you decide what type of band to go for?
Think about what sort of atmosphere you want at your reception, and the type of music you love. It’s your day, so choose the music you and your partner want to hear! It’s a big decision, but we’re here to help. Read on to find out what type of band you should choose for your wedding.
CONSIDER THE VENUE
Before you book your band, establish that your venue allows live music. Some venues use sound limiters that restrict volume levels, so confirm if this is the case. Your band should be able to accommodate any restrictions, but check this before you book!
The venue needs appropriate access and performance space for a live band and their equipment. If you have a sizeable venue and a large guest list, you’ll probably want a larger band with sizeable speakers. If you’re planning an intimate low-key wedding, then you could opt for a smaller acoustic group. If your venue is an elegant period property, a classical quartet could fit the bill, if it suits your musical taste. Ask your band how much electricity they need if your wedding venue is a marquee or a tipi and is powered by a generator.
Many good bands get booked a year or more in advance, so start your search early to avoid disappointment.
THINK ABOUT THE TIME IN THE DAY
The type of band you end up going for may also depend on how versatile they are. Are they able to create different atmospheres depending on the time of day? If you’re looking for a band to stay with you for the whole day, for example, they would need to adjust their music for specific moments, such as the bridal entry, the ceremony itself, or the signing of the register. They would also, of course, need to step up the tempo for the cocktail hour and evening party. You may also decide to have early music for the wedding breakfast, or really late music if people want to keep dancing into the small hours of the morning.
It may be that you find a band that’s able to cater to all of the above, or it could be that you decide to use a live band for some moments, and a DJ or background music for others – the choice is yours!
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the genres you could choose from.
ROCK AND POP
A professional rock and pop band is a reliable choice, and a great way to get your wedding celebrations started. A good covers band will deliver a heartfelt live set and include hits from across the decades to get guests of all ages singing along. Famous chart-toppers are a sure-fire way to get your party up on their feet.
JAZZ
From a 20-piece big band to an intimate three-piece, a jazz performance brings sophistication and atmosphere to a wedding. Timeless classics will have your party nodding and toe-tapping along. Jazz bands are extremely versatile; capable of performing soothing background music, romantic ballads, and lively numbers that’ll have your guests up and dancing. Many jazz musicians are adept at improvisation and can deliver a unique performance that your guests will remember for a long, long time.
TRIBUTE BAND
If you and your fiancee are both besotted with a particular group, then consider hiring a tribute band for your reception. You’ll get a showcase of your favourite songs, performed especially for you.
FOLK AND FESTIVAL MUSIC
There’s a growing trend for booking acoustic bands playing upbeat, catchy numbers with a folksy, festival feel. This type of band can be especially apt if you’re planning a festival-themed wedding or holding your celebrations in a rustic barn or similar venue.
ROCK’N’ROLL
A 50s rock ‘n’ roll band will perform a vintage repertoire of high-octane numbers, with songs from icons such as Elvis Presley and Little Richard to recreate that exciting 50s/60s era. This up-tempo music will have the young and old alike strutting their stuff on the dancefloor. Rock ‘n’ roll bands often push the boat out visually too, sporting distinctive retro outfits and hairstyles.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a band for your wedding. No matter what kind of specific atmosphere you’re looking to create for your wedding, there’ll be a band out there who can help you out. But whichever kind of band you end up choosing in the end, you’ll be sure to have a great time. Enjoy!
