When does a wedding band arrive and set up?
Wedding bands generally quote to arrive early evening at around 5:30pm/6pm to set up just after the wedding breakfast and speeches have finished. If the band are performing in the same room as the meal, the venue staff will need to turn the room around and this is when the band will load in.
If you need the band to arrive before the meal due to space or time constraints, most bands are happy to do this and will quote extra for their time.
How long does a wedding band take to set up?
Most wedding bands take about an hour to set up, however, some function bands can take 90 minutes or longer depending on the size of their set up.
How much does a live wedding band cost, on average?
As you start your search for wedding bands in the UK, you’ll find that prices for bands can vary. As a guide you might find prices for a high quality band start from £300-£350 per musician, but this is purely a starting point. Fees vary depending on location, band style, time of the year and the band’s experience. Find out more on our blog: What Affects The Price of a Wedding Band.
How long does a wedding band play for?
In England and Wales wedding bands tend to offer a package that includes 2 hours of live music split into either 3 x 40 or 2 x 60 minute sets.
The band will also include DJ playlists or iPod music throughout the evening so that there’s no need to book a separate DJ. Many bands do also offer ‘laptop DJ sets’ which consists of one member of the band looking after the music, taking song requests and generally ensuring they’re present throughout the evening.
What style of music do your wedding bands play?
The majority of the wedding music bands we represent have put together a varied set list to cater for guests of all ages. This will often be a mixture of modern pop songs, indie, rock, soul, Motown and well known oldies from across the decades.
If you're looking to hire a wedding band that specialises in a specific style of music, you'll also find a range of 50s wedding bands, 80s wedding bands and Motown tribute bands.
How long is the band’s break?
Most cover bands will require at least 15 minutes break between sets but this can be longer to suit your schedule. For example, you might like to spread their sets out or leave a longer gap for the evening buffet.
Who are the best wedding bands in the UK?
At Bands For Hire we’ve spent the last 10 years putting together a roster of the best wedding bands across the UK. When booking a band through Bands For Hire you can be confident that they’ve passed our strict criteria and are of an exceptionally high standard.
Will the band learn our first dance song?
Most wedding bands will be happy to learn your first dance as long as it’s a song that works with their line-up and style. It’s worth noting that some bands charge a small fee to cover their rehearsal time so always mention this prior to booking.
Don't forget to check out our list of first dance songs to get you some ideas!
What equipment will the band provide?
Most party bands come fully self-contained with everything they require. Depending on the size of the band this usually includes full PA system (speakers, mixing desk and power amps), backline (guitar amps), lighting and instruments. Unless specified in the band’s quote, you won’t be required to provide any equipment.
How do I book a wedding band?
Once you’ve found a band you like, either fill in the contact form on their profile page or add them to your enquiry list. Once you’ve created a list of 3-10 bands you can enquire about all of your bands in one go here.
If you’re happy with your quote and are looking to book a band, we’ll just need you to send over your full name and address along with confirmation of the wedding venue. At that point we’ll email you an online contract and invoice for a small deposit of approximately 20%. This can be paid by card, bank transfer or cheque.
Do bands provide DJ sets between and after their performance?
All of our evening function bands offer free playlists between sets free of charge, however it's always a nice touch to add a DJ between sets and after the band, especially if you've booked the venue until the early hours. Many of our bands offer their own manned DJ package, not only does this work out cheaper for you, it also saves on precious venue space.
We also work with a huge database of Bands For hire wedding DJs and wedding singers around the UK so if it's package deal you're after, please mention this when making your enquiry.
Where can I find out further information?
Our team of writers have put together a range of articles to help with your wedding planning. Head on over to our blog to get started or check out some of our most popular articles below: