14 Small Wedding Entertainment Ideas to Consider

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Updated: 27th May 2025

Big isn’t always better, especially when it comes to intimate celebrations.

For smaller weddings with just your nearest and dearest, a full-scale soul band or dramatic firework display might feel a little over the top. Instead, it’s often the more personal touches that make the biggest impact.

If you’re planning a smaller celebration and want to keep the energy flowing, we’ve got plenty of small wedding entertainment ideas to help set the perfect tone. From laid-back acoustic acts to unique and memorable performers, here are 14 ideas that work beautifully in more intimate settings.

1. String Duo

With their timeless sound, string instruments have long been a wedding favourite. You might picture the classic quartet with two violins, a viola and a cello, but for smaller weddings, a full ensemble can sometimes feel a little much.

If your wedding is at a more intimate venue with fewer guests, a string duo could be the perfect fit. They're ideal for ceremonies, receptions and wedding breakfasts alike.

Typically, a duo will consist of a cello and violin, a violin and a viola, or two violins. Because string ensembles usually set their price depending on the number of musicians, a string duo will also be a cheaper alternative to a quartet - always an added bonus.

2. Jazz Duo

If you prefer jazz over classical, consider hiring a jazz duo for your big day. A jazz duo will bring charm and sophistication to your event, creating a relaxed, atmospheric ambience that will set the tone of your day.

Line-ups vary depending on the band, but typical jazz duo combinations include:

• Piano and Sax
• Guitar and Vocals
• Two Acoustic Guitars
• Double Bass and Piano

If your wedding is generally small, but your venue allows it, you might consider hiring a slightly bigger jazz band, such as a trio or quartet. Having a jazz band of any size never fails to entertain, even for those guests that might usually favour something more contemporary.

3. Acoustic Wedding Singer

Hiring a vocalist to perform at your wedding can set the mood and create a memorable experience for you and your guests. If you're after a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe, consider a solo singer-guitarist or an acoustic duo with vocals and guitar.

Acoustic wedding singers perform covers of popular songs by your favourite artists in just about any genre! So, whether you're into indie, pop or folky blues, an acoustic singer will help you develop a setlist that you and all of your guests will love.

4. Singer With Backing Tracks

If an acoustic act doesn’t quite hit the mark and your venue can’t accommodate a full band, a solo singer with backing tracks is a great alternative. You’ll still get the energy of live vocals, but without the space and setup of a full group.

These performers offer a lively mix of songs across all genres, making them ideal for entertaining guests of all ages at a smaller wedding.

Most singers will bring their own sound system, and many also offer DJ sets, giving you a one-stop option for your evening entertainment.

5. Electric Violinist

If you love the sound of strings but want something more upbeat, an electric violinist could be the perfect fit. While many solo violinists start with classical, most are happy to include a mix of genres to suit the mood of your day.

Electric violinists often perform with backing tracks, adding energy and creating a party atmosphere that keeps guests entertained throughout the celebration.

It's also a budget-friendly option. You’ll get the elegance of a string performance without the cost of hiring a full trio or quartet.

6. Sax Player

The saxophone is a versatile instrument that works beautifully across a range of musical styles. Whether it's a laid-back daytime set or something livelier for the evening, a solo sax player can add a stylish touch to your wedding.

They’re also ideal for smaller venues, needing little more than their instrument and a compact PA system to get the sound just right.

7. Steel Pannist

Planning an outdoor wedding? You won’t want to miss the joy of having steel drum musicians entertaining your guests. With no need for electricity, they’re ideal for garden parties, beach weddings or any open-air setting.

Their upbeat Caribbean rhythms are guaranteed to get toes tapping and bring a feel-good vibe to your day.

8. Caricaturist

If you’ve already sorted the music, why not add something a little different to the mix?

Hiring a wedding caricaturist is a fun way to keep guests entertained while also giving them a unique keepsake to take home. Whatever their age, your guests will love lining up to have their portraits drawn.

It’s also a budget-friendly option, and many artists can tailor their style to match your wedding theme.

9. Magician

Wedding magicians are both fun and engaging and will add a mysterious and whimsical element to your big day.

From sleight of hand to mind-bending illusions, magicians entertain guests of all ages and leave everyone guessing long after the trick is done. They're a fun, engaging addition that brings a touch of mystery and wonder to your big day.

10. Photo Booth

With everyone keen to capture the perfect shot for Instagram, a photo booth is a guaranteed hit. It gives guests a fun activity during the reception and a keepsake to take home.

Add a few wedding-themed props and you’ll have a steady queue of guests ready to strike a pose. It’s a simple way to create lasting memories and a bit of extra buzz throughout the evening.

11. Loop Pedal Artists

The loop pedal transforms a solo musician into a one-person orchestra, layering live audio on the spot to create a rich and textured wall of sound. In recent years, looping has surged in popularity, especially through the solo performances of artists like Ed Sheeran in sold-out global venues.

Like other solo musicians, a loop pedal performer can easily adapt to smaller venues & events, requiring only their instrument, the pedal, and a simple sound setup.

12. Sax DJ

The Sax DJ combo has quickly become one of the most popular live music trends, blending smooth sax melodies with the energy of a DJ set.

This fusion creates a electrifying party atmosphere, perfect for evening receptions where you want to get everyone on the dance floor. It's interactive, upbeat and guaranteed to turn heads.

13. Palm Reader

As one half of a newlywed couple, your future is looking bright. But what about your guests?

Hiring a palm reader adds a unique and memorable twist to your reception. Whether guests are curious about love, luck or life in general, a quick reading is sure to spark conversation and bring a touch of intrigue to the day.

14. Limbo Competition

Looking to spark a bit of friendly competition? A limbo contest is a fun and easy way to get everyone involved, whether you're celebrating indoors or out.

How long can you go? More importantly, how low can your mum go?

Add a few small prizes to encourage guests to join in, from sweet treats to keepsakes with your initials. It’s light-hearted, interactive and sure to get people laughing.

Start Planning Your Entertainment

Want to make your wedding unforgettable by incorporating live music? Contact us today and let us help make your wedding day unforgettable.