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How Much Does a Wedding Band Cost in 2025?

2018-06-27T14:45:09+01:00

If you're recently engaged and looking for live music to entertain your guests, a professional wedding band could be the perfect way to kick off your evening.

In 2025, the average price of a wedding band in the UK is £1200 - £1800, but this can vary depending on several aspects, such as the season, travel costs and the number of musicians in the band.

With the 2025 summer season on the horizon and 2026 dates going fast, now is the time to get your wedding entertainment budget in order.

What Affects the Price of a Wedding Band (and How to Save)

A number of variables can impact the cost of a wedding band, and understanding these can also help you get the best deal.

1. Band Size and Line-Up

More musicians = more cost. A 4-piece band typically costs around £1200–£1800, based on £300–£450 per musician. Opting for a trio or duo can help keep your budget in check without compromising on energy or professionalism.

Save money by hiring a trio or duo to reduce costs while still keeping the energy high on the dance floor.

2. Seasonality and Availability

Fridays and Saturdays in the summer are the busiest times for every wedding band, so there’s rarely room for negotiation. Off-peak months like January, February and March are generally quieter, which means some bands may quote slightly lower than they would in high season. If you’re planning a last-minute wedding, you might also find a more competitive rate from a band that still has availability.

Save money by booking an off-peak date or keeping your plans flexible to take advantage of late availability.

3. Travel Costs

Hiring a local band can significantly reduce travel expenses and potential accommodation fees. Diesel and travel time are factored into quotes, especially if the journey adds multiple hours to the day for each band member.

Save money by booking a band based near your venue to avoid extra costs for fuel and overnight stays.

4. Arrival and Finish Times

With travel time included, a band can often expect to work a 12-hour day. Most quotes are based on a standard arrival around 5:30pm to 6pm and a finish by midnight. Earlier set-ups or later finish times will usually increase the cost.

Save money by sticking to standard arrival and finish times to avoid additional charges for early set-up or late-night performances.

5. Performance Time and Flexibility

Most bands perform two sets of around an hour, though some offer 2 x 45 minutes or 3 x 45-minute sets. If you have specific timings in mind, just let your band know and they may be able to offer a suitable package.

6. Accommodation Needs

If the band are based 3–4 hours away, they may need to stay over in a hotel, and this is also considered when calculating a quote.

Save money by choosing a band close to your venue to avoid the extra cost of overnight accommodation.

7. Band Experience and Demand

Being a wedding musician is similar to any other job or business. If a band has been performing for many years and is in high demand, they’re likely to charge more to reflect their experience and reputation.

Save money by considering newer or less established bands with great reviews and sample videos, who may offer excellent value at a lower price point.

TipSave money on your wedding music by asking your wedding band if they can offer a package deal to include daytime music and DJ sets.

Wedding Band Prices by Line-Up

The number of band members plays a major role in wedding band pricing. The more professional musicians in the band, the more people there are to pay.

Whilst there are no strict rules, let's take a look at what line-up you can expect to get for your budget.

Solo Wedding Musician: £300 - £500+

If you're planning an intimate occasion or are working with a limited budget, a solo wedding musician could be just the ticket. From acoustic singer/guitarists to professional vocalists with backing tracks, there are numerous options to consider.

Many wedding musicians offer packages to cover different parts of your day, including the ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast and wedding reception. Head over to our wedding singers page to browse our roster of talented acts.

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Duo: £500 - £800+

A duo typically includes a singer and guitarist, often with added keys, loop pedal or backing tracks to create a fuller sound to get your guests dancing.

Many duos can also add on additional musicians, such as a sax player or percussionist. This is a fantastic addition visually and will certainly add to the overall atmosphere.

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3-piece Band: £1000 - £1400+

The power trio is perhaps one of the most sought-after line-ups on offer. Often featuring vocals, guitar, bass and drums, a trio has the same punch as many 4-piece bands but with one less band member to pay. If you want to get your guests dancing, a rockin' 3-piece band won't let you down.

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4-5-piece Band: £1300 - £1800+

The most popular wedding bands in the wedding industry feature four or five musicians. The perfect combination of vocals, guitars, bass, drums and keys means your band will be fully equipped to deliver a diverse set of classics that will appeal to wedding guests of all ages.

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6-8 piece Band: £2000 - 3000+

By increasing your budget, you'll now have the option to add a sax player or full horn section to your band. With six or more members, you can expect a vibrant performance that will be sure to make a strong impression. Just remember to check space and sound limitations with your wedding venue before booking.

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What extras do wedding bands offer?

If you have the budget, many wedding bands offer a range of extras for a small additional cost. Depending on how much of your wedding budget you're looking to spend on entertainment, you may find music throughout the day is the perfect way to enhance your special occasion. Some of the extras offered by wedding bands include:

Ceremony Music: £250+

Many wedding bands offer a range of options to cover your ceremony, such as an instrumental guitarist, pianist or acoustic duo.

Drinks Reception Music: £400+

An acoustic wedding duo is the perfect way to entertain your guests once the formalities of the ceremony are over. With a mix of genres ranging from jazz and folk to indie-rock singalongs, it's a sure-fire way to keep your guests entertained.

DJ service: £150+

In addition to providing live music in the evening, many wedding bands offer an optional DJ service for a more comprehensive evening of entertainment. Often at a significantly lower cost compared to hiring a separate DJ, the band's DJ will use a laptop to mix and take song requests for a more interactive and personalised night of entertainment.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

Start your search!

Now that you're in the know, it's time to start your search. At Bands For Hire, we represent only the best wedding bands across the UK covering a wide range of budgets. Take a look at our wedding bands page to get started, and drop us an email with any queries.

Should I Book a Wedding Band or DJ?

2018-06-04T12:36:19+01:00

One of the most exciting elements of planning a wedding is choosing your evening's entertainment. There are numerous factors to consider, but perhaps the biggest question of all is: should I book a band or wedding DJ?

Both wedding bands and DJs have their pros and cons, but more often than not, it comes down to budget and personal preference.

Nothing quite compares to the raw energy a live band brings to the party. Not only does a band increase audience interaction, but they also add a real sense of occasion – a group of trained professional musicians will be far more impressive to your wedding guests than even the most skilled vinyl-spinner.

With the rising trend of 'DJ Live' acts, you may not even need to decide between the two. Many DJs offer a range of DJ/musician combos to deliver a set that incorporates drummers, sax players and vocalists into their set.

Should I Book a Live Wedding Band?

Before we look at the pros and cons of hiring a wedding band, let's quickly look at the type of entertainment package you can expect to receive.

The price of a wedding band varies but most high-quality wedding bands start at around £1000-£1500. This will usually be for three or four band members and include the following:

2 x 60 or 3 x 40 minute sets
Professional PA system
Lighting to cover the stage and dance floor
Playlists throughout the evening until midnight

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Wedding Band - Pros

1. Live bands sound incredible!

The epic and awe-inspiring sound of a live band is guaranteed to electrify the room.

2. Guaranteed to fill the dance floor

Whether it's rockin' drums, funky bass or incredible vocals you're into, the infectious energy a band brings will have even the most modest of guests on the dance floor.

3. Mashups / Medleys

Everybody loves a mashup and no one does it better than a live band. Whether it's a quick burst of your favourite 90s dance tunes or old school Motown merged with the latest hip-hop beats, a unique medley will always be an unexpected treat for your guests.

4. It's Totally Unique

Every time a band performs, the set is unique in one way or another and will never be replicated.

5. Suitable for all guests

Even guests who don't dance will still enjoy watching the band perform and interact with guests. Although many wedding bands focus on one particular genre, you'll find most bands perform a set list to cater for every age group.

6. Bands can improvise

A band isn't limited by the constraints of a record or playlist; experienced musicians are able to take the music in any direction at any time.

7. Bands can also DJ!

That's right! Most function bands also offer optional DJ sets from a member of the band. So even if you don't book a separate DJ, you can still have all of your favourite dance tunes after the band have finished performing. It's also a great way to save space if you're keen to have the best of both worlds.

Wedding Band - Cons

1. Budget

Hiring a wedding band will usually set you back a little more than a wedding DJ. The main reason being that there are more people to pay.

2. Space Requirements

With live drums, sound system and at least three or four musicians, you're going to need to ensure you have enough space. In general, you'll need at least 4 x 3 meters for a typical 4-piece band.

3. Fixed Repertoire

Although most bands have up to a hundred songs or more in their repertoire, you'll obviously have less to choose from than a DJ who will have access to just about any song ever created. Most bands will be happy to learn your first dance song, but beyond that, the songs played on the night will be chosen from their repertoire.

4. Musicians need breaks

Whilst a wedding DJ can keep the music in full flow until midnight, a band will need to play fixed set times with breaks in between. Having said that, every cover band provides DJ playlists throughout the evening, so you'll never be left in silence!

Should I Book a Wedding DJ?

A wedding DJ is the most popular choice for wedding entertainment, it's affordable, flexible and you'll be free to have as much input into the music as you wish.

So what are the pros and cons of a wedding DJ?

Wedding DJ - Pros

1. Variety

With guests that range from young children to grandparents, it's great to offer a varied selection of music that suits everyone. With mp3s and streaming platforms, a DJ will have access to every song imaginable - just ensure there's a wifi connection for any last-minute song requests!

2. Affordable

With just one professional to pay, the overall cost of a wedding DJ will usually be lower than a wedding band with three or more members. Some couples may even choose to put some of their entertainment budget towards wedding musicians earlier in the day.

3. Adaptable

A professional DJ knows how to work the room and can adapt their set at any point. If guests aren't responding well to the 90s house mix, they can change things up with some old school disco or carefully drop a floor filler at just the right time.

4. No Gaps Between Songs

A DJ has the advantage of being able to seamlessly segue from one song to the next, which makes for an uninterrupted party mix to keep guests dancing.

5. Adjustable Volume

With so many venues now introducing sound limiters, the volume of music can be a deciding factor. Whilst a band may struggle to work at specific levels, it's no problem for a DJ who can simply turn the volume down as required.

6. Small Footprint

If venue space is an issue, a wedding DJ may be the right choice for you. With just a DJ booth, lighting rig and speakers, a DJ can adjust their set-up to work around your requirements.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

Wedding DJ - Cons

1. Energy

Whilst a live band will naturally bring energy to the room with their performance, it's much harder for a DJ to amp up the atmosphere without a willing crowd.

2. Not as Original

A DJ may not be as original as a live band that offers a unique performance style. Professional DJs do bring personality and charisma to the table, but this is often down to the individual.

Wedding Band vs Wedding DJ (or Both?)

If you've got the budget for it, then a live wedding band coupled with a DJ will give you the best of both worlds.

Nothing quite beats the energy and showmanship of a live band, but it's hard to compete with the limitless reservoir of music a DJ has at their fingertips.

Whether you opt for a band or DJ, always be sure to book from a reputable source. At Bands For Hire, we represent some of the very best DJs and wedding bands in the UK, each bringing energy and professionalism in abundance.

Setting Up the Wedding Band: Stage Sizes and Performance Space

2023-01-24T11:05:16+00:00

Getting the stage size right for your wedding band is key to a seamless performance and visually striking setup. The infographic below shows approximate stage sizes for different band configurations - take a look before we move on to the details.

Does a wedding band need a stage?

Before we look into the specifics of stage sizes and performance spaces, let's address a common question many couples have when booking a wedding band: "Do we even need a stage?"

With the extra expense hiring a stage brings, many of you will be relieved to hear that a stage isn't necessary for most wedding bands. From my experience as a musician, I can attest that a stage was provided at less than half of the weddings I played over the course of a decade.

That being said, it's essential to consider the specific needs and preferences of your venue and wedding band when deciding whether or not to have a stage. Afterall, a stage will undoubtedly add an extra level of professionalism and enhance the overall live experience for you and your guests.

Performance Space

Whether or not you decide to use a stage, it's essential to ensure there's adequate performance space set aside for the band. Having ample space will ensure the band can easily move around and interact with the audience for a far more engaging performance.

Every band has their own unique requirements when it comes to performance space, and it's important to take these into account when planning. Factors such as the number of band members, the type of music they play, and the equipment they use, all play a role in determining the appropriate performance space. For example, if you've booked a large wedding band featuring multiple vocalists, horn section and choreography, they'll likely need far more space than a small acoustic band.

How much space does a wedding band need?

Below we've outlined some minimum stage dimensions to get you started. If you're working with a spacious venue, increasing the performance area is always advised to get the most out of the band's performance.

Solo musician: 2 x 1.5 metres

A solo act or instrumentalist can generally fit into most spaces. Solo wedding singers often provide a small PA with a raised speaker either side.

Duo : 2.5 x 1.5 metres

If you're booking a jazz act or acoustic duo, they'll need slightly more width for their instruments, but otherwise, a similar depth is required.

Acoustic Trio: 3 x 2 metres

A trio featuring a vocalist, guitarist and percussionist is quite flexible and can adjust the setup to suit most spaces.

3-piece Band: 3 x 2.5 metres

Adding an acoustic drum kit to the mix means the band will need a bit more space to work with. A 3 x 2.5 metre space allows the drummer to set up in the centre with the guitarist and bass player on either side.

4-piece Band: 4 x 3 metres

The definitive 4-piece wedding band featuring vocals, guitar, bass and drums - possibly even keys. The vocalist will usually be placed directly in front of the drum kit, meaning a depth of 3 metres is highly recommended.

5-piece Band: 5 x 3 metres

A typical 5-piece band usually includes vocals, guitar, bass, drums and additional instruments such as keyboard or sax.

6-piece Band: 6 x 4 metres

As the band line-up increases, it's important to note that there may be more variation in space requirements based on the specific line-up and equipment of the band. Each band may have unique requirements and preferences, so it's essential to communicate with them before the day and understand their specific needs.

7-piece band +: 7 x 4 metres

We generally recommend 4 metres depth and an extra metre width for each additional band member.

Sound Engineer Desk

It's also worth keeping in mind that many high-end party bands work with a sound engineer, who may need to set up their mixing desk at the back or side of the room. One square metre should suffice here, but for safety reasons, avoid placing them too close to the dance floor area.

Typcial Modular Stage Sizes

The dimensions mentioned above are fine to use as your stage dimensions, although you may need to round up to the nearest metre. Modern modular stages typically come in 1 x 1 metre sections, allowing for size and configuration flexibility.

Old-style stages, commonly used for marquee weddings, come in 8 x 4 ft (2.42m x 1.21m) blocks, so you'll need to speak to your band to decide which format suits them best.

One last thing to note is that your band can also set their PA speakers up either side of the stage, leaving them more performance space on the stage itself.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

Why Use a Stage?

A stage can add a special touch to your wedding and make the band's performance more memorable for you and your guests. Here are four reasons why using a stage will enhance your wedding reception:

Performing on a raised platform will make the band more visible and create a sense of separation between them and the audience, making the performance feel more special and memorable for guests.
A stage can create a focal point for the reception, making the band the centre of attention and drawing guests to the dance floor.
A stage allows the band to move around freely and interact with the audience, making the performance more engaging and interactive.
Using a stage can add an extra level of professionalism to your wedding, making it look more polished and sophisticated.

Tip for Marquee Weddings!

Wedding marquees and tipis usually have sloping sides, which you'll need to consider when working out dimensions. The easiest solution is to bring the stage forward slightly so the musicians don't hit their heads on the top of the marquee!

Power Supply

When discussing performance space, we mustn't forget to include a section about power requirements.

Most wedding bands need at least two or three standard 13amp household sockets in the performance area and then use their own extension cables as required.

If you're having your wedding reception outside or in a marquee, there are two options available:

Run extension cables from a nearby building:

You'll need to run two separate extensions from at least two 13amp sockets. Remember not to run all your power from one 13 amp socket, as this will blow a fuse. It's also important to ensure the cables are properly rated for outdoor use and protected from damage.

Hire a Generator:

Generators in the UK usually have 16amp sockets, so you'll need to run at least one of these to the stage area and then use a suitable 16amp to 13amp adapter for the band to plug into. This will give them just over 3.5kw*, which is plenty for most wedding bands. Always check exactly how much power your band will need to draw.

*These calculations will differ if working with 120v mains in the USA.

Conclusion

It's essential to ensure that the band has everything they need to perform at their best, including the right stage size, performance space, and power supply. Consider your wedding band's specific needs, and if in doubt, too much space is always better than too little. As they say, it's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Ready to book your wedding band? Head over to our wedding band section to see our exclusive roster of bands in action.

Hiring a Band Abroad: International Destination Wedding Band Guide

2016-01-14T11:38:34+00:00

If you're looking to hire a band for a destination wedding, international corporate event, or hotel abroad, there are several things to consider, including costs, logistics and legal requirements.

Our musicians regularly perform across Europe and beyond, so our team has a great deal of experience when booking live music abroad. Some of the most popular destinations include France, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.

Cost to Hire a Wedding Band Abroad

Depending on your event location, the price of hiring a destination wedding band will vary, so it's a good idea to factor in the various costs before making your enquiries. As a general guideline, we recommend a £5,000–£10,000 budget to cover the band and all associated costs. Below is a breakdown of the type of expenses you'll need to take into account when working out your budget for hiring a band overseas:

1. Performance Fee

Every band has a set fee for their musicians, which forms the band's local starting rate. It's important to remember that advertised starting rates do vary, and factors such as the time of year, day of the week, and of course, the amount of time, organisation, and travel will affect the price.

2. Return Flights from the UK

You'll be required to cover all transport costs, including return flights from the UK. Your bandleader or booking agent will liaise with you before booking to ensure that the musicians are travelling from their local airport, and that all additional baggage, such as instruments, have been included.

We recommend that clients make accommodation and travel arrangements so that they are in complete control of their expenditures.

3. Equipment Hire Costs

In most cases, your band will need to fly for an event abroad, and so they'll need all equipment, such as a sound system, to be supplied at the venue. The fees involved in transporting large items of equipment such as speakers are so high that it's rarely an option to provide their own gear. Musicians will usually carry only small instruments such as guitars and saxophones on the flight, meaning drum kit, amplifiers, keyboards, PA system and lighting will need to be hired locally.

Every band will have different PA and backline requirements and so will provide a technical specification for you to pass on to a local PA hire company if required. It can be beneficial to work with a local event planner who has experience with local suppliers and can organise equipment hire on your behalf. If your event is taking place at a hotel, they will more than likely have contacts they can recommend and liaise with on your behalf.

In most cases, you'll need to work with a PA hire company that will also supply a sound engineer to set up the equipment and soundcheck the band on the day.

4. UK Travel Expense

As with UK-based bookings, your band will need to ensure all travel costs are covered, and this can include train tickets, fuel (in the UK) and occasionally airport parking. We usually expect bands to include these expenses in their quote.

5. Accommodation for Band Members

You'll need to supply suitable accommodation for each band member. To make things easier for everyone involved, we recommend this is at the same hotel as your event; however, if this isn't an option, they'll be happy to stay at a nearby hotel with a minimum three-star rating. Bear in mind that this will directly increase other costs, such as travel between hotels.

When Does the Band Arrive?

When hiring a band for an international event or destination wedding, you'll also need to consider when the musicians arrive, either on the day of the event or the day before.

As a precaution, you might like your suppliers to arrive the day before the event in case of unforeseen flight cancellations or delays. However, this can come at a cost. Not only does this require two nights' accommodation instead of one, but your musicians will also need to book out the evening before the event as well. You are essentially hiring the musicians for two nights, and their fee may increase to account for the loss of other work.

6. Transfers / Taxi

Your musicians will need all travel expenses covered, including transfers between the airport and the venue and between venues if your musicians stay at a different hotel.

7. Meals and Per Diems

You can either agree on a set fee to cover meals and drinks per day, or your musicians can keep all receipts for expenses incurred on their trip. To make things easy, we recommend arranging a meal for your musicians at the venue and including breakfast with their accommodation.

8. Visa and Work Permit Costs (if applicable)

Depending on the destination and the nationality of the band members, there may be visa and work permit requirements that need to be fulfilled. It's crucial to research and understand the visa and work permit requirements of the country where the event is taking place and ensure that the band members have the necessary documentation in order to perform legally.

In many EU countries such as France and Germany, weddings are classed as cultural events so musicians won't usually need to apply if working there for just one day. To find out more about visas and work permits for a particular country, visit ISM.

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How to Book a Band for an International Wedding or Event

Booking a band abroad for the first time can be daunting, but rest assured that it's a straightforward process that doesn't need to be stressful. Here's a breakdown to get you started:

Browse our UK function bands and enquire about your favourite acts. Use advertised prices purely as a guide.
Receive quotes that cover performance fees and UK travel only. All additional costs mentioned above will be on top.
When you find a band you like, confirm how many people will be travelling and request the band's technical specification (tech spec).
Pass the tech spec on to your wedding planner to find out prices for hiring equipment locally. If you aren't working with a local wedding planner or venue, you'll need to research local PA hire companies in the area.
Research accommodation and flight costs and decide whether you need the band to arrive on the day of the event or the day before. Discuss which options the band are open to and if there are additional costs to arrive the day before.
Check additional costs such as visas, extra luggage, meals, transfers etc.
Once you've confirmed all costs and are ready to proceed, ask a member of our team to book you in and we'll send over the contract.
Once the contract is signed, you'll need passports from all band members to book flights and accommodation. Remember that flight costs can change daily.

Popular Destination Wedding Bands and Musicians

Sunny & The Gang

If you're looking for a luxury wedding band with a wealth of experience performing at celebrity events and exotic locations, Sunny & The Gang may well be your first point of call. Regulars on the destination wedding circuit, this is a band with some serious credentials.

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Entity

Entity have performed at several international events, including New Year's Eve in The Maldives with their core 5-piece function band. Available to hire as a duo through to a whopping 14-piece band, Entity are the real deal when it comes to high-end showbands.

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JJ & The Beatniks - Roaming Acoustic Band

An acoustic roaming band is the perfect choice for destination wedding entertainment. Free to roam amongst guests, JJ & The Beatniks create a fun, vibrant atmosphere that's sure to get guests in the party mood. Best of all, our international roaming bands can perform completely unplugged, meaning there's no need to hire a PA system or a sound engineer - easy peasy!

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Rodrigo - Flamenco Guitarist

Set the perfect Mediterranean tone with a flamenco set from our very own Rodrigo. With experience performing at international weddings and events across Europe, he's the perfect addition to your champagne reception or early evening celebration. Check out footage of Rodrigo performing live in Italy below.

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Decades

Perhaps one of the most experienced destination wedding bands in the UK, Decades have played just about everywhere imaginable, from the laid-back vineyards of Bordeaux and Tuscany to the glitzy skyscrapers of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. If you’re looking for an international function band that know how to get the party moving, Decades deliver a setlist jam-packed with party anthems to keep every guest on the dance floor.

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The Academy

Based in Belgium, The Academy are the ultimate European party band, with hundreds of performances across the continent under their belts. From a 7-piece to an 18-piece band, the band can accommodate weddings of all sizes.

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How to Save Costs When Hiring a Band Abroad

On the face of it, hiring a band for a destination wedding or event can appear costly, but there are ways to reduce the overall cost.

1. Driving Abroad

If you're putting on an event in Ireland, Northern France, Belgium or The Netherlands, it's worth asking your band if they would be happy to drive to reduce the overall costs.

By driving, your band can travel with all their equipment, just as they would for a UK event. This means they'll be no need to hire any equipment or book flights.

Although this will work out cheaper overall, this will increase other costs such as the base fee; due to the amount of time on the road, fuel costs and tolls.

2. Hire Musicians Keen to Travel

You may find that some wedding bands are excited at the possibility of travelling and performing abroad and will therefore offer a good deal.

Younger musicians, in particular, are often keen to travel and venture out of the UK, unlike musicians with young families who may prefer to perform closer to home.

3. Hire a Smaller Band

The number of musicians in a wedding band is perhaps the biggest price factor, made all the more significant when adding flights, accommodation, meals and more into the equation. By booking a lively duo or trio, you can reduce your overall costs.

4. Hire a Roaming Acoustic Band

One way to cut costs is to hire a band that doesn't require amplification, negating the need for expensive PA hire and equipment.

A Roaming band offers exactly this service, performing intimate sets to small groups as they move around your venue. This is perfect for afternoon or early evening sets, leaving the evening duties to your wedding DJ.

5. Choose an Off-Peak Event Date

Booking musicians for peak summer Saturday dates is always more expensive than mid-week or out-of-season dates. By having your wedding during the week, your band may be willing to offer you a better price as it won't impact their weekend bookings. They may also be willing to arrive a day early at no extra cost to make use of the pool and enjoy some time in the sun!

6. Hire a DJ with Live Musicians

You don't have to book a full band to enjoy live music at your event. Our roster includes a range of professional DJs that work alongside live musicians, such as singers and sax players, often working out far cheaper than hiring a band.

International Band Bookings across the Globe

Many of our bands regularly perform in countries further afield, such as United Arab Emirates and Qatar. With hotels in places such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi attracting a high number of UK tourists, there is often the need to book British bands for events on New Years Eve or perhaps for longer contracts that span over a three month period.

At Bands For Hire, we have a wide roster of bands on our books, often taking bookings over a year in advance. If you're keen to secure an international band, contact our team, and we'll help you find the perfect act to bring your vision to life.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

Browse Wedding Bands

The Beginner's Guide to Hiring a Wedding Band

2020-01-21T10:22:07+00:00

Looking for a wedding band but not sure where to start? I've spent the past decade searching for the best bands in the business - and I can assure you that it’s no easy task.

One of the first issues couples tend to have is that there seems to be an absolutely overwhelming number of bands on offer at every turn, from agencies and directories to social media - and not forgetting the friend of a friend’s cousin’s band who once supported Scouting for Girls in 2006.

The good news is that agencies like Bands For Hire have already done the hard work for you - so while you’re here, why not head over to our wedding bands section to make a start?

How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Band?

Most couples book their wedding band 12-18 months in advance. Any later than this, and you risk missing out on your favourite band.

Having said this, there is no set timeframe. We often take bookings for weddings 2 years before the date. Whilst this may seem over-zealous to some, booking 2 years in advance means you're almost guaranteed to secure the band you're looking for.

If a band is popular (like all of our bands!) it's safe to say that by January, 80% of their peak summer dates will be booked up. Saturdays are, of course, the most popular date for any function band, so if you've opted for a Thursday, Friday or Sunday wedding, you can afford to leave it a little later.

Outline your must-haves

Much like buying a house, every couple will have their own wants and wishes when it comes to planning a wedding - and the evening band is no exception.

Would you prefer a rocking male vocalist, a soulful diva or perhaps a bit of both? Are you after a contemporary pop sound with all the latest and greatest chart songs or are you more 80s cheese and outrageous hairdos for the ultimate stadium rock experience? Whatever it is you’re after, you’ll find plenty to choose from.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

How do I know if a band is any good?

With wedding bands primarily performing at private events, it can be frustrating for couples to not have the opportunity to watch their prospective bands live before booking – so how do you decide?

Bands go to great lengths to showcase their talent through their promotional videos, so this is usually the best indication of their live sound. In my experience, it’s easy to tell the quality of a band from their recordings – yes, a good engineer can tune up vocals and add a little bit of magic to spruce things up, but in general, the quality of a recording usually reflects the level that the band are at. In most cases, they'll sound even better live!

By using an agency such as Bands For Hire, you can have absolute confidence that every band has been chosen by professionals and meets the required standard. After all, it’s our reputation on the line!

Set an approximate budget

It’s a good idea to get a feel for the price of a wedding band before settling on your entertainment budget. You’ll no doubt come across local bands on Facebook who are willing to travel across the country for beer money and a pat on the back, but if you’re after a band that exudes quality, charisma and professionalism, you’ll need to come up with a sensible budget that will cover exactly what you’re after.

TIPAs a general rule, you might say that the average cost per musician lies somewhere between £250-£350, which amounts to anything from £750 - £1050 and above for a trio and upwards of £1000 - £1400 for a 4-piece band in their home town.

Why do prices vary so much?

As you start to browse the web and the quotes come flooding in, it soon becomes apparent that prices can vary massively, so what actually affects the price of a wedding band?

There are so many factors that come into play, but the main five differentials tend to be as follows:

The number of band members: The more musicians in a band, the more mouths to feed.
Travelling distance from the venue: Always start your search locally before searching further afield to get the best deal.
Popularity of the band: The more popular the band, the higher their rates become. A professional function band is a business, and it’s only natural to increase their fees as demand increases.
Time of the year: With peak summer Saturdays being the most popular in the year, bands will often be inundated with requests for the same dates, so some bands may alter fees to account for this, often offering more competitive rates out of season.
Quality: Some musicians are just better than others!

What else should I take into account before budgeting?

Function bands will always quote inclusive of any travel expenses and usually come fully self-contained with PA system (sound system) and lighting. If the band need to stay over they’ll either include accommodation in their fees or outline the requirement on their quote.

One thing to note is that the band will always require parking at the venue - so if this isn’t available, you may be required to cover parking costs if specified on the contract.

What should I expect to be included in the quote?

All bands work in their own particular way, but as a guide, you can expect most bands to include the following in their quote as standard:

5:30pm/6pm arrival and set-up
2 hours of live music – either 2 x 60 or 3 x 40 minute sets
Playlists to fill the gaps
High quality PA system and lighting
Midnight finish
Travel expense
Public Liability Insurance and PAT test certificates

Other optional add-ons may also include:

1am finish time
Early arrival to set up before guests arrive
Manned DJ sets
Afternoon acoustic sets

Do we need to feed the band? (Yes, please)

It's a question that's been asked by many a client: Do we have to feed the band? What do we feed them, and why should we feed them? As an agency, we understand both the band's, client's, and caterers' points of view. Some bands ask for food to be provided by the client as part of their rider, while many are content with the evening buffet. So what's the etiquette?

It's generally accepted that the client provides the band with a meal prior to the gig. The caterer will be more than familiar with the situation and will often offer cheaper 'supplier' meals. After all, the band doesn't expect a fine cut of medium-rare fillet steak - a simple hot meal to keep them going is always appreciated.

Bands often leave their homes mid-afternoon, and so by the time they've finished setting up, we've got a very hungry group of musicians. The last thing a band wants at this point is to leave the venue in search of food. If I could say one last thing on the subject, it's that a well-fed musician is a happy musician, and a happy musician is exactly what you want for a great party.

Check band and venue requirements

Now that you’ve chosen your band, you’ll need to double-check they’re compatible with your venue. Does your venue have any specific sound requirements? Do they have enough space? Do they have a sound limiter, built-in sound system or indeed a license to have live music at all? There are a whole list of questions to ask your venue before making a booking and you’ll then need to run these past the band or agency before doing so.

Top 10 Questions to ask your Venue Before Hiring a Wedding Band

What is PLI and PAT?

If you’ve had quotes in already, you may have seen the term ‘PLI’ floating about, but what’s it all about?

Every self-respecting wedding band should be able to provide a Public Liability Insurance Certificate (PLI Certificate) on request; should the band then be held responsible for an accident, they’ll have the appropriate insurance to cover themselves. Some venues, especially listed buildings of historical value, may even insist that the band have a minimum level of insurance; if the band don’t already meet this requirement, there is the option to look into single-day insurance instead.

Similarly, PAT tests aren’t a legal requirement but are generally requested by venues to ensure that any equipment older than a year old is safe and acceptable to use.

Is there anything else I need to know?

You’re bound to have lots of queries specific to your wedding. Whether they be about dress code, logistical obstacles or otherwise, feel free to email a list of queries to your chosen agency, and they’ll be sure to offer answers and advice. In the meantime, you may find our FAQs page is a great place to start.

Should I book through an agency?

Booking via an agency certainly adds a layer of reassurance to the process. By picking from a hand-selected roster of wedding bands, you’ll have absolute confidence that the band will be professional, high quality and reliable. You’ll also find a well-established live music agency such as Bands For Hire to be highly responsive and organised, which always helps to smooth out the planning process.

What happens if I want to cancel the band later down the line?

If you decide to cancel your band, there will be cancellation fees. Ouch! You’ll find all bands and agencies have their own set of terms, but in short, you’ll usually lose your deposit and then have to pay a percentage of the balance, depending on how far ahead your event is in the future.

To use our contracts as an example, if cancelling within 2 months of the wedding, the band are very unlikely to secure another booking, and so the full fee would still be due. That’s why we always recommend taking out wedding insurance to cover yourselves from any unforeseen illness in the family.

Sound Limiters: The Guide for Musicians, Venues & Clients

2019-12-05T15:35:18+00:00

The mere mention of sound limiters can often fill clients with dread. With the fear of your guests being plunged into darkness and silence hanging over your special day, your vision of a perfect wedding day can quickly descend into a nightmare!

To ensure your big day goes off without a hitch, we’ve put together this complete guide with everything you need to know about sound limiters.

Quick Links

What is a Sound Limiter?

To put it simply: a sound limiter monitors the sound level in a room via a built-in microphone, making sure it does not exceed a certain limit. The units used to measure ‘loudness’ are called decibels (dB).

If the noise in the room exceeds the pre-set limit for a certain amount of time (e.g. for more than 7-10 seconds) then the sound limiter will cut the power supply to the music. The venue’s staff will then have to reset the limiter in order to turn the power back on again.

Most limiters are fitted with a traffic light system to help warn musicians and staff when the noise is getting close to exceeding the limit. As long as this is visible, the musicians can keep their eye on this and adjust their levels discreetly (if needed) to avoid the power being cut.

However, if the band have cranked up their amps and the guests are all singing ‘Don’t Look Back In Anger’ at the top of their lungs, then the sound limiter may well cut the power. If tripped multiple times within a certain time frame, then it could take 15 minutes or longer to come back on again.

Why Do Venues Install Sound Limiters?

You may be surprised to hear that venues are not legally required to install a sound limiter, yet they’re becoming increasingly popular in the UK – and there are a number of reasons for why this is.

1. Noise Complaints

A venue can be subject to noise complaints from surrounding neighbours which could be deemed to be a statutory nuisance. This can lead to local councils setting up a sound control plan in order to minimise noise pollution.

2. Control of Noise at Work Regulations

Installing a limiter enables the venue to keep track of these levels to minimise noise complaints and avoid fines, prosecution or even worse – have their licence removed altogether!

Also, the venue have to be mindful of their staff working in these environments. Employers now have to uphold The Control of Noise at Work regulations 2005. This was put in place to help reduce the risk of employees suffering partial or total loss of hearing by controlling the noise they’re exposed to whilst working.

3. Protect Historic Buildings

Excessively loud noise can cause vibrations which in turn can cause damage to historical buildings. Many wedding venues may choose to install a limiter to protect their property and adhere to insurance terms.

Decibels (dB) & the Decibel Scale

The human ear is incredibly sensitive, which makes measuring sound rather odd. We can hear everything from a pencil being sharpened to a space shuttle being launched. So how can we compare different levels of loudness so that it all makes sense?

Decibels (dB) are the unit we use to measure sound. We refer to this as a logarithmic unit and basically means that a small increase in decibels indicates a large increase in intensity.

For example, 10dB is ten times more intense than 1dB...

...and 20dB is a hundred times more intense than 1dB.

The decibel scale was created to help measure these sounds in a way that we can make sense of it all. Below is a decibel scale comparison chart to help us understand this further:

Are All Sound Limiters the Same?

A very good question! There are actually two types of sound limiter: Automatic Volume Controllers & Electronic Sound Monitoring, and Mains Power Switching Units, both of which come in a variety of models and makes.

Automatic Volume Controllers & Electronic Sound Monitoring

Automatic Volume Controllers are connected between the sound source (e.g. an audio mixer or karaoke machine) and the main power amplifier. This requires bands to plug their gear into the limiter which will continually monitor the sound level and reduce the volume if the limit is exceeded. They are permanently installed at the venue and work in conjunction with an environmental noise control unit.

The band essentially have no control when using these types of sound limiters, which is why they are not the most popular to work with. If the limiter is incorrectly set, then this could trigger unnecessary power cuts to the band's gear and potentially damage equipment that’s connected to it, for example, laptops and valve guitar amplifiers.

Mains Power Switching Units (Most Popular)

The second type of limiter is the most common and the one we previously discussed. This works on a traffic light system, which will indicate when the levels are close to being exceeded (Green = okay, Amber = warning, Red = power will be cut soon if sustained). The decibel limit is set by the environmental health officer and depends on a multitude of factors such as the location of the venue and surrounding neighbours.

Zone Array / Sound Ceilings

You may also come across venues that have sound ceilings installed, often referred to as Zone Array systems. These systems use directionals speakers that essentially keep the music pointed at the dance floor as well as also helping to severely reduce the sound as it flows away from this area.

Many live bands prefer to avoid this type of set-up, as it can affect a band's energy and make it difficult to engage other guests in the room who are not on the dance floor. They are ideal for DJs and smaller venues that need to be very mindful of their surrounding neighbours. However, there are many bands who are fully equipped to work with them – you just might find it’s the rock & indie bands who politely decline playing at such venues.

What Venues Need to Tell You Before You Book

If your venue has a sound limiter installed, then it is their responsibility to make you aware of this prior to signing any contract. You should be informed of the type of limiter installed at the venue, how it is monitored and what dB limit it is capped at.

Trained venue staff should be present on the day who know how the sound limiter works. They should be able to explain to the musicians how it works and be able to reset it if it were to trip the power on the day.

TIPFind out who is in charge of running the event at your wedding and pass their name and contact details on to the band to liaise with before and on the day of the event.

Please also be aware that, when hiring live music to perform at your chosen venue, it will be your responsibility to make sure the musicians are aware of the venue’s sound restrictions prior to booking.

Most venues will have a document you can send across to the entertainment agency or band detailing the technical specification of the limiter installed. More often than not, the venue will also need the band or agent to sign this document to confirm they’re happy to adhere to their sound policies.

How Can Bands Accommodate Sound Limiters?

The good news is: there are plenty of bands out there that can accommodate sound limiters, but how do they achieve this?

Electric Drum Kit

An electric drum kit is the first port of call. An acoustic drum kit is usually the culprit when a limiter is set off (the snare to be precise!) so having an electric kit means the drummer can simply turn down the volume in order to keep within the desired parameters.

Brushes and 'Hot Rods'

Brushes and 'Hot Rods' are also a popular choice for percussionists. Brushes are typically used in jazz lineups, but can work nicely for a more ‘live lounge’ style set if your venue’s limits are particularly strict. Hot rods are the next best thing to normal drum sticks, as they still have a great sound but at a much lower volume.

The Cajon can be a last resort if the limiter in place is set to an incredibly low threshold. A Cajon is essentially a box that drummers sit on to produce percussive sounds, which makes it perfect for accommodating low-level sound limiters.

Direct input (DI) Instruments

Direct input (DI) is a great way for bassists to tackle those low-level frequencies. Bass amplifiers are often to blame for noise complaints, as lower frequencies travel much farther than higher frequencies. By using a DI, the bassist can control their lower frequencies with ease.

In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)

In Ear Monitors (IEMs) are a great way for a band to monitor and maintain their sound levels. It also means not having to use floor monitors, all of which can contribute to creating extra unwanted noise.

Issues with Sound Limiters and How to Fix Them

If you run a venue and are planning to install a sound limiter, there are a number of points to bear in mind to avoid issues. A common issue for musicians performing at venues with sound limiters is that the limiter itself has not been correctly installed. If a sound limiter isn't set correctly, it can affect the sensitivity of the limiter and make it difficult for a live band to work with.

Correct Limiter Settings

Ideally, the sound limiter should be on the A-weighted setting and preferably not on the C-weighted setting. The A-weighted setting essentially mimics the human ear and the frequencies we can perceivably hear. The C-weighted setting is used for peak measurements, so it’s much more sensitive and easily triggered.

Correct Microphone Placement

Sound limiters use a remote microphone – and the placement of this is absolutely key, as you do not want to have the band playing directly into this. Consider where the band will be placed on the day and make sure the microphone installed is at a healthy distance from them. The venue should be able to advise where best to place the band, as they will have had many bands play at their venue beforehand and should know what does and doesn’t work.

What Else Do Clients Need to Know?

If a sound limiter is set at a very low volume, you’ll need to be mindful of the fact that your guests could easily set it off as well. It only takes a loud cheer or applause at the end of a song to set off an extra sensitive limiter.

If live music is an important aspect of your wedding or party, always speak to potential venues before making a booking as you may find it's only brought up in the small print of their contract. It’s very difficult for 100-150 guests to enjoy themselves if a limiter is set at 80dB (quieter than a hairdryer) and so you may decide to look into an alternative venue.

Useful Advice on Booking the Right Live Music for Your Venue

Booking the right function band for your venue needn’t be complex, but there are some important points you should consider before you start looking.

Does your venue have a sound limiter? Be sure to find out exactly what is installed before approaching any bands, as they’ll need to know this information prior to booking.

What level is the limiter set at in dB? If the limiter is set lower than 110dB, then unfortunately you probably won’t be able to accommodate any brass instruments. If the limiter is set lower than 90dB, then you’ll most likely need to consider a wedding band that has an electric drum kit or Cajon to hand. If the limiter is set at 80dB or below then an acoustic act may be the way forward.

Does your venue allow acoustic drum kits to be used? If not, then you’ll need to make sure you find a band who can perform with electric drums (or no kit at all!).

A rock band will want to perform loudly, as they have a reputation to uphold, and rock music just doesn’t sound as good when played quietly. Because of this, they’re most likely going to politely turn away any venues that have sound limiters set any lower than 100dB.

Final Points

Musicians often take the blame when sound limiters go off, but in reality, it can be a combination of things. It’s worth remembering that any sound can set off a limiter, so it’s worth speaking in detail with your venue about their past events and the type of bands they can accommodate. If possible, it would be worth contacting past clients who’ve had bands perform there to check everything went smoothly for their event.

A band will always do their utmost to accommodate sound limiters, but you’ll find most musicians make it clear that it is the client’s responsibility if the limiter cuts out due to the aforementioned reasons above.

A band would never perform loudly on purpose to set off a limiter and will always do their best to accommodate the sound restrictions in place. It’s worth remembering that the venue and band both want your event to be the best it can be, so it’s vital to maintain excellent communication between the two to make sure your event goes off with a bang...not literally, of course!

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our extensive roster of wedding bands that specialise in working with sound limiters

Browse Wedding Bands

If you’re a venue and have sound restrictions in place, why not get in touch – we have a wide variety of bands that can accommodate all types of sound limiters and we’d love to create for you your own personal page to send clients through to!

25 Unique and Unusual Wedding Music Acts for the Alternative Bride & Groom

2012-06-12T10:19:53+01:00

Alternative Wedding Bands and Musicians

There's a huge demand for popular wedding bands that perform a little bit of everything, but while that's always a sure-fire win, you may like to think outside the box and have something a little bit different for your wedding.

Whether you're an alternative bride, an out-there groom or an event planner with an eye for the unusual & unique, I'm confident you'll find some quirky wedding entertainment that fits in perfectly with your big day.

You'll find everything from neo-classical guitarists and beatboxing violin players to all-American pop-punk rockers and alternative wedding bands. Check out some of our favourite alternative wedding music ideas below, and get in touch to discuss your requirements.

JJ & The Beatniks (Roaming Band)

JJ & The Beatniks are an acoustic roaming band bringing a refreshing twist to the usual wedding entertainment. With tailor-made mashups of popular songs, the band effortlessly blend genres and eras for a captivating live experience.

With the ability to roam free across the venue, there's ample opportunity to surprise guests with an intimate serenade.

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Thomas - Looping Violinist

Thomas, a classically trained violinist, brings a unique twist to weddings with his live looping skills. Offering a mix of classical and modern, his live show promises to add a unique and vibrant atmosphere to the event.

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Swing Beats

Swing Beats offer a time-travelling experience with their gypsy jazz renditions of popular songs, perfect for vintage-themed weddings.

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Resonate (Indie Rock)

Covering songs from indie giants to rock legends, it's safe to say this indie/rock outfit are not your ordinary function band.

If you're hoping for a mini-mosh pit at your wedding or a killer band to headline your festival, then Resonate are the perfect choice! Inspired by AC/DC, Arctic Monkeys, Kings Of Leon and the like, the group blend classic rock with a modern twist.

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Riptides (Festival Band)

The Riptides trio infuse weddings with a festival spirit with their lively blend of indie, folk, and pop.

From Mumford & Sons to The Killers, their diverse repertoire makes them a fantastic choice for couples seeking a lively, festival-like atmosphere.

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The Retro Belles

The Retro Belles bring the golden age of 1950s rock and roll to life with their high-energy performances and velvety vocals. With their vibrant stage presence, they're ideal for couples looking to add a touch of retro glamour to their celebration.

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Mariachi Experience

Immerse your wedding in the vibrant spirit of a Mexican fiesta with Mariachi Experience. Their multilingual performances and range of line-ups, from intimate trios to expansive ensembles, ensure a personalised and culturally rich musical experience for your celebration.

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Grassroots Collective

Imbue your wedding with the authentic sounds of Americana with Grassroots Collective. Their blend of vocals, double bass, guitar, mandolin, and drums creates a distinct folk ambience suitable for any event size, from cosy gatherings to grand celebrations.

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String Vision Duo

String Vision Duo offer a stunning electric violin show, blending classical training with an affinity for improvisation. Their ability to switch from electric to acoustic sets ensures a perfect fit for any part of your wedding day, from the ceremony music to the evening celebration.

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Clementine (Loop Pedal Artist)

Using her loop pedal, Clementine layers live audio on the fly to create a depth of sound that’s similar to a small band.

Capable of setting the tone for both mellow gatherings and lively celebrations, this one-woman powerhouse is a superb choice for any wedding.

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Big Blue Moon

Big Blue Moon brings the charm of 1920s swing to life, and their unique take on swing, mixing traditional tunes with modern mash-ups, ensures a lively atmosphere.

With a selection of talented vocalists, they create a speakeasy vibe, perfect for vintage-themed weddings looking to embody The Great Gatsby era.

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Royal Gospel

Royal Gospel combine individual talents into a remarkable ensemble, dedicated to classic gospel, modern tunes, and unique renditions of pop songs.

With individual collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and Pharrell Williams, they bring a wealth of experience and passion to every performance, ideal for events seeking soulful and uplifting music.

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Southlands (Country & Western)

Bring a country flair to your event with Southlands. Their engaging performances include a mix of modern country hits and country-style pop anthems. Featuring songs from Luke Combs to Carrie Underwood, they provide an unforgettable country music experience.

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Surprise Waiters

Experience the thrill of surprise with The Surprise Waiters, a group of classically trained singers and West End talents masquerading as waiters.

Their combination of live music, vocal talent, and humour is designed to surprise and delight guests, providing an unusual and unforgettable experience.

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Fresh Orange

Add a refreshing touch to your event with Fresh Orange - the perfect alternative to a wedding band. Offering everything from upbeat party anthems to mellow tunes, their blend of vocals, piano, and Cajon ensures an enjoyable atmosphere for all.

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Funkbox

Experience the dynamic blend of Latin rhythms, funky grooves, and smooth jazz with Funkbox. Their unique style, covering hits from the last 90 years with a funky twist, is performed by professional musicians with over 20 years of experience.

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The Hornmowers

The Hornmowers, a New Orleans-style brass band, bring bombastic energy to the party with their mix of soul, pop, and jazz. Their ability to cover a variety of genres, including hits from The Beatles to Taylor Swift, makes them a unique and exciting choice for any celebration.

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Mix Mash (Live DJ)

Transform your event into a lively nightclub with Mix Mash, a dynamic trio of DJ, sax, and percussion. Their potent mix of Ibiza classics, retro hits, and modern anthems ensures a non-stop, vibrant dance floor atmosphere with a great deal of 'dance floor interaction'.

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Duo Del Sol

Bring the essence of Spain to your event with Duo del Sol, an award-winning Spanish guitar duo with the fiery spirit of flamenco and rumba.

Their passionate performances, mixing well-known covers with original compositions, offer a unique and captivating experience.

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Miami Wave

Miami Wave are your ticket to a nostalgic 80s extravaganza.

Their expertise in replicating the exact sounds of the decade offers an immersive 80s throwback experience. Perfect for those planning a wedding with a twist, their continuous mega-mix style performance keeps the party going non-stop!

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Dig That Band

Dig That Duo offer a distinctively different musical experience to any other acoustic act on the scene. Their unique rhythmic and melodic approach to popular songs makes this duo particularly unusual.

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Mila - Steel Pannist

Mila, an eloquent solo steel pannist, transports audiences to the Caribbean with her captivating set of soca, calypso, and popular songs.

Her global experience, including events in New York and Trinidad, has helped hone her talents for a truly authentic Caribbean experience.

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Boom Shake The 90s!

Boom Shake The 90s! brings the electrifying spirit of the 90s to life, a tribute band dedicated to the decade’s best indie and dance hits.

Their polished performance, featuring a journey through various 90s genres, will captivate and energise guests for a distinctively unique wedding experience.

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The Ceilidh Band

Immerse your guests in the lively tradition of Scottish Ceilidh with The Ceilidh Band. Known for their fun and energetic live show, they can effortlessly switch to Irish, English, or American styles.

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At Bands For Hire, we're open to all styles of music and firmly believe that if a wedding band meets the quality threshold, they'll be a bride and groom out there looking for that very act.

The Rock Show

Did you ever spend your days flicking through Scuzz, Kerrang and MTV watching your favourite pop punk & emo bands? If this rings true, then we have the perfect band for you.

The Rock Show perfectly capture that era with their high-octane sets filled with pop punk legends like Blink 182 & Bowling For Soup as well as emo heroes Paramore & Panic! At The Disco.

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At Bands For Hire, we're open to all styles of music and firmly believe that if a wedding band meets the quality threshold, they'll be a bride and groom out there looking for that very act.

If you have something untraditional in mind, get in touch, and we'll see what alternative wedding bands we have to suit you.

How Long Does a Wedding Band Play For?

2011-05-07T11:39:05+01:00

You're bound to have questions about the logistics of your wedding day, especially when it comes to the wedding band. How long does the band play for? When will they set up? What time should they start? These are all familiar questions, and unless you're working with a reliable wedding planner, you may be looking for some advice.

How Long Does a Wedding Band Play For?

Most wedding bands perform 2 or 3 sets to finish by midnight, typically:

2 x 60 minutes
2 x 45 minutes
3 x 40 minutes

Some bands offer additional sets for an extra fee, which can be another evening set or an acoustic set earlier on. An acoustic set can consist of the whole band performing or a smaller duo/trio.

If your venue is licensed to stay open until 1am, you may find that an extra set is worth considering. However, staying later often incurs additional fees and may require overnight accommodation for the band, depending on your venue's location.

Most bands also offer a DJ service or an add-on DJ, which is usually a more cost-effective way of keeping the party going into the early hours. Every wedding is different, and your band will do their best to work around your schedule to ensure the evening runs smoothly.

What Time Does the Wedding Band Arrive?

Your wedding band will typically arrive at 5:30-6:00pm, ready to set up their equipment as soon as the meal and speeches are over. You may find it a good idea to usher guests into the bar area whilst the function room is turned around for the evening and the band set up. Band sound checks can be noisy!

If your wedding breakfast and reception are in the same room, it's worth talking to your band about setting up earlier in the day before the meal.

Bands typically charge for an earlier arrival (an hourly rate before 5/6pm), but it’s worth asking whether the whole band needs to turn up or if just one or two members can arrive earlier to set up the bulk of the equipment. This tends to be a more cost-effective solution, with the rest of the band members turning up later for a quick soundcheck prior to the performance.

TIP Ask your band how long they typically take to load in, set up, and soundcheck before booking. Most wedding bands need about one hour, but this can vary depending on the band's size and equipment.

What Time Should The Band Start?

Even with the most meticulous of planning, weddings inevitably run later than expected, speeches can run over, and all sorts of unexpected hiccups can crop up. That's nothing to be worried about, as there's still plenty of time to get the party going. Although you may be eager to get the band up as soon as possible, we find it's good to start at around 8:30-9pm, depending on how long your band is booked to play for.

From experience, guests often like to grab a drink or some fresh air after the wedding breakfast. After sitting down for 2-3 hours and having eaten a lot of food, coupled with a smorgasbord of drinks, guests may not be ready to jump straight onto the dance floor.

Of course, everyone will gather for the first dance song, but it’s a similar story once this has concluded, so the later, the better has always been our motto. Ultimately, every wedding is different, and our team is on hand to help you organise a schedule that gets the most out of your band.

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

How many songs fit into a set?

A common question we're asked is, "How many songs will the band play?"

While there’s no exact answer, we’ve put together a rough guide to help you plan. On average, if songs are around 3-4 minutes long, you can expect:

15-20 songs in a 60 minute set
10-15 songs in a 45 minute set

If the party’s in full swing and the band is feeling the vibe, they may extend a few songs with extra solos or keep the energy going with an impromptu encore — especially if the dance floor’s packed and the drinks are flowing!

How long do other wedding musicians play for?

We represent a variety of popular wedding musicians, and they all offer slightly different packages, so we do advise enquiring if you have a particular act in mind.

However, below is a rough guideline on how long acoustic acts, pianists, harpists and string ensembles perform for and the most popular wedding packages they offer.

Acoustic Acts

Acoustic guitarists, duos, trios and beyond tend to offer 2 x 45 or 2 x 60 minute sets (with the option of splitting the latter into 3 x 40 minute sets). They typically arrive an hour prior to the performance, as they don’t take as long to set up (roughly 20-30 minutes), and will perform their live sets over a set time period i.e. 2 x 45 minute sets over a 2 hour time period or 3 x 40 minute sets over a 3 hour time period.

If you want them to perform a set during the drinks reception and a set after the wedding breakfast, you may find the price increases due to the extended time on site.

{vid id="GHqRUUwE5Kk" name="Soul Front" url="acoustic-music/item/47-soul-front"}

Pianists, Harpists & Solo Musicians

Our wedding soloists offer similar packages to our acoustic acts and string ensembles. Harpists and pianists are ideal for wedding ceremonies and will often put forward packages that include some, if not all, of the following:

Pre-ceremony performance (20-30 minutes)
Ceremony performance (around an hour)
Drinks reception / Wedding breakfast (2 x 45-minute sets over a 2-hour period)

Some musicians also offer a full-day package covering:

Pre-ceremony performance
Ceremony performance
Drinks reception
Wedding breakfast
Evening reception with DJ service until midnight

{vid id="l08mSUjUn7k" name="Oceano Strings" url="classical-musicians/item/121-oceano-strings"}

String Ensembles

Our string ensembles tend to offer their time per hour, so you’ll find most quotes include pricing for a 1 hour, 2 hour and 3 hour booking. To clarify, this does not include arrival time and set up, and we ask all musicians to arrive an hour prior to the performance.

For a 1-2 hour booking, most musicians will typically play straight through, but for longer periods of time, they will require rest breaks (10-15 minutes at most). For bookings much longer than 3 hours, musicians will require a lunch break (30-40 minutes), so please discuss this further before booking.

TIPIf the musician that's been hired is to move location (whether this be from the church to the wedding venue or from one room to another at your chosen venue), then please do discuss this further with them to make sure they are agreeable. You may also find additional costs are involved if further travel is required.

30+ Incredible Wedding Bands with Saxophone

2021-06-22T11:59:11+01:00

Invented in the 1840s by Belgian instrument maker, Adolphe Sax, the Saxophone has transcended its original classical roots to become an essential part of the modern bandleader’s arsenal.

From ragtime and jazz to soul, pop, hip-hop and Ibiza dance classics, the trusty sax has consistently weaved its way into every genre imaginable.

The majority of wedding bands are made up of the core instruments such as guitar, keys, bass and drums but beyond this, sax is by far the most popular request, especially for larger line-ups. But what makes this instrument such an incredible tour de force in the world of live wedding bands?

Wedding Bands with Horn Section

Whilst sax can add variety, melody and visual interest all on its own, the saxophone really comes to life when joined by its close allies, the trumpet and trombone, to create a full-blown, roof-raising horn section.

A horn section (or brass section) is a fantastic addition to a whole range of live wedding bands, from swing and soul bands to modern pop and R&B. Together, the rich harmonies they form create an explosive rhythmic sound that’s certain to get your wedding guests in the party mood.

Atlantica
From £4050
Gilded Showband
From £4095
Violet Soul
From £2070
The Royals
From £5050
Showband Supreme
From £4095
The Oliver Soul Band
From £4595
Decades
From £1850
Young Hype
From £5850
The Kingdom
From £3630
Orland Park
From £3995
Postmodern Dukes
From £1520
The XL
From £3745
The Swing Rhythms Trio
From £425
Absolute Vintage
From £1495
Big Blue Moon
From £1170
The Pranksters
From £1575
Noteworthy
From £475
The Dixie Rhythms
From £650
Tea For Two
From £575
Elite
From £1395
Alice - Saxophonist
From £425
Charleston & Co
From £1045
Vibrance
From £1490
Soul Patrol
From £1545
The Audiotones
From £1935
Pop Twist
From £1395
Harbour Lights
From £1465
Just Dance
From £1405

Sax DJ

The saxophonist is undoubtedly the most popular instrumentalist to pair with a DJ and has unintentionally become the sound of Ibiza's music scene.

From Cafe del Mar chillout music to massive dance anthems, the saxophone is a prominent instrument in club classics such as The Girl by Cookin' On 3 Burners or Jubel by Klingande and Take You There by Essel.

The saxophone is the perfect instrument for recreating those summer beach vibes. Offering chillout sets during drinks receptions or full-on Ibizia clubhouse sets to host the ultimate party, the sax / DJ combo is by far the most popular. If you're working on a budget, you'll also find solo saxophonists offering a similar service playing along with professional backing tracks.

We represent several sax players and sax / DJ combos who are professionals at bringing the sunshine to your event. Browse our roster below and get in touch for more info.

Café del Sax
From £840
Elite
From £1395
Club Alive!
From £2050
JC - Singer / DJ
From £750
DJ Mila
From £1165

Wedding Saxophonists

Creating the perfect backdrop for your wedding day is no easy task, but if there's one element to focus on, it's without a doubt the music.

The saxophone is worth considering if you want something cool and chilled out. The timbre of this instrument helps it cut through without being over the top, making it the ideal choice for a drinks reception or the wedding breakfast.

We have a number of professional sax players who cover a range of music to suit your wedding day, from jazz, soul & classical to funk, chillout and pop.

Alice - Saxophonist
From £425
DC Sax
From £490
Izzie Sax
From £425
Jose - Saxophonist
From £595
James - Saxophonist
From £365
Karl - Saxophonist
From £490
Basement Sax
From £560

Get in touch

Looking to hire a wedding band with sax or brass section? At Bands For Hire, we represent a huge roster of party bands in every style imaginable. Get in touch to speak to one of our team and we'll be happy to put forward options in your region.

14 Small Wedding Entertainment Ideas to Consider

2022-04-17T19:26:43+01:00

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.

{vid id="gOQwFKy7Jas" name="String vision Duo" url="classical-musicians/item/564-string-vision-duo"}

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.

{vid id="jjeHngma1fE" name="Half Time Disco" url="jazz-swing-bands/item/427-half-time-disco"}

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.

{vid id="x3NRXBW8mGc" name="Robin" url="acoustic-music/item/237-robin"}

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.

{vid id="7yG7WUf3JdE" name="Ali" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/534-ali-singer"}

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.

{vid id="pWGKJj3Jbn4" name="Jessica" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/346-jessica-electric-violinist"}

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.

{vid id="DVAPbdR-clE" name="DC Sax" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/606-dc-sax"}

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.

{vid id="oWPIl68zdp4" name="Isha Melody" url="world-music/item/915-isha-melody"}

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.

{vid id="lvGhHEFPsqY" name="Danny Darko" url="caricaturists"}

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.

{vid id="a8xn4tSGXac" name="Mystico" url="services/item/734-mystico"}

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.

{vid id="TBIJIAjMrlY" name="Gatsby Booths" url="services/item/741-gatsby-booths"}

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.

{vid id="fp_J0xRAsTk" name="Clementine" url="acoustic-music/item/248-clementine"}

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.

{vid id="CX4ZiEzen1I" name="Café del Sax" url="hire-a-dj/item/583-cafe-del-sax"}

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.

Wedding DJ Prices: How Much Does a DJ Cost?

2022-11-21T15:13:22+00:00

What is the average price of a wedding DJ?

At Bands For Hire, we track our bookings to ensure you have the clearest guide possible. Here’s what we’ve found for 2024–25:

Mean (Average) – £611: This is the total of all DJ fees divided by the number of bookings.
Median – £630: The midpoint of all fees: half are below and half are above this figure.
Mode – £490: The most frequently booked rate – and there are plenty of DJs available under the £500 mark.

By looking at these figures, you’ll get a broader understanding of typical pricing, which is crucial when planning your wedding entertainment.

This is based on an average 5 hour period of DJ sets during the evening reception and includes all travel costs and equipment such as sound system and disco lighting.

It's important to remember that there are varying degrees of professionalism in the wedding industry, so quotes from local DJs will vary enormously. At Bands For Hire, we've worked hard to build a roster of DJs who are at the top of their game, which will be reflected in our data.

Browse Wedding DJs

Wedding DJ Hire Price Points

Below are three price points to demonstrate what type of DJ service you can expect to hire for your entertainment budget:

£250-£300+

If you're working with a limited budget, you may find local wedding discos in your area for £250-£300. Whilst at the low end of the price spectrum, this could be for several reasons. For example, many young wedding DJs starting out may offer competitive rates to increase their bookings and gain experience. Many wedding DJs work part-time and will happily play the occasional wedding at a lower fee to supplement their income.

£500-£700+

At this price point, you should be able to find a professional wedding DJ with solid experience. Your DJ package will typically cover everything you need for your evening party, giving you confidence that your wedding entertainment is in good hands.

£800-£1200+

As you increase your budget, there's room to extend the hours spent at your wedding venue, add live musicians to the performance or hire additional services for an additional cost. For example:

Extra lighting equipment
Dance floor
Silent disco
PA speakers for different rooms
Ceremony music / Daytime background music
Wedding breakfast playlist
Light-up letters
Wireless microphones for speeches
Ambient mood lighting

At this budget, you may also like to consider specialist DJs, such as a DJ with vinyl records, an authentic Ibiza DJ, or even an electro-swing DJ to give your wedding day a vibrant vintage twist.

{vid id="CX4ZiEzen1I" name="Café del Sax" url="hire-a-dj/item/583-cafe-del-sax"}

What affects the price of wedding DJs?

Now that we've looked at the average wedding DJ cost let's explore what other factors can affect the price.

Experience of the DJ

It goes without saying that an experienced DJ will charge more for their services than a beginner. As DJs build up a strong reputation, they naturally become more in demand, which will often lead to an increase in fees.

A professional DJ with experience will know how to read the crowd and steer the music in the right direction at the appropriate times. They'll also be comfortable and personable on the microphone, guiding your guests to the dancefloor, announcing the first dance and transitioning the playlist through the evening reception seamlessly.

Equipment

As the price of your wedding DJ increases, you can expect the quality of the equipment to increase. A DJ with years in the business will have built up a professional PA and lighting rig to increase the production value of their set.

You might ask your DJ what equipment they'll provide to better understand the service on offer. Does the DJ have high-end speakers? Will they provide bass bins if required? What lighting will they provide on the day?

It's also worth bearing in mind that specialist DJs, such as Ibiza/club DJs may not provide any equipment at all and expect this to be provided at the venue on the day.

Seasonal prices

When choosing your wedding date, the time of the year and the day of the week are two important factors to consider. Wedding suppliers often charge a premium for peak summer Saturdays, meaning you can bag yourself a bargain if booking a DJ on a weekday or off-season winter date.

Travel Expense

If you're working to a budget, we recommend searching for wedding DJs in your local area. As fuel costs continue to spiral, DJs and suppliers will have to pass their travel costs on to couples.

If travelling, the DJ may also need to consider the hours spent driving to and from your wedding venue.

Arrival Time / Finish time

As standard, most DJs will quote based on a 5:30/6pm arrival and midnight finish. With set up taking approximately an hour, this gives them plenty of time to load in their gear and be ready for the start of your evening wedding reception.

If you need your DJ to set up before the wedding breakfast or finish after midnight, the extra hours on site will need to be considered by the DJ when quoting.

Length of Set / Performance time

Most DJs offer about five hours of music as standard, but you can extend this to suit your requirements. Adding extra hours to the set will increase the overall cost of your wedding DJ, so always mention this in your initial enquiries.

DIY Playlist: Do we even need a wedding DJ?

With modern streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music, you can of course create your own DIY wedding entertainment to save money on a wedding DJ. If budget is a primary factor, this may be a good option for you, but there are some things to consider before making your decision.

Does your wedding venue provide a PA system? You'll need a suitable sound system and lighting rig to create a party atmosphere (and no, your hi-fi won't be loud enough!). If you don't have access to these, you'll need to hire them locally.
Who will be in charge of the music on the night? You'll need to assign a member of the party to queue up important wedding songs such as your first dance, father and daughter dance and last song of the evening.
A playlist left to run on auto-mode can lead to guests choosing the music themselves, cutting off songs halfway through and generally creating a disjointed atmosphere.
When choosing your wedding playlist, avoid picking only your favourite songs, as this could lead to an empty dance floor. Consider the age range of your guests and try to incorporate songs to get all your guests dancing. You'll need everything from classic oldies to modern chart hits, including a selection of songs from various genres.

With an ever-expanding to-do list, creating a wedding playlist can be stressful and may well be something to avoid. By hiring a DJ, you can leave the evening in their capable hands and thoroughly enjoy your first night as a newlywed!

{vid id="RRchldLXz7o" name="Kingdom DJ Live" url="premier-party-bands/item/581-kingdom-dj-live"}

How much does it cost to add live musicians to the DJ set?

If your budget is flexible, mixing live musicians into the DJ set has become a popular wedding trend.

Known as 'DJ Live' acts, you can add any number of musicians to the mix, from a sax player, violinist or percussionist to a live guitarist or singer. Costs vary, but on average, it costs about £300-£600 per additional musician.

If you're deciding whether to choose a wedding band or DJ for your wedding day, a talented DJ/Sax combo or DJ Live act could be the perfect compromise. Bringing the high-energy element of a live band with all the flexibility of a wedding DJ, it's a fantastic and unique way to create an unforgettable party atmosphere.

How much does a Silent Disco cost?

If your wedding venue has strict sound limitations or you're planning on taking the party deep into the early hours, a silent disco could be just the ticket.

A silent disco involves guests wearing provided headphones synced to a party playlist. The playlist can either be streamed directly from your device or provided by a professional DJ; the choice is yours.

Prices for a silent disco start at £300 if you provide your own playlist, with the price of the DJ on top if you choose to take this route. You can find out more about our silent wedding disco packages here.

Ready to hire a DJ for your wedding?

If you're looking to hire a DJ for your big day, head over to our wedding DJ page to browse our roster. You'll find everything from experienced DJs, to DJ Live groups, vintage DJs and specialist DJs.

Need some help? Drop us an email, and one of our team members will be on hand to answer any queries you may have.

16 Wedding Theme Ideas and the Best Live Music to Match

2021-10-11T14:18:48+01:00

Struggling to find the right soundtrack for your big day? One of the easiest ways to narrow down your options is to start with your wedding theme. Whether you’re planning a laid-back boho affair or a full-blown 70s disco, your live music choice plays a huge role in setting the tone. From vintage jazz and soul to indie rock and sax-led dance acts, we’ll guide you through the perfect musical pairing for every wedding style.

1. Festival Theme: Mumford-Style Folk Band

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back, music-filled celebration under the open skies, a festival wedding is the way to go. Think hay bales, fairy lights, and a ‘no shoes required’ dress code.

A Mumford-style folk band is the ultimate soundtrack for this kind of day - rustic, lively and guaranteed to get your guests dancing. With acoustic guitars, banjos, double bass and harmonies, they’ll bring the feel-good energy of your favourite summer festival. Perfect for tipi weddings, glamping fields or woodland clearings where the music takes centre stage.

{vid id="c5j5UVUHVCM" name="Blacsmiths" url="premier-party-bands/item/527-blacksmiths"}

2. Parisian Romance: Café-Style Jazz Band or Accordionist

For couples drawn to vintage charm and effortless style, a Parisian-inspired wedding offers just the right blend of romance and flair. Picture wrought iron chairs, candlelit tables, and champagne flowing as the sun sets over a courtyard or garden.

The soundtrack? A café-style jazz band or solo accordionist playing smooth, melodic tunes with a touch of nostalgia. From French classics to jazz standards, the music creates a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for outdoor ceremonies, and garden receptions with a European twist.

{vid id="Zg2Yu4VppOM" name="Belleville Ensemble" url="jazz-swing-bands/item/379-belleville-ensemble"}

3. Urban Chic: Soul or Motown Band

For couples after a sleek, modern celebration with just the right amount of swagger, Urban Chic hits the mark. Think city venues with exposed brick, polished floors, statement lighting and minimalist styling with bold, luxe touches.

To bring real soul to the space, a live Soul or Motown band is the perfect fit. With rich vocals, tight rhythm sections and a setlist packed with timeless hits from the Motown era, they’ll have your guests on their feet from the first note. From Stevie Wonder to Bruno Mars, it’s polished, powerful and packed with feel-good energy - ideal for an effortlessly cool city wedding.

{vid id="j56mtV4sFtw" name="Atlantica" url="party-bands/item/60-atlantica"}

4. 50s Theme: Rock 'n' Roll Band

Channel the spirit of the jukebox era with a 1950s-themed wedding and a live Rock 'n' Roll band to match. Think Elvis, Chuck Berry, and Buddy Holly tunes that’ll have your guests twisting, jiving and swinging from the first note. With upright bass, vintage mics and retro suits, a dedicated 50s band brings serious authenticity and energy to the party.

{vid id="heznuJsGWUs" name="The Houndogs" url="function-bands/item/854-the-houndogs"}

5. Ibiza Dance Party: Sax DJ Combo

If your perfect night involves cocktails, neon lights and hands in the air, why not bring the White Isle to your wedding? An Ibiza dance party theme is all about sunset vibes, summer energy and non-stop beats.

A Sax DJ combo is the ultimate way to recreate that Balearic buzz - live sax weaving through house anthems, deep grooves and euphoric drops. Whether you’re on a rooftop, in a tipi or a stylish venue with room to move, this setup brings a cool, contemporary edge that feels more like a club night than a wedding.

{vid id="CX4ZiEzen1I" name="Café del Sax" url="hire-a-dj/item/583-cafe-del-sax"}

6. Country Barn Dance: Country Band

If you're after a laid-back wedding with boots, bale seating and a real party atmosphere, a barn dance theme is a fun and unique choice.

A live bluegrass or country band is the heartbeat of the night - think banjos, fiddles, acoustic guitars and foot-stomping rhythms to get everyone moving. From stripped-back Americana to full barn dance sets with a caller, it’s a lively, inclusive vibe that keeps guests on their feet.

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7. Boho Chic: Acoustic Folk or Harpist

Bohemian weddings are laid-back, romantic and effortlessly stylish. Inspired by nature and the free-spirited 60s, they’re all about soft florals, earthy tones, and mismatched touches that feel personal rather than polished.

To complete the mood, choose live music that feels just as organic. A harpist adds a touch of elegance for the ceremony, while an acoustic duo or roaming band brings warmth and charm to the rest of the day. Whether you’re walking through meadows or dancing barefoot under the stars, Boho weddings pair perfectly with raw, stripped-back sound.

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8. Vintage Theme: Swing or Postmodern Jukebox Band

A vintage wedding is all about timeless charm and old-school elegance. Think antique touches, lace dresses, and venues with character - be it a historic manor house or a rustic village hall dressed with bunting and soft lamplight.

To capture the spirit of the day, nothing beats a swing band or a Postmodern Jukebox-style act. From 1920s jazz to reworked modern hits with a retro twist, they’ll bring glamour, nostalgia and a lively sense of occasion. Perfect for guests of all ages, and even better if you're planning a first dance with a bit of flair.

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9. Classic English Wedding: String Quartet

For a wedding steeped in timeless elegance, nothing beats a stately home setting. Picture sweeping lawns, ornate interiors, and a beautiful marquee overlooking the gardens. It’s refined, romantic and made for a string quartet.

Live classical music sets the tone from the moment guests arrive, whether it's Pachelbel’s Canon during the ceremony or light classical favourites during the drinks reception. For dinner and beyond, a versatile ensemble can mix traditional pieces with contemporary arrangements to keep the atmosphere graceful and engaging.

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10. Tropical Theme: Caribbean Steel Band

Bringing the beach to your wedding? A tropical theme is perfect for couples who want bold colours, palm leaves, and a laid-back, feel-good vibe. Whether you’re getting married outdoors or transforming a venue with exotic touches, the mood should be sunshine-soaked from start to finish.

A Caribbean steel band is the perfect match - joyful, rhythmic and instantly uplifting. From Calypso and Reggae classics to steel-drum versions of pop hits, their sound creates an unmistakable holiday atmosphere. Ideal for daytime drinks receptions or setting the tone before the evening party kicks off.

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11. 70s Disco: Classic Disco & Funk Band

If you’re all about glitter balls, flared trousers and dance floor anthems, a 70s disco wedding is your time to shine. Think bold colours, retro décor and a venue with space to strut your stuff under the lights.

A classic disco or funk band is essential for this theme - tight grooves, big vocals and all the floor-fillers you’d expect from the era of Chic, Donna Summer and Earth, Wind & Fire. Whether you're throwing shapes or pulling out the hustle, this is your chance to bring Studio 54 to the big day.

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12. Art Deco: 1920s Jazz Band

Step into the Roaring Twenties with an Art Deco wedding, where bold geometrics, metallic accents and vintage glamour take centre stage. Think champagne towers, feathered details and a dress code worthy of The Great Gatsby.

A 1920s jazz band is the perfect finishing touch, adding a touch of old-school sophistication to your celebration. From hot jazz and Dixieland classics to sultry swing numbers, the live soundtrack will transport your guests straight to a speakeasy dance floor. Ideal for vintage venues, black-tie receptions or anyone who loves a bit of razzle dazzle.

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13. Romantic: Solo Violinist or Classical Ensemble

Soft lighting, flowing fabrics and delicate florals - romantic weddings are all about timeless beauty and heartfelt moments. Whether you're exchanging your vows in a historic house or celebrating in a candlelit barn, the atmosphere is intimate and filled with emotion.

A solo violinist or classical ensemble is the perfect musical match, setting a graceful tone from the moment guests arrive. Ideal for ceremonies, drinks receptions or a serene start to dinner, live strings bring elegance, emotion and just the right amount of drama to your day.

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14. Whimsical: Gypsy Jazz Band

Whimsical weddings are made for daydreamers - full of colour, charm and magic. Picture garden parties with mismatched china, quirky details and fairy lights strung between trees. It’s carefree, creative and full of personality.

A gypsy jazz band brings the perfect touch of spontaneity and swing. With toe-tapping rhythms, acoustic guitars and soaring violin lines, their sound is joyful, stylish and slightly offbeat.

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15. Modern Industrial: Indie Rock Band

Exposed brick, steel beams and moody lighting - modern industrial weddings are all about stripped-back style and city-edge attitude. Perfect for warehouse venues, rooftop spaces or anything with a bit of grit and atmosphere.

An indie rock band is the natural fit, bringing raw energy and a live music feel that’s more gig than reception. From cool covers to crowd-pleasing anthems, they’ll keep the night buzzing and the dance floor full. Ideal for couples who want a wedding with style, substance and a killer soundtrack.

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16. Celestial: Electric String Quartet

If your love feels written in the stars, a celestial wedding theme is the perfect way to celebrate it. Think midnight blues, silver accents, and a sky full of fairy lights. Whether you’re on a rooftop or in a candlelit hall, the vibe is dreamy, dramatic and otherworldly.

An electric string quartet adds a stunning, cosmic touch, blending classical elegance with a modern, cinematic edge. Performing everything from reimagined pop ballads to atmospheric instrumentals, they’ll give your wedding a soundtrack that feels ethereal and unforgettable.

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Ready to choose your wedding theme?

Your wedding theme is more than just a visual style - it’s the thread that ties your day together and helps guide all those little decisions along the way. Whether you’re going all-in or just using it as a loose influence, it can be a brilliant way to shape the mood and feel of your celebration.

Of course, the real magic comes from the people you love and the atmosphere you create - and nothing sets that tone quite like live music. Whether you're after a laid-back acoustic set, a high-energy party band or something a little different, the right soundtrack makes all the difference.

If you're not sure where to start, we’re here to help. Get in touch and we’ll help you find the perfect band, musician or DJ to match your day and your style.

The Complete Jazz Band Booking Guide for 2025: Tips, Guide Prices and FAQs

2021-03-30T16:42:04+01:00

With its unwavering popularity, jazz music has become firmly ingrained in modern culture. From its humble roots in African-American communities across Southern America to its peak in the Jazz Age of the 1920s and early 1930s, jazz has expanded across the world to form a multitude of sub-genres.

If you're looking to incorporate jazz into your event but aren't quite sure where to start, you've come to the right place. In our booking guide, we'll be looking at every aspect of hiring a jazz band, including typical costs, line-ups, playlists and the various styles on offer. We'll also go through the general booking process as well as logistics and band requirements.

If you want to get started straight away, head on over to our jazz and swing band section. Here, you'll find a diverse array of versatile jazz musicians, ranging from jazz trios to swing bands.

What styles of jazz are there to choose from?

There are numerous sub-genres of jazz, but most jazz bands tend to fall into one of the following categories:

Jazz Standards Bands

The majority of jazz musicians perform in small line-ups to form a jazz trio or quartet, performing well-known jazz songs known as Jazz Standards.

Regularly featured in film, media, advertising and musicals, these jazz standards will be familiar to even the most novice listener - Think 'Fly Me To The Moon', 'Mack The Knife and 'Come Fly With Me' to name but a few.

Jazz Standards can either be performed as instrumental jazz pieces or with a jazz vocalist.

Gypsy Jazz Bands

Also known as 'Jazz Manouche', Gypsy jazz was originally introduced to Europe by Django Reinhardt in the early 1930s and remains a firm favourite in the wedding and events industry.

Gypsy jazz bands perform a unique style of jazz predominantly focused on acoustic guitars and violins as opposed to the more conventional piano and saxophone-led line-ups.

Post-modern Jukebox style bands

With the rise-to-fame of American jazz collective 'Post-Modern Jukebox' along with famous Hollywood movies such as The Great Gatsby and La La Land, jazz and swing has seen a fresh resurgence over the past ten years.

Reworking popular modern songs into a unique jazz and swing style, Post-Modern Jukebox style bands offer the very best of contemporary and vintage, making them the perfect choice for vintage-inspired weddings and events.

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Dixieland jazz / Traditional jazz

Traditional jazz, also known as Dixieland Jazz, is based around African American/New Orleans ragtime to create an uplifting percussive sound that's perfect for daytime drinks receptions.

Featuring a combination of trumpet, trombone, banjo, tuba and clarinet, Dixieland jazz bands are both unique and versatile.

Big Band

Featuring horns and a rhythm section, Big Bands were often fronted by crooner vocalists such as Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack creating a sound that's familiar to audiences of all ages.

Many jazz bands offer mini Big Band line-ups, recreating the Big Band sound with seven or eight musicians.

How many musicians are there in a jazz band?

Jazz ensembles generally range from small duos and trios to swing bands of eight or more members. Most jazz bands are highly flexible with their line-ups, giving you the option to increase or decrease the number of musicians based on your budget, venue requirement and musical preferences.

A typical jazz trio might often include piano, double bass and drums with the option of additional sax, trumpet or vocals. Below are some common line-ups you'll come across:

Jazz Duo: Piano, Sax
Jazz Duo: Piano, Double Bass
Gypsy Jazz Duo: 2 x Acoustic Guitars
Jazz Trio: Piano, Double Bass, Drums
Jazz Trio: Vocals, Piano, Double Bass
Gypsy Jazz Trio: 2 x Acoustic Guitars, Violin or Double Bass
Jazz Quartet: Vocals, Piano, Double Bass, Drums
Jazz Quartet: Vocals, Piano, Double Bass, Drums
7-piece Swing Band (Mini Big Band): Vocals, Piano, Double Bass, Drums, Trumpet, Trombone, Sax

What type of events are jazz bands suitable for, and when do they usually perform?

With their flexibility, jazz bands are a fantastic choice for a wide range of events, most often booked as live background music for afternoon drinks receptions and early evening entertainment.

With the rise in popularity of Post-modern Jukebox style bands, larger swing bands are also a firm favourite for evening entertainment, performing an eclectic repertoire of music to appeal to guests of all ages.

Jazz bands are suitable for any of the following events:

Wedding drinks reception
Wedding breakfast
Corporate drinks reception
Store opening
Product launch
Award ceremony
Christmas works party
Charity events
Jazz festivals

What time do jazz bands arrive, and how long does it take to set up?

Most musicians tend to arrive at functions an hour before their performance allowing sufficient time to set up their gear, tune their instruments and change their attire.

Set up usually takes no longer than 30 minutes or so, depending on the line-up. Jazz musicians often perform through their own individual amplifiers rather than a large PA, especially for background music.

For evening performances featuring a vocalist, you'll usually need to allow about an hour to set up.

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How long does a jazz band play for?

Most jazz bands will quote to perform two sets of 45/60 minutes with a short break between sets. This can always be extended to suit your needs, so always try to include full details of your event when making enquiries.

How much does it cost to hire a jazz band?

As a ballpark figure, you might expect to pay between £175 - £200 per jazz musician for a jazz band based in your local area.

As with all musicians and entertainers, hire prices can vary drastically depending on the travelling distance and amount of time at the venue.

How far in advance should I book a jazz band?

If you want to have the pick of the crop, we recommend booking a jazz band at least 6-12 months in advance to avoid disappointment.

For weekday events, you can afford to book a little closer to the date - we usually suggest at least three months in advance.

Can a Jazz band perform outside?

Jazz bands are usually happy to perform outside but may specify that cover is provided to protect their equipment. In addition to this, most jazz bands with amplification will also require a power supply.

How much space does a jazz band need?

Very little! A jazz band can squeeze into the smallest of spaces, reducing drum kits to a minimal set-up if required. We recommend about a meter width per musician but always ask if space at your venue is limited.

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What are the most popular jazz songs?

There are hundreds of famous jazz standards to choose from, which most jazz bands will already have in their repertoire. Below are some of the most popular jazz songs:

Frank Sinatra - Come Fly With Me
Etta James - At Last
Frank Sinatra - Have You Met Miss Jones
Duke Ellington - Take The A Train
Van Morrison – Moondance
Cole Porter - I Get A Kick Out Of You
Nina Simone - Feeling Good
Ella Fitzgerald - Cry Me A River
Nat King Cole - Let There Be Love
Frank Sinatra - It Had To Be You
The Jungle Book - King Of The Swingers
Frank Sinatra - Fly Me To The Moon
Duke Ellington - Caravan
Bobby Darin - Mack The Knife
Irving Berlin - Cheek To Cheek
Nat King Cole - L O V E
Duke Ellington - It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
Ray Charles – Georgia
Ella Fitzgerald - My Funny Valentine
The Jungle Book - The Bare Necessities
Irving Berlin - Puttin' On The Ritz
Fats Waller - Ain't Misbehaving
Django Reinhardt - Sweet Georgia Brown
Frank Sinatra - I've Got You Under My Skin
Sammy Davis Jr - Mr Bojangles
Django Reinhardt - Minor Swing
Ella Fitzgerald - A Foggy Day
Dinah Washington - What A Difference A Day Makes
Take Five - Dave Brubeck
Dean Martin - Sway
Louis Armstrong - Jeepers Creepers
Tony Bennett - The Lady is a Tramp
Frank Sinatra - New York New York

Can I request songs not already in the repertoire?

In general, most jazz musicians will be happy to take on any jazz standards from The Great American Songbook. If you'd like your band to learn a modern song, we recommend asking the band prior to booking to check.

It's worth remembering that Gypsy jazz bands and post-modern Jukebox style bands perform a very specific style of music and so may be more limited with the songs they're able to arrange and learn.

How do I book a jazz band?

At Bands For Hire, we've made hiring a jazz band a straight-froward process. Simply drop us an enquiry through the band's profile page and we'll come back to you with confirmation on price and availability.

From here, a member of our team will be happy to answer any queries you may have. Once you're ready to go ahead, we'll put together a contract that can be signed online, along with a deposit that can be paid by card or bank transfer.

Looking to Hire a Jazz Band?

Browse our impressive range of jazz and swing bands across the UK.

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101 Unique Party Ideas to Entertain Your Guests

2023-03-06T10:13:52+00:00

If you count incidental celebrations like National Doodle Day and World Wetlands Day, there are literally hundreds of special days in the UK each year.

While you might not throw a party for National Zoo Awareness Day, you probably have a few birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and seasonal gatherings in the pipeline. With so many distinct events on the horizon, how will you ensure each celebration is unique?

A year full of parties demands plenty of engaging and original party ideas!

We've created a list of 101 fun things to do at parties to help propel you from New Year's Day to Christmas Eve. We've broken our list down into categories to help you discover the activity that will set your bash apart.

Read on to start planning your next spectacular soiree, whether it's a corporate celebration, a summer kickback, or a quinceanera!

Party Entertainment

Take your event to the next level with one of our live party bands, musicians or DJs

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Musical Ideas

You might not think a birthday party and a 70th-anniversary celebration might have anything in common. In fact, music is a universal language that gets guests of all ages moving and growing. The following ideas incorporate music, dancing, singing, and the sensational magic of sound.

1. Live Band Karaoke

Everyone's a rockstar during bandeoke! Your guests will sign up for slots and sing their hearts out, accompanied by a live, professional bandeoke band.

2. Mariachi Magic

A roving, energetic mariachi ensemble will travel from table to table with instruments unique to Mexican culture. Their traditional dress will add flair and panache as they serenade guests in Spanish.

3. Dance Lessons

When you hire a dance teacher, every guest will confidently take to the dance floor. Make a group lesson the highlight of your night. Be sure to hire a videographer to capture the final performance!

4. Singing Waiter Surprise

Waiting for a meal often means downtime. Instead, hire a sneaky troupe of singing waiters to surprise your guests with song.

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5. Decade-Themed Party

Hire a high-octane cover band to play the hits from the decade of your choice! Guests can dress up and return to their prime, whether that means bringing in a 50s rock act or a 90s pop sensation.

6. Postmodern Performers

You love top-charting music but still want your party to have a unique soundtrack. Hire a postmodern jazz band to play the hits in a unique jazzy style that will keep guests dancing the night away.

7. Festive Crooners

A holiday celebration calls for a jolly playlist! Bring in a group of Christmas crooners, a festive jazz band, or a carolling acapella group to add some extra cheer to the coldest, darkest season.

8. Music To-Go

Even if your guests spread out, a roving band or ensemble will fill your outdoor garden gathering with sound. These groups have no qualms about hoofing it to give small groups a private performance.

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9. Hire a DJ

DJs know all the tricks to get guests on the dance floor and keep them there. For something truly unique, bring in a sax DJ, or book a DJ and live band combo.

10. Musical Chairs

Musical chairs isn't only for kids! Adult musical chairs can get competitive, especially if there are prizes on the line!

11. Silent Disco

Some venues have rules about playing music after hours. At a silent disco, each guest wears headphones, so everyone dances to the same jams without disturbing a soul.

12. String Quartet

Nothing adds class to an elegant affair like a string quartet. Stick with the classics or arrange for a Bridgerton-inspired set list filled with pop hits in the classical style.

13. Dance Contest

Gather everyone on the dance floor, circle up, and see who comes out on top! A little competition keeps guests engaged and adds some playful stakes to any event.

15. Campfire Singalong

Hire an acoustic guitar player to lead your guests in a singalong around the firepit. You'll enjoy crooning familiar tunes in the outdoor ambience under the stars.

14. Bell Choir

The only thing more fun than listening to music is making your own! Hire a set of handbells, offer a tutorial, and then play some tunes as a team-building or holiday party activity.

Edible Ideas

With proper planning, food can be its own party activity. The ideas below allow hosts to harness the appeal of all things edible to keep their guests entertained.

16. Fantastic Fondue

We all love permission to play with our food! Fondue is a delicacy and an activity in one. Offer cheese fondue for a meal or chocolate fondue for dessert.

17. Wine and Cheese

Wine tasting is a classy activity for wine lovers and dilettantes alike. Pair each wine with a fancy cheese to provide plenty of culinary enrichment for the tastebuds.

18. Sweet Creations

When you set up a "create your own treat bag" station, your guests will feel like kids in a candy store. Provide sweets on a theme and allow each guest to fill a bag with a unique mix.

19. Carnival Carts

Hire a few carts and welcome your guests to help themselves to their favourite carnival sweets. Consider a candy floss station or a fresh popcorn machine.

20. Food Trucks

Throwing a long party? When guests begin getting peckish, invite them to order what they'd like from a fleet of local food trucks.

21. Woodfired Pizza Oven

Hire a portable pizza oven and offer your guests authentic Italian pizza. This is perfect for a cocktail hour or late-night snack.

22. S'mores Station

If you'll have an outdoor fire pit, offer the ingredients for s'mores. Guests adore roasting their own marshmallows.

23. Viennese Table

Instead of a cake, amaze guests with a table full of tasty puddings and desserts. A Viennese table is a thematically cohesive smorgasbord that doubles as decor.

24. Signature Drinks Menu

Work with a bartender to create a signature drink related to your party's theme. Guests will love asking for these unique cocktails by name.

25. Tea Service

Everyone loves a traditional tea service. Consider offering a classic tiered array of sweets and sandwiches at your next garden party.

26. Ice Cream Sundae Bar

We all scream for ice cream! Set up a sundae bar and allow attendees to create their own bespoke ice cream treat.

27. Chocolate Fountain

A chocolate fountain is decor, activity, and treat all in one. Guests will love dipping fruit and other goodies in chocolate and devouring them.

28. Hibachi Magic

Instead of a sit-down dinner, why not host a hibachi feast? Japanese chefs will prepare a delicious, hot meal right in front of you.

29. Custom Crepes

Set up a crepe station at your venue. Guests can choose their fillings and toppings and enjoy hot, fresh crepes made to order.

30. Potato Bar

Offer delicious, homemade mashed potatoes in martini glasses. Guests can top their potatoes with delicious fixings for an unconventional, indulgent treat.

Playful Ideas

Most guests arrive at a party expecting one thing: Fun! A playful theme, party activity, or entertainment option will ensure every guest feels like a kid.

31. Festive Fairgrounds

Guests will bask in the nostalgia when you set up a miniature fairground at your venue, complete with carnival games. Keep it simple with homemade games, or hire real attractions.

32. Photobooth

Offer props and allow guests to dress up and pose for the camera! Don't forget to create an event hashtag so everyone can share their best shots.

33. Giant Lawn Games

Supersizing classic games is the only thing that makes them more fun! Offer giant Jenga, chess, and other big board games to keep guests busy at an outdoor venue.

34. Pinata

Put on the blindfold, spin around, and take your best shot! The pinata is a classic Mexican party game that guests of all ages will love. There's no limit to what you can put inside, so get creative.

35. Limbo Contest

How low can your guests go? Put on a song with a beat and hold up a limbo stick. Guests must try to shimmy below the pole as it gets lower with every lap.

36. Giveaways

Before guests arrive, put a ticket beneath a few dinner plates or chairs. Have the emcee encourage guests to look at a given time. Anyone with a ticket gets a prize!

37. Drinking Games

Give your favourite drinking games a bit of pomp and circumstance by offering them as party entertainment. Beer pong is just as fun when you play it with plastic drink flutes.

38. Table Topics

Make it easy for guests to break the ice. Set each table with a few compelling table topic cards to get the conversation started.

39. Pub Quiz

Seeking a dose of lighthearted competition? Organise a pub quiz. Choose a topic related to the party's theme, even if it's an entire trivia challenge about the guest of honour.

40. Gaming Truck

Hire a gaming truck, complete with comfortable gaming chairs, dynamic lighting, and all your favourite consoles. Organise a tournament or allow guests to beat their own high score.

41. Bingo

Hire a bingo set, hand out cards, and watch your guests get competitive! Be sure to offer prizes that keep everyone on the edge of their seats.

42. Awards Ceremony

An awards ceremony is the perfect playful addition to an office party or corporate event. Assign every guest a superlative, or get cheeky and turn it into a roast.

43. Murder Mystery

A murder mystery troupe can transform any party into an immersive, interactive game. All your guests will work together to solve a fictional crime by the end of the night.

44. Balloon Twisters

You're never too old for a professional balloon artist! These sculptors will take requests, providing party attendees with delightful inflatable favours, from balloon hats to animal sculptures.

45. Jugglers

A juggler can add a touch of playful spectacle to any affair. These professionals can juggle anything from classic rings to flaming torches.

Artsy Ideas

Planning a party is a massive creative undertaking. What if you left the creativity to the guests? Each artsy party idea below allows guests to leave with something beautiful.

46. Paint and Sip

A painting instructor will instruct your guests as they paint their own masterpieces on canvas. Meanwhile, they'll all enjoy music and a drink. Everyone leaves with an original painting.

47. Thumbprint Guestbook

Interactive guestbooks are all the rage at large gatherings. Consider inviting each guest to add a thumbprint to a tree branch. You'll have a stunning, bespoke art piece to help you remember the event.

48. Live Painter

Hire a professional painter to create a rendering of your stunning venue. Many live painters allow guests to contribute to the masterpiece. It's an interactive, entertaining way to end the night with a lovely memento.

49. Ceramics

Guests love to take a break from the action and craft a lovely ceramic favour. This is a perfect activity for afternoon tea.

50. Succulent Gardens

Succulents are low-maintenance plants. Instruct guests as they create their own simple terrariums with rocks, statues, and seashells.

51. Paper Flowers

A springtime soiree calls for some extra special decor! A paper flower station is a beautiful addition to a garden party, baby shower, hen party, afternoon tea, or springtime birthday party.

52. Ornament Station

What could be more festive than an ornament-making station at your Christmas party? Encourage guests to get crafty and festive as they create something lovely and unique to hang from their tree.

53. Rock Painting

Set up a simple rock painting station at your outdoor event. Guests can stop by, paint a message on a stone, and leave it behind to decorate the garden.

54. Floral Arrangements

Some hosts order floral arrangements for their parties. Crafty hosts have guests make their own! Bring in an instructor and watch as guests craft their own living favours.

55. Table Origami

Anticipating a long wait before the evening feast? Offer origami paper and instructions and watch guests try their hand at Japanese paper folding.

56. Caricaturist

Your guests will adore posing for a clever caricaturist! These artists work quickly, providing attendees with custom portraits they can take home and treasure.

Magical Ideas

Some party entertainment options defy categorization. The magical ideas below contain a touch of whimsy or excitement your guests are unlikely to find anywhere else.

57. Fireworks Display

Every attendee will "ooh" and "ahh" when you set up a fireworks display at your party. This is a perfect addition to a summertime gathering.

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58. Magician

What's more magical than a party magician? A live magic act will captivate your guests.

59. Sparklers

A warm night calls for a stunning delight! Hand out sparklers and watch as your guests enjoy the simple magic.

60. Circus Performers

Hire a circus performer to create an unforgettable memory at your event. Aerial artists, acrobats, and contortionists add personality to any party.

61. Escape Room

An escape room is the perfect team-building activity for a corporate party. Guests work together to explore the environment, find clues, and break out before time runs out.

62. Fortune Teller

Is there good news in your future? A fortune teller can offer palm or tarot readings, perfect for a Halloween celebration.

63. Fire Show

Let there be light! Fire artists will create a show complete with music, magic, and colourful flames.

64. Standup Comic

Nothing is more magical than hearing the entire room laughing as one. A standup comic will keep every guest giggling.

65. Outdoor Cinema

Invite guests to bring along a blanket and set up a projector outdoors. Show a film (or a few), offer cinema snacks, and enjoy the show.

66. Mechanical Bull

How long can you last on the back of a bucking bronco? Hire a mechanical bull and find out!

67. Burlesque

Seeking something a bit cheeky for your next soiree? A burlesque performer provides plenty of risque entertainment for the right crowd.

68. Ice Skating

Did you know you can hire an ice skating rink that won't melt? This magical activity is perfect for indoor or outdoor events in any season.

69. Casino Night

Try your luck by setting up casino games! These are perfect for fundraising nights or Monte Carlo-themed parties.

70. Confetti Cannon

A confetti explosion is an incredible alternative to a fireworks show. Get your camera ready because the photos come out phenomenal!

71. Portable Planetarium

Keep your eye on the sky when you hire a planetarium projector and set up an indoor show. It's both educational and romantic, perfect for an anniversary.

Relaxing Ideas

Sometimes, the best party activities allow you to kick back and relax without a care. The following ideas are novel and serene, making them an excellent choice for stressed-out party guests.

72. Hammock Garden

Your guests will fall in love with a hammock garden. Set up a few hammocks in a shady spot and watch as everyone congregates for their turn among the trees.

73. Hookah Lounge

Set up a hookah lounge at your next event. Bold guests can try smoking flavoured tobacco out of hookah pipes.

74. Oxygen Bar

If hookah isn't your thing, consider swapping tobacco for purified, flavoured oxygen. This novel activity is harmless fun and leads to hilarious photos.

75. Spa Treatments

Turn your venue into a spa! Hire a few spa professionals to offer pampering treatments for your guests.

76. Massage

You can hire a massage therapist to set up a table or two at your venue. Invite guests to enjoy a brief, relaxing table massage before hitting the dance floor.

77. VIP Lounge

Set up a quiet VIP lounge full of cosy couches and ambient lighting. Guests will feel like celebrities as they take a break from the excitement.

78. Evening Swim

Will there be a pool at your venue? A swim under the stars is a relaxing and romantic party activity.

79. Hire a Swing

Nothing is more relaxing than a leisurely go on the swings. Hire a swingset or a giant outdoor tree swing to give guests a place to get away from the festivities.

80. Professional Storyteller

Storytellers are compelling performers who know how to capture the attention of a room. This is a unique, low-key entertainment option for any party.

81. Manicurist

Everybody loves a little pampering. Bring in a manicurist to offer manicures to all interested guests.

82. Glamping

"Glamping" is camping with extra luxury. Set up a few stunning tents and enjoy an evening under the stars.

83. Outdoor Furniture

Create a relaxed vibe by setting up outdoor furniture. This is perfect for a bohemian-themed bash.

84. Paper Lanterns

There is nothing more stunning than a sky filled with paper lanterns. Arrange a lantern launch and watch your guests witness the beauty for themselves.

85. Video Slideshow

Slideshows are perfect for milestone birthdays and anniversaries. Press play, then watch guests bask in reminiscence.

86. Firepit

A cosy firepit is a perfect place for guests to gather. Offer singalongs, s'more ingredients, or leave guests to chat under the starry sky.

Active Ideas

Not every party needs assigned seating—or any seating! The following active ideas will get guests on their feet and keep them there

87. Pub Games

Foosball and pool tables are staples in many pubs. Set up an area filled with pub games for your tipsy guests to play.

88. Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are perfect for historical or outdoor party venues. Send guests off with a list of photos to capture. Make sure to offer prizes!

89. Inflatable Sumo

Guests will adore suiting up in a massive, inflatable sumo suit. Have your camera handy because the photo opportunities are priceless!

90. Bouncy Castle

You're never too old to have a bounce! A bouncy castle is a hit with spry guests of all ages.

91. Mini Golf

Set up a miniature golf course and hand out the putters. Guests will get competitive as they compete for the lowest score.

92. Hire a Trampoline

Trampoline parks are becoming more popular with adult crowds. Bring the trampoline to you when you hire one for your next shindig.

93. Velcro Wall

A flypaper wall (or velcro wall) is a unique, full-body experience. You'll put on a velcro suit and launch yourself at a wall. Don't worry—the attendant will help you down!

94. Indoor Skydiving

Hire an indoor skydiving rig and give guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You can experience an invigorating freefall without danger.

95. Carriage Rides

Arrange for rides in a horse-drawn carriage. This is a unique addition to a romantic or holiday-themed event.

96. Schoolyard Races

Return to your youth by organising schoolyard races at your party! A sack race or egg and spoon relay is clean, nostalgic fun.

97. Indoor Ball Pit

An indoor ball pit is the perfect activity or photo opportunity. Fill a paddling pool (or a room) with colourful balls and let guests loose!

98. Twister

Left-hand red! A twister tournament is a silly way to get guests moving during your band or DJ's break.

99. Obstacle Course

Everyone secretly wants to be a ninja warrior. Set up an outdoor obstacle course and watch guests compete for the fastest time.

100. Charades

Charades is a classic party game for a reason! Provide prompts on a theme, sit back, and wait for the laughs to roll in!

101. Balloon Drop

End your spectacular event with a balloon drop! As colourful balloons fall from the ceiling, guests will have a blast playing "keep it up" until it's time to go.

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It's not enough to gather your guests in one place and hope that magic happens. A great celebration demands engaging, unique party entertainment that will keep every attendee busy. Any of the party ideas above can become a starting point for your next creative party-hosting endeavour.

We know a massive list like this can be overwhelming, so why not begin with the soundtrack? When you hire a band from Bands For Hire, you'll be adding experienced, professional party musicians to the VIP list. Enquire today to ensure your next bash has a vibrant soundtrack you can be proud of.

400 First Dance Songs For Your Wedding in 2025

2011-03-27T11:11:37+01:00

Ready to find your perfect first dance song? Use the dropdown menus and tags to filter by genre, decade and style.

Beautiful Things - Benson Boone
Release Date: 2023
Pop
Perfect - Ed Sheeran
Release Date: 2017
Pop
Lose Control - Teddy Swims
Release Date: 2023
SoulR&B
Too Sweet - Hozier
Release Date: 2023
Alternative
Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Release Date: 2024
PopR&B
Heaven - Niall Horan
Release Date: 2023
Pop
BIRDS OF A FEATHER - Billie Eilish
Release Date: 2024
AlternativePop
Better Half of Me - Tom Walker
Release Date: 2019
Pop
End Of Beginning - Djo
Release Date: 2024
IndieAlternative
Water - Tyla
Release Date: 2023
PopDance
Die With A Smile - Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars
Release Date: 2024
PopR&B
All of Me - John Legend
Release Date: 2013
R&BPop
The Night We Met - Lord Huron
Release Date: 2024
IndieFolk
I Had Some Help - Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
Release Date: 2024
CountryHip-Hop
This Will Be Our Year - The Teskey Brothers
Release Date: 2022
BluesSoul
A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
Release Date: 2011
Pop
Now & Then - The Beatles
Release Date: 2023
RockClassic Rock
Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran
Release Date: 2014
Pop
As It Was - Harry Styles
Release Date: 2024
PopRock
Kissing In Swimming Pools - Holly Humberstone
Release Date: 2023
AlternativeIndie
Nervous - John Legend
Release Date: 2022
R&BPop
It's Euphoric - Georgia
Release Date: 2023
ElectronicPop
Marry You - Bruno Mars
Release Date: 2010
Pop
Belong Together - Mark Ambor
Release Date: 2024
PopIndie
Glue Song - beabadoobee
Release Date: 2023
Indie
Back on 74 - Jungle
Release Date: 2024
Electronic
Ho Hey - The Lumineers
Release Date: 2012
FolkIndie
:) - The Japanese House
Release Date: 2024
IndieElectronic
Dive - Holly Humberstone
Release Date: 2024
IndiePop
Think I'm In Love With You - Chris Stapleton
Release Date: 2023
CountryPop
If You Love Me - Lizzo
Release Date: 2023
PopR&B
Favourite - Fontaines D.C.
Release Date: 2024
RockAlternative
Sexy To Someone - Clairo
Release Date: 2024
IndiePop
Liar - Paramore
Release Date: 2023
RockAlternative
Thinking About You - Pale Waves
Release Date: 2024
IndiePop
Leave the Door Open - Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak
Release Date: 2021
R&BPop
Devotion - Arlo Parks
Release Date: 2023
IndieSoul
Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding
Release Date: 2015
PopElectronic
Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Release Date: 2006
RockIndie
One Day Like This - Elbow
Release Date: 2008
RockAlternative

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Should your wedding band play the first dance song?

Most wedding bands will learn the first dance for free, whereas others may charge a fee. If you decide you'd like the band to perform the first dance, it's usually best to kick in with their first set immediately afterwards. Bearing this in mind, it's often a good idea to delay the first dance slightly instead of bringing the band's first set forward. From a band's point of view, it's never nice to start too early in the evening - some guests may need a drink or two before committing to the dance floor, especially us Men!

Wedding Song Ideas

Your first dance song doesn't need to be a smoochy love song if you don't want it to be; there are unlimited options on the table, from fun, upbeat TV theme tunes to the downright silly and utterly unique. Whatever you decide on, ensure it's something that reflects your unique personality and the vibe you want to create.

Need some more ideas to get your wedding soundtrack in order? Check out the Wedding Song Finder and browse hundreds of songs to suit every key part of your wedding day. From the best father and daughter songs, to daytime ceremony music

100 Fun Wedding Ideas to Entertain Your Guests

2021-11-23T15:52:41+00:00

It’s a big day. It’s THE big day and one that we hope you’ll remember for the rest of your lives together. So it’s essential that you get it right. One of the biggest fears that upcoming brides and grooms experience is the worry that their guests are not having as much fun as they are at the event.

To help with this, we've cooked up a massive list of music, games, fun and activities that you could consider including at your wedding reception. We’ve broken them up into different categories to make it a little easier to process, as there are one hundred wedding entertainment ideas here for you to contemplate.

Keep reading and dive deep into our 100 fun wedding ideas that’ll keep your guests entertained on your special day.

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Music & Dancing

Let us begin with the heart and soul of any fun wedding; the music. Start with great music, and the dancing will follow. We have some fabulous ideas for how you can inject some energy and ambience into your wedding reception with music, rhythm and dance.

1. Roaming Troubadours

For a beautiful nighttime aesthetic, hire roaming bands to move in amongst your guests and serenade them. This works well at an extensive venue with lots of nooks and crannies and can allow little mini-gigs to break out in different corners of your venue.

2. Bandeoke

Karaoke is great fun, but what about doing it with a live band? Welcome to the world of Bandeoke. Set up a stage and let your guests show off their singing skills with their own personal backing band to support them.

3. Silent Disco

Sometimes you’re limited at your venue on how much noise you can make, or you just fancy something a bit different; why not host a silent disco? Guests can wear headphones and listen to their own beats whilst they dance.

4. Dance Off

Get everyone on the dance floor for the ultimate dance-off! You choose the tunes and styles, and your guests compete for the dancing trophy!

5. Choreographed Dance

Get everyone together before the wedding to practice a big dance hall number to perform on the big night. You can either surprise your guests or even let them surprise you with a sudden organised break out into song and dance.

6. Mariachi Serenades

Capture the magic of evenings in Mexico with a Mariachi band who can move between your tables during dinner and serenade your guests with Latin rhythms.

7. Jazz Piano

Hire a talented pianist to provide background ambience and entertain your guests while they dine. Finish the evening with the spirited sounds of a jazz band playing a collection of swing classics and rhythmic blues tunes.

8. Harpist

There is no sound more soothing or beguiling than the harp. They make the perfect accompaniment for either when your guests are arriving at reception or as ambience as they dine.

9. String Quartet

The string quartet is the perfect sound to accompany your guests as they arrive at your venue and explore the space. They can strike up a tune to signal the arrival of the bridal couple as well.

10. Live Wedding Band

Make it your wedding party unforgettable with a live wedding band to keep guests dancing thoughout the evening.

11. Oompah Band

Why not add an extra bit of energy into your festivities with a roaming brass band at your venue. They work well at a summer venue with ample outside space so the brassy sounds can travel.

12. Ceilidh

Raise your spirits and your whiskies with a rousing ceilidh for your guests! Hire a traditional Scottish band and a caller who can guide your guests through the numerous steps for an unforgettable dance experience.

13. Drummers

Strike up a beat with some high-energy drummers that will get your guest’s feet moving and tapping to the rhythmic beat. A happy wedding is one with a beat.

14. Maypole Dancing

Capture the traditional ways of Old England with a maypole in the gardens of your venue. Leave flower crowns for the female guests to wear and hire a country band to provide a joyful tune.

Fun & Games

There are many different ways you can inject a hefty dose of fun and enjoyment into your wedding day. Here we have lots of ideas from big to small, which are sure to engage your guests and make your big day an unforgettable one.

15. Piñata

You can hang a piñata stuffed with goodies either from a tree in the garden or inside from the rafters in a large enough venue. Guests take turns to try and break open the toy with sticks. It’s great fun for kids and adults alike!

16. Mr & Mrs Game

How well do your guests really know their partners or even each other? Mr and Mrs make a great table game when your guests are seated for dinner. Place question cards at each setting and let questioning commence.

17. Ring Toss

Build a ring toss game on the grounds and design the rings you throw to look like wedding rings. You could even fashion the posts to look like celebrities and see who can snare themselves a celebrity partner!

18. Champagne Pong

For a fun game that everyone knows, take beer pong but play it with champagne or prosecco. Play with plastic flute glasses for a more challenging and classy game.

19. Sparklers

As well as a big display to send the bride and groom off on their honeymoon, you should give out sparklers to your guests. They make for dazzling photo and video props and are great fun to play with.

20. Face Painting

Treat your guests to something different with a face painter. They can keep kids and adults entertained by giving each their own unique look for the evening. Animals, celebrities, or fantastical creatures: the only limit is imagination!

21. Twister

Get your guests all tangled up and perhaps a little more familiar with each other with a giant game of twister on the lawn or in the main hall at your venue. Your guests will not be able to resist.

22. Pass The Parcel

Play a game of pass the parcel when at dinner. You can either have presents for each table or make one giant parcel to pass round the whole room. Make sure you have little momentos hidden between each layer, so everyone gets something to remember the night by.

23. Giant Jenga

No game hall is complete without an oversized version of the classic children’s game Jenga. Use the giant soft bricks to build the highest tower before they all come toppling down.

24. School Races

We all remember the egg and spoon, the sack race and wheelbarrow racing. Bring back the classics by setting up a small racetrack on the venue grounds. Guests partner up and go for glory in these traditional games.

25. Confetti Cannons

Send the bride and groom off with a bang with gigantic confetti cannons that shower you and your guests. Hand them out as the couple arrive or just as they are heading off for the honeymoon.

26. Advice Cards

Place cards on the table of your guests with advice questions for them to answer anonymously. Collect them in at the end of the night and review what your friends secretly think when on your honeymoon.

27. Coconut Shy

Line up the coconuts and let your guests knock them down. Let your guests win prizes if they have the skills.

28. Ferris Wheel

Place a beautiful Ferris Wheel lit with fairy lights in the back garden of your venue. Guests can take in the views from up high and relax in the gently swinging gondolas.

29. Photo Booth

A photo booth is almost a necessity at a wedding venue these days. Provide an area where guests can take selfies with props or record short video messages for the happy couple.

30. Giant Chess

Stimulate your guest’s minds and muscles alike with a giant chessboard. Or provide the board and costumes and let your guests play as the pieces themselves!

31. Green Screen

Have a green screen set up in a quieter corner of your venue and let guests film themselves in different locations. See what crazy mini-movies your friends and family can come up with.

32. Fishing Dares

This one can be a little cheeky. Set up a small fake pond with rods and plastic fish or ducks for your guests to hook. On the bottom, place a dare for each guest who succeeds in making a catch.

33. Cupcake Messages

Provide a stand with plain cupcakes and icing pens, and let your guests decorate their own with messages of love and well wishes for the happy couple.

34. Table Origami

Place small pieces of cards on the dining tables with instructions on how to turn them into different origami figurines. You can place them on display later for everyone to view.

35. Secret Messages

Arrange secret messages on each dining table with a codex and see who can break the code the fastest. Let the message be a quick dare, such as kiss the bride or groom, to show who has cracked it.

36. Hand Print Guestbook

Ask your guests to leave a hand or fingerprint in your guestbook along with their message as something for you to treasure and remember them by.

37. Photo Map

Put a map of the world on the wall with a polaroid camera and pins nearby. Let guests take a photo of themselves and add it to the map so you can celebrate how far everyone has travelled for the event.

38. Guess Who?

Place pictures of the bridal party on the table but obscure them in some way. See if the guests can match the photos with the faces at the wedding. You can start to reveal them after each course.

39. Masquerade

Leave masks on your guest’s tables so that they can turn the dance floor into a masked ball when then the bride and groom start their first dance. As wedding themes go, this one is always stylish and memorable.

40. Pool Table

Make sure there is a pool table nearby for those propping up the bar and for when your in-laws want to show off their skills to the younger generations.

41. Welly Wanging

Another great British classic! See who can throw or ‘wang’ a welly the furthest. Whoever is the best wanger wins a prize.

42. Ceramic Painting

Allow your guests to decorate a plate or cup as a souvenir of their trip to your wedding and the lasting memories it will bring.

43. Pub Quiz

Host a quiz at the reception dinner if your friends and family are lovers of trivia. You can even include some rounds about the bride and groom.

Food & Drinks

You can’t have a wedding without a slap-up meal and some quality drinks. There are lots of ways you can bring tasty treats for your guests to enjoy at your reception. Check out our fun ideas for livening up the party with some gourmet tastes.

44. Wine Tasting

Speak with local winegrowers and specialists and host a small wine tasting table that allows your guests to sample delicious wines.

45. Smores & Marshmallows

Make sure there are plenty for your guests to cook over the open flames at the fire pits. Provide blankets to keep them cosy and marshmallows to roast over the open flames.

46. Cake Tasting

Can’t decide on one wedding cake? Ask guests to bring their own and host a cake tasting. You can give out prizes for the best and worst presented cakes and the tastiest overall!

47. Whisky And Cigars Bar

Fine cigars match beautifully with a deep, oaky whisky. Give your guests a place to experience the different varieties and rich flavours each can provide.

48. Table Chefs

Bring the kitchen experience to the table by hiring chefs to cook the food before your guests. Let them wow your friends and family with the flame and grill skills.

49. Named Cocktails

Let guests invent their own cocktails and name them after themselves with a cocktail bar. You might have a new sensation on your hands.

50. Confectionery Cart

Indulge your sweet tooth with a cart that offers all the favourites from back when you were kids. Guests can grab a striped paper bag and fill them up with all their favourite pick n’ mix.

51. Afternoon Tea

Take tea on the terrace with your guests as a delightful post-wedding and pre-reception treat. Cake stands and teapots are a must and match beautifully with a string quartet playing nearby.

52. Cupcake Tree

Instead of a giant wedding cake, you could have individual cupcakes for guests. Each could be decorated with your friends’ names and pictures to remind them how much they mean to you.

53. Ice Sculptures

Ice sculptures can make for a spectacular centrepiece near the bar or buffet tables at the wedding feast. Some can even be designed to pout a drink at the top and drink it from the bottom.

54. Chocolate Fountain

Provide a range of delicious sweet and fruity treats for your guests to dip into the ever-flowing cascade of a chocolate fountain. Nobody can ever resist too much chocolate!

Spectacles

Leave a lasting impression on your guests with these wedding spectacle ideas. In this section, you’ll find many wedding ideas for events that will make your reception different from all the others and allow your friends and family to cherish the memories.

55. Fireworks

Fireworks make the perfect finish to a spectacular evening of good food and good times with all the people you love and cherish. What a great way to say farewell to everyone!

56. Magician

Hire a wedding magician to walk about the crowds, surprising all with close-up magic and card tricks that will amaze, baffle and astound your guests.

57. Murder Mystery

Tragedy strikes at dinner! Hire a murder mystery group to present a crime for your guests to solve while they dine. Whodunnit? All is revealed at the end of the evening.

58. Caricaturist

Hire a wedding caricature artist to move between the tables during the dinner and at reception, drawing pictures of your guests.

59. Fortune Teller

Set aside a quiet, mystical corner at your venue and hire a fortune teller to look into the future of your guests. Or ask them to wander between the tables reading palms and tarots as they pass.

60. Comedian

Bring some humour and gentle ribbing to the event by hiring a comedian. They can perform a set during the dinner or mingle with the guests afterwards.

61. Singing Waiters

Singing waiters serving the food at your wedding dinner can surprise and delight your guests. They can sing on entry to the venue or surprise the guests as they’re mid-course.

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62. Wedding Festival

Host your own music festival by hiring several festival style bands to play around your venue. You can choose classics from the 80s, 90s and 2000s and let everyone rock out to their favourite tunes.

63. Dance Lessons

Take dance lessons with your partner before the big day to wow your guests with a spectacular first dance.

64. Balloon Artists

Have balloon artists scattered about the venue to create impressive balloon sculpture gifts for your guests, be they big or small.

65. Memories Cinema

Place a cinema screen within the grounds of your venue with blankets and cushions for your guests to sit on nearby. Show a film of some of the best memories from your life together and your family history.

66. Merry Go Round

Let your guests swirl the night away with endless rides on the merry-go-round. The lights and music are great at stirring up childhood nostalgia, and the ride itself makes for some amazing photo opportunities.

67. Jugglers

Hire some jugglers to walk amongst the crowds to delight and entertain your guests with their skills.

68. Circus Skills

Fire breathers, acrobats and sword swallowers can make for a spectacular sideshow during the reception that your guests are not likely to forget in a hurry.

Kids Entertainment

You can't simply let the little ones run wild on your big day! The best and most inclusive parties offer some form of wedding entertainment for kids. Busy kids are happy kids, and happy kids ensure that every guest gets to let loose and have a fabulous time!

69. Kid-Friendly DJ

A great DJ knows how to run a dance floor. They can read the mood in the room, adjust the playlist to suit the moment, and keep the energy up. If you have kids at your wedding, you'll also want to hire a DJ who knows how to keep the wee ones busy!

Often, DJs can incorporate props and giveaway items to keep the dance floor exciting and fun. They might bring out inflatable instruments, glowsticks, hats, sunglasses, or even pom-poms! When the DJ engages the youngest guests, they'll be busy dancing until it's time to go home.

70. Kids-Only Area

If you'd like to put some space between the children and your adult guests, consider creating a dedicated quiet space for little ones. You can make it more engaging by including a tent, canopy, clubhouse, or other kid-friendly structure. Fill it with books, a colouring area, a few cushions, and maybe even a television.

Once the kids go inside, they'll be so taken by the exclusive space that they won't want to come out!

71. Create Kid Kits

If you only have a few children attending your wedding, you can gear your children's wedding entertainment toward those guests! Create a little "kid kit" that children can use when they're expected to sit still. You might include picture books, puzzle games, stickers, a small craft activity, or an activity book.

Each kit can be ready and waiting for the child at their seat. Make sure the tasks are simple, age-appropriate and that the kids can complete them independently.

72. Children's Creche

If you have many younger children in attendance, consider setting up a dedicated children's creche with a qualified nanny on hand. Parents won't have to worry about their children, as they'll be fully supervised during the event. Ensure the space has enough toys and activities to keep children occupied and allow parents to pop in any time they'd like!

73. Children's Performer

If you have the space, why not bring in a performer geared toward children? Bring in a wedding magician, party clown, or children's singer to delight the kids. They'll know exactly how to keep young ones engaged while the adults enjoy their own entertainment.

74. Arts and Crafts

Some of our favourite kids' wedding activities are the crafty sort. Set up an area where children can get creative using simple art supplies. They might create wedding cards, decorate a little cake, or create a tissue paper wedding bouquet.

If you prefer a lower-maintenance approach, consider setting up a simple colouring-in area. Set out some crayons, markers, art pencils, and a few colouring books. Kids who love colouring-in will stay put for hours!

Chill Out

Weddings are a time for friends and family to come together and reminisce. Our chill-out ideas are for those who want to relax a little and spend some quality time with those they love.

75. Fire Pits

Arrange cosy fire pits around the ground of your venue with hay bails where guests can gather together, drink and reminisce.

76. Gaming Lounge

Need a chillout zone where your guests can kick back like they were at home? Create a gaming lounge in a room at the venue with consoles, games, and VR headsets for your guests to enjoy.

77. Hammocks

When your venue has a beautiful outside space, take advantage of it with a hammock zone. String up hammocks in a secluded spot where your guests can relax and chill out together under the stars.

78. Giant Outdoor Swing

A large swing outdoors on the lawn can make a perfect wedding photoshoot location or just a fantastic place for your guests to chill at the reception.

Sports & Activities

Weddings don’t have to be all pomp and circumstance, and sometimes you can let your hair down and have a little bit of fun. This next section is all about letting your guests get a little bit sweaty with some sports and adrenaline-inducing wedding activities.

79. Badminton

This idea works well in an afternoon garden party setting. Simply set up a net on the grass and leave the shuttles and rackets nearby.

80. Foosball

Nobody can resist a quick round of foosball or table football when they see it. Have a table near the bar, and it will be occupied all night long.

81. Scavenger Hunt

If your venue is quite extensive, you could hide presents around the property and level clues on the wedding tables for guests the solve.

82. Croquet

If your wedding is set in the beautiful surrounds of a country house, then grab your mallet and let your guests channel their inner regency garden party.

83. Sumo Wrestling

Let your guests work out their differences with a sumo match. Each competitor is given an oversized inflatable sumo suit before they step into the ring. The outcome is as hilarious to spectate as it is to take part.

84. Boating

Does your venue have a lake, or is there a lake nearby? Take your bridal party boating and relax after the wedding by splashing about on the water. Boats can make for some spectacular photoshoots as well.

85. Awards Ceremony

Celebrate everything wonderful about your friends and family with an awards ceremony. You can give out awards for everything that you love and cherish about your closest and dearest.

86. Casino

Take your wedding celebration off to the tables of Monte Carlo with a collection of casino games for them to play. This pairs well with a smooth jazz band and great cocktails for the evening.

87. Bowls

For the more refined members of your party, you could set up a bowls green within the grounds of your venue and let them play a relaxing game or two.

88. Bouncy Castle

Thrill your guests with a trip back to their childhoods in a bouncy castle. Make it available to kids and adults throughout the evening so everyone can enjoy it.

89. Giant Skittles

Set up a giant skittle court in the gardens for your guests to play with. Or better still, ply a version where your guests wear inflatable suits, and you try and knock them down instead with a big rubber ball.

90. Dodgems

Want to try something to get the blood racing but still have a fantastic time? Hire a dodgems ring for the gardens and let your guests go wild. Bring the heart of the funfair into your wedding!

91. Fly Paper Wall

Hire a giant inflatable velcro wall and some velcro suite. Then challenge your guests to run and jump at the wall and see who can make the most entertaining splat. Prizes should be given for the highest and most stylish jumps.

92. Trampolines

Trampolines set up around the ground of a venue can make for a great opportunity for your guests to bounce and play and forget about their worries for the day.

93. Horse Cart Rides

Offer your guests horse, and cart rides around the grounds, especially if they are in a spectacular location. Give couples and partners the chance to spend a romantic moment of their own together.

94. Ice Skating

If your wedding is during the winter, you could have an outside ice skating rink for your guests to enjoy and provide hot chocolate with marshmallows for the spectators.

Animals

Don’t leave your furry friends out of the big day. If you are an animal lover, we have some ideas for getting them involved and making animals a feature of your celebration.

95. Bring Your Pet

Host a pet-friendly reception and let guests bring their dogs along for the day. This might work better in a venue with a good-sized outdoor space! Make sure there is a zone where they can relax away from crowds.

96. Birds of Prey

Host a display of birds of prey with demonstrators showing off their incredible agility and skill. Guests can also take turns holding birds and feeding them.

97. Wild Animals

Some venues will have wild animals such as deer and peacocks on the grounds. They may let your guests meet and even feed the animals on request.

98. Pony Rides

For smaller guests, you could have pony rides within the venue grounds to keep them entertained. It could be a great photo opportunity for flower girls and tiny groomsmen.

99. Dove Release

Arrange for doves to be released into the air and fly free at a designated time in the afternoon or evening. Doves are a symbol of purity and hope and a beautiful way to symbolise a new union.

100. Butterfly Release

If you do not want doves, you could arrange for butterflies to be released instead. It is smaller but no less spectacular to watch.

Give Some Of Our Fun Wedding Ideas A Try

There you have it! Hopefully, this exhaustive list of fun wedding ideas has inspired you and your planning for your big day. There are lots of ways, big and small, to keep your guests entertained. But never forget that they’re all there to celebrate you and your union, and that’s what matters the most.

Please check out our wedding musicians across the UK if you’re looking for some spectacular music inspiration for your wedding event. We have talented bands and soloists across all the musical genres who can help make your day a little bit more special.

10 Alternative Entertainment Ideas For Your Wedding Ceremony

2024-05-15T16:25:10+01:00

When it comes to ceremony music, you don't need to stick to tradition. While the classic church ceremony is often accompanied by wedding favourites such as Canon in D or Wagner, there are plenty of alternative options – the world really is your oyster!

Here are ten alternative wedding entertainment ideas to inject some personality into your wedding ceremony.

1. Hire a Gospel Choir

Looking for something spectacular to wow your guests as you walk down the aisle? Nothing works better in a stunning church than a full gospel choir. Begin the most important day of your life with the sound of heavenly vocals and divine harmonies that will instantly fill the room with emotion. Choosing a live vocal ensemble can feel really special and doesn't have to be tied to church/ religious ceremonies, you can opt for a gospel choir performance for your civil ceremony too. Imagine an ensemble serenading as you enter the room at a stunning stately home or oak-framed barn. Just beautiful.

{vid id="ZepUxosL5zM" name="Divine Voices" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/721-divine-voices"}

2. Have a Beach Ceremony With a Steel Band

If you’re thinking outside the box with your wedding plans and love the idea of saying those all-important vows outdoors on a stunning beach, have you considered including alternative music too? Take a look at our wedding themes blog for tropical wedding ideas and create a Caribbean-worthy ceremony! Performing a mix of reggae, calypso, and soca, a traditional steel band will ensure your guests are entertained from the moment you arrive. Including something uplifting and fun as you walk down the aisle can also help to calm those initial nerves and lighten the mood! A steel band at your wedding ceremony will be sure to impress your guests.

{vid id="aGzD2hn86pk" name="Mila - Steel Pannist" url="world-music/item/615-mila-steel-pannist"}

3. Choose an Indie/Rock Track to Walk Down the Aisle

When planning wedding music, most couples tend to focus their attention on choosing the perfect first dance song, but the music you walk down the aisle to has an important role to play too. And we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to leave this choice up to the ceremony leader. Whether you choose a religious ceremony or a civil service in an alternative venue, you have the opportunity to find a song that really represents you as a couple! 00s indie your thing? Or are you a classic rock fan? Why not hire a guitarist to play your favourite indie/rock track as you arrive? Your guests certainly wouldn't forget that in a hurry!

{vid id="vmq0zBGzWsk" name="Hazy Days Duo" url="acoustic-music/item/709-hazy-days-duo"}

4. Hire a Full Band for a Ceremony Danceathon

Now, you could go one step further. I think if I had the opportunity to get married all over again, this would be top of my list when planning our ceremony. Often the ceremony itself, all be it filled with love and joy, is a fairly formal affair with set rules and expectations. But here at Bands for Hire, we like to throw the rule book out of the window every once in a while! How about planning a ceremony, but with the feel of a party? Hire a band to play as guests arrive, one who can then turn it up a notch and perform some upbeat tracks for that all-important aisle walk – your guests can be on their feet and dancing as you make your way to your husband-to-be!

{vid id="MC2iUFRxun8" name="JJ & The Beatniks" url="acoustic-music/item/343-jj-the-beatniks"}

5. Have a Vintage-Inspired Act to Fit Your Theme

Planning a specific theme for your day? How about tying your ceremony music into your chosen style? A 50s rock n roll wedding, with classic vintage-inspired outfits and decor for example. For this wedding concept, you could hire a three-piece 50s trio like the Retro Belles to serenade you as you walk the aisle! If Elvis and Chuck aren't your thing, perhaps a laid-back folk artist is. If you’re considering a festival/folk-inspired wedding ceremony, you could have music from a rustic Mumford & Sons style band to walk into. This would make a fantastic entrance for your bride and her bridesmaids!

{vid id="CWzmAEu7-Qk" name="The Retro Belles" url="function-bands/item/622-the-retro-belles"}

6. Hire a Roaming Band to Walk the Procession With You

Don't fancy walking up the aisle alone? If you want to add some drama to your entrance, here’s a unique idea for you. At Bands for Hire, we happen to showcase several roaming bands – musicians who play acoustic music unplugged with the freedom to wander as they perform. Why not walk to your groom procession style with a roaming band as accompaniment? Imagine stunning vocal harmonies and upbeat contemporary songs your guests will know, with acoustic guitar rounding off the performance. The perfect entertainment for your guests as you tie the knot.

{vid id="OO6BoWMX_hg" name="The Dixie Rhythms" url="jazz-swing-bands/item/247-the-dixie-rhythms"}

7. A Sitarist for a Traditional Indian Ceremony

Many people associate the sitar with a classic Indian wedding. If you want to step back in time and plan your dream wedding ceremony with a nod to tradition, including a sitar as background music would be ideal. An enchanting sound, the sitar is the perfect instrument for creating a magical, ambient atmosphere. Thumri, our resident sitarist here at Bands for Hire, combines his knowledge of Eastern and Western music practices to create a truly inspired sound. Hire a sitarist for your traditional wedding ceremony.

{vid id="SuVLu5vwtk4" name="Thumri - Sitarist" url="world-music/item/143-thumri"}

8. Singing Waiters? Or Singing Guests!

I think by now, lots of us are familiar with the concept of the singing waiter, or surprise waiter. By this, we mean musicians and singers in disguise! Working as waiting staff, then bursting into song at an unsuspecting moment to wow your guests. This concept could work amazingly well at your ceremony too. For those of you familiar with Love Actually, they use this exact idea during the movie, and it truly is a magical moment. Have your unsuspecting guests surrounded by musicians within the audience, their instruments quietly tucked away under seats and beneath coats, ready to jump up for that surprise performance at the perfect moment. I can't think of a cooler way to remember your special day.

{vid id="KFDxwfkdgBM" name="Singing Servers" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/675-singing-servers"}

9. Give Away Your First Dance Song, See Who Notices

Do you have an incredibly special track that means a lot to you both as a couple? If picking your first dance song was as easy as pie, then you really do. Here’s an idea. How about using that important song as a theme for your day, starting with the ceremony? As you walk down the aisle, a version of your first dance could play – perhaps as an instrumental performed on the piano, or an acoustic singer serenading you with a chilled version of the track. Your guests might notice the link later in the evening when the full version is performed for your very special first dance!

{vid id="G4xISf1P3JY" name="Imogen - Cellist" url="classical-musicians/item/885-imogen-cellist"}

10. Don Those Hats and Go a Little Country!

Getting married in a stunning oak barn? Why not choose a rustic all-American country theme for your I-do’s. Combine Western wedding wear with relaxed outdoor seating on haybales. And you could consider including a toe stomping, folk/Americana country band too. A relaxed ceremony with plenty of life and plenty of fun! The band can stay after the vows have been read and get the vibe going with some Country and Western classics during the drinks party later. The Alabama Two would be the perfect choice here!

{vid id="LE2v-Nhl0Is" name="Alabama Two" url="acoustic-music/item/566-alabama-two"}

So those were just a few ideas for your alternative wedding ceremony. Tradition can be a wonderful thing and some couples will choose to follow the rules of a classic ceremony, but it definitely isn't the only way! We recommend you sit down and think about what’s important to you and also what inspires you, then use this to decide on how you really want to say I do! If you would like help in finding entertainment for your wedding ceremony, drop us a message here at Bands for Hire and we’ll get some ideas to you!

The Wedding Guitarist Booking Guide: Tips, Costs and Logistics

2023-10-13T13:12:25+01:00

While wedding music trends come and go, a single instrument has stood the test of time, transcending cultures, genres, and eras. Far from being a fleeting fad or mere background noise, the guitar has been entertaining wedding guests for generations, making it a go-to choice for nuptial celebrations worldwide.

From the characterful, feel-good vibes of flamenco and gypsy jazz to the vast spectrum of classical and contemporary music on offer, there's a wedding guitarist to cover all bases.

Whether you're after popular wedding music from Pachelbel and Ed Sheeran or something in the style of Django Reinhardt or Rodrigo y Gabriela, it's essential to know what type of guitarist you're looking for at the outset.

In our booking guide, we cover every important aspect of hiring a guitarist for your wedding day. From choosing the right style of guitarist to ceremony music, timings, setup, costs, and logistics, we leave no stone unturned.

Looking to Hire a Guitarist?

Browse our impressive range of guitar players based across the UK.

Browse Solo Guitarists

Why Book a Guitarist for Your Wedding Day?

For many couples, live music plays a pivotal role on their big day. Not only does it entertain guests and enhance the atmosphere, it serves as a way to inject a touch of their own personality into the day, seamlessly complementing the wedding theme and decor.

Versatility

A guitarist can adapt their sound to every key part of your day, from elegant ceremony entrance music to a bring-down-the-house first dance - and all with just one musician.

Budget

Booking a larger line-up, such as a duo or band, may often be the first port of call, but if you're working with a moderate budget, you may find you can cover your whole day at a fraction of the price with just one musician. We'll discuss pricing further on.

Mobility and Easy Set-Up

The final thing to note about solo guitarists is their compact set-up, often incorporating a single handheld amplifier into their set-up. With just a guitar and amp to transport, they can change locations with ease, moving from one part of the venue to another with minimal downtime in between.

Types of Wedding Guitarists

If you and your partner have wildly different tastes in music, a guitarist could be just the ticket. With their ability to seamlessly transition from intricate classical masterpieces to contemporary favourites, guitar players appeal to a wide audience, meaning you and your spouse-to-be can both get involved in the music choices.

Many guitarists focus on a particular style or genre, such as jazz, classical or Flamenco, but the first thing to settle on is whether you're looking for an instrumental guitarist or a wedding singer who plays guitar. Whilst both types of act may sit under the 'wedding guitarist' umbrella, they are, of course, entirely different.

You'll find guitarists usually fall into two main categories: exceptional instrumentalists who focus on classical, Flamenco or jazz guitar, or versatile performers who sing while accompanying themselves on the guitar.

Let's look at the type of guitarists below to get a good idea of what you can expect.

Classical Guitarists

Classical guitarists usually offer a varied repertoire of instrumental music that includes a mix of traditional wedding music, contemporary pop classics and Latin/Spanish. Classical guitarists are typically well-versed in reading sheet music and can turn their hand to just about any style. Similar to their harpist and string quartet counterparts, they may also have a wide range of jazz music, show tunes and film scores available, meaning they can tailor their set list towards your individual tastes.

With their incredible flexibility, classical guitarists are a fantastic choice for wedding ceremonies, drinks receptions, and the wedding breakfast.

{vid id="aCuGUBnQ0QA" name="Stephan - Guitarist " url="classical-musicians/item/239-stephan-solo-guitarist"}

Singer/Guitarists

If you're more Beatles than Beethoven, a singer-guitarist could be the right pick for you. While a classical guitarist is often considered background music, a singer/guitarist is naturally more of a focal point, performing everything from Ben E King and Bob Dylan to Ed Sheeran and Eva Cassidy.

The beauty of a singer-guitarist is their ability to transition from low-key background vibes to upbeat entertainment. For this reason, they're a popular choice for everything from the ceremony and afternoon champagne reception to evening entertainment.

{vid id="PiY12io3680" name="Abigail - Singer / Guitarist " url="acoustic-music/item/167-abigail-singer-guitarist"}

Flamenco Guitarists

Sometimes, the key to live entertainment is the wow factor, and a flamenco guitarist will undoubtedly add some flair to your big day. Bringing showmanship and excitement to the table, a flamenco guitarist is a great way to kick off your afternoon with some high-energy vibes.

Many flamenco guitarists specialise in their genre, but if you're after more traditional music during your ceremony, you'll certainly find a handful of guitarists happy to learn a song or two for your special day.

{vid id="upXBjaPh1pQ" name="Rodrigo - Flamenco Guitarist " url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/619-rodrigo-flamenco-guitarist"}

Jazz Guitarists

For jazz aficionados looking to make a strong impression, nothing says sophistication like a solo jazz musician. Performing jazz standards from the American Songbook, you can expect to hear a repertoire that's both familiar and yet completely unique to your big day.

If you love the thought of booking a jazz guitarist but would still like something more traditional for your ceremony, then fear not. With a high level of musical expertise, jazz guitarists can typically accommodate song requests outside their standard jazz repertoire.

{vid id="3VaEivXkEz0" name="Eddie - Jazz Guitarist " url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/597-eddie-solo-guitarist"}

How to Choose a Guitarist

Now you've decided on the type of guitarist you're after, it's time to start making your shortlist. But what are the key things to look out for and how do you decide on a guitarist?

Location

Before getting into the nitty gritty of set lists and playing styles, finding local guitarists in your area is an excellent place to start. At Bands For Hire, we have regional pages for our guitarists and acoustic acts listing the most local and popular acts at the top.

Style and Repertoire

As we've discussed, there are a wide variety of different guitarists, so start by listening to those who provide the service you're after, whether that be classical guitarists or singers. Every guitarist will have a profile page or website listing their full repertoire, so you can instantly decide if they're your cup of tea.

Videos and Audio Samples

Whilst it's always nice to meet prospective suppliers up close and personal, it's rarely an option, given how busy musicians can be. For this reason, every guitarist on our roster has put together a range of live music videos and mp3s so you can tell they're the real deal.

Experience and Professionalism

Like any profession, the music industry has musicians with varying levels of expertise and professionalism. While videos and demos can give you a sense of a guitarist's musical skills, it's crucial to choose someone who has experience earning a living as a professional musician.

When you book through an agency like ours, you can rest assured that every guitarist meets our stringent criteria. However, if you're booking directly with a musician, be sure to do your homework: check their online reviews and social media presence to get an authentic overview of the musician. Even the tone of their email and text responses can speak volumes about the level of professionalism you can expect in the run-up to your wedding.

Personal Preference

Everybody has their own personal tastes, and so this should ultimately be the deciding factor. If a guitarist just seems to hit the right note (pun intended), they should most certainly be at the top of your shortlist.

Costs and Budgeting

The average price for a wedding guitarist is about £350 locally, but this can vary enormously, with numerous factors affecting the price, such as travelling distance, performance times, timeframe at the venue and additional song requests. Let's investigate these in more detail to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Travel

It goes without saying that when musicians travel, they need to cover their fuel expenses. But another consideration is the time spent on the road - if a guitarist is quoting for an event a couple of hours away, they'll most likely need to account for four hours on the road and factor this into their fee.

If you want to maximise your wedding budget, we recommend always starting your search locally.

Performance Times and Timeframe

Wedding musicians tend to charge a base fee to cover the first hour or two of performance, which then increases if you require longer sets. For example, a guitarist might charge a base rate of £350 to cover 2 x 60-minute sets over a maximum three-hour period.

But what if you want 20 minutes of music as guests arrive, 15 minutes during the ceremony and an hour during drinks? As long as this falls within the 3-hour time span, you should find that this falls within the same quote.

However, suppose you're looking to stretch things out to cover the drinks reception and wedding breakfast. In that case, you'll likely exceed the initial 3-hour timeframe, and additional charges will apply for the extra time the musician spends at the venue.

Level of Expertise

The industry is jam-packed with wedding musicians of varying degrees of ability and professionalism. As guitarists progress through their careers, you can expect their fees to increase, reflecting their experience and popularity.

Additional Song requests

Most musicians are more than happy to accommodate special songs for your wedding ceremony or first dance, but it's worth bearing in mind that these can be very time-intensive. Singers and guitarists often limit the number of requests per event to one or two, charging a small fee to learn additional songs.

If you've already selected your ceremony songs, feel free to include these in your initial enquiry so the guitarist knows exactly what they're quoting for, and you can avoid any surprises down the line.

Song Choices

Now that we've chosen your guitarist and the budget is in good order, it's time for the fun part - the music!

Choosing your special songs for the big day is a deeply personal choice, influenced by your musical tastes and the tracks that hold significance for you as a couple. But if you're struggling for inspiration, we've included a few of our favourites below. If you're looking for more ideas, head over to our wedding music section, where you'll find thousands of song ideas to cover every aspect of your big day.

Instrumental Guitar Wedding Songs

Thinking Out Loud - Cole
Play
Canon in D - Michael
Play
Wonderful Tonight - Paco
Play
Over The Rainbow - Michael
Play
A Thousand Years - Guy
Play

Singer/Guitarist Wedding Songs

Can't Help Falling in Love
Play
Wicked Game - Abigail
Play
Make You Feel My Love - Nat
Play
Faith - Matthew
Play
How Deep Is Your Love - Alexander
Play

What to Expect on the Day

When it comes to set-up and logistics, it couldn't be easier. Unlike a jazz band or wedding band, a solo guitarist comes with minimal gear that takes just a few minutes to set up.

Arrival

At Bands For Hire, we always ask our guitarists to arrive an hour prior to the performance, giving them plenty of breathing space if they run into traffic or get held up on the day.

Power

Most instrumental guitarists play through a small guitar amp, while singer guitarists usually provide a compact PA system to amplify their vocals. In both cases, a single 13-amp power socket is usually sufficient.

For outdoor ceremonies, make sure you have either an extension lead running from the venue or a small generator at hand.

Soundcheck

For classical guitarists and instrumentalists, a 2-minute soundcheck is all that's required to ensure the volume is at an appropriate level and there are no issues such as feedback.

For singer-guitarists, it's best to allow 15-30 minutes of set-up time, as there's a little more gear to unload and set up.

Space Requirements

Although one musician takes up very little room, it's a good idea to give them sufficient space to set up their gear, ideally around 2 x 2 meters. Think carefully about where they're situated so that they're close enough to be an integral part of the atmosphere but not so close that they take centre stage during the ceremony.

Weather Contingency

For outdoor weddings, it's crucial to have a weather contingency plan. We strongly recommend arranging a small gazebo or marquee to shield musicians from potential rain. Just a few droplets can risk damaging costly equipment, and ultimately, it's the musician's call on whether they feel at ease performing outside without adequate cover.

Breaks and Intervals

In general, guitarists are happy to perform for up to an hour before needing a break, but if you'd prefer to divide the performance into shorter segments, that's no problem. We find that a 15-minute interval between sets provides ample time for the musician to rest and reset.

For daytime bookings, it's common to supply musicians with refreshments such as soft drinks/coffee/tea and a light lunch. For evening bookings, your guitarist may request a meal as part of their rider.

Ready to book?

Now that you've got a clear plan of action, it's time to start planning. At Bands For Hire, we represent only the highest quality guitarists across the UK. To find local guitar players in your area, head to the top of the page and select your region. Once you've found someone you like the look of, drop us an enquiry through the contact form, and a member of our team will get back to you with a quote and a breakdown of what's included.

Evening Entertainment Ideas for your Corporate Dinner, Gala or Dinner Party

2022-01-24T16:56:53+00:00

Whether you're planning an intimate corporate dinner party for board members or a large gala dinner for a thousand attendees, finding the right evening entertainment can make or break your event. Your dinner party could feature any number of professional entertainers, from table-side magicians to live musicians and corporate function bands.

Arrival Drinks Reception Entertainment

The drinks reception is an excellent time for guests to mingle, relax and network. Depending on your chosen event theme, there are several directions to take, both in terms of style and music. An elegant, low-key soloist or duo will be ideal for small events of less than 50 guests and can usually be found within budget. As guest numbers increase, you might like to take the atmosphere up a notch and increase the number of musicians.

Alice - Saxophonist
From £425
Abigail - Singer / Guitarist
From £365
Jessica - Violinist
From £460
The Gypsy Carnivals
From £880
Misko
From £595
Blackbird
From £775

Dinner Entertainment Ideas

As guests are called for dinner, it's essential to create a welcoming atmosphere to put them at ease. For small events, stick to unimposing instrumental acts such as a pianist, string quartet or jazz duo. For large-scale gala events, you're free to add vocals to the mix, perhaps in the form of a contemporary acoustic duo or jazz singer.

Electrica
From £695
Anthony - Pianist
From £295
Ella & Jones
From £610
Passengers
From £495
The Swing Band
From £935
On The Rocks
From £550

Evening Entertainment

With the presentation, speeches and formalities complete, it's time to get the party underway. At Bands For Hire, we represent a vast range of acts to suit every type of event, from solo singers for private formal dinners to party bands with heaps of experience in the corporate sector.

The Royals
From £5050
Storm
From £2100
Rose - VIP Club & Events DJ
From £550
Decades
From £1850
Violet 54
From £2070
Soul That Swings
From £1755
Manhattan
From £2225

The Ultimate Wedding Playlist: 1000+ Party Songs to Get Your Guests Dancing!

2021-07-09T16:41:41+01:00

Take a moment to reminisce about the very best weddings you've attended, and I'm pretty confident the evening party will be the first thing that springs to mind. But what makes a wedding playlist so special that the dance floor is guaranteed to stay packed to the rafters?

Floor fillers.

We're talking Uptown Funk, Mr Brightside, Don't Stop Me Now, Single Ladies... and the list goes on. To hit the sweet spot, you'll need an armoury of timeless wedding classics that will appeal to guests of all ages.

Check out our top wedding party songs below for inspiration, or get the Spotify playlists if you'd rather just plug and play.

Ultimate Wedding Playlist Modern/Chart Wedding Playlist Motown and Soul Wedding Playlist 80s Wedding Playlist 90s Dance / Britpop Playlist Indie/Rock Wedding Playlist Country Music Playlist

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Looking to Hire a Wedding Band?

Browse our impressive range of wedding bands based across the UK.

Browse Wedding Bands

The Ultimate Wedding Playlist

Get The Ultimate Wedding Songs playlist - the magnum opus of wedding playlists! A whole host of certified hits from across the decades that'll guarantee the ultimate wedding reception! Some say that one of these songs is being played at a wedding reception somewhere in the world at any given time.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

24k Magic - Bruno Mars
Play
Get Lucky - Daft Punk
Play
Happy - Pharrell Williams
Play
Uptown Funk - Bruno Mars
Play
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) - Stevie Wonder
Play
Locked Out Of Heaven - Bruno Mars
Play
Blurred Lines - Robin Thicke
Play
Never Too Much - Luther Vandross
Play
9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
Play
Twist & Shout - The Beatles
Play
Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
Play
Higher & Higher - Jackie Wilson
Play
Beat It - Michael Jackson
Play
Digital Love – Daft Punk
Play
Murder On The Dancefloor - Sophie Ellis Bexter
Play
Come On Eileen - Dexys Midnight Runners
Play
Great Balls Of Fire - Jerry Lee Lewis
Play
It Must Be Love - Madness
Play
Stuck In The Middle With You - Stealers Wheel
Play
Love Me Do - The Beatles
Play
Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Play
Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac
Play
I’m Gonna Be 500 Miles - The Proclaimers
Play
Walking On Sunshine - Katrina & The Waves
Play
The Way You Make Me Feel - Michael Jackson
Play
You’re The Only One That I Want - Grease
Play
Daydream Believer - The Monkees
Play
Stayin’ Alive - The Bee Gees
Play
Proud Mary - Tina Turner
Play
Paradise - George Ezra
Play
Symphony - Clean Bandit, Zara Larsson
Play
Shut Up & Dance - Walk The Moon
Play
Valerie - Amy winehouse
Play
Shake It Off - Taylor Swift
Play
Are You Gonna Be My Girl - Jet
Play
Little Lion Man - Mumford & Sons
Play
Take Me Out - Franz Ferdinand
Play
Perfect - Ed Sheeran
Play
Happy Together - The Turtles
Play
New Shoes - Paolo Nutini
Play
Blame It On Me - George Ezra
Play
Ho Hey - The Lumineers
Play
Hold Back The River - James Bay
Play
Budapest - George Ezra
Play
You’ve Got The Love - Florence & The Machine
Play
Wonderwall - Oasis
Play
Marry You - Bruno Mars
Play
Wake Me Up - Avicci
Play
Black & White - Michael Jackson
Play
Place Your Hands - Reef
Play
Town Called Malice - The Jam
Play
You Never Can Tell - Chuck Berry
Play
Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
Play
You Really Got Me - The Kinks
Play
Oh What a Night (December 63) - Four Seasons
Play
Love Really Hurts - Billie Ocean
Play
Saw Her Standing There - The Beatles
Play
Johnny B. Goode - Chuck Berry
Play
Blue Suede Shoes - Elvis Presley
Play
Rocking All Over The World - Status Quo
Play
Stand By Me - Ben E King
Play
She Loves You - The Beatles
Play
Rather Be - Clean Bandit
Play
Crazy – Gnarls Barkley
Play
Billy Jean - Michael Jackson
Play
Sing - Ed Sheeran
Play
What Do You Mean - Justin Bieber
Play
Love Me Again – John Newman
Play
Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake
Play
Inner Smile - Texas
Play
Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran
Play
Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson
Play
Feeling Good – Nina Simone
Play
Senorita - Justin Timberlake
Play
Forget You - Cee Lo Green
Play
Seven Nation Army - White Stripes
Play
Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5
Play
One Love - Bob Marley
Play
Treasure - Bruno Mars
Play
Hey Ya - Outkast
Play
Cosmic Girl - Jamiraquai
Play
By The Way - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Play
This Love - Maroon 5
Play
No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley
Play
7 Days – Craig David
Play
Gold Digger - Ray Charles/Kanye West ft. Jamie Fox
Play
Please Don’t Stop The Music - Rihanna
Play
Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding
Play
I Need A Dollar - Aloe Blacc
Play
Rock With You - Michael Jackson
Play
Naive - The Kooks
Play
Feels So Close - Calvin Harris
Play
Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson
Play
Cheerleader - OMI
Play
Sorry - Justin Bieber
Play
Sugar - Maroon 5
Play
How Deep Is Your Love - Calvin Harris
Play
No Diggity - Blackstreet
Play
Hotline Bling - Drake
Play
I Can’t Feel My Face - The Weeknd
Play
I'm Yours - Jason Maraz
Play
Sunday Morning - Maroon 5
Play
Dancing In The Moonlight - Top Loader
Play
Hound Dog - Elvis
Play
Can't Buy Me Love - The Beatles
Play
Go Your Own Way - Fleetwood Mac
Play
Adventure Of A Lifetime - Coldplay
Play
Brown Sugar - The Rolling Stones
Play
I Will Wait - Mumford and Sons
Play
My Generation - The Who
Play
One More Time - Daft Punk
Play
Park Life - Blur
Play
Pina Colada - Rupert Holmes
Play
Pompeii - Bastille
Play
Rude - Magic
Play
Hound Dog - Elvis Presley
Play
Everybody - The Blues Brothers
Play
Teenage Dirtbag - Wheatus
Play
Cheap Thrills - Sia
Play
Tilted - Christina & The Queens
Play
Hey Jude - The Beatles
Play
Hit The Road Jack - Ray Charles
Play
I Got A Woman - Ray Charles
Play
I Shot The Sheriff - Bob Marley
Play
Lets Stay Together - Al Green
Play
Mustang Sally - Wilson Pickett
Play
No Woman No Cry - Bob Marley
Play
Pencil Full Of Lead - Paolo Nutini
Play
Red Red Wine - UB40
Play
Rehab - Amy Winehouse
Play
Roxanne - The Police
Play
Another One Bites The Dust - Queen
Play
Tutti Frutti - Little Richard
Play
The Chain - Fleetwood Mac
Play
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
Play
Suspicious Minds - Elvis
Play
Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond
Play
Night Fever - Bee Gees
Play
Highway To Hell - AC/DC
Play
There’s Nothing Holding Me Back - Shawn Mendes
Play
Feels - Calvin Harris
Play
Domino - Jessie J
Play
Toxic - Britney Spears
Play
We Found Love - Rihanna
Play
I Kissed A Girl - Katy Perry
Play
Sky Full Of Stars - Coldplay
Play
Kiss - Prince
Play
PYT - Michael Jackson
Play
Faith - George Michael
Play
All The Small Things - Blink 182
Play
Price Tag - Jessie J
Play
Paradise - Coldplay
Play
Pretty Fly (For A White Guy) - Offspring
Play
I Don’t Feel Like Dancing - Scissor Sisters
Play
American Boy - Estelle
Play
Shape Of You - Ed Sheeran
Play
Bad Romance - Lady Gaga
Play
Poker Face - Lady Gaga
Play
Crazy In Love - Beyonce
Play
Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) - Beyonce
Play
Plug In Baby - Muse
Play
Cake By The Ocean - DNCE
Play
Mr Blue Sky - ELO
Play
This Charming Man - The Smiths
Play
King - Years & Years
Play
Feeling Good - Muse
Play
Sing - Travis
Play
Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
Play
Somewhere Only We Know - Keane
Play
Have A Nice Day - Stereophonics
Play
Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It - Will Smith
Play
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Play
Love Shack - B-52’s
Play
Timber - Pitbull, Kesha
Play
Unchained Melody - The Righteous Brothers
Play
I Wanna Hold Your Hand - The Beatles
Play
Just Dance - Lady Gaga
Play
Macarena - Los Del Rio
Play
Thriller - Michael Jackson
Play
Cotton Eye Joe - Rednex
Play
Dynamite - Taio Cruz
Play
Sexy And I Know It - LMFAO
Play
Wannabe - Spice Girls
Play
Believe - Cher
Play
Jai Ho! - A.R. Rahman, The Pussycat Dolls
Play
Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen
Play
Can’t Help Falling In Love - Hayley Reinhart
Play
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
Play
Last Friday Night - Katy Perry
Play
Light It Up - Major Lazer, Nyla, Fuse ODG
Play
I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Pees
Play
You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC
Play
Everything is AWESOME!!! - Tegan and Sara, The Lonely Islands
Play
What I Like About You - The Romantics
Play
You Are So Beautiful - Joe Cocker
Play
Dance To The Music - Sly & The Family Stone
Play
Marvin Gaye - Charlie Puth, Megan Trainor
Play
Funky Town - Lipstick Lovers
Play
Blue (Da Ba Dee) - Eiffel 65
Play
Party Rock Anthem - LMFAO
Play
Party Hard - Andrew W.K.
Play
Thunderstruck - AC/DC
Play
Times Like These - Foo Fighters
Play
Dream A Little Dream Of Me - The Mamas & Papas
Play
What Is Love - Haddaway
Play
Dancing With Myself - The Donnas
Play
Girls Just Want To Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
Play
U Can’t Touch This - MC Hammer
Play
All Of Me - John Legend
Play
YMCA - Village People
Play
Human Right - The Strike
Play
Mambo No.5 - Lou Bega
Play
Good Feeling - Violent Femmes
Play
You Spin Me Round - Dead Or Alive
Play
Coming Home - Leon Bridges
Play
Closing Time - Semisonic
Play
Don’t Stop Me Now - Queen
Play
Last Dance - Donna Summer
Play
Thrift Shop - Macklemore
Play
Reach - S Club 7
Play
I Want It That Way - Backstreet Boys
Play
All Rise - Blue
Play
Last Resort - Papa Roach
Play
Low - Flo Rider, T-Pain
Play
OMG - Usher, will.i.am
Play
Rapper’s Delight.- The Sugarhill Gang
Play
Tainted Love - Soft Cell
Play
Our House - Madness
Play
Move Your Feet - Junior Senior
Play
All Star - Smash Mouth
Play
That’s The Way (I Like It) - KC & The Sunshine Band
Play
Bad Touch - Bloodhound Gang
Play
Man! I Feel Like A Woman - shania Twain
Play
Push It - Salt-N-Pepa
Play
Don’t You (Forget About Me) - Simple Minds
Play
Lips Are Movin - Megan Trainor
Play
It’s Raining Me - The Weather Girls
Play
You Give Love A Bad Name - Bon Jovi
Play
Beautiful Day - U2
Play
99 Luftballons - Nena
Play
Love On Top - Beyonce
Play
Baggy Trousers - Madness
Play
Hot Room Service - Pitbull
Play
Best Fake Smile - James Bay
Play
Mad Love - Sean Paul, David Guetta
Play
I’ll Be There For You - The Rembrandts
Play
Despacito - Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee
Play
Return Of The Mack - Mark Morrison
Play
Wild Love - James Bay
Play
That’s What I Like - Bruno Mars
Play
Party In The U.S.A - Miley Cyrus
Play
Pink Lemonade - James Bay
Play
Closer - The Chainsmokers, Halsey
Play
You Make Me - Avicii
Play
I Need Your Love - Calvin Harris, Ellie Goulding
Play
Viva La Vida - Coldplay
Play
Somebody To Love - Justin Bieber
Play
Stay - Zedd, Alessia Cara
Play
One Thing - One Direction
Play
Electric Love - BORNS
Play
Love Machine - Girls Aloud
Play
Mama Do - Pixie Lott
Play
Roar - Katy Perry
Play
Starships - Nicki Minaj
Play
Dance With Me Tonight - Oli Murs
Play
Breakfast At Tiffany’s - Deep Blue Something
Play
Don’t You Worry Child - Swedish House Mafia
Play
Feel The Love - Rudimental
Play
Stay With Me - Sam Smith
Play
Save Tonight - Eagle Eyed Cherry
Play
Come Together - The Beatles
Play
Benny & The Jets - Elton John
Play
Ain’t Too Proud To Beg - The Temptations
Play
Livin’ For The City - Stevie Wonder
Play
1999 - Prince
Play
I Want To Break Free - Queen
Play
Waterfalls - TLC
Play
Baby One More Time - Britney Spears
Play
Ordinary People - John Legend
Play
Angels - Robbie Williams
Play
What’s My Age Again - Blink 182
Play
Make A Move On Me - Joey Negro
Play
Drops Of Jupiter - Train
Play
Love Yourself - Justin Bieber
Play
Don’t Stop Believing - Journey
Play
Sexual - Neiked
Play
Take Your Mamma - Scissor Sisters
Play
Let It Be - The Beatles
Play
Molly’s Chambers - Kings Of Leon
Play
Rebel Rebel - David Bowie
Play
The Rock Show - Blink 182
Play
Hold My Hand - Jess Glynne
Play
Heroes - David Bowie
Play
Basket Case - Green Day
Play
Can’t Get You Out Of My Head - Kylie
Play
Boom Shake The Room - Jazz Jeff & Fresh Prince
Play
Dance The Night Away - The Mavericks
Play
Don’t Call Me Baby - Madison Avenue
Play
Like A Virgin - Madonna
Play
Have I Told You Lately - Van Morrison
Play
Moving On Up - M People
Play
Jump Around - House Of Pain
Play
King Of My Castle - Wamdue Project
Play
Let Me Entertain You - Robbie Williams
Play
All About That Bass - Megan Trainor
Play
Born This Way - Lady Ga Ga
Play
Chandelier - Sia
Play
Counting Stars - One Republic
Play
Diamonds - Rihanna
Play
Don’t Stop The Party - Pitbull
Play
Flowers - Sweet Female Attitude
Play
Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars
Play
Let Her Go - Passenger
Play
Lola’s Theme - The Shapeshifters
Play
Lost Without You - Freya Ridings
Play
Lush Life - Zara Larrson
Play
Mr Saxobeat - Alexandra Stan
Play
More Than Friends - James Hype
Play
Ready For Your Love - Gorgon City
Play
Rude Boy - Rihanna
Play
Sax - Fleur East
Play
See You Again - Whiz Khalifa
Play
Senorita - Shaun Mendes & Camila Cabello
Play
Sway - Mucho Mambo
Play
Good Feeling - Flo-Rida
Play
This Is Me - The Greatest Showman
Play
This Girl - Kungs
Play
We Are Young - Fun
Play
Beggin - Madcon
Play
Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Play
Pump It - Black Eyed Peas
Play
Rock DJ - Robbie Williams
Play
Rule The World - Take That
Play
Whole Lotta Love - Led Zeppelin
Play
Purple Haze - Jimmy Hendrix
Play
Layla - Derek & The Dominos
Play
La Bamba - Los Lobos
Play
Hotel California - The Eagles
Play
Live & Let Die - Paul McCartney
Play
Ladies Night- Kool & The Gang
Play
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
Play
Zorba The Greek - John Murphy & David Hughes
Play
Another Brick In The Wall - Pink Floyd
Play
20th Century Boy - T-Rex
Play
Walk This Way - Aerosmith
Play
Walking In Memphis - Marc Cohn
Play
Sweet Dreams - Eurythmics
Play
One Step Beyond - Madness
Play
Should I Stay Or Should I Go - The Clash
Play
My Sharona - The Knack
Play
Karma Chameleon - Culture Club
Play
I Love Rock & Roll - Joan Jett
Play
Every Breath You Take - The Police
Play
If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know) - The 1975
Play
Addicted To Love - Robert Palmer
Play
Two Can Play That Game - Bobby Brown
Play
Long Train Running - The Doobie Brothers
Play
Get Back - The Beatles
Play
The Real Slim Shady - Eminem
Play
Ohh La La - The Faces
Play
Anywhere - Rita Ora
Play
Latch - Disclosure
Play
Ghost - Ella Henderson
Play
Real Love - Clean Bandit
Play
Sexy Back - Justin Timberlake
Play
Sing It Back - Moloko
Play
This Is What You Came For - Calvin Harris
Play
Waiting All Night - Rudimental
Play
Conga - Gloria Estefan
Play
Gimme All Your Loving - ZZ Top
Play
Rockabye - Clean Bandit
Play
Shake Your Body - Michael Jackson
Play
Vertigo - U2
Play
A Hard Days Night - The Beatles
Play
Baby It’s Love - Diana Ross
Play
It’s Not Unusual - Tom Jones
Play
Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag - James Brown
Play
Twistin’ The Night Away - Sam Cooke
Play
Moondance - Van Morrison
Play
Pick Up The Pieces - Average White Band
Play
Wanna Be Starting Something - Michael Jackson
Play
Ghostbusters Theme - Ray Parker, Jr.
Play
Like A Prayer - Madonna
Play
Cosmic Girl - Jamiroquai
Play
California Gurls - Katy Perry
Play
Passionfruit - Drake
Play
Good Times - CHIC
Play
Bootylicious - Destiny’s Child
Play
Ain’t No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
Play
Dancing Queen - ABBA
Play
Isn’t She Lovely - Stevie Wonder
Play
Rock The Casbah
Play

Modern Pop Party Playlist

All the hottest tracks and latest hits to guarantee a packed dance floor at your wedding reception. This electric playlist will leave you and all your guests feeling 'Good As Hell!'.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Taste - Sabrina Carpenter
Play
BIRDS OF A FEATHER - Billie Eilish
Play
Apple - Charli xcx
Play
I Can Do It With A Broken Heart - Taylor Swift
Play
Good Luck, Babe! - Chappell Roan
Play
we can't be friends (wait for your love) - Ariana Grande
Play
Training Season - Dua Lipa
Play
Lose Control - Teddy Swims
Play
360 - Charli xcx
Play
Stick Season - Noah Kahan
Play
Fortnight - - Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone
Play
Anti-Hero - Taylor Swift
Play
Please Please Please - Sabrina Carpenter
Play
Bed Chem - Sabrina Carpenter
Play
Beautiful Things - Benson Boone
Play
yes, and? - Ariana Grande
Play
LUNCH - Billie Eilish
Play
HOT TO GO! - Chappell Roan
Play
Talk talk - Charli xcx
Play
good 4 u - Olivia Rodrigo
Play
Unholy - Sam Smith
Play
i like the way you kiss me - Artemus
Play
Von dutch - Charli xcx
Play
exes - Tate McRae
Play
Cruel Summer - Taylor Swift
Play
Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Play
Houdini - Dua Lipa
Play
places to be - Fred again...
Play
drivers license - Olivia Rodrigo
Play
Kiss Me More - Doja Cat
Play
deja vu - Olivia Rodrigo
Play
As It Was - Harry Styles
Play
Dance The Night - Dua Lipa
Play
Paint The Town Red - Doja Cat
Play
Lil Boo Thang - Paul Russell
Play
Disconnect - Becky Hill, Chase & Status
Play
Greedy - Tate McRae
Play
Back On 74 - Jungle
Play
adore u - Fred again..
Play
Lifetime - SG Lewis
Play
Desire - Calvin Harris, Sam Smith
Play
Rush - Troye Sivan
Play
Flowers - Miley Cyrus
Play
Care For - Blossoms
Play
Light Switch - Charlie Puth
Play
Sam Ryder - Somebody
Play
I'm In Love With You - The 1975
Play
Make You Say - Zedd ft Maren Morris & Beauz
Play
Levitating - Dua Lipa
Play
Free Yourself - Jessie Ware
Play
Afraid To Feel - LF System
Play
Ferarri - James Hype
Play
About Damn Time - Lizzo
Play
Shivers - Ed Sheeran
Play
Remind Me - Tom Grennan
Play
Watermelon Sugar - Harry Styles
Play
Seventeen Going Under - Sam Fender
Play
Cuff It - Beyonce
Play
Wet Dream - Wetleg
Play
Can’t Stop The Feeling- Justin Timberlake
Play
Prisoner - Miley Cyrus
Play
abcdefu - GAYLE
Play
Blinding Lights - The Weeknd
Play
Numb - Marshmellow ft Khalid
Play
Nothing Breaks Like A Heart - Mark Ronson ft. Miley Cyrus
Play
Heaven On My Mind - Sigala ft. Becky Hill
Play
Physical - Dua Lipa
Play
Chaise Longue - Wetleg
Play
Dance Monkey - Tones & I
Play
Adore You - Harry Styles
Play
Bad Guy - Billie Eilish
Play
Promises - Sam Smith
Play
Getting Started - Sam Fender
Play
Talk - Khalid, Disclosure
Play
Ribbon Around The Bomb - Blossoms
Play
Easy - Troye Sivan, Musgraves, Mark Ronson
Play
Juice - Lizzo
Play
Don’t Start Now - Dua Lipa
Play
Skate - Silk Sonic
Play
Dancing With A Stranger - Sam Smith, Normani
Play
Only Human - Jonas Brothers
Play
Castle On The Hill - Ed Sheeran
Play
Good As Hell - Lizzo, Ariana Grande
Play
If I Can’t Have You - Shawn Mendes
Play
thank u, next - Ariana Grande
Play
Sweet but Pyscho - Ava Max
Play
You Need To Calm Down - Taylor Swift
Play
Be Sweet - Japanese Breakfast
Play
Rapture - Declan McKenna
Play
Circles - Post Malone
Play
Worth It - Beabadoobee
Play
Lost In Yesterday - Tame Impala
Play
Eat, Sleep, Wake (Nothing But You) - Bombay Bicycle Club
Play
The Key To Life On Earth - Declan McKenna
Play
Happiness In Liquid Form - Alfie Templeman
Play
Strangers - Sigrid
Play
Stay With Me - Calvin Harris ft Justin Timberlake, Halsey & Pharrell
Play
Havana - Camila Cabello
Play
Late Night Talking - Harry Styles
Play
The Middle - Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey
Play
Friends - Marshmellow, Anne-Marie
Play
no tears left to cry - Ariana Grande
Play
One Kiss - Dua Lipa, Calvin Harris
Play
17 - MK
Play
Lullaby - Sigala, Paloma Faith
Play
I’ll Be There - Jess Glynne
Play
Feel It Still - Portugal. The Man
Play
Shotgun - George Ezra
Play
IDGAF - Dua Lipa
Play
2002 - Anne Marie
Play
One Dance - Drake
Play
New Rules - Dua Lipa
Play
Better Now - Post Malone
Play
Finesse - Bruno Mars, Cardi B
Play
Solo - Clean Bandit, Demi Lovato
Play
This Is America - Childish Gambino
Play
Wolves - Selena Gomez, Marshmellow
Play
In My Blood - Shawn Mendes
Play
How Long - Charlie Puth
Play
Yummy - Justin Bieber
Play
Lover - Taylor Swift
Play
Heat Waves - Glass Animals
Play
Black Hole - Griff
Play
Little Bit Of Love - Tom Grennan
Play
Peaches - Justin Bieber
Play
Higher Power - Coldplay
Play
All You Ever Wanted - Rag’n’Bone Man
Play
Save Your Tears - The Weeknd
Play
My Head & My Heart - Ava Max
Play
The Business - Tiesto
Play
Take You Dancing - Jason Derulo
Play
Mother - Charlie Puth
Play
Sucker - Jonas Brothers
Play
Shallow - Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper
Play
Will We Talk? - Sam Fender
Play
Maybe You’re The Reason - The Japanese House
Play
Vanilla - Holly Humberstone
Play
Borderline - Tame Impala
Play
The Keeper - Blossoms
Play
Delete The Kisses - Wolf Alice
Play
Pure Pop - Blossoms
Play
Beautiful Faces - Declan McKenna
Play
I’ve Got A Girl - Flyte
Play
Before Sunrise - Gengahr
Play
Ride - Twenty One Pilots
Play
High Hopes - Panice! At The Disco
Play
Hard Times - Paramore
Play
One More - SG Lewis, Nile Rodgers
Play
Afterglow - Ed Sheeran
Play
34+35 - Ariana Grande
Play
Formidable Cool - Wolf Alice
Play
Come Out To LA - Don Bronco
Play
21st Century Vampire - LILHUDDY
Play
Once In A Lifetime - All Time Low
Play
Shy Away - Twenty One Pilots
Play
Hope - Arlo Parks
Play
Headphones Baby - The Vaccines
Play
Lost - Jake Bugg
Play
Kiss Me More - Doja Cat, SZA
Play
Don’t Threaten Me With A Good Time - Thomas Rhett
Play
Meant To Be - Bebe Rexha, Florida Georgia Line
Play
When The Tequila Runs Out - Dawes
Play
Read My Mind - Pansil
Play
Your Love (9PM) - ATB, Topic, A7S
Play
Back To You - Mike La Funk, Kelsey Gill
Play
Rasputin - Majestic, Boney M.
Play
Bed - Joel Corry, RAYE, David Guetta
Play
Summer 91 (Looking Back) - Noizu
Play
Rapture - Ben Rainey, Lewis Roper, Lauren Carter
Play
Friday - Riton, Nightcrawlers, Mufasa & Hypeman, Dopamine
Play
Now That We Found Love - Matt Samuels, Ridney, Errol Reid
Play
Piece Of Your Heart - Medusa
Play
Set Me Free - Oliver Heldens, Party Pupils, MAX
Play
No Time For Tears - Nathan Dawe, Little Mix
Play
Never Let Me Down - Gorgon City, Hayley May
Play
Excuses - MENTIS, Kate Wild
Play
So Sick - Freedo, DJ Katch
Play
Good Days Bad Days - Anna Straker, Gabrielle Aplin
Play
Straight To The Morning - Hot Chip, Dillion Francis, Jarvis Cocker
Play
Won’t Hold Back - Star.One
Play
Deeper - Leftwing : Kody, Darla Jade
Play
So Much Love - Owen Westlake, Lloyd Wade
Play
Sad Songs - Route 94, L Devine
Play
Lucky Me - The Knocks, Great Good Fine Ok
Play
Last Time - Becky Hill
Play
Satisfied - Billen Ted
Play
Dreams - THAT KIND
Play
Summer In Love - THAT KIND
Play
My House - Jodie Harsh
Play
Sweat - Anna Straker
Play
Free Again - DJ Zinc
Play
The Chant - Todd Edwards, Majestic
Play
Bad Company - Melvo Baptiste, Phebe Edwards
Play
One Night Only - Like Son
Play
Feels - Jax Jones
Play
By Your Side - Calvin Harris, Tom Grennan
Play
The Walls Are Way Too Thin - Holly Humberstone
Play
God Save This Queen - Bimini
Play
Get Back To Myself - Wynona
Play
Close To You - Dayglow
Play
Last Train Home - John Mayer
Play
American Dream - Baby Queen
Play
The Mersey Line - Pixey
Play
Head & Heart - Joel Corry, MNEK
Play
Leave The Door Open - Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic
Play

Motown and Soul Playlist

The ultimate Motown & Soul playlist to guarantee a full dance floor on the night of your wedding. From Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5 to Wilson Picket and Aretha Franklin, this timeless playlist will appeal to wedding guests of every age.

Experience these soul classics as they were meant to be heard - LIVE! head on over to our soul wedding bands section where you'll find a whole range of professional soul bands.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

We Are Family - Sister Sledge
Play
September - Earth, Wind & Fire
Play
Respect - Aretha Franklin
Play
I Got You (I Feel Good) - James Brown
Play
I Want You Back - The Jackson 5
Play
Super Freak - Rick James
Play
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) - Stevie Wonder
Play
My Girl - The Temptations
Play
I Say A Little Prayer - Aretha Franklin
Play
Dancing In The Streets - Martha Reeves
Play
Le Freak - Chic
Play
Superstition - Stevie Wonder
Play
Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye
Play
Hard To Handle - Ottis Redding
Play
Son Of A Preacher Man - Dusty Springfield
Play
Sir Duke – Stevie Wonder
Play
Heard It Through The Grapevine - Marvin Gaye
Play
Ain’t Nobody - Shaka Khan
Play
All Night Long - Lionel Richie
Play
Blame It On The Boogie - The Jackson 5
Play
Lollipop - The Chordettes
Play
Mr Sandman - The Chordettes
Play
Da Do Ron Ron - The Crystals
Play
Then He Kissed Me - The Crystals
Play
Be My Baby - The Ronettes
Play
Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow - The Shirelles
Play
Please Mr Postman - The Marvellettes
Play
Do You Love Me - The Contours
Play
One Fine Day - The Chiffons
Play
Dancing In The Street - Martha and The Vandellas
Play
Ain’t No Stopping Us Now – McFadden and Whitehead
Play
Brick House – The Commodores
Play
Car Wash – Rose Royce
Play
Celebration – Kool and The Gang
Play
Chain of Fools – Aretha Franklin
Play
Disco Inferno – The Trammps
Play
Everybody Dance – Chic
Play
Get Up Offa That Thing – James Brown
Play
Gimme Gimme Gimme – Abba
Play
Good Times – Chic
Play
Got To Be Real – Cheryl Lynn
Play
Higher Ground – Stevie Wonder
Play
Hold on I’m Coming – Sam & Dave
Play
I Got The Feelin’ – James Brown
Play
I Wish – Stevie Wonder
Play
I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross
Play
I’m Still Standing – Elton John
Play
Jungle Boogie – Kool and the Gang
Play
Lady Marmalade – Patti Labelle
Play
Lovely Day – Bill Withers
Play
Midnight Hour – Wilson Pickett
Play
Move On Up – Curtis Mayfield
Play
Move Your Feet – Junior Senior
Play
Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
Play
Play That Funky Music – Wild Cherry
Play
Relight My Fire – Dan Hartman
Play
Rockin’ Robin – Michael Jackson
Play
Somebody Else’s Guy – Jocelyn Brown
Play
Streetlife – Randy Crawford
Play
It’s Your Thing - The Isley Brothers
Play
Everlasting Love - Carl Carlton
Play
You Beat Me To The Punch - Mary Wells
Play
What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted - Jimmy Ruffin
Play
The Tracks Of My Tears - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Play
This Will Be An Everlasting Love - Natalie Cole
Play
(What A) Wonderful World - Sam Cooke
Play
(Love Is Like A) Heat Wave - Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
Play
Baby I Need Your Loving - Four Tops
Play
When A Man Loves A Woman - Percy Sledge
Play
Where Did Our Love Go - The Supremes
Play
Build Me Up Buttercup - The Foundations
Play
I Can’t Help Myself - Four Tops
Play
This Old Heart Of Mine - The Isley Brothers
Play
Baby Love - Supremes
Play
You Can’t Hurry Love - The Supremes
Play
Carwash - Rose Royce
Play
My Guy - Mary Wells
Play
Uptight (Everything’s Alright) - Stevie Wonder
Play
Ooo Baby Baby - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Play
Midnight Train To Georgia - Gladys Knight & The Pips
Play
Being With You - Smokey Robinson
Play
Under The Boardwalk - The Drifters
Play
La-La Means I Love You - The Delfonics
Play
Bring It On Home To Me - Sam Cooke
Play
These Arms Of Mine - Otis Redding
Play
Best Of My Love - The Emotions
Play
Me And Mrs Jones - Billy Paul
Play
Mama Said - The Shirelles
Play
One Fine Day - The Chiffons
Play
Stop! In The Name Of Love - The Supremes
Play
Rescue Me - Fontella Bass
Play
Jimmy Mack - Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
Play
Oh Girl - The Chi-Lites
Play
(Today I Met) The Boy I’m Gonna Marry - Darlene Love
Play
It’s In His Kiss - Betty Everett
Play
Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You - Frankie Valli
Play
Don’t Worry Baby - The Beach Boys
Play
Chapel Of Love - The Dixie Cups
Play
Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me - Mel Carter
Play
This Magic Moment - Jay & The Americans
Play
Two Lovers - Mary Wells
Play
B-A-B-Y - Carla Thomas
Play
I Only Want To Be With You - Dusty Springfield
Play
The Look Of Love - Dusty Springfield
Play
Why Do Fools Fall In Love - Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers
Play
Baby, I’m For Real - The Originals
Play
Calendar Girl - Neil Sedaka
Play
Let’s Twist Again - Chubby Checker
Play
You’ll Lose A Good Thing - Barbara Lynn
Play
Mr Lee - The Bobettes
Play
I’m Blue - The Ikettes
Play
My Baby Don’t Love Me No More - The DeJohn Sisters
Play
Think - Aretha Franklin
Play
The Shoop Shoop Song - Cher
Play
Keep Me Hanging On - The Supremes
Play
Money(That’s What I Want) - Barrett Strong
Play
Beyond The Sea - Bobby Darin
Play
Sugar Sugar - The Archies
Play
Earth Angel - The Penguins
Play
Jailhouse Rock - Elvis Presley
Play
These Boots Were Made For Walkin’ - Nancy Sinatra
Play
Land Of A 1000 Dances - Wilson Picket
Play
Shake A Tail Feather - Blues Bros (Ft Ray Charles)
Play
Love Really Hurts - Billy Ocean
Play
All Shook Up - Elvis Presley
Play
Leader Of The Pack - The Shangri Las
Play
I Got You Babe - Sonny and Cher
Play
River Deep Mountain High - Ike And Tina Turner
Play
Walking After Midnight - Patsy Cline
Play
Hound Dog - Elvis Presley
Play
Teenager In Love - Dion and The Belmonts
Play
Run Around Sue - The Firebirds
Play
Locomotion - Little Eva
Play
Candyman - Christina Aguilera
Play
The Boy Does Nothing - Alesha Dixon
Play
Tears Dry On Their Own - Amy Winehouse
Play
She Said - Plan B
Play
Mama Do - Pixie Lott
Play
Mercy - Duffy
Play

80s Wedding Playlist

The ultimate 80s cheese, pop and rock playlist for your evening wedding reception.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

You Make My Dreams - Daryl Hall & John Oates
Play
Let's Dance - David Bowie
Play
1999 - Prince
Play
You Can Call Me Al - Paul Simon
Play
I’m So Excited – Pointer Sisters
Play
Gold - Spandau Ballet
Play
I’m Your Man – Wham
Play
Relax – Frankie Goes To Hollywood
Play
Rio – Duran Duran
Play
Don’t You Want Me Baby – The Human League
Play
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes
Play
A Little Respect - Erasure
Play
I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Huston
Play
Never Gonna Give You Up – Rick Astley
Play
Message In A Bottle - The Police
Play
Easy Lover – Phil Collins and Phillip Bailey
Play
Maniac – Michael Sambello
Play
Take On Me – Aha
Play
Jump – Van Halen
Play
Eye Of The Tiger – Survivor
Play
The Final Countdown – Europe
Play
We Built This City – Starship
Play
Africa – TOTO
Play
Everybody Wants To Rule The World - Tears For Fears
Play
Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
Play
Beat It - Michael Jackson
Play
The Power Of Love – Huey Lewis & The News
Play
Dancing On The Ceiling – Lionel Richie
Play
Don’t Stop Believing – Journey
Play
Summer Of 69 – Bryan Adams
Play
Livin On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
Play
Sweet Child Of Mine – Guns ‘n’ Roses
Play
Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now - Starship
Play
Here I Go Again - Whitesnake
Play
Boys Of Summer - Don Henley
Play
With Or Without You - U2
Play
Only You - Yazoo
Play
Heart - Alone
Play
Right Here Waiting - Richard Marx
Play
The Voice - John Farnham
Play
Purple Rain - Prince
Play
Simply The Best - Tina Turner
Play
Ain’t Nobody - Chaka Khan
Play
Tainted Love – Soft Cell
Play
The Look Of Love – ABC
Play
Maneater – Hall & Oates
Play
Abracadabra – Steve Miller Band
Play
Club Tropicana – Wham
Play
Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins
Play
Footloose – Kenny Loggins
Play
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go – Wham
Play
Radio Ga Ga - Queen
Play
Don't You Forget About Me - Simple Minds
Play
Video Killed The Radio Star – The Buggles
Play
We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off – Jermaine Stewart
Play
Karma Chameleon – Culture Club
Play
Waiting For A Star To Fall – Boy Meets Girl
Play
Just Can’t Get Enough – Depeche Mode
Play

90s Dance / Britpop Playlist

The ultimate 90s Dance & Britpop wedding playlist.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Insomnia - Faithless
Play
Rhythm Of The Night – Corona
Play
Everybody’s Free – Rozalla
Play
U Sure Do - Strike
Play
Ride On Time – Black Box
Play
Get Ready For This – 2 Unlimited
Play
Dreamer – Livin Joy
Play
Red Alert – Basement Jaxx
Play
Around The World – Daft Punk
Play
What Is Love - Hadaway
Play
Baby Baby - Corona
Play
Finally – Ce Ce Peniston
Play
The Power – Snap!
Play
Set You Free – N Trance
Play
Mr. Vain – Culture Beat
Play
Rhythm Is A Dancer – Snap!
Play
Ain’t No Love Ain’t No Use – Sub Sub
Play
Freed From Desire - Gala
Play
Let Me Be Your Fantasy – Baby D
Play
Summertime – Fresh Prince
Play
Boom Boom Boom - Outhere Bros
Play
I Like To Move It– Reel 2 Real
Play
Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now) – C & C Music Factory
Play
Groove Is In The Heart – Dee Lite
Play
No Limits – 2 Unlimited
Play
On a Ragga Tip – SL2
Play
Show Me Love – Robin S
Play
Don’t Stop Moving – Livin Joy
Play
Children – Robert Miles
Play
Sandstorm - Darude
Play
Gangsta's Paradise - Coolio
Play
Where Love Lives - Alison Limerick
Play
Free - Ultra Nate
Play
Toca's Miracle - Fragma
Play
You're Not Alone - Olive
Play
Not Over Yet - Grace
Play
Sunshine After The Rain - Berri
Play
Moving Too Fast - Artful Dodger
Play
Flowers - Sweet Female Attitude
Play
Gotta Get Thru This - Daniel Bedingfield
Play
I'm Gonna Get You Baby - Bizarre Inc
Play
Born Slippy - Underworld
Play
Firestarter - Prodigy
Play
Out Of Space - Prodigy
Play
You've Got The Love - Candi Staton
Play
U R The Best Thing - D-Ream
Play
Everybody's Free - Rozalla
Play
Don't Call Me Baby - Madison Avenue
Play
Lady (Hear Me Tonight) - Modjo
Play
I Am The Resurrection - The Stone Roses
Play
Friday I'm In Love - The Cure
Play
Step On - Happy Mondays
Play
The Only One I Know - The Charlatans
Play
Unbelievable - EMF
Play
Relight My Fire - Take That
Play
Reach - S Club 7
Play
Spinning Around - Kylie
Play
Ray of Light - Madonna
Play
Everybody - Backstreet Boys
Play
Killer - Adamski Feat. Seal
Play
Missing - Everything But The Girl
Play
This Is How We Do It - Montell Jordan
Play
Two Can Play That Game - Bobby Brown
Play
Pump Up The Jam - Technotronic
Play
Groove is in the Heart - Deee-Lite
Play
Here Comes The Hotstepper - Ini Kamoze
Play
Morning Glory - Oasis
Play
Parklife - Blur
Play
Alright - Supergrass
Play
There She Goes - The La’s
Play
Common People - Pulp
Play
The Beautiful Ones - Suede
Play
Motorcycle Emptiness - Manic Street Preachers
Play
Ready To Go - Republica
Play
You’re Gorgeous - Babybird
Play
Disco 2000 - Pulp
Play
Linger - Cranberries
Play
Wake Up Boo! - The Boo Radleys
Play
Tubthumping - Chumbawamba
Play
Just - Radiohead
Play
A Little Less Conversation - Elvis Vs JXL
Play
If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next - Manic Street Preachers
Play
Stupid Girl - Garbage
Play
The Universal - Blur
Play
Supersonic - Oasis
Play
Girls And Boys - Blur
Play
Song 2 - Blur
Play
Creep - Radiohead
Play
Country House - Blur
Play
Dreams - The Cranberries
Play
A Design For Life - Manic Street Preachers
Play
High And Dry - Radiohead
Play
Love Spreads - The Stone Roses
Play
Trash - Suede
Play
Karma Police - Radiohead
Play
Coffee & TV - Blur
Play
Drop Dead Gorgeous - Republica
Play
Three Lions - Baddiel, Skinner & Lightning Seeds
Play
Lucky You - Lightning Seeds
Play
Why Does It Always Rain On Me - Travis
Play
Moving - Supergrass
Play
Something For The Weekend - The Divine Comedy
Play
Pumping On Your Stereo - Supergrass
Play
No Surprises - Radiohead
Play
Rotterdam (Or Anywhere) - The Beautiful South
Play
Kinky Afro - Happy Mondays
Play
I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing (In Perfect Harmony) - No Way Sis
Play
Delicious - Shampoo
Play
Perfect Lovesong - The Divine Comedy
Play
Brimful Of Asha - Cornershop
Play
Lifted - Lighthouse Family
Play
Rock ’n’ Roll Star - Oasis
Play
Live Forever - Oasis
Play
Beetlebum - Blur
Play
Good Enough - Dodgy
Play
Ain’t No Sunshine - Lighthouse Family
Play
Charmless Man - Blur
Play
Slide Away - Oasis
Play
Pure Morning - Placebo
Play
Writing To Reach You - Travis
Play
The Drugs Don’t Work - The Verve
Play
Perfect 10 - The Beautiful South
Play

Indie/Rock Wedding Playlist

Lovers of indie & rock music, this is the only playlist you'll need for a truly wild wedding reception! It's packed to the brim with outrageously addictive bands such as Arctic Monkeys, The Kooks, Bloc Party, The Killers.. the list goes on!

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Stay For Something - CMAT
Play
Sexy To Someone - Clairo
Play
Djo - End of Beginning
Play
Nothing Matters - The Last Dinner Party
Play
Cherry Blossom - Empire Of The Sun
Play
Gary - Blossoms
Play
Too Sweet - Hozier
Play
Cold Reactor - Everything, Everything
Play
Balu - Elbow
Play
2001 - Foals
Play
Mullholland's Dinner and Wine - Declan McKenna
Play
Add Up My Love - Clairo
Play
I'm In Love With You - The 1975
Play
Chaise Longue - Wet Leg
Play
Favourite - Fontaines D.C.
Play
Feminine Urge - The Last Dinner Party
Play
Don't Forget Me - Maggie Rogers
Play
Music On The Radio - Empire Of The Sun
Play
2am - Foals
Play
Greek Tragedy - The Wombats
Play
Nowhere To Run - Kings Of Leon
Play
The Steps - HAIM
Play
Sinner - The Last Dinner Party
Play
It's Not Living (If It's Not With You) - The 1975
Play
Eat, Sleep, Wake (Nothing But You) - Bombay Bicycle Club
Play
Pure Pop - Blossoms
Play
Turn - The Wombats
Play
Wet Dream - Wet Leg
Play
Starburster - Fontaines D.C.
Play
Love You For A Long Time - Maggie Rogers
Play
Be Sweet - Japanese Breakfast
Play
Rapture - Declan McKenna
Play
Good Blood Mexico City - Elbow
Play
The Kill - Maggie Rogers
Play
Seventeen Going Under - Sam Fender
Play
Don't Delete The Kisses - Wolf Alice
Play
Oysters In My Pocket - Royel Otis
Play
Maybe You're The Reason - The Japanese House
Play
Care For - Blossoms
Play
Summer Girl - HAIM
Play
Distant Past - Everything, Everything
Play
The Keeper - Blossoms
Play
Light On - Maggie Rogers
Play
Mustang - Kings Of Leon
Play
Changes - Empire Of The Sun
Play
The Last Man On Earth - Wolf Alice
Play
The Great Escape - The Lathums
Play
Spitting Off the Edge of the World - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Play
The Key To Life On Earth - Declan McKenna
Play
Your Girlfriend - Blossoms
Play
Spit Of You - Sam Fender
Play
Go With The Flow - Queens Of The Stoneage
Play
Shuffle - Bombay Bicycle Club
Play
Alaska - Maggie Rogers
Play
Lost In Yesterday - Tame Impala
Play
Fight On - The Lathums
Play
Elbow - Magnificent (She Says)
Play
Sofia - Clairo
Play
Smile - Wolf Alice
Play
Little Sister - Queens Of The Stoneage
Play
Psycho - Muse
Play
Now I'm In It - HAIM
Play
Centuries - Fall Out Boy
Play
Lights Out, Word Gone - Bombay Bicycle Club
Play
Dance, Dance - Fall Out Boy
Play
The Wire - HAIM
Play
How Can I Make It OK? - Wolf Alice
Play
Let It Happen - Tame Impala
Play
Uprising - Muse
Play
Make It Wit Chu - Queens Of The Stoneage
Play
Thnks fr th mrms - Fall Out Boy
Play
This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race - Fall Out Boy
Play
Want You Back - HAIM
Play
The Way You Used To - Queens Of The Stoneage
Play
Madness - Muse
Play
Mr Brightside - The Killers
Play
Sex Is On Fire - Kings Of Leon
Play
Don’t Look Back In Anger - Oasis
Play
Can’t Stop - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Play
The Less I Know The Better - Tame Impala
Play
Raw Thoughts - Baby Queen
Play
5000 Miles - BLOXX
Play
Impossible - Nothing But Thieves
Play
Naive - The Kooks
Play
Use Somebody - Kings of Leon
Play
Last Night - The Strokes
Play
Buck Rogers - Feeder
Play
Bucket - Kings of Leon
Play
Dreaming Of You - The Coral
Play
Lonely Boy - The Black Keys
Play
Somebody Told Me - The Killers
Play
American Idiot - Green Day
Play
Chelsea Dagger - The Fratellis
Play
I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor - Arctic Monkeys
Play
Banquet - Bloc Party
Play
I Predict A Riot - Kaiser Chiefs
Play
Fluorescent Adolescent - Arctic Monkeys
Play
She Moves In Her Own Way - The Kooks
Play
Fell In Love With A Girl - The White Stripes
Play
Pumped Up Kicks - Foster The People
Play
The Sound - 1975
Play
Kathleen - Catfish & The Bottlemen
Play
Don’t Look Back Into The Sun - The Libertines
Play
America - Razorlight
Play
What You Know - Two Door Cinema Club
Play
Ruby - Kaiser Chiefs
Play
Can’t Stand Me Now - The Libertines
Play
Men’s Needs - The Cribs
Play
When The Sun Goes Down - Arctic Monkeys
Play
Kids - MGMT
Play
Everyday I Love You Less And Less - Kaiser Chiefs
Play
Something Good Can Work - Two Door Cinema Club
Play
Hate To Say I Told You So - The Hives
Play
Feel Good Inc. - Gorillaz
Play
Figure It Out - Royal Blood
Play
Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
Play
The Pretender - Foo Fighters
Play
Little Talks - Of Monsters And Men
Play
Supermassive Black Hole - Muse
Play
Teenagers - My Chemical Romance
Play
In Too Deep - Sum 41
Play
A-Punk - Vampire Weekend
Play
Reptilia - The Strokes
Play
When You Were Young - The Strokes
Play
Hard To Beat - Hard-Fi
Play
Dakota - Stereophonics
Play
Fire - Kasabian
Play
Tighten Up - The Black Keys
Play
Sweet Disposition - The Temper Trap
Play
Misery Business - Paramore
Play
Heads Will Roll - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Play
Radioactive - Imagine Dragons
Play
Chocolate - 1975
Play
Walking On A Dream - Empire Of The Sun
Play
Lightning Bolt - Jake Bugg
Play
Fat Lip - Sum 41
Play
My Number - Foals
Play
No One Knows - Queens Of The Stone Age
Play
Let’s Dance To Joy Division - The Wombats
Play
Californication - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Play
Sugar, We’re Going Down - Fall Out Boy
Play
Mardy Bum - Arctic Monkeys
Play
Dani California - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Play
7 - Catfish & The Bottlemen
Play
Mountain At My Gates - Foals
Play
Numb - Linkin Park
Play
Smile Like You Mean It - The Killers
Play
Elephant - Tame Impala
Play
Human - The Killers
Play
In The End - Linkin Park
Play
Learn To Fly - Foo Fighters
Play
Holiday - Green Day
Play
It’s Not Living - 1975
Play
Starlight - Muse
Play
Power Over Men - Jamie T
Play
Monkey Wrench - Foo Fighters
Play
Boulevard Of Broken Dreams - Green Day
Play
Moving To New York - The Wombats
Play
Dog Days Are Over - Florence & The Machine
Play
Oxford Comma - Vampire Weekend
Play
If You Wanna - The Vaccines
Play
Feels Like We Only Go Backwards - Tame Impala
Play
Gay Bar - Electric Six
Play
The Middle - Jimmy Eat World
Play
Not Nineteen Forever - The Courteeners
Play
All My Friends Are Falling In Love - The Vaccines
Play
Someday - The Strokes
Play
In The Morning - Razorlight
Play
Soundcheck - Catfish & The Bottlemen
Play
T-Shirt Weather - Circa Waves
Play
Living For The Weekend - Hard-Fi
Play
Electric Feel - MGMT
Play
Two Doors Down - Mystery Jets
Play
Sweetness - Jimmy Eat World
Play
Charlemagne - Blossoms
Play
Brazil - Declan McKenna
Play
Bros - Wolf Alice
Play
We Have To Move On - Inhaler
Play
I Found Out - Pigeon Detectives
Play
Call Me Out - Sea Girls
Play
Honey Sweet - Blossoms
Play
Cheetah Tongue - The Wombats
Play
Boys That Sing - Viola Beach
Play
Cocoon - Catfish & The Bottlemen
Play
Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High - Arctic Monkeys
Play
Isombard - Declan McKenna
Play
This Is An Emergency - The Pigeon Detectives
Play
There’s A Reason Why - Blossoms
Play
Cheer Up Baby - Inhaler
Play
Hypersonic Missiles - Sam Fender
Play
Take Her Back - The Pigeon Detectives
Play
Snap Out Of It - Arctic Monkeys
Play
Helicopter - Bloc Party
Play
Pelican - The Maccabees
Play
Always Like This - Bombay Bicycle Club
Play
Distant Part - Everything Everything
Play
Our Velocity - Maximo Park
Play
Radar Detector - Darwin Deez
Play
Golden Skans - Klaxons
Play
Hounds Of Love - The Futureheads
Play
Same Jeans - The View
Play
We’ll Live And Die In There Towns - The Enemy
Play
Generator - The Holloways
Play
Deadwood - Dirty Pretty Things
Play
Send In The Boys - Milburn
Play
One Day Like This - Elbow
Play
Apply Some Pressure - Maximo Park
Play
It’s Not Over Yet - Klaxons
Play
The Beginning Of The Twist - The Futureheads
Play
Delivery - Baby Shambles
Play
In The Morning - The Corals
Play
Valerie - The Zutons
Play
Black & White Town - Doves
Play
Grounds For Divorce - Elbow
Play
Hysteria - Muse
Play

Country Music Playlist

Strap on those cowboy boots and swing your partner to and fro because this is the ultimate playlist for a line or slow dance during your wedding reception. From Morgan Wallen to Dolly Parton, you'll have a hootenanny with this selection!

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Achy Breaky Heart - Billy Ray Cyrus
Play
A Bar Song (Tipsy) - Shaboozey
Play
American Kids - Kenny Chesney
Play
Austin (Boots Stop Workin’) - Dasha
Play
Automatic - Miranda Lambert
Play
Beer Can’t Fix - Thomas Rhett
Play
Beer for My Horses - Willie Nelson
Play
Beer Never Broke My Heart - Luke Combs
Play
Better In Yellow - Ferris & Sylvester
Play
Better Man - Little Big Town
Play
Boys ‘Round Here - Blake Shelton
Play
Butterflies - Kacey Musgraves
Play
Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band
Play
Check Yes Or No - George Strait
Play
Chattahoochee - Alan Jackson
Play
Cruise - Florida Georgia Line
Play
Daddy’s Little Girl - The Shires
Play
Destination - Nickel Creek
Play
Devil I’ve Been - Post Malone
Play
Die A Happy Man - Thomas Rhett
Play
Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home) - Miranda Lambert
Play
Finer Things - Post Malone
Play
Forever and Ever, Amen - Randy Travis
Play
Girl Crush - Little Big Town
Play
God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton
Play
God’s Country - Blake Shelton
Play
Have The Heart - Post Malone
Play
Highway Don’t Care - Tim McGraw
Play
Highwayman - Willie Nelson
Play
Hurricane - Luke Combs
Play
I Could Use A Love Song - Maren Morris
Play
I Had Some Help - Post Malone
Play
I Hope - Gabby Barrett
Play
I Just Wanna Love You - The Shires
Play
I Like It, I Love It - Tim McGraw
Play
I Remember Everything - Zach Bryan
Play
It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere - Alan Jackson
Play
Jolene - Dolly Parton
Play
Jim and Jack and Hank - Alan Jackson
Play
Knee Deep - Zac Brown Band
Play
Last Night - Morgan Wallen
Play
Life Is A Highway - Rascal Flatts
Play
Little White Church - Little Big Town
Play
Live Like You Were Dying - Tim McGraw
Play
Look What God Gave Her - Thomas Rhett
Play
Lost In California - Little Big Town
Play
Man! I Feel Like A Woman! - Shania Twain
Play
Man Made A Bar - Morgan Wallen
Play
Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow up to Be Cowboys - Willie Nelson
Play
Meant To Be - Bebe Rexha ft. Florida Georgia Line
Play
Millionaire - Chris Stapleton
Play
My Church - Maren Morris
Play
My Opening Farewell - Alison Krauss & Union Station
Play
Nosedive - Post Malone
Play
Need You Now - Lady A
Play
Oh, Pretty Woman - Roy Orbison
Play
Old Town Road - Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
Play
On the Road Again - Willie Nelson
Play
Paper Airplane - Alison Krauss & Union Station
Play
Play It Again - Luke Bryan
Play
Pour Me A Drink - Post Malone
Play
Pontoon - Little Big Town
Play
Red Solo Cup - Toby Keith
Play
Rich - Maren Morris
Play
Ring Of Fire - Johnny Cash
Play
Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die - Emmylou Harris
Play
She’s Everything - Brad Paisley
Play
Shall We Gather At The River - Johnny Cash
Play
Should’ve Been A Cowboy - Toby Keith
Play
Something Like That - Tim McGraw
Play
Springsteen - Eric Church
Play
Tennessee Orange - Megan Moroney
Play
Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton
Play
Texas Holdem’ - Beyoncé
Play
Tequila - Dan + Shay
Play
That Don’t Impress Me Much - Shania Twain
Play
That’s My Kind Of Night - Luke Bryan
Play
The Bones - Maren Morris
Play
The Gambler - Kenny Rogers
Play
The Meadow - Nickel Creek
Play
The Middle - Maren Morris
Play
This Is How We Roll - Florida Georgia Line
Play
This Kiss - Faith Hill
Play
Toes - Zac Brown Band
Play
When It Rains It Pours - Luke Combs
Play
When You Come Back Down - Nickel Creek
Play
When You Say Nothing At All - Alison Krauss & Union Station
Play
Whiskey Glasses - Morgan Wallen
Play
Whiskey River - Willie Nelson
Play
Whiskey Lullaby - Brad Paisley, Alison Krauss
Play
You Got It - Roy Orbison
Play
You Look Like You Love Me - Ella Langley
Play
You Should Probably Leave - Chris Stapleton
Play
You’re Still The One - Shania Twain
Play

How to create the perfect wedding reception playlist

Creating a wedding playlist is no easy task. That's what wedding DJs are for after all. But if you're taking the reigns, here are some top tips to follow to ensure the dance floor never empties.

1. Start strong and take no prisoners. When the first dance song has finished, you'll need to kick straight in with a handful of tried and tested, upbeat wedding songs to ensure there are no early-deserters.
2. Save a handful of power-tunes to pick things up if you notice a temporary lull in the atmosphere.
3. Mix things up with contemporary songs but save any club/dance/house songs until later on in the evening.
4. Consider your specific audience and tailor your wedding party playlist to suit everyone (including yourself!). Variety is the key.
5. Don't worry too much about keeping it uber-cool; it is a wedding party after all and fun is the name of the game. There's absolutely no shame in throwing in the odd cheesetastic party song.

Need help with the rest of your wedding music?

Looking for help with the rest of your wedding reception songs? Head over to our wedding songs section where you'll find everything from first dance wedding songs to last dance songs.

Wedding Song Finder: Wedding Music for Every Moment

2024-12-05T10:35:38+00:00

Wedding Song Finder is the easiest way to find the biggest and best wedding songs for your big day. Use the dropdown menus and tags to filter by style, decade and genre to find exactly what you're looking for.

Our database has been curated by the experienced staff at Bands For Hire and features a huge selection of music to cover the bridal entrance, signing of the registers, recessional, drinks reception, first dance, and more. So, whether you're searching for romantic ceremony music or a classic end-of-the-night sing-along, you're in the right place.

Beautiful Things - Benson Boone
Release Date: 2023
PopFirst Dance
Fathers & Daughters - Michael Bolton
Release Date: 2015
PopBalladFather and Daughter
Yours - Post Malone
Release Date: 2024
CountryPopFather and Daughter
Hey Jude - The Beatles
Release Date: 1968
RockClassic RockLast Dance
Perfect - Ed Sheeran
Release Date: 2017
PopFirst DanceFather and DaughterCeremonyRecessionalBridal Entrance
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
Release Date: 1975
RockClassic RockLast Dance
Lose Control - Teddy Swims
Release Date: 2023
SoulR&BFirst Dance
Ain't That Love - Ray Charles
Release Date: 1956
JazzBluesFather and Daughter
Canon In D - Johann Pachelbel
Release Date: 1680
ClassicalCeremonyBridal Entrance
Too Sweet - Hozier
Release Date: 2023
AlternativeFirst Dance
Bridal Chorus - Richard Wagner
Release Date: 1850
ClassicalCeremonyBridal Entrance
Champagne Supernova - Oasis
Release Date: 1995
RockAlternativeLast Dance
Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
Release Date: 2024
PopR&BFirst Dance
You Can't Always Get What You Want - The Rolling Stones
Release Date: 1969
RockClassic RockLast Dance
Ballerina Girl - Lionel Richie
Release Date: 1986
PopR&BFather and Daughter
Heaven - Niall Horan
Release Date: 2023
PopFirst Dance
BIRDS OF A FEATHER - Billie Eilish
Release Date: 2024
AlternativePopFirst DanceCeremonyRecessional
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
Release Date: 1977
ReggaeFather and Daughter
American Pie - Don McLean
Release Date: 1971
RockFolkLast Dance
Better Half of Me - Tom Walker
Release Date: 2019
PopFirst DanceCeremony
End Of Beginning - Djo
Release Date: 2024
IndieAlternativeFirst Dance
Die With A Smile - Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars
Release Date: 2024
PopR&BFirst DanceCeremony
Constellations - Jack Johnson
Release Date: 2005
FolkFather and Daughter
Water - Tyla
Release Date: 2023
PopDanceFirst Dance
Free Bird - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Release Date: 1973
RockLast Dance
All of Me - John Legend
Release Date: 2013
R&BPopFirst DanceFirst DanceLast DanceCeremonyBridal Entrance
The Night We Met - Lord Huron
Release Date: 2024
IndieFolkFirst DanceCeremonyBridal Entrance
Wedding March - Felix Mendelssohn
Release Date: 1842
ClassicalCeremonyBridal EntranceSigning the Register
Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That) - Meatloaf
Release Date: 1993
RockBalladLast Dance
I Had Some Help - Post Malone, Morgan Wallen
Release Date: 2024
CountryHip-HopFirst Dance
Forever Young - Bob Dylan
Release Date: 1974
RockFolkFather and Daughter
Never Forget - Take That
Release Date: 1995
PopLast Dance
This Will Be Our Year - The Teskey Brothers
Release Date: 2022
BluesSoulFirst Dance
Stick Season - Noah Kahan
Release Date: 2024
FolkIndieCeremonyBridal EntranceSigning the RegisterRecessional
Fathers & Daughters - Paul Simon
Release Date: 2006
FolkPopFather and Daughter
Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond
Release Date: 1969
PopRockLast Dance
A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
Release Date: 2011
PopFirst DanceCeremonyBridal EntranceCeremonySigning the Register
Run - Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) - Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version)
Release Date: 2021
PopRecessionalCeremony
My Way - Frank Sinatra
Release Date: 1969
JazzPopLast Dance
Now & Then - The Beatles
Release Date: 2023
RockClassic RockFirst Dance

The Complete Saxophonist Booking Guide for 2025: Tips, Costs and FAQs

2023-02-15T16:09:42+00:00

Whilst always a familiar presence on the live music scene, the saxophone has recently seen a huge surge in popularity. From solo wedding saxophonists and DJ Sax combos to more traditional jazz-based groups, the versatility of the instrument has given it wide-spread appeal across a multitude of genres.

In our booking guide, we'll explore all facets of hiring a saxophone player, including typical costs, on-the-day requirements, popular sax songs, and frequently asked questions.

If you're already set on hiring a sax player and are ready to start browsing, head over to our saxophonists page, where you'll discover a variety of professional musicians across the UK.

Types of Sax Players:

Sax music can mean different things to different people, so it's important to determine what kind of sax player you're after. That way, you can find a performer who matches your specific needs and preferences.

Whether you're looking for a wedding saxophonist for your ceremony or laid-back Ibiza vibes for a stylish corporate event, most professional sax players can turn their hand to just about any genre. Below are some of the most popular types of performances on offer:

Ibiza Style Sax:

An Ibiza-style saxophonist is perfect for a wide array of events, easily switching from laid-back Café del Mar vibes to contemporary dance floor bangers.

This type of performance usually features electronic dance music with the saxophonist playing over the top, creating a distinct sound that's sure to add a chic and unique soundtrack to your event.

{vid id="CX4ZiEzen1I" name="Café del Sax" url="hire-a-dj/item/583-cafe-del-sax"}

Wedding Sax Players:

A wedding sax player offers a range of performance styles to cater to every part of your wedding day. From solo instrumental pieces during the ceremony, to afternoon drinks receptions, to getting everyone on the dance floor during the evening party, a wedding saxophonist will help to create an unforgettable atmosphere for your special day.

{vid id="DVAPbdR-clE" name="DC Sax" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/606-dc-sax"}

Sax DJ:

A Sax DJ, also known as a DJ saxophonist or sax and DJ combo, combines the talents of a saxophonist with those of a DJ to create a performance that's both exciting and visually appealing. This type of performance features a DJ playing a selection of tracks with a saxophonist improvising the melody, creating a sound that's perfect for dancing the night away at a party, wedding or nightclub.

{vid id="RRchldLXz7o" name="Kingdom DJ Live" url="hire-a-dj/item/581-kingdom-dj-live"}

Jazz Saxophone:

Jazz saxophonists are often associated with the classic sounds of the 1920s and 1930s, making them ideal for a sophisticated cocktail hour, corporate reception or dinner music.

Whether performing to backing tracks or working alongside instrumentalists such as a pianist or guitarist, a jazz saxophonist will cover an extensive repertoire of jazz standards to complement your event.

{vid id="7Z2UhCLW6V0" name="Jose - Saxophonist" url="solo-musicians-and-duos/item/441-jose-saxophonist"}

How much does a Sax player cost to hire?

As with all musicians, the price of a sax player varies considerably depending on several factors. At Bands For Hire, our sax players charge between £260 and £595 for a local event in their area.

What Affects the Price of a Sax Player?

In this section, we'll explore some of the key considerations that affect the cost of hiring a professional sax player. From the experience of the musician to travel expenses and seasonal pricing, we'll provide insights to help you understand how saxophonists price their services and how to plan accordingly to get the best value for your money.

1. Experience of the Saxophonist

The experience of a sax player is a key factor that will undoubtedly affect the cost of their services. Experienced saxophonists with a strong reputation, trusted reviews, and a long track record will usually charge more than newcomers to the industry.

An experienced saxophonist will have a better understanding of how to read the crowd and create a performance that fits the specific needs of your event. They'll be able to improvise confidently, adapt to different musical styles, and work seamlessly with other musicians or DJs if required.

And last but not least, an experienced saxophonist will have worked on their stage presence and feel at ease performing in front of a live audience. All these factors combined mean that you might have to pay a little more to book an experienced sax player, but the impact and quality of their performance is worth the investment.

2. Seasonal Prices

When planning your event, remember that the day of the week and the time of year will almost certainly affect your budget. For example, if you're planning an event during the summer months, you may find that prices are higher for weekend performances than for weekday events. On the other hand, if you're open to an off-season performance, such as during the winter months, you might be able to secure a great deal.

3. Travel Expenses

If you're working on a budget, it's a good idea to search for sax players based in your local area. With the recent rise in fuel costs, many musicians are experiencing an increase in expenses and need to consider this when quoting.

If a sax player is travelling to your event, they may also need to consider the time spent driving to and from your venue. This could impact the total cost of their services, so it's worth discussing any potential travel expenses with the musician before finalising your booking.

4. Performance Times

It goes without saying that the longer your sax player performs, the higher the price. Most sax players offer a variety of options to accommodate your event's schedule, but their base rate usually includes two sets of 45 to 60 minutes.

Similarly, the time spent at the venue will also affect the overall price. If a sax player is required to arrive more than an hour before their performance or stay longer than the standard booking time, they'll need to charge a fee to cover their time.

What Music do Solo Sax Players Play?

With its unmistakable sound, the saxophone has become a staple of the music scene across a range of genres. Long gone are the days when the sax was solely associated with jazz. Today, the sax can be heard in classical compositions, pop hits, funk jams, soulful ballads, and even club anthems. Whether you're looking for smooth jazz, soulful funk, or upbeat pop, a skilled saxophonist can provide the perfect accompaniment to your event.

When booking a saxophonist, it's a good idea to check out their setlist to get a better sense of their musical range, and whether their style aligns with the vibe you're looking for.

Check out some of our favourites below to get an idea of the type of music you might hear at your event. From soaring solos to soulful riffs, the sax has got it all!

Jubel - Klingande
Play
Mr. Saxobeat - Alexandra Stan
Play
Baker Street - Gerry Rafferty (Bassmonkeys Remix)
Play
Changes - Faul & Wad Ad vs. Pnau
Play
Take Five - Dave Brubeck
Play
Man With the Red Face - Mark Knight & Funkagenda
Play
Lullaby - Sigala, Paloma Faith
Play

What Equipment Do Saxophonists Provide?

In addition to their instrument, most saxophonists come equipped with a small PA system to amplify their sound, ensuring that the sound of the sax is well-balanced with the DJ or backing tracks. The PA system can also provide a touch of reverb or delay to create a more ambient sound and add depth to the performance.

Remember that the specific equipment and gear a sax player brings can vary depending on the musician and the event requirements.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Sax Player?

If you're planning to add some sultry saxophone sounds to your upcoming event, you better act fast! The best sax players are often in high demand and can be booked out months in advance, particularly during the peak season.

To make sure you snag the perfect saxophonist for your event, it's recommended to start your search at least 12-18 months before the big day. This will give you enough time to explore various options, weigh-up costs, and secure the ideal artist for your needs.

However, if you're a little late to the table, don't despair. It's worth reaching out to musicians to check availability, even at short notice. You may find a sax player willing and able to take on your event, particularly if it's during an off-peak period or if they happen to have a gap in their schedule.

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How much space does a saxophonist need to perform?

A solo saxophonist will typically only need a small corner of a room to set up, usually in the region of 2 x 2 meters. One benefit of hiring a sax player is their ability to roam free across the dance floor, creating a more intimate and engaging performance for guests.

Can a saxophonist take song requests?

Most sax players are extremely versatile and relish the opportunity to show off their ability to improvise on the fly, while others prefer to stick to a predefined setlist.

If you have song requests prior to the day, it's always best to run them past your musician so they can prepare in advance.

Can a saxophonist play outdoors?

Sax players are usually more than happy to take their performance outside. You'll need to ensure that you can accommodate any requirements they may have, including a suitable power supply and provisions for wet weather.

Ready to book a Sax player?

Now that you're fully up to date on the ins and outs of hiring a sax player, it's time to start your search.

Head over to our sax player section, where you'll find an extensive roster of wedding saxophonists, Sax/DJs, jazz duos and wedding bands featuring sax. Once you've found an act you're interested in, drop us an email through the contact form and we'll come back to you with a quote.

Top 10 Wedding Breakfast Entertainment Ideas

2022-09-09T09:30:22+01:00

We've gathered ten of our favourite wedding entertainment ideas, including something original to match the timbre of all your wildest wedding themes. From small musical ensembles to DIY diversions, your guests won't have time to get bored on your big day.

Read on to discover these dynamic wedding breakfast ideas so you can book early and ensure your celebration goes off without a hitch.

1. Surprise Them With Singing Waiters

Do you remember flash mobs? They were the hit of the early aughts, in which groups of undercover performers would burst into song and dance in a public location, surprising anyone in the vicinity. You can harness the power of surprise by including a few sneaky singing waiters among your reception staff.

The shock of a sudden, unexpected performance makes this option a memorable spectacle that guests will be talking about long after the event is over. It's a funny, joyful, disorienting experience. Our singing waiters only consists of professional performers, so they'll put on a great show.

{vid id="GCJNVEpjp9s" name="Undercover Singers" url="classical-musicians/item/127-waiters-undercover"}

2. Wow Them With Table Magic

Just as there are many genres of music, there are also several genres of magic. While you may only be familiar with large-prop spectacle, such as a top-hat-wearing showman sawing a woman in half, many magic professionals work on a smaller scale. These roving table magicians will perform close-up magic that will shock and amaze your attendees.

You can bring in one wedding magician (or a few) to visit each table and create some wow-worthy moments. Their repertoire can range from card tricks to comedy to animal illusions. It's an unexpected way to add a sense of wonder to your event.

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3. Set the Tone With a Wedding Pianist

A wedding pianist is a versatile performer who can singlehandedly set the tone of your event just by sitting down and striking the keys. You can use a pianist throughout your event, not just during the wedding breakfast. Many couples book a piano player to entertain guests during arrival, play the wedding ceremony, and even provide classy wedding music.

A wedding pianist will ensure the room is never silent, especially if you're hosting a chatty crowd. This gentle ambience helps make guests feel more comfortable talking and mingling. Those who'd rather sit quietly can enjoy the performance, which will be entertaining in its own right!

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4. Add Some Pizzaz With a Jazz Band

While a pianist is fine if you want the buzz of conversation to predominate, there's nothing like jazz to inspire the sound of tapping feet! The ensemble you hire for your wedding breakfast entertainment doesn't need to be your primary wedding band. Many couples hire a small jazz ensemble to liven things up and get the crowd moving as they prepare to dig into the big meal.

You can expect dancing, mingling, and singing along to the standards once the jazz band takes the stage. These performers will keep spirits and energy high and propel everyone through the event without a pause. Even a jazz soloist can help keep things lively while the masses await their meal.

{vid id="N6wnVCOF6oo" name="Caravan Trio" url="jazz-swing/item/558-caravan-trio"}

5. Keep Little Hands Busy

While adult guests enjoy live musical performances and table chat, young attendees need something more structured to keep them happy. That's why we always recommend providing young wedding guests with a table setting or gift bag full of colouring supplies and activities. These can be available on a dedicated children's table or even used as a child's table number or place setting.

Remember, even your youngest guests will be wearing their finest party clothes, so it's best to keep materials simple and clean. Crayons are a washable hit. For something novel, you might consider adding a set of watercolour paints or a mess-free magic ink set.

6. Add a Touch of Class With a String Quartet

If you've dreamed of a fairytale wedding, the right music can help you create a classy, cultured vibe with little effort. Many brides feel like royalty when the sound of a gifted string quartet is playing in the background. Your guests will imagine they're attending a palace banquet when the string musicians play for them as they await their wedding breakfast.

If you're operating with a smaller budget or in a smaller venue, consider a string trio or duo for your wedding breakfast guest entertainment. There's no need to limit yourself to classical music, either. Many quartets have an extensive repertoire, including pop favourites taken from the charts.

{vid id="0IfdIuwKRsY" name="Olympia Ensemble" url="classical-musicians/item/476-olympia-ensemble"}

7. Start the Conversation With Wedding Favours

Never underestimate your guest's ability to entertain themselves! After sitting through the wedding ceremony, they'll be eager to talk and engage with others. A carefully placed conversation starter can help smooth the process and keep everyone occupied.

For example, offer an interactive wedding favour, such as a table game or deck of cards. Few guests can resist a fun brain teaser or puzzle activity. Before long, they'll be challenging each other and flitting from table to table to ask about solutions and strategies.

You could do something similar by providing a conversation piece or two for guests to discuss. For example, include a poster featuring photos from your relationship and invite guests to guess the year each was taken. You might even offer prizes for the guest who guesses the most correctly.

8. Create a Chill Vibe With an Acoustic Singer

While wedding singers perform in numerous genres, an acoustic singer can help set a relaxed tone and keep every guest in a positive headspace. You can help create the set list or leave it in the capable hands of your musician.

Ultimately, your musician's playlist can be as eclectic as you wish. Our professional guitarists and singers run the gamut from pop aficionados to folk legends. Guests will adore singing along to the intimate concert before they tuck into the long-awaited feast.

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9. Occupy Guests With Simple Crafts

Guests love to help you create lovely keepsakes from your big day. You can keep them busy and collect precious memories by preparing an interactive craft. Invite your friends and loved ones to contribute to a simple woven tapestry, add a thumbprint to a guest book, or add a wish to your wishing tree.

This activity will get everyone up and moving and provide novel entertainment during the wait. Of course, most of these tasks are quick, so we recommend hiring a musician or two to ensure everyone remains occupied before and after participating.

10. Make Art the Star With a Live Painter

A recent trend in wedding entertainment is hiring a live painter to create an oil or acrylic painting of your venue on your wedding day. It often takes these skilled artists hours to render the setting in full colour. Watching these professionals work can be fascinating, and many guests love to stand nearby and observe as artists work their magic.

Many wedding painters are also keen to hand over the brush and allow guests to contribute. These communal artworks are even more special once you know that your friends and loved ones have contributed their hands to the masterpiece. Guests will have a brilliant time, and you'll end the celebration with a stunning piece of art that you'll cherish forever.

Don't Sleep on Wedding Breakfast Entertainment

While a wedding should be a party for the bride and groom, they sometimes become too busy to enjoy it! A little forethought can ensure the guests stay occupied and satisfied, even if the newlyweds get tied up on the big day. Booking wedding breakfast entertainment will keep the celebration streamlined, so there won't be a dull moment.

The fun begins when you book your preferred musical act. Our bands book up quickly, so we recommend reaching out today to enquire about dates and rates. We can't wait to help you create the soundtrack for the most important day of your life.

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The Complete Orchestra Booking Guide for 2025: Tips, Costs & FAQs

2024-02-14T11:56:24+00:00

"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it." - Halford E. Luccock

From grand concert halls to elaborate weddings, a live orchestra promises to create a unique musical experience at a wide range of events. Such a broad range of musicians, each adding their unique timbre to the musical pot, provides a rich texture of sound beyond that of any other musical act.

If you're hoping to create an unforgettable atmosphere at your event, trust us when we say hiring an orchestra is the ultimate statement. Exuding sophistication, grandeur and opulence, an orchestra is the perfect centrepiece for your special occasion.

Hiring an orchestra is simple, but you'll need to answer a few essential questions before doing so. With this in mind, we've created this easy-to-follow booking guide for hiring an orchestra.

Book Stardust Orchestra

Looking to hire an orchestra for your event? Contact us for a quote

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How large is an orchestra?

The size of an orchestra varies from 10-40 musicians, also known as a chamber orchestra, to 80-100 musicians, also known as a symphony orchestra.

Take a look at Stardust Orchestra performing 'Eternal Flame' as a perfect example of what a chamber orchestra sounds like.

{vid id="dpGEcyAN3JU" name="Stardust Orchestra" url="classical-musicians/item/883-stardust-orchestra"}

What size orchestra do I require for my event?

To find out the size of orchestra required for your event, you'll need to answer the following questions:

How big is your venue?
How many guests will be attending the event?
What sort of music are you hoping to have performed?
What kind of musical impact are you hoping to achieve?
What is your budget?

The size of your venue and budget will determine how many musicians you can hire. Once you have this number, you can begin to understand the type of musical impact and song choice your orchestra can provide.

For example, playing 'Can't Help Falling In Love' as you walk down the aisle would work well with just strings, but the 'Concerning Hobbit' (and other film scores) would work better with a larger orchestra.

How much does it cost to hire an orchestra?

A small chamber orchestra of 15 musicians is around £3000 - 6000, whereas a symphony orchestra of 50 players is between £15,000 - 25,000, depending on the calibre of orchestra booked.

The total quote will include more than just the musicians' fees, so please take a look at the basic breakdown of costs below:

Between £150-£300 per musician per hour
Over £200 per hour for the conductor's expertise
Administrative fees (£1000-2000) encompassing music rental, larger instrument hire (grand piano, harp, etc.), rehearsal space, transport of equipment
Extra charges for custom musical arrangements
Travel expenses for the orchestra
Technical setup, including microphones and sound systems

What type of events does an orchestra perform at?

In all honesty, the list is never-ending, and this is partially due to how versatile orchestras can be.

From grand weddings to corporate award ceremonies and elaborate proposals to launch events, the musical experience an orchestra can provide is powerful and unforgettable.

A symphony orchestra is commonly hired for a performance or concert, whether for a corporate or private event or a showcase. Hiring an orchestra for a recording session is also popular.

A chamber orchestra is better suited to smaller events that still want the impact of an orchestra but don't have the space or budget for a more extensive lineup.

What type of performance does an orchestra provide?

An orchestra can tailor its sound and performance style depending on the brief you provide them with. Please see some examples of the types of performances they offer below:

Background music - ideal for a drinks reception, private dinner or social event to create a musical backdrop without overpowering the occasion.

Concert or headliner - perfect for putting on a spectacular show for a charity, corporate or private event to entertain guests for a sitdown show.

Ballroom dancing - for a memorable experience, an orchestra can provide music for guests to dance to, such as traditional waltzes or popular songs. A Bridgerton-style ballroom dance accompanied by a live orchestra performing classical takes on modern hits is a sure-fire winner!

How long does an orchestra take to set up?

A chamber orchestra can take 45-60 minutes to set up, whereas a symphony orchestra will likely take 1-2 hours.

A smaller group of musicians will require less time to tune up their instruments and will not necessarily require a PA system for their performance.

Meanwhile, a larger orchestra may require a PA system to play through for a concert or ballroom dance. In this case, they'll require a more extended sound check to ensure everyone's levels are satisfactory before performing.

How much space does an orchestra require?

As a general rule of thumb, the recommended guideline for space is 1.5 square metres per musician.

However, the instrumentation of your chosen orchestra will need to be considered, i.e. a grand piano is approximately 1.5m x 3m.

Below is an approximation of the space required for different types of orchestras:

10-15 piece orchestra - 4 x 6m or 24 square metres
30 -40 piece orchestra - 5 x 9m or 45 square metres
70 - 80 piece orchestra - 12 x 12m or 144 square metres

What equipment does an orchestra provide?

Most orchestras will provide equipment, including instruments, music stands, and a PA system if required.

However, it's worth assuming this may not always be the case, so here is a handy checklist to run past them before booking:

How many armless chairs do you require?
Do you require music stands for each musician?
Do you need a PA system? If so, will you provide one?
Do you require power outlets? If so, how many?
Will you arrange to hire and deliver larger instruments, such as a grand piano or harp?
Do you require a conductor's podium?

Luckily, you'll be able to direct these questions to your orchestral director or booking agent, who can help orchestrate (pun intended) the event for you.

What type of music does an orchestra play?

You'll be surprised to learn classical musicians cover a wider range of popular songs than you imagine.

For example, string arrangements for Taylor Swift and Harry Styles' latest songs have become popular due to the popular Netflix show Bridgerton.

An eclectic range of scores are written for popular films and TV shows every year. Whether you're an anime fan and love studio Ghiblis' Spirited Away or Howl's Moving Castle, or perhaps a fan of fantasy and enjoy Game of Thrones and Westworld - all these spectacular scores can be brought to life at your event via an orchestra.

A hugely popular score that's been requested more than a few times for a bridal entrance springs to mind. Yes, it's the Jurassic Park theme tune! Just take a listen to this epic score performed by the Zebrowski Music School Orchestra:

{vid id="cR7erYmO0m8"}

As you can see, the world is your musical oyster if you're considering hiring an orchestra.

Can an orchestra perform a special song request?

Providing the sheet music is available, then the orchestra should have no trouble performing a specific song request for you.

They may charge an admin fee for printing the scores out or if they are required to purchase the score.

If no score is available for your chosen song, they may be able to write an arrangement for you at an additional cost.

Don't be afraid to think out of the box; take a look at this fantastic tribute to the popular video game The Legend of Zelda for Nintendo:

{vid id="Te7xh9BWzXI"}

How long will the orchestra perform?

Typically, an orchestra will not play for more than 3 hours in total, including breaks.

For a concert that extends beyond 45 minutes, it's common to include an intermission.

In settings such as ballrooms, where the orchestra provides background music, or during any extended performance, it's wise to allow a brief pause of 15-20 minutes roughly every 45 minutes.

Extras to consider when hiring an orchestra:

Parking - the orchestra will require a parking space for a coach and possibly a few cars. However, public transport might be an option if the event is local to them, although some equipment will need transportation regardless.

Food & Refreshments - the orchestra may request a meal for their musicians if they're expected to perform during the evening. For any daytime events, the orchestra may request food providing, like sandwiches or fruit, depending on the duration of their stay. Refreshments are always required regardless of how long they are on-site.

Dress & Attire - what the musicians wear on the day depends on the event they are playing at. A concert will typically see the musicians wearing black dresses and tuxedos. In contrast, a ballroom may include smart-casual wear or even fancy dress depending on the event's theme (Georgian dresses and suits for a Bridgeton-themed event).

Set up & Soundcheck - depending on the orchestra size, you'll need to allow roughly 60 - 90 minutes for them to set up and tune their instruments.

PA System - not all orchestras will provide this equipment, but you'll find most orchestras are loud enough that they don't necessarily need a PA system to be heard. Also, the venue may already have a built-in PA system that the orchestra can use, so it's worth communicating on both ends to ensure everything runs as expected.

How far in advance should I book an orchestra?

Depending on availability, booking an orchestra at the last minute is possible. However, we advise booking well ahead of time since musicians often fill their schedules quickly, especially for peak season dates such as summer weekends or during the holiday periods.

Ready to hire an orchestra?

We hope our comprehensive guide for 2025 has armed you with insights, from understanding the costs involved to selecting the appropriate size orchestra for your venue and occasion.

Whether it's a symphony orchestra to captivate your guests at a gala or a chamber group to add a touch of sophistication to your intimate gathering, the opportunity to hire such an illustrious act could transform your event into an unforgettable experience.

Remember, the key to securing the ideal orchestral performance lies in early planning and clear communication about your musical requirements and logistical needs. Our team at Bands For Hire are here to help, so please feel free to contact us for more information on booking an orchestra.