28 Most Frequently Asked Wedding Entertainment Questions
Source: Amy Faith Photography
When planning a wedding, it may be the first time ever that you’ve had to book a wedding band or singer and it’s quite likely you’ll be a bit bamboozled on where to start. You want to make sure you get someone good without accidentally spending too much on it, whilst making sure you’re doing all the right things to help them set up on the day.
To help you out, we spoke to the co-founder of WeddingSingers.co.uk Pete Baker to get your questions answered! Pete is also a member of wedding band The Bears, so he is extremely well placed to answer your questions from both an agency and musician perspective.
How much does a live singer or band usually cost?
Typically a singer would cost from around £250, and a small band from around £800. However this can go up quite a bit for larger bands and/or bigger production set ups.
How can I tell if a wedding band or singer is actually good?
Ideally you would try to see them perform live, however this isn’t always possible as many bands only perform at private functions. They should have promo videos you can watch and listen to that give you an idea of their ability, but do bear in mind these are often studio recordings rather than live performances. Try also to find some reviews from previous clients on their socials or website to give further indication of whether they’re good.
Do singers and bands usually perform requests?
Yes, they should be able to learn one or two requests (if they feel they can do them justice), such as for a first dance or the walk down the aisle.
What provisions do they usually need at the venue?
The main provisions required are access to power and enough space for them to perform in.
Am I expected to provide food and drink?
This will depend on the length of the booking and the time of day you have them booked for. If you’re hiring a singer for a wedding ceremony, then probably not. If you’re having a band for the evening, then they will probably ask if they can be provided with food and drink. This always puts a spring in their steps and will ensure you get an energetic performance from them!
How long do singers and bands usually play for?
They will usually provide 2 hours of live music during the evening, either 3 x 40 min sets or 2 x 1 hour sets.
How long do they typically need to set up?
It depends on the size of band, how much sound and light equipment is being set up and the nature of the load in to the venue. For a four-piece band with a standard PA, allow 45 mins to an hour from when they arrive.
Will we need a DJ too?
No, they should be able to play a party playlist in between their sets negating the need for a separate DJ. Some bands can also provide a manned DJ service for an extra fee.
How long is a good length of time for a singer or band to have been working for?
A couple of years gigging experience is always a good thing to look for. However music colleges are pumping out singers and bands already pretty well ‘formed’. These days they are teaching them how to make a career in the music industry rather than trying to make them all pop stars….which is a good thing as they can’t all be Adele!
Is it beneficial if they’ve performed at my venue already?
It has its benefits obviously, but isn’t a deal breaker. If the venue has any stipulations like sound limiters or the requirement to use electric drums, then make sure you mention this during your initial negotiations with the performer(s).
What makes a singer or wedding band stand out? What should I be looking out for?
High quality and well-presented promo material, a strong social media presence and a good number of song choices in their repertoire list.
Will bands or singers be able to provide other services too?
Yes indeed. As mentioned previously some provide a DJ service, and some are also able to provide an acoustic set up for background music during the ceremony or drinks reception.
Where’s the best place to find reviews for singers and bands?
Ideally social media or Trustpilot where you can see that it is a true client review.
Typically how broad can we expect a band or singer’s repertoire to be?
It should include plenty of songs to choose from, however don’t expect them to be able to play a very broad range of styles, they’re good at the genre they do for a reason. With this in mind, when looking for band or singer have a relatively clear idea of what style you’d like - for example don’t expect a four-piece rock band to have a lot of disco songs on their list!
How many breaks do they need to take and when?
Again this depends on the length of the booking. If you’re booking a singer for 2 hours, they’ll probably play 2 x 45 min sets with a 30 min break in the middle. If you’re booking a band for the evening, they will be able to plan their sets and breaks around your schedule.
What will usually be played between the breaks?
Normally a party playlist through the band or singer’s PA system. Most are happy to plug in a clients phone or iPad if they’d like to create their own playlist for in between the sets.
Is it a good idea to ask the band or singer to MC?
They will generally only MC during the parts of the evening where they are performing, for example corralling everyone towards where the first dance or cake cutting is happening.
Can bands and singers take requests from guests on the night?
They can do, and are usually happy to play them if they know them. However be aware that a drunken guest trying to shout ‘Can you play Mr Brightside’ into the drummers ear whilst they are playing a different song can be rather…..um….distracting!
Is it possible to submit a ‘Do Not Play’ list?
Yes of course. We actually advise this if they have a very long list of songs to choose from, as it’s better to give them as much choice as possible to form their sets with. They are more experienced at what to play when than the client probably will be, so let them use this experience!
What does the rate for a singer or band typically include?
This does depend on the booking. For a band in the evening it should include an agreed time for them to arrive to set up (usually 6pm), the length and number of sets, and the end of the booking (usually midnight). Early set ups or later finish times are usually possible for a small extra fee.
Are there any additional fees we should be mindful of?
If your venue is very large, the band may need to hire additional PA and/or lighting set ups.
Do you typically receive a written contract?
If you’re booking via an agency, then probably yes. If you’re booking directly then not necessarily. However they should have booking T’s & C’s for you to read, which should include their cancellation and postponement policy as who knows what Covid may throw up again!
How far in advance from your wedding should you book your singer or band?
If you’re looking 12 months before the date, you should have LOTS of choice. The nearer you get, the smaller the amount of choice you’ll have basically.
What information do you need to supply before the big day?
Your song choices, any venue stipulations, contact details in case required on the day and dietary requirements if food is being provided.
Is it important that your singer or band is insured?
They should have Public Liability Insurance and that is often a requirement of the venue, so make sure you find that out!
Do you typically meet your musician before the wedding?
Not often. However sometimes clients like to have a video call with them beforehand to make sure everyone is on the same page. If a meeting in person is required before, this can be arranged but they will probably want a small fee for their time.
What do bands and singers typically wear to weddings?
It’s up to the client really! They are usually pretty flexible and enjoy getting dressed up!
Do bands and singers have a policy around alcohol and smoking at weddings?
Most professional singers and bands aren’t in the industry to get drunk and party at their gigs. It’s their job! They may have a beer or two, but they shouldn’t be getting hammered! If they’re smokers, they will of course abide by any rules set down by the venue.